As we look forward to more sunny days – you might be wondering what’s happening in York over summer.
And as a matter of fact, it’s quite a lot!
So far it’s a packed summer with the return of Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta at its new location of Castle Howard and featuring Eurovision star Sam Ryder, Malton’s much-loved music and food festival MeadowFest, fun for all the family at York Maze – and much more.
This guide will be continually updated.
Are we missing an event? Let us know by leaving a comment below or drop us a line at [email protected].
Don’t miss
Beningbrough Hall and Gardens
June is a wonderful time to sit and smell the roses, or head for a walk at Beningbrough taking in the herbaceous borders and wildflowers. Easily accessed from the A19, just north of York’s outer ring road.
First stop, the walled garden with its pear arch and summer fruiting berries. You’ll be drawn to the double border, the air filled with the sweet scent of mock orange. Rest a while under the white wisteria growing in the Pergola, designed by award winning landscape designer Andy Sturgeon. Next up on his transformation will be a new Mediterranean Garden, work continues in autumn. Until then, the area is full of wildflowers; perfect for a picnic or to watch pollinators at work.
The historic rooms on the hall’s ground floor re-open from July, until then, enjoy the gardens in their early summer splendour. Dogs welcome and free entry to National Trust and RHS members and under-fives.
- Beningbrough, York, North Yorkshire, YO30 1DD
- From 1 Jun
- 10am – 5pm
- More info
Summer at Castle Howard
With the longer days and good weather, what better way to spend your summer than at the iconic Castle Howard. Make the most of the sunshine exploring the almost 9,000-acre Estate or cool off inside and admire the 300-year-old stately home.
Appearing in hit films and tv-shows such as Brideshead Revisited and Bridgerton, Castle Howard has made history both on and off the screen. This summer, Castle Howard has an action-packed itinerary of magical and memorable experiences ideal for the whole family.
Whether you’re looking to connect with nature and enjoy delicious food this summer solstice, take the kids to the Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta, or absorb art and culture with the people you love, Castle Howard is a place like no other.
Fun for the little ones over the summer holidays – Meet the Skelves at Skelf Island Adventure Playground, take part in adventurous camp wilderness archery and tomahawk throwing and join Wonderphil for magic stories and much more.
Skelf Island Adventure Playground is free with a Gardens ticket or House and Gardens ticket. Pre-booking is advised, and pre-bookers receive a 10% discount.
- Castle Howard, York, YO60 7DA
- Open daily
- 10am – 5pm
- More info
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Party in the Park at Flamingo Land
We’ve planned a fantastic line-up of music for all tastes at Flamingo Land Resort this summer including 80s pop duo ‘Go West’, the quintessential noughties boyband ‘Blue’ and for our 90s Weekender ‘Vengaboys’ and ‘2 Unlimited’. Tickets include access to the theme park and zoo.
- Flamingo Land, Kirby Misperton, Malton, YO17 6UX
- 3 Jun, 29 Jul, 1 & 2 Sep
- From 4pm
- More info
York Maze
Created from over one million living, growing maize plants, York Maze is the largest maze in the UK – and with over 20 different rides, attractions and shows to enjoy York Maze offers an amazing fun-filled full family day out. Previous themes have included Lego and Mr Men – stay tuned to find out this year’s theme!
- Elvington Lane, York, YO19 5LT
- 15 Jul – 4 Sep
- 10am – 6:30pm
- More info
Summer Fun at Piglets Adventure Farm
There’s summer fun at Piglets Adventure Farm this year from a bigger and better Beach, with new Rockpools, Cliff Side Slide, and more, to foam parties. Plus, there’s the magical Fairy Trail, Maize Maze, adorable baby piglets, and more!
- Piglets Adventure Farm, Towthorpe Moor Ln, York YO32 9ST
- 22 Jul – 3 Aug
- 10am – 5:30pm
- More info
Castle Howard Multisport Festival
The Castle Howard Race Series is back! Swim through Castle Howard’s Great Lake, cycle through the Howardian Hills, run through the undulating countryside of the estate before a sprint finish tops everything off in style right in front of the main doors of the house.
Throughout the weekend, athletes and spectators will be able to enjoy a fun-packed festival village featuring live music, shopping, food and drink, children’s entertainment, yoga and more.
- Castle Howard, York, YO60 7DA
- 22-23 Jul
- All day
- More info
Summer Holiday Fun at Eden Camp
What an amazing summer we’ve got planned for you here at Eden Camp!
Running all through the summer holidays we have our daily Tank Talks in the Heritage Hall from 1pm until 3pm where you can hear all about our military vehicle collection and ask our knowledgeable team any questions.
Back by popular demand we have our Children’s workshops running on various days though out the summer holidays based on various WWII themes from tack biscuit making to taking part in Prisoner of War craft activities.
