Leeds Lit Fest Open Mic Fundraiser

Leeds Lit Fest returns in June with another packed programme of readings, discussions, poetry, performance and more. Sadly, we are once again struggling to secure funding, and are relying largely on donations and ticket sales.

So, we've decided to get an early start in 2026 with this special open mic event at the Hyde Park Book Club to celebrate our local (and perhaps not-so-local) writers and performers, and to help us raise a bit of money at the same time. Our host is Leeds poet and Chemistry compere Joe Williams.

To sign up for the open mic, just ask Joe for a slot when you arrive. We welcome everyone from first-timers to veteran performers, so if you want to give it a go, please do. You can do poetry or prose, as long as you can fit it in to the time limit of 4 minutes (which includes any introductions and other preamble).

Tickets cost £5 + booking fee in advance (whether you're performing or just watching) and all the money raised will go towards putting on the best festival we can.

Doors at 6pm, and we'll be collecting open mic names from about 6.15pm, ready for a prompt start at 7pm. See you there!