The First Direct Arena in Leeds is a local favorite for concerts and entertainment, attracting the biggest names in music, comedy, sports, and more to the city. Experience a performance of a lifetime along with 13,500 fans in an innovative, fan-shaped arena with perfect sight lines no matter where you sit. Great acoustics along with a color-changing facade heighten the artistic performance and create a special mood for the entire crowd to indulge in.
First Direct Arena has played host to some iconic international acts and special events including Sir Elton John, Bruce Springsteen, Michael Bublé, Prince, Miley Cyrus, Le Tour De France Grand Depart, John Bishop, Championship Boxing, Queen featuring Adam Lambert, Fleetwood Mac, Premier League Darts, Neil Young, Bette Midler, Drake, Morrissey, The Eagles, Pharrell Williams, John Legend, the MOBO Awards, and Mumford and Sons. Check out the calendar to see what you may be able to catch during your trip!
The Main Auditorium
Visitors in search of the perfect venue to stage a product launch grand exhibition, extravagant dinner, industry convention, awards ceremony, or car launch, for example, will have no problem choosing an appropriate space within the facility to host a successful event. Event planning professionals will be impressed with the detailed approach taken by arena staffers, who make it their first priority to ensure that expectations are exceeded, and guests are treated to an unforgettable event experience. The main auditorium also has the capacity to transform into a diverse banquet setting, boutique conference staging area, or special event space that can easily accommodate up to 12,000 people.
Catering & Hospitality
The professionally skilled, in-house bar and catering team can always be made available to cater a range of events with very specific needs. The catering crew can produce tasty edibles for up to 13,000 concert goers or flexibly cater to smaller events and conferences with ease. Whatever the occasion, the head chef and his team can create the perfect menu to compliment your event. The bar and catering team led by the food and beverage director will provide a seamless service to enhance the experience for your guests.
Dining, award ceremonies and more
Dinners and award ceremonies are always memorable events and the First Direct Arena is an exceptionally unique venue, delivering something different and special to set your event apart—allowing you to wow guests by hosting your next event in the same room where global superstars have performed. Give your next presentation, awards ceremony, or banquet speech on the same stage as the likes of Bruce Springsteen, Michael Bublé, or Prince. The multi-purpose auditorium can be transformed into an extraordinary banquet space, accommodating up to 1,100 participants or as few as 300 guests. The open plan space with a purpose-built stage is ideal for your next special event dinner or award ceremony.
