Summer Celebrations Return to Millennium Square Leeds for 2025

Millennium Square is set to come alive once again this summer, as the much-loved Summer Series returns from 3 July to 3 August 2025 with a vibrant celebration of live music, open-air cinema, and family-friendly events under the stars.

Framed by the stunning backdrop of Leeds Civic Hall, the specially created outdoor arena will host a dynamic line-up of globally renowned artists, feel-good tribute acts, and unmissable party nights — all bringing festival vibes right into the heart of the city.

The season kicks off with the Sounds of the City concert programme, featuring a powerhouse line-up of live music favourites. Opening the run on Thursday 3 July is global pop sensation MIKA, joined by beloved UK band Scouting for Girls. Mika posted on social media: ‘’Leeds! We are sold out! Very excited to return to Yorkshire and play this show with the brilliant Scouting for Girls in July!’. Other headline acts include GRAMMY award-winning duo The Black Keys (8 July) with Miles Kane, Britpop legends Shed Seven (11 July) with Lightning Seeds and The Sherlocks, and chart-topping indie outfit The Lathums (12 July) with The Royston Club. Presented by SJM Concerts Ltd, these major acts promise an unforgettable run of live music on Millennium Square. Wales’ own Funeral For A Friend take to the stage on 18 July, joined by an all-Welsh line-up including The Blackout, Casey, and Kill The Lights. Leeds is one of only two UK locations the band will perform at this year, making this a rare and unmissable date for fans.

The much-loved fan favourite 80s Classical returns to Millennium Square for its sixth spectacular season, bringing together some of the decade’s most iconic voices for a truly unforgettable night. This year’s stellar line-up features pop legend Kim Wilde, chart-topping duo Go West, the unmistakable voice of Roland Gift (of Fine Young Cannibals), and soul powerhouse Jaki Graham — all performing live alongside the mighty 50-piece Orchestra of Opera North conducted by the renowned Cliff Masterson. ‘The audience in Leeds is amazing! I’m really looking forward to performing there again this summer,’ Kim says. Expect a high-energy celebration packed with stunning orchestral arrangements, huge singalong hits, and non-stop 80s nostalgia under the stars.

Get ready to lose yourself in a euphoric night of non-stop dance anthems as Ministry of Sound Ibiza Anthems takes over Millennium Square. Featuring the phenomenal Ellie Sax on live saxophone and supported by Artful Dodger, one of the most iconic names in UK garage, this high-energy show reimagines iconic club tracks in a thrilling live performance that’s guaranteed to get the whole square moving.

A much-anticipated highlight this year is the return of Cinema on the Square (Thursday 31 July to Sunday 3 August) which closes Summer Series, transforming Millennium Square into an open-air cinema on a giant stage with concert sound. Enjoy a brilliant selection of concert films, classics from the ‘80s and ‘90s, Japanese cult films, a Bollywood blockbuster, family favourites, fun singalongs, and more. Film highlights include: a “Bring Your Own Dog” screening of the hilarious BEST IN SHOW, complete with a best dog competition; WICKED and ENCANTO sing-alongs; a Yorkshire Day screening of the classic KES; a Miffy children’s special; a Friday night screening of THE BLUES BROTHERS; and the stunning concert films STOP MAKING SENSE and SUMMER OF SOUL.

Alongside these headline concerts, Millennium Square will also host a series of spectacular tribute shows, perfect for fans of all ages. Highlights include Man in the Mirror (17 July), a thrilling live tribute to the King of Pop, Michael Jackson, complete with dazzling choreography, stunning visual effects, and all the legendary hits. On 19 July, the Square will come alive with a double celebration — starting with Taylormania (1pm), a sparkling outdoor matinee show where Katy Ellis and her incredible live band bring all of Taylor Swift’s biggest anthems to life, followed in the evening by ABBAOKE – The Sing-Along ABBA Experience (7pm), a feel-good party packed with ABBA’s timeless hits, a live band, and a special guest DJ set from Leeds’ own disco legend, Brutus Gold.

Leeds City Council Executive Member for Adult Social Care, Active Lifestyles and Culture Councillor Salma Arif, said: “Millennium Square is set to be a real focal point again this summer, adding to the incredible energy we’re seeing across Leeds. This year’s Summer Series boasts an eclectic mix of music and live performances, offering fantastic opportunities for our communities to come together and enjoy memorable experiences in the heart of the city.”

A variety of street food vendors and a fully licensed bar will be available on-site, with the venue fully accessible, including a raised viewing platform, accessible toilets and a Mobile Changing Places unit. Companion ticket info is available via the website or Leeds Ticket Hub.

Tickets for all events along with information on the full line-up are available to purchase online from www.millsqleeds.com, by phone on 0113 376 0318 (Mon-Sat 10am-4pm) or from the Carriageworks Theatre (open two hours before any performances at the Carriageworks Theatre).