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We are an exciting new online magazine, bringing you the best of Sheffield.
Herd Hangouts - Venue Spotlights
Scene and Herd - News & Reviews
Herd the Word - A Celebration of Steel City's Peak Creative Writing.
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Scene and Herd
EVENT OF THE WEEK w/c 18th May 2025
This year’s Sheffield Food Festival, running from May 24th to 26th, will spotlight the city’s best in food and drink, with a diverse lineup of independent traders and local talent spread across the Peace Gardens and surrounding streets.
There is a vast range of over sixty vendors, covering a range of global cuisines. From the delicious street food wraps of The Greedy Greek Deli to Venezuelan Arepas from 7 Star Flag Ltd to The Yorkshire Crepe Co's sweet and savoury treats, there is something to suit every taste. And on the drink menu, there is everything from Little Bubble Box's bubble tea to Fizz & The Feast's champagne bubbles!
The artisan traders will also provide some superb varied shopping opportunities - from Locksley Distillery's gin and liquors to Polly Plant's colourful polymer clay jewellery; there's plenty of chances to take home a great souvenir from the day.
And excitingly this year, the music stages and busking tent are bigger and better than ever. Working with emerging musicians from places like Waterbear College of Music, Tracks and Slambarz CIC, the festival is giving a great platform for upcoming talent. There is also plenty to do with the whole family with face painting, craft activities and workshops also on offer.
With Sheffield's culinary talent taking centre stage, the Food Festival 2025 promises a delicious celebration of community spirit and local flavour.
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Herd the Word
EVENT OF THE WEEK w/c 18th May 2025
On Tuesday 20th May, step into an evening of insight and provocation as Dr. Sharon Jagger explores the tangled roots of witchcraft and its enduring link with feminism.
This compelling discussion, presented by Seed Talks, unearths how the figure of the witch has long been used to challenge, suppress, and ultimately redefine women’s power.
Drawing from history, culture, literature and contemporary thought, Dr. Jagger explores how the witch has evolved into a symbol of resistance and empowerment.
Whether you’re curious about the past or passionate about gender politics, this is an event that promises to inspire, question, and spark discussion.
The talk is at Peddler Market and doors are at 7pm.
MAY 2025
TOP 4
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Your guide to the month ahead.
Scroll up for our weekly event recommendations.
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Highland Fling Festival
Get ready for a day full of rustic fun as the Highland Fling Festival returns to Whirlow Hall Farm on Sunday, May 4th running from 10am to 3pm. This much-loved annual event is a highlight in Sheffield’s spring calendar, bringing together families, animal lovers, and countryside enthusiasts for a unique celebration centred around the impressive and characterful Highland cattle.
The stars of the day are, of course, the cattle themselves—proudly paraded and judged in a friendly livestock show featuring animals from across the region. But there’s plenty more on offer: tractor rides, children’s activities, and a bustling array of local food and craft stalls make for a lively, wholesome atmosphere that blends farm life with community fun.
With face painting, farmyard encounters, and hands-on activities for the kids, the event is especially welcoming to young families, while adults can enjoy browsing artisan stalls and sampling locally produced treats. The event offers a laid-back, family-friendly alternative to the usual May Bank Holiday outings.
Entry is just £2 for adults, and children under 12 go free, making it an affordable day out for everyone. Tickets can be booked in advance via Whirlow Hall Farm’s website or purchased on the day (subject to availability).
Whether you’re a long-time fan of the festival or a first-time visitor, Highland Fling 2025 promises a warm welcome and a wonderful taste of rural life, right on Sheffield’s doorstep.
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Sheffield Food Festival
Get ready to indulge your taste buds—Sheffield Food Festival returns to the heart of the city from May 24th to 26th, bringing with it a mouthwatering celebration of local produce, global flavours, and vibrant street food culture. Set against the iconic backdrop of the Peace Gardens, Pinstone Street, and the surrounding city centre, this free, family-friendly event is one of the region’s most beloved bank holiday traditions.
