Discover the exciting programme of Leeds City of Languages 2026, taking place from 9–22 November. From concerts and performances to films, creative workshops, language taster sessions, talks and cultural exchanges, there's something for everyone, whether you're joining us in Leeds or online.
Explore events by date, language or type of activity to find what interests you, or browse the full programme for an overview of everything taking place.
From a very young age, Yazid has had only one passion: pastry making. Raised in foster care and group homes, the young man forged an indomitable spirit. From Épernay to Paris—and via Monaco—he sets out to realize his dream: working with the greatest pastry chefs and becoming the best. Language: French | Subtitles: English In...
Would you like to meet other French speakers at Leeds Uni? The French section is hosting a special social event to enable French speakers from across the University to meet and connect. The first time we held this event, scientists met economists, law students met historians, and we were encouraged to do it in semester...
Join us for a talk and a discussion exploring the history of emigration out of Russia and the former Soviet Union, from the imperial era to the present day. We shall take a look at who has been leaving, why and how – what social groups had the chance to emigrate, what motivated them to...
Join our fortnightly sessions to build confidence, make friends and learn through friendly, informal conversation. All levels welcome. Volunteer opportunities available. Every two weeks on Thursdays, 12-1pm. For up-to-date dates and times, check the Language Zone's What's On.
Beer has a long-standing history in the Czech lands (and specifically in Bohemia), with the earliest official records of brewing dating from 993 AD, and it is deeply rooted within Czech culture and society as well as being a matter of great national pride. The Czech Republic typically tops the list of countries for beer...
Beginner in Spanish? Join our fun, weekly sessions where you’ll play games with peers and fluent speakers. Build confidence, make friends, and learn through play – no pressure, just good vibes! Open to all students. Volunteer spots available!
Cantonese is an agile, expressive, and kinetic world language. This interactive talk invites the general public to explore Cantonese through the everyday lenses that give it life: culinary habits, musical cadence, and contemporary pop culture. We begin at the bustling diner table, where iconic comfort food culture doubles as a masterclass in pragmatic urban communication...
Curious about Slovene? Join our engaging taster session to explore interesting facts about Slovenia, learn how to pronounce Slovene words, and practise a short dialogue. Along the way, we’ll highlight some of the fascinating linguistic features that make Slovene unique. No prior knowledge needed – just bring your curiosity and love for languages!
From slang and texting to gender-neutral pronouns, why do linguistic innovations provoke such strong reactions? Discover why language change sparks controversy and what linguists really think. From new pronouns and texting abbreviations to slang, borrowed words, and changing grammar, language is constantly evolving. Yet every new development seems to provoke complaints that language is being...