Event Applications

Apply to trade or provide services at Wakefield Council's major events and festivals.

Festivals & Events Applications Scoring Framework

We’ve made some improvements to how we score applications from traders and mobile street food vendors across our event markets programme. Each application form will include a clear breakdown of the scores available; you can also download the full framework below to help your application shine.

Top tips to boost your application:

• Show off your creativity – we love stalls that are eye-catching and fit the theme of our events.
• Focus on quality – whether it’s your products, food, or presentation, high standards really stand out.
• Be clear and detailed – tell us what makes your offer unique and why it’s a great fit for our event.
• Support sustainability – we value eco-friendly practices and local sourcing.

🔗 Festivals & Events Applications Scoring Framework

Golden fireworks in the night sky.

Thornes Park Fireworks

Thornes Park Fireworks 2026

Thornes Park, Saturday 7 November 2026, 4:30pm – 8pm

Thornes Park Fireworks brings the community together for a fantastic evening of traditional displays. Start with a low-impact show at 6:00pm, perfect for those who prefer a quieter experience, before enjoying the main spectacular display at 7:30pm. The night also features live stage entertainment, children’s rides and amusements, plus a great selection of street food to enjoy.

Mobile Food & Drink Vendor Application

We are looking for mobile food & drink vendors for Thornes Park Fireworks.

Apply Now: https://form.jotform.com/261062631771352

Application Deadline: Sunday 21 June 2026, 11:45pm

All applicants will be notified of the outcome of their application by Friday 3 July 2026.

Proms at the Castle

Proms and Tributes at Pontefract Castle

Proms at the Castle, Pontefract Castle | Saturday 20 June 2026, gates 5:30pm

Enjoy a magnificent evening of music and light as Pontefract Castle proudly presents the West Yorkshire Symphony Orchestra. Prepare to be transported on an orchestral odyssey! The concert will end with a fantastic finale.

Tributes at the Castle, Pontefract Castle | Sunday 21 June 2026, gates 4pm

Step back in time for an unforgettable evening of music and nostalgia! This year’s spectacular Tribute at the Castle is an 80s Show. It’s packed with iconic hits, dazzling costumes and all the retro vibes you love. Performed by Stage Fever Productions Ltd.

Applications closed on Friday 3 April 2026.

All applicants will be notified of the outcome of their application by Friday 16 May 2026.

Wakefield Armed Forces Day 2026

Pontefract Park | Saturday 4 July 2026, 10am – 4:30pm

Wakefield Armed Forces Day is a free, family-friendly event celebrating and honouring the contributions and sacrifices of both serving and veteran members of the armed forces, as well as the broader services of military personnel.

If you have any questions, please contact the Armed Forces Day Team: afd@wakefield.gov.uk

Applications closed on Sunday 12th April 2026.

All applicants will be notified of the outcome of their application Monday 27th April 2026.

Pontefract Liquorice Festival 2026

Pontefract Town Centre | Sunday 12 July 2026, 10am – 4pm

Pontefract Liquorice Festival is a much-loved annual festival celebrating the town’s unique connection to the cultivation of liquorice. A specialist market fills the historic marketplace, showcasing some of the region’s finest local produce – many offering a distinctive liquorice twist.

Applications closed on Sunday 5th April 2026.

All applicants will be notified of the outcome of their application by Wednesday 22nd April 2026.

Mailing List

Subscribe to Wakefield Council Events’ mailing list to be notified when event applications go live.

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