Leeds Arena is set to host an exciting lineup of events throughout 2026, offering entertainment for every taste. From chart-topping musicians and legendary comedians to thrilling sporting events and family-friendly shows, the venue continues to be Yorkshire’s premier destination for live entertainment. Whether you’re a music enthusiast, sports fan, or simply looking for a memorable night out, there’s something on the calendar that’s sure to capture your interest. Here’s your complete guide to what’s coming to Leeds Arena this year.
Strictly Live Tour 2026
The Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour arrives at First Direct Arena, Leeds, this January, bringing spectacular entertainment to kick off 2026.
Experience a dazzling celebration of the beloved TV show, featuring incredible dance routines, impressive group performances, and live music from the renowned Strictly band and vocalists.
When: 29/01/2026 & 30/01/2026
Disney On Ice: Into The Magic
Experience the magic of Disney On Ice presents Into the Magic, where dreams come alive on ice!
Join Belle as she discovers enchantment in the Beast’s castle, sail alongside Moana and the demigod Maui on an epic voyage to save her island, and follow Miguel from Coco as he pursues the music in his heart.
Witness Anna’s unwavering love as she journeys to the North Mountain to help her sister Elsa end the eternal winter, and cheer as Rapunzel and Flynn adventure together to make her dreams a reality. Celebrate the magic of courage, love, and adventure at Disney On Ice.
When: 05/3/2026 – 08/03/2026
Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live
Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live™ is excited to kick off 2026 with a brand-new addition to the lineup: Rhinomite — the explosive rhino-themed monster truck. Prepare for an action-packed show as Hot Wheels delivers the ultimate monster truck experience to First Direct Arena, Leeds!
Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live™: Glow-N-Fire, produced by Family Entertainment Live, showcases fan-favourite Hot Wheels Monster Trucks, including Mega Wrex™, Tiger Shark™, HW 5-Alarm™, Bone Shaker™, Bigfoot®, and Skelesaurus™. The show also features FMX riders executing jaw-dropping aerial stunts and a fire-breathing, car-crushing robot dinosaur. Special kids pricing is available for all shows, making it an affordable adventure for the entire family!
When: 28/03/2026 & 29/03/2026
YUNGBLUD
YUNGBLUD, the boundary-pushing artist from Doncaster, has taken the world by storm with two UK #1 albums, six billion global Spotify streams, and back-to-back entries in the Billboard Top 100.
YUNGBLUD will kick off his 2026 UK & Ireland tour at First Direct Arena, Leeds
with his most personal and ambitious project yet—Idols, a genre-defying album born from a journey of reinvention, rebellion, and radical self-expression. Described as a modern rock opera, Idols is a bold new chapter—and he’s bringing it to life on stage with a powerful live show you won’t want to miss.
When: 17/04/2026
BetMGM Premier League Darts 2026
On Thursday, May 7, 2026, the BetMGM Premier League returns to First Direct Arena, Leeds for another evening of elite darts competition.
Last year’s Leeds event, which sold out completely, saw Luke Humphries claim victory after narrowly defeating Luke Littler in a dramatic final-leg decider.
Both Humphries and Littler are expected to feature prominently in next year’s tournament, with the full eight-player lineup to be announced in early January 2026 once the World Darts Championship concludes.
When: 07/05/2026
Peter Kay – Charity Show
Comedian Peter Kay is making a special return to the First Direct Arena in Leeds for a one-time charity performance, with all proceeds going to cancer charities.
Following his phenomenally successful run of 10 sold-out shows in Leeds, Peter will bring his beloved observational comedy back to the stage for this meaningful evening of entertainment.
Don’t miss this exclusive charity event! Tickets are expected to sell out quickly, so secure yours now and help support vital cancer research and care.
When: 24/07/2026
Westlife
Westlife is returning to the First Direct Arena in Leeds as part of their 25th Anniversary celebration tour.
“This year marks 25 years since we began this incredible journey together, and it still feels like only the beginning. The support from our fans has been extraordinary, and celebrating with this world tour, new music, and a brand-new album feels truly special. We can’t wait to see you all on the road and share this next chapter together.”
Don’t miss an evening of fan favourites, including ‘You Raise Me Up,’ ‘Uptown Girl,’ and ‘Flying Without Wings,’ along with their new Ed Sheeran-written single ‘Chariot.’
When: 06/10/2026
The Darkness
Legendary British rock band The Darkness are set to ignite Leeds with their signature sound and explosive live performance!
Known for soaring falsettos, outrageous guitar riffs and incredible stage presence, The Darkness carved their place in rock history with a style that’s both nostalgic and completely their own. Their breakout album, Permission to Land, became an instant classic, delivering anthems that defined a generation.
With hits like I Believe in a Thing Called Love, Love Is Only a Feeling and Growing on Me, their live shows are renowned for energy, humour and full-throttle performance.
Now they’re heading to the First Direct Arena for a night of riffs, high energy and that iconic Darkness swagger. Don’t miss the opportunity to see The Darkness live for an unforgettable rock ‘n’ roll experience.
When: 09/12/2026
Conclusion
Whether you’re a music lover, sports enthusiast, or comedy fan, Leeds Arena has something exciting in store for everyone in 2026. With such a diverse lineup of world-class entertainment, there’s never been a better time to experience the electric atmosphere of one of the UK’s premier venues. Mark your calendars, grab your tickets early, and get ready for an unforgettable year of live events.
Written by Jennifer Race Leeds
