About this project

The city of Leeds promotes and celebrates IDOP each year in October to promote:

• a positive view of old age
• older people being enabled to lead active healthy and involved lives as citizens
• full participation of older people in the decisions and processes which affect their lives
• challenging the barriers faced by older people to independence, inclusion and equality
• older people being treated with respect and dignity at all times

International Day of Older People (IDOP) on 1 October is celebrated annually in Leeds, focusing on a different theme each year.

International Day of Older People 2026

Join us at Fest for Life, a free celebration of creativity, community and ageing well, taking place on Thursday 1 October, 10:30 am to 2 pm at Pudsey Civic Hall. Hosted by the Friendly Communities team from Age Friendly Leeds as part of the International Day of Older People, the event will showcase the talents of people aged 50+ through live performances, arts, crafts and spoken word. Visitors can also explore a vibrant marketplace featuring local organisations, community opportunities and independent traders, alongside food, refreshments and plenty of festival atmosphere. Everyone is welcome.

When?  Thursday 1 October – 10:30 am – 2:00 pm

Where? Pudsey Civic Hall 

Recent International Days of Older People in Leeds

• Read: IDOP 2023, on the theme: ‘The resilience of older people in a changing world’.
• Read: IDOP 2022, on the theme: ‘the resilience and contributions of older women’.
• Read: IDOP 2021, on the theme, ‘Linking Lives’.

IDOP Leeds is organised by Leeds Older People’s Forum with the support of Leeds City Council Public Health, Leeds City Council Adults & Health and Leeds City Council Equality and Diversity, Safer and Stronger Communities Team