Living in Leeds during the festive season is a great experience for students. The city comes alive with markets, lights, events and activities that are perfect for celebrating the end of term or enjoying winter with your housemates. Whether you live in Headingley or the City Centre, you are in a great position to make the most of what the city has to offer.

Parklane Properties has supported students in Leeds for more than 45 years and knows the best activities to enjoy each winter. Here are 33 things to do in Leeds this festive season.

Festive activities in the City Centre

1. Visit Leeds Christmas Market
   
   

2. Explore the winter displays at Victoria Leeds
   
   

3. Enjoy hot drinks at Kirkgate Market
   
   

4. See the Christmas decorations across Briggate
   
   

5. Go ice skating at the pop up ice rink
   
   

6. Watch a festive film at Everyman Cinema
   
   

7. Enjoy a Christmas themed cocktail in Greek Street
   
   

8. Visit the Leeds Art Gallery winter exhibitions
   
   

9. Take photos by the Leeds Town Hall Christmas tree
   
   

10. Explore the lights at The Headrow
    
    

Food and drink for the season

11. Try festive treats at local bakeries
    
    

12. Enjoy a winter hot chocolate at The Savvy Baker
    
    

13. Have a cosy meal at Trinity Kitchen
    
    

14. Visit street food stalls at festive pop ups
    
    

15. Enjoy mulled wine at a City Centre bar
    
    

16. Try seasonal menus at Leeds restaurants
    
    

17. Warm up with a bowl of ramen on Vicar Lane
    
    

Things to do in Headingley

18. Visit the local cafés decorated for Christmas
    
    

19. Take a winter walk around Beckett Park
    
    

20. Pick up festive gifts from independent shops
    
    

21. Enjoy a seasonal drink at Headingley Taps
    
    

22. Try Christmas specials from local takeaways
    
    

23. Visit the Otley Run pubs dressed for the season
    
    

24. Take part in student led festive charity events
    
    

Cosy activities at home

25. Host a festive movie night
    
    

26. Bake gingerbread with your housemates
    
    

27. Decorate your student house
    
    

28. Exchange small gifts as a group
    
    

29. Try a festive board game night
    
    

30. Create a hot chocolate station
    
    

31. Make a winter playlist and stay in
    
    

32. Organise a student Christmas dinner
    
    

33. Take cosy winter photos around your area
    
    

Leeds is full of festive spirit and it is easy to enjoy the season whether you live in Headingley or the City Centre. Parklane Properties manages student properties across both areas, helping you live close to all the best seasonal activities. If you are looking for a new home for 2026 2027, our team can guide you through the best locations and properties available.