Huddersfield’s historic Open Market on Brook Street was full of life this past weekend as it hosted two fantastic community events — bringing together culture, music, food and a brilliant atmosphere in the heart of the town.
With Apna Bazaar taking place on Friday 13th followed by the Irish Day Parade celebrations on Sunday 15th, the market proved just how valuable it is as a community venue that can bring people together from all backgrounds.
St Patrick’s Celebrations Bring the Crowd
Sunday’s Irish Day Parade event saw the Open Market buzzing with energy as people gathered to celebrate Irish culture and heritage.
Despite the rain outside, it certainly didn’t put anyone off. In fact, the turnout was fantastic, with plenty of people heading down to enjoy the music, entertainment and lively atmosphere.
Hosting the event inside the Open Market worked perfectly. The covered space meant everyone could enjoy the celebration without worrying about the weather, and the sound of music and laughter filled the market hall throughout the afternoon.
It was a brilliant example of how community events can transform a familiar space into something special.
For more details about the Irish Day celebrations, visit:
https://www.theparadeonline.org/
Apna Bazaar Brings Food and Entertainment
Just two days earlier, on Friday 13th, the market hosted Apna Bazaar, a vibrant night market organised as part of the Kirklees Together initiative.
The event created a lively evening atmosphere with a fantastic mix of street food, entertainment and community stalls. Visitors were able to sample some amazing food while enjoying the music and the buzz of the market.
The atmosphere throughout the evening was fantastic, with families and friends gathering to enjoy something a little different right in the town centre.
You can read more about Apna Bazaar here:
https://kirkleestogether.co.uk/2026/03/03/apna-bazaar-market-returns-with-a-night-of-entertainment/
A Historic Market at the Heart of the Town
What really ties these events together is the venue itself.
Huddersfield’s Open Market has long played an important role in the town’s community life. Markets have historically been places where people gather, trade and socialise, and the Brook Street market continues that tradition today.
Its central location and indoor space make it an ideal venue for events, particularly when the Yorkshire weather decides not to cooperate.
More information about the market and its role in the community can be found here:
https://communitydirectory.kirklees.gov.uk/communityDirectory/organisationdetails.aspx?orgId=8138
A Great Weekend for Huddersfield
Seeing two successful events take place in the same weekend highlights just how important the Open Market is as a venue for community celebrations.
From the vibrant food and entertainment of Apna Bazaar to the lively St Patrick’s celebrations, both events created a fantastic atmosphere and brought plenty of people into the town centre.
If the energy from this weekend is anything to go by, the Open Market will continue to be a key space for events that celebrate Huddersfield’s culture, diversity and community spirit.
