Yorkshire Festivals & Events

From the fabulous to the downright quirky, plan for some great days out when you visit Yorkshire. We have a great variety of events which are sure to keep everyone entertained, and we are showing just a small selection below. We will add to the events as we get closer to each month, so keep checking back to see what’s on so that you can plan your holiday or short break and not miss out on some fantastic days out.

If you want to experience traditional Yorkshire life, visit one of the many agricultural shows which are held throughout the summer. These brilliant events showcase the best of the local farming community with all kinds of competitive classes, local food and drink and children’s’ entertainments. You can get up close and personal to all kinds of animals from ferrets and rabbits to pigs and shire horses, watch sheepdog trials and be entertained by all kinds of professional displays. There are often fun dog shows as well so don’t forget your four-legged friend. 

The resorts on Yorkshire’s coast have a fantastic programme of events. At Scarborough the Open Air Theatre, the Spa and the Stephen Joseph Theatre and the Spa at Bridlington keep everyone entertained with internationally known artists and a range of events to appeal to all. 

The North York Moors is the place to be if you love a bit of heritage and reminiscence. The North Yorkshire Moors Railway runs through the heart of the moors, from Pickering to Grosmont, and holds many events through the year celebrating the age of steam and diesel trains. The highlight of the year is the Wartime Weekend in October. For younger visitors, why not meet Santa on one of the Santa specials in December. 

Over in the Yorkshire Dales some of the county’s largest events are held at the Yorkshire Event Centre and Showground near Harrogate. These include the Great Yorkshire Show, Flower Festivals and Winter Wonderland Extravaganzas. Elsewhere in the Dales, many of the towns and villages hold festivals through the year and for something a little more bizarre, why not visit Ripon for some pancake racing.

If you want to be fairly central and have easy access to York and all the attractions and events this wonderful historic city has to offer.

Please note that we make every effort to ensure the information here is correct, but recommend you check event details before travelling.