UK’s Leeds to Host First Queer Yulefest this Christmas

The UK’s northern city of Leeds will host its first LGBTQ+ Christmas market this year, with most of the stalls run by LGBTQ+ people.

The Christmas festival, named Leeds Queer YuleFest, will feature stalls from LGBTQ+ artists and crafters, selling jewellery, cakes, cards, candles, books, and more. Angels of Freedom, a volunteer organisation supporting the LGBTQ+ community in Leeds, have organised the event. “The market is about giving exposure to LGBT creators as well as giving LGBT people in the city a space to socialise outside of bars,” said Rob Wilson, coordinator of Angels of Freedom, in an interview with LeedsLive.

"We're excited to see a good turnout from the community - particularly younger people, people who don't drink, who are looking for those social connections in the LGBT+ community,” added Rob. "When people are first discovering their identity and accepting themselves it's important for people to find their community where there's that shared experience to connect with and this should be another chance for people to do that. It's going to be a lovely feel-good event.”

Leeds Queer YuleFest is scheduled to take place on 4 December from 11am until 4pm in Mill Hill Chapel in Leeds Town Centre. The festival will also feature entertainment from Dance Action Zone Leeds (DAZL), as well as a performance by the Mill Hill Chapel choir. Check out the Facebook page for more details.