- Eden Camp Modern History Museum, Malton, YO17 6RT
- 24 Jul – 4 Sep
- 10am – 5pm
- More info
Music Showcase Weekend
Get ready for a packed couple of days of racing and music! The Human League will be headlining Music Showcase on the Friday evening, with Craig David headlining the Saturday.
- York Racecourse, Knavesmire Road, York YO23 1EX
- 28-29 Jul
- From 4pm (Fri), from 11:15am (Sat)
- More info
MeadowFest
MeadowFest is Malton’s brilliant boutique music festival. Grab a hay bale, some epic street food, something to sip and enjoy a unique mix of live music over 2 fantastic stages – this year featuring the one and only, Chesney Hawkes!
- The Talbot Meadow, YO17 7AJ
- 29 Jul
- 10am – 10pm
- More info
Winnie The Pooh
Disney’s iconic Winnie the Pooh, Christopher Robin and their best friends Piglet, Eeyore, Kanga, Roo, Rabbit, and Owl (oh… and don’t forget Tigger too!) have come to life in a beautifully crafted musical stage adaptation.
- Grand Opera House York, Cumberland Street, York YO1 9SW
- 1-2 Aug
- 5pm (Tue), 11am and 2pm (Wed)
- More info
The Magpies Festival
Folk music festival The Magpies Festival is back! The festival line-up boasts some of the UK’s finest folk, acoustic and americana artists, including Rachel Sermanni, Chris Difford, Edward II, New York Brass Band, Holy Moly & The Crackers, Laura Cortese & The Dance Cards, Blair Dunlop, Liz Stringer, Gilmore & Roberts and festival hosts The Magpies.
- Sutton Park, Main Street, Sutton on the Forest, York, YO61 1DP
- 11-12 Aug
- From 12:30pm
- More info
Outdoor Cinema at Castle Howard
The UK’s biggest outdoor cinema tour is heading to Castle Howard this summer. The smash-hit films showing are Elvis, Matilda the Musical, Grease, The Greatest Showman Sing-a-long, and Top Gun: Maverick.
- Castle Howard, York, YO60 7DA
- 11-13 Aug
- Multiple times
- More info
Living History Weekend
Become a part of the camaraderie of life on the Home Front and Front Line and experience the sights and sounds of war time Britain as our Living History and Re-enactor volunteers take you back in time to show what life was like living in the 1940’s.
- Eden Camp Modern History Museum, Malton, YO17 6RT
- 26-27 Aug
- 10am – 5pm
- More info
Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta
The action-packed family friendly weekend will include mass balloon launches, iconic tethered balloons, and spectacular night glow displays lighting up the evenings with a backdrop of Castle Howard’s beautiful Grounds and architecture.
Across multiple music stages, a star-studded line-up of musicians is confirmed, including Eurovision star Sam Ryder and entertainers for all ages, including Raver Tots, Andy and the Odd Socks, Dick and Dom and Yolanda, with more to be announced.
- Castle Howard, York, YO60 7DA
- 25-28 Aug
- 10am – 10:30pm
- More info
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Family fun
COLOUR! at Bar Convent
This summer, discover the works of young local artists who have given their own creative twist to some of the most iconic heritage buildings and landmarks in York. PLUS Join us in the garden where art and heritage combine to create an outdoor sketch space.
- York Museum Gardens
- 7 Jul – 23 Sep
- 10am – 5pm
- More info
Eboracum Roman Festival
The Eboracum Roman Festival is BACK! Romans will once again take over York Museum Gardens with a living history encampment demonstrating the Roman way of life. Explore the day-to-day lives of citizens and centurions through living-history demonstrations, expert talks, hands-on activities and storytelling for all ages. The Roman Festival is a family friendly and free event for everyone to enjoy.
- York Museum Gardens
- 8-9 Jul
- 10am – 4:30pm
- More info
The Great Summer Social
Whether you’re looking to chill at the beach, enjoy a round of mini golf on our 9-hole course, shoot some hoops with friends, or compete in a table tennis match. You can do it all at our new Summer Social area, located outside the South Entrance.
- York Designer Outlet, St. Nicholas Avenue, York, YO19 4TA
- 8 Jul – 3 Sep
- 9:30am – 8pm
- More info
The Big 50 – Summer Holiday Fun with NYMR
This summer holiday immerse yourselves in a fun filled adventure, completing our ‘Big 50’ bucket list of amazing things to see and do whilst visiting the North Yorkshire Moors Railway and earn yourselves the accolade of ‘Super Fan!’ Among the 50 items on the checklist are activities like visit ‘Hogsmeade’, enjoy traditional fish and chips in Whitby, have a chat with one of the NYMR volunteers, and more.
