Bank Holiday events in Bradford as soapbox race to return

The city centre will be turned into a racing course as crazy karts hurtle down a huge ramp and go up against the clock.

Rate My Takeaway’s Danny Malin will be taking the mic as he officially opens this year’s soapbox shenanigans. 

The races will start at 11am this Sunday, May 5, on Kirkgate, outside Mario’s Hairdressers.

Motorists will then head down Bank Street and cross the finishing line on Tyrell Street.

A number of awards will be handed out - including the team with the fastest lap and most innovative kart design.

It is expected to draw in thousands of people, having attracted more than 35,000 visitors in past years.

Previous entries have included a burger, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, vintage dress, a Batmobile, Scientists, Superheroes, and many more bizarre designs. 

The event is free for spectators to enjoy.

Speaking in April, Danny said: “I’ve heard so many amazing things about Bradford’s Super Soapbox Challenge I can’t wait to see it for myself. 

“It’s going to be a fun-filled event and [I] would love to see as many people as possible come down and enjoy a great day in Bradford city centre.”

Rate My Takeaway’s Danny Malin pictured alongside Bradford BID's Jonny Noble and the soapbox race's official mascot (Image: Newsquest, Mike Simmonds)

Bank holiday events in Bradford

There’s plenty of other events and places to visit in Bradford district this weekend. 

Pollie Toothill is leading a Bank Holiday tour of the historic UNESCO World Heritage Site, Saltaire. 

You can discover the secrets and scandals of the village back in the day, all the while hearing about Sir Titus Salt's life and vision for Saltaire.

T&A Camera Club member Steven Feather took this photo of beautiful Saltaire (Image: Steven Feather)

To book a place call 0796 8095132 or visit www.joanne-edutainment.co.uk

Saltaire Arts Trail is set for its annual return and will be bringing art exhibitions to scenic, traditional streets. 

Meanwhile the new and exciting Haworth Steampunk Weekend is being held on May 4 and 5. 

It is a chance to see spectacular steampunk attire, meet people, shop and eat, and enjoy anything from crown bowling, dancing and singing to a dog show, steam trains, and market stalls.

Gary Allan took this photo of Haworth Steampunk Weekend in Autumn 2021 (Image: Gary Allan, T&A Camera Club)

You can also pop into the Haworth & Yorkshire Creatives Makers Market in the Old School Room on Church Street.

Elsewhere, The Real Food Ilkley Market will be serving up delights like fresh bread, cakes, gluten free bakes, curry sauces, cheeses, condiments and crepes. 

Celebrating locally produced fine food and drink, stalls include organic meat and vegetables, brownies, truffles and herbs. 

For those looking for some excitement, YorStox Stock Car Racing is set to hold a thrilling evening for motor fans at Odsal Stadium.

If you’re looking for some peace this Bank Holiday, you can get up early and witness the Dawn Chorus guided walk at Denso Marston Nature Reserve, Baildon.

Starting at 4.30am, this unique experience takes you through the stunning natural landscape against a backdrop of birds starting their morning symphony.

The Bradford Faith Trail - a fascinating tour of five places on Leeds Road - is also running on Sunday.