September in Otley is all about culture, colour and community. From the return of live music and a brand-new art showcase to proud traditions that echo through our streets, this month has something to inspire everyone. Whether you’re drawn by the rhythm of the Folk Festival, the creativity of local artists, or the history woven into our heritage events, Otley offers plenty of reasons to get out and enjoy everything our town has to offer.

The Return of ‘Freddie’

Qween UK
Saturday 6 September 2025 – Otley Courthouse
One of the UK’s top tribute acts brings the unforgettable magic of Queen to Otley. With showmanship to rival Freddie himself and a full set of classics — from “Don’t Stop Me Now” to “Bohemian Rhapsody” — Qween UK guarantee a night of rock theatre at its best. Expect dazzling vocals, intricate guitar work and the kind of crowd participation that will have the whole Courthouse stamping, clapping and singing along.

A Taste of South America

Tapas & Wine Pairing Adventure
Wednesday 10 September 2025 – Tapas & Tunes
A delicious evening of food and flavour awaits as Tapas & Tunes presents its monthly wine-pairing adventure. This September, five regional South American wines are paired with five tapas dishes designed to highlight their unique character. Guided by David Lawson of Chez Vin, you’ll not only enjoy superb food and drink but also learn the stories behind the bottles. With a relaxed, friendly atmosphere and great company, it’s an evening where culture and cuisine meet.

Great Minds Get Together

Science Café
Thursday 11 September 2025 – Otley Courthouse
Science made sociable. Three speakers, three fascinating subjects, and a bar open all evening make Science Café one of Otley Courthouse’s most engaging regular events. Presenters keep things lively and accessible, turning complex ideas into clear, entertaining talks that spark discussion. With plenty of time for questions and conversation, it’s the perfect mix of learning and laughter — whether you’re a lifelong science enthusiast or just curious about the world around you.

From Punk to Painter

‘PROTO-TYPE’ — A Series of Paintings by Colin Latter
Opens Friday 12 September 2025 – UpCo
Colin Latter, once frontman of anarcho-punk band Flux of Pink Indians, brings a very different kind of creativity to Otley in this month-long exhibition. Proto-Type explores interiors, objects and overlooked details of domestic life, rendered in striking colours and bold compositions. Latter’s work is rooted in history and memory, turning the familiar into something rich and evocative. The show offers a rare chance to see a body of work from an artist who has walked an unconventional path, blending raw expression with thoughtful craft.

Doors to the Past

Heritage Open Days
Saturday 13 September 2025 – Otley Courthouse
Step back in time with a day of free heritage events. Guided tours will take you into the Victorian courthouse, with stories of justice and daily life woven into its walls. The “Foundations and Facades” exhibition highlights the work of Alfred Marshall, architect of many of Otley’s landmarks, while a family-friendly pen-and-ink workshop invites you to sketch the town’s history into life. With performances from Otley Players adding extra atmosphere, it’s a day that celebrates the people, places and stories that shaped our community.

A Weekend of Folk

Otley Folk Festival 2025
Friday 19 – Sunday 21 September 2025 – Various Venues
A highlight of Otley’s cultural calendar, the Folk Festival returns for three days of music across the town. Concerts, including one by our very own Serious Sam Barrett (pictured) and lively pub sessions bring together performers and audiences in celebration of tradition and song. Whether you’re after foot-stomping reels, heartfelt ballads or the warm camaraderie of a late-night singalong, the festival has something for everyone. With venues from pubs to halls buzzing all weekend, the Folk Festival is Otley at its most atmospheric.

Fresh Perspectives

Otley Arts Kollektiv Showcase
Saturday 20 September 2025 – Otley Courthouse
A brand-new event for 2025, the Otley Arts Kollektiv Showcase brings together local artists in a group exhibition that shines a light on the town’s creative community. Expect a diverse mix of styles and mediums as well as some great workshops, including an Introduction to Acrylic Painting with Emma-Jayne Emmott (pictured above). It’s a chance to discover new talent, support home-grown creativity, and see Otley through fresh eyes.

Cry Loud and Proud

Otley Open Town Crier Competition 2025
Sunday 21 September 2025 – Market Place
Otley’s Market Place fills with colour and sound as criers from across the country compete in this lively, traditional spectacle. Dressed in full regalia and armed with powerful voices, they’ll deliver their proclamations in front of the crowd, judged on volume, clarity and style. With prizes for best crier, best dressed and more, the event celebrates a centuries-old tradition in a way that is fun, friendly and uniquely Otley. Presented by our very own Otley Bellman Terry Ford (pictured above).

Songs and Stories

Chris Difford: Not Only… But Also
Sunday 21 September 2025 – Otley Courthouse
A founding member of Squeeze, Chris Difford has spent decades crafting some of British pop’s most memorable songs. In this intimate evening, he blends those classics with stories from his life in music — from early days in London to the highs and lows of international touring. Warm, witty and unfiltered, Difford brings his trademark charm to Otley, offering an evening where the stories are every bit as compelling as the songs.

Month-End Favourites

Otley Farmers’ Market & Courthouse Craft Fair
Sunday 28 September 2025 – Market Place & Otley Courthouse
September rounds off with two much-loved monthly fixtures. The Farmers’ Market fills Market Place from 9am to 1pm with stalls offering fresh local produce — from bread, cheese and preserves to seasonal fruit and veg. Meanwhile, the Craft Fair at Otley Courthouse (10am to 1pm) showcases handmade work from talented local makers, offering everything from jewellery and textiles to woodcrafts and gifts. Both events are perfect opportunities to shop local, meet the people behind the products, and enjoy a bustling community atmosphere.

For details of these and other events this month, see https://www.visitotley.co.uk/whats-on/calendar/