- Multiple locations
- 22 Jul – 3 Sep
- All day
- More info
Pirates & Mermaids – Summer at Mother Shipton’s
This summer it’s time to SHELL-abrate at Mother Shipton’s Pirates & Mermaids event. Take a trip under the sea to meet our very own magnificent mermaid and swashbuckling pirate!
Explore the little mermaid’s enchanted cavern filled with gadgets and gizmos aplenty, whozits and whatzits galore! Will you get lost in her magical world of dinglehoppers and thingamabobs? SCUTTLE along the enchanting trail to discover FIN-tastic nautical scenes and countless MER-mazing photo opportunities – you’re guaranteed to have a WHALE of a time.
- Mother Shipton’s Cave, Prophecy Lodge, High Bridge, Knaresborough, HG5 8DD
- 22 Jul – 3 Sep
- All day
- More info
Summer Adventures at William’s Den
The Summer Adventures are coming! All of our usual activities, adventures and fun will be on offer – plus brand new features that have never been seen before at William’s Den. Run wild with our new play pioneers, forest trails, den building and much more still to be revealed.
- William’s Den, Castle Farm, Wold Hill, North Cave, HU15 2LS
- 22 Jul – 3 Sep
- All day
- More info
Summer Holidays at York Minster
Discover York Minster this summer with exciting events and activities for young explorers! With open air theatre, outdoor cinema, exhibitions, trails, kids activities and more.
- York Minster, Deangate, York, YO1 7HH
- 23 Jul – 16 Sep
- All day
- More info
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Wonderlab: The Bramall Gallery at the National Railway Museum
Wonderlab: The Bramall Gallery is an unmissable new interactive experience for families—where nothing is off limits. Play your way through 18 hands-on challenges and fuel their curiosity with amazing live experiments. Test your engineering skills as you step into the human wind tunnel, launch a rocket, and build big—then immerse yourself in an explosive live show to reveal the science behind the fun.
- National Railway Museum, Leeman Road, York YO26 4XJ
- From 27 Jul
- 10am – 5pm
- More info
RSPCA Summer Fair
A family friendly fair featuring a variety of stalls offering games, prizes, cakes, food, plants, books, crafts and more. There will also be the annual dog show, with seven different classes!
- Homestead Park, The Homestead, 40 Water End, York YO30 6WP
- From 27 Jul
- 10am – 3pm
- More info
York Georgian Festival
York Mansion House is proud to be collaborating with some of the city’s much-loved museums, venues and historical experts to bring you York’s first ever Georgian Festival.
Dust off your petticoat, powder your best wig and join us for an exciting plethora of engagements at Fairfax House, Bar Convent and more. Learn to dance the minuet, discover Georgian family life with Horrible Histories writer Terry Deary, solve the mystery of tricky Dick Turpin’s missing corpse in an immersive murder mystery night and take a peep behind-the-scenes with York’s curators.
- York Mansion House, St Helen’s Square, York, YO1 9QL
- 3-6 Aug
- Multiple times
- More info
Wychwood Warriors at Murton Park
The Oxford University Historical Reenactment Society will demonstrate crafts, weapons, board games and daily life in the early mediaeval period, both Viking and Anglo-Saxon as is fitting for York in the tenth century CE.
- Murton Park, Murton, York, YO19 5UF
- 4-5 Aug
- 10am – 4:30pm
- More info
York Rotary Dragon Boat Challenge
Once again, 36 teams will battle it out on the River Ouse for the Challenge Trophy and other prestigious awards, including awards for the fastest Charity Team, Armed Services Team, and of course the “Best Dressed Team” trophy.
- Murton Park, Murton, York, YO19 5UF
- 4-5 Aug
- 10am – 4:30pm
- More info
The Boatyard Festival
The Boatyard Festival will be headlined by fab York band, Bull. There will be lots of family fun including stilt walkers, hula hoop workshop, giant bubble show, magic, face painting, fayre games, stalls, food and drink, and more. This year, there are also festival camping tickets for the true festival feel.
- The Boatyard, Ferry Ln, Bishopthorpe, York YO23 2SB
- 5 Aug
- From 10am
- More info
‘Animals’ Fancy Dress Family Day at Ripon Races
At our Fancy Dress Family Day we’ll have lots of free activities for kids and a Fancy Dress competition with great prizes to be won! So whether you come as a Pony, Pig or Porcupine, dress to impress and for a chance to win some great prizes.
- Ripon Racecourse, Boroughbridge Road, Ripon, HG4 1UG
- 7 Aug
- 12:45-6pm
- More info
Circus Family Day at Thirsk Races
Circus Family Fun Day with performances from The National Festival Circus! An exciting day for the whole family, with endless amounts of children’s entertainment.
- Thirsk Racecourse, Station Road, Thirsk, YO7 1QL
- 11 Aug
- 11am – 5pm
- More info
Bee Festival
We are holding a festival to celebrate bees on Saturday 12 August between 1 and 3pm. Come along and enjoy the festivities! Learn about bees and join in with some fun activities.
