This article was published in 2013.

On Spring Bank Holiday weekend (24-26th May) Bradford Threadfest returns for a second year of independent live music celebration.

After a successful and vibrant debut, Threadfest 2013 sees even more venues, collectives, musicians, bands and promoters join forces to offer a free taste of the city's DIY and grassroots musical activity.

Bradford has a rich history of self-organised cultural activity, reflected in venues like the 1 in 12 Club, the heyday of the people-led Bradford Festival and Mela, and many community-focused arts and music initiatives. Likewise it has more than its fair share of unique spaces that regularly host local and international acts attracted to the alternative character of the city.

The thread between these events takes the form of a Bradford Music Map that helps audiences new and old navigate the city.

Free live music events will feature Hawk Eyes, We're Shopping, The Hobbes Fanclub, Yo El Ray, Koala, Monster Killed by Laser, Ruby Tombs, Kogumaza, Dean McPhee, Blacklisters, Mick Flower and Neil Campbell, Rivals, Mother Earth, Oriental Arts, No Hands, NGOD, Cut Yourself in Half, M@BU, Birchall/Cheetham Duo, Serious Sam Barrett, DIY or Die, Blood Sport, Bare Plume, Voltage Studios, Idiot Box, What The Folk?, Cameron Deas, Rockers and Rollers, Illusory Centre and many more.

Venues hosting free-entry events for Threadfest 2013 include The New Bradford Playhouse, Delius Arts and Cultural Centre, The 1 in 12 Club, The Sparrow, Malik House, The Beehive Inn, and The Black Swan.