Now in its 13th year, the festival is a showcase of Sheffield’s culinary creativity, spotlighting independent traders, artisan producers, and top local chefs. Visitors can expect everything from award-winning pies and gourmet burgers to plant-based innovation, exotic curries, craft beers, and decadent desserts—all served fresh and with a focus on sustainable, locally-sourced ingredients.
But it’s not just about eating. The 2025 programme promises live cookery demos, masterclasses, talks on food ethics and sustainability, and a Kids’ Kitchen to inspire the next generation of food lovers. There’ll also be live music, pop-up bars, and street performers to keep the atmosphere buzzing well into the evening.
Whether you’re a die-hard foodie, a curious grazer, or just after a great day out, Sheffield Food Festival 2025 is a delicious celebration of the city’s culinary scene and community spirit. Arrive hungry—you’ll want to try everything.
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Sheffield Cocktail Festival
We have been getting excited about this for months! Get ready to raise your glass as the Sheffield Cocktail Festival arrives on Saturday, May 17th. Set in the stylish industrial setting of The Steamworks on Randall Street, this all-day celebration of Sheffield’s vibrant drinks scene promises an unforgettable blend of craft, creativity, and cutting-edge cocktails.
Now firmly established as one of the city’s most exciting spring events, the festival brings together some of Sheffield’s best-loved bars and top mixologists under one roof—alongside guest appearances from major spirits brands, interactive tasting sessions, and hands-on cocktail masterclasses. Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail connoisseur or just love a good mojito, there’s something here for every kind of drinker (there are non-alcoholic options available too).
Expect an atmosphere buzzing with music and flair. Live DJs will provide the soundtrack all day, while festival-goers sip limited-edition creations, classic favourites, and experimental new blends from pop-up bars. A highlight of this year’s festival is the fiercely competitive Bloody Mary Showdown, featuring Sheffield’s iconic Henderson’s Relish—a local twist on the traditional hangover cure that promises to be both fiery and fun.
More than just a party, the Sheffield Cocktail Festival is also a showcase of local talent and hospitality, celebrating the craft, flair, and imagination that make Sheffield’s bar scene one of the most dynamic in the country. Expect collaborations, surprises, and plenty of Instagrammable moments throughout the day.
Whether you’re heading out with friends or planning the perfect date night, Sheffield Cocktail Festival 2025 is your one-stop destination for a spirited night out in the city.
Tickets are almost sold out—so grab yours, dress to impress, and come thirsty.
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Festival of Debate 2025
Sheffield's Festival of Debate, the UK's largest annual politics festival, is gearing up for its 2025 edition, running from April 22nd to May 30th. This annual festival is dedicated to sparking conversations about systemic change and exploring alternatives to current political and social systems. Throughout its duration, attendees can expect a variety of events, including lectures, discussions, and performances aimed at creating dialogue and inspiring action. The events take place at a variety of venues - from The Octagon and the Pennine Lecture theatre to The Leadmill.
On 1st May, Lanre Bakare will share compelling stories of underrepresented communities, shedding light on their influence in shaping societal changes.
The festival will also feature writer Shon Faye, who will present her work on themes of identity, love, and belonging on May 8th. Additionally, the event titled All The People: An Inclusive Party on May 15th will be a celebration of inclusivity, bringing together artists with and without disabilities to showcase their talents.
Another highlight will be Helen Mort's discussion with feminist writer Laura Bates on May 16th about the modern-day challenges of sexism.
The festival will also screen a documentary on underground dance culture, followed by a panel discussion on May 9, and showcase Sheffield’s thriving social enterprises with a documentary screening on May 28th.
The Festival of Debate 2025 promises to be an engaging and thought-provoking experience, offering a platform for critical discussions on a variety of topics. For more details on the event schedule and ticketing, visit here
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