Welcome to Day 9 of the 2025 Harehills Good News Advent Calendar!

Today we are celebrating a true Harehills survivor: the Harehills Park Bowling Club.

2025 has been a challenging year for bowling clubs across Leeds. Facing significant council budget cuts and uncertainty, our local members have had to battle hard to preserve a game that is often unnoticed but deeply loved. But Harehills Park Bowling Club didn’t just survive; they proved exactly why they are essential.

Building on the momentum of being Highly Commended at the 2024 Compassionate City Awards, the club has remained a beacon of community spirit this year. Whether acting as a “Warm Space” or hosting inclusive sessions, they have shown that the bowling green is about people, not just points.

Santa is Coming to the Green! Now, they are ending a tough year with a wonderful tradition. On Monday 22nd December, from 12:00 to 15:00, the clubhouse will transform into Santa’s Grotto.

It promises to be a magical afternoon where young people can try their hand at bowls (including the chaotic fun of a “Spider” game where everyone bowls at once!), meet Santa to receive a present, and adults can enjoy a hot drink and a mince pie.

Thanks to the support of local councillors, particularly Councillor Asghar Ali, this event is FREE for Harehills residents (usually £5). However, you must book your tickets by this Sunday, 14th December, so the elves have time to prepare the gifts!

Looking to 2026 The good news continues into next year. We can reveal that in 2026, as part of #TeamHarehills, the club will host the Common Health Games. Supported by Love Leeds Parks, and coinciding with the Commonwealth Games, this event will build on the success of 2022 to celebrate health, sport, and our local green spaces.

It’s been a tough year, but the jack is still rolling in LS9.

Book your place now:

Santa’s Grotto Tickets (Eventbrite):(https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/santas-grotto-harehills-park-bowling-club-tickets-1972530039447
) (Note: Please ensure you select the ‘Harehills Resident’ option if applicable)

Club Facebook Page:(https://www.facebook.com/Harehillsparkbowlingclub)