Celebrations have always been associated with joy and strong emotions. In today’s world, we commemorate all sorts of holidays that were unheard of a century ago. However, this article takes a look back at how the residents of Leeds celebrated during the 20th century. Read more on leedska.com.
Major Holidays of the 20th Century
In the United Kingdom, eight public holidays were officially recognised throughout the 20th century — and these were also the most widely celebrated in Leeds. These included Christmas Day (25 December), Boxing Day (26 December), New Year’s Day (1 January), Good Friday, Easter Monday, May Day, Spring Bank Holiday (last Monday in May), and the Late Summer Bank Holiday (last Monday in August). These were designated days off, allowing most residents to rest, spend time with family, and take part in cultural events.
Festivities often took place in central parts of the city — in squares and parks. For instance, Roundhay Park, one of the largest urban parks in Europe, was a popular destination for picnics and family outings on public holidays. Residents also visited the Leeds Grand Theatre, Opera North and the West Yorkshire Playhouse for performances, concerts, and special events held in honour of national celebrations.
Celebrating Christmas and New Year in Leeds
During the 20th century, traditional fairs, public festivities, and local markets were popular throughout Leeds. Christmas markets were particularly beloved, offering handmade crafts, sweets, and festive decorations. Spring and summer holidays saw outdoor parades, concerts, and sporting events. On Remembrance Day in November, residents gathered at memorials such as the Royal Armouries Museum to honour those who had fallen in war.
Christmas was a particularly cherished holiday in Leeds. Families would prepare festive meals featuring traditional dishes like roast turkey and Christmas pudding. An essential part of the celebration was attending a Christmas service at one of the city’s churches, as many believed the holiday should include not only feasting, but also spiritual reflection and communal prayer.
Public spaces such as parks would be decorated with Christmas trees adorned with ornaments and fairy lights. In Roundhay Park, for example, ice skating around the festive tree was a favourite activity.
New Year’s Eve was marked with parties, concerts, and gatherings. Many households prepared celebratory meals, and at midnight, people would take to the streets to welcome the new year with fireworks, singing, and cheers.
Where People Celebrated
In the 20th century, there were fewer clubs and restaurants than today, but residents still had places to celebrate. Roundhay Park, covering more than 700 hectares, was a primary venue for public gatherings. In warmer months, it hosted picnics, markets, open-air concerts, and, during festive seasons, large-scale community events.
Leeds’ central squares were also key locations for parades, rallies, and official holiday ceremonies. These spaces served as communal gathering points for state holidays, anniversaries, and major public events.
The Leeds Grand Theatre, which opened in the late 19th century, was a leading cultural institution that regularly hosted holiday performances, concerts, and balls. Sports events were also an integral part of holiday celebrations. Football matches and athletics competitions held on public holidays attracted large crowds to stadiums and sports grounds, fostering a vibrant and communal festive atmosphere.