Barefoot in the Park is a one-day maelstrom of poetry, storytelling, comedy and music - okay, perhaps not a maelstrom, as we’re probably more laid back than a fully horizontal deckchair, if that’s even possible – but you get the picture.

Slap bang in the middle of Hyde Park (or Woodhouse Moor to those in the know, next to the Bowls Pavilion) we’ll be soaking up the sun to the tune of blissful poetry and heavenly music. You can expect sessions from a host of fantastic performers, and for more details of the line-up, sign up to our mailing list, and keep an eye on our news section.

Our hotly contested Slam Battle will be back, with the reigning champs Al Cummins and Raf Attar prepared for lyrical conflict with any poets who think they’re up to the challenge.

If you want to share your poetry, stories or songs with us, then you’re in the right ruddy place – with not just one, but TWO open mic sessions at the festival, there’s plenty of opportunity for you to try out your writing, in front of the friendly, fun-loving Barefoot crowd.

This year, we’ve striven to bring you even more treats, with a new Arts & Vintage tent complete with art displays and a vintage-inspired fashion fair; a poetry&prose competition, which you can enter online; and some tasty refreshments from the youthful WI-winners in the making, Leeds’ own Marvellous Tea Dance Company.

We hope you’re excited – we certainly are!