- Foss Fairy Trail, Heworth Green, York
- 12 Aug
- 1-3pm
- More info
York Rescue Boat Summer Fair
Join us for lots of fun including local stalls, food & drink, Ragnall The Viking, YorkMix Radio and much more!
- Homestead Park, The Homestead, 40 Water End, York YO30 6WP
- 19 Aug
- 10am – 4pm
- More info
Medieval Mayhem at Murton Park
After last year’s success, Equistry Live return with their event Medieval Mayhem!
There’ll be knights on horseback, epic clashes and a true test of mettle in their archery tournament. You’ll be able to cheer for your favourite knight, learn how to use a sword and see what it was like to live in the Middle Ages.
- Murton Park, Murton, York, YO19 5UF
- 19-20 Aug
- 10am – 4:30pm
- More info
Yorkshire Traction Engine Rally
Scampston Hall is once again the perfect location for Yorkshire Traction Engine Rally. See huge displays of exhibits from all over the UK, with traction engines including magnificent showman’s engines and pause to listen to traditional fairground organs. Wander around displays of vintage/classic vehicles including cars, commercials, motorcycles, tractors and military vehicles. An action-packed arena programme will run throughout the weekend.
- Scampston Hall, Malton, YO17 8NG
- 2-3 Sep
- 9am – 5pm
- More info
Summer shows
Peter Pan
It’s Wendy’s last night in the nursery, it’s high time she got ready to start acting like a lady, and join respectable society. The boy who never grows up pays a visit and gives hope and adventure to a generation who lost their childhood due to war.
In this magical adaptation for all the family, J.M. Barrie’s classic is brought to life in Yorkshire during World War Two. Expect all your favourite characters: Captain James Hook, Mr Smee, Tinker Bell, Tiger Lily and all the lost boys.
- Eden Camp Modern History Museum, Malton, YO17 6RT
- 20-22 Jul
- 7:30pm
- More info
Grease
It’s 1959 and the high school dream is about to explode in this rollicking, coming-of-age musical with its amazing foot stamping soundtrack. With a hip-shaking rock ‘n’ roll score, featuring the classic hits like ‘Summer Nights’, ‘Greased Lighting’ and ‘We Go Together’, Grease celebrates the 1950s in all its duck-tailed, bobby-soxed, gum-snapping glory.
- Joseph Rowntree Theatre, Haxby Road, York, YO31 8TA
- 25-29 Jul
- 7:30pm, 2:30pm matinee
- More info
Sonnets at the Bar
York Shakespeare Project brings Shakespeare sonnets to the secret garden at The Bar Convent. While sipping a complimentary drink, this year you can watch the comings and goings as the staff and guests at a hotel take a turn in its garden. Eavesdrop on the gossip! They may take you into their confidence – perhaps revealing more than they intend – and each will have a Shakespeare sonnet to share.
- The Bar Convent, 17 Blossom St, York YO24 1AQ
- 11-19 Aug
- Various times
- More info
Luna Cinema in Dean’s Park
The UK’s leading open-air cinema is returning to York Minster’s Dean’s Park with a line-up of all the latest blockbusters, alongside classic feel-good favourites on the big screen. This year’s programme includes Baz Luhrmann’s latest sensation Elvis, followed by the spell-binding Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix and the fun and uplifting Sister Act.
- Dean’s Park, 2 Minster Yard, York YO1 7JJ
- 29-31 Aug
- 8pm
- More info
The Tiger Who Came To Tea
Join the tea-guzzling tiger in this delightful family show; packed with oodles of magic, sing-a-long songs and clumsy chaos. Don’t miss this stunning stage adaptation of the classic tale of teatime mayhem… expect to be surprised!
- York Theatre Royal, St. Leonard’s Place, York, YO1 7HD
- 1-2 Sep
- Multiple times
- More info
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More summer fun
Thor’s Orangery
York’s favourite pop-up bar is coming back this Summer! Soak up the bustle of the city centre whilst relaxing under the stylish atrium. The famous fire pits will return for cosy evenings, alongside live music each week. You’ll be able to feed your soul, by feasting on the finest street food offering thanks to local street food vendors.
- Parliament St, York
- 16 Jun – 3 Sep
- 10am – 9:30pm
- More info
Pop-up book sales
Drop by the pop-up secondhand book sales and grab your next page turner or reference road. Have a mooch to see what can tempt you and your donations in return support the ongoing conservation work at Beningbrough. If you’re having a clear out of your shelves, donations of books you’ve finished with are always welcome and appreciated.
- Beningbrough Hall, Gallery and Gardens, York YO30 1DD
- 27-30 Jul, 24-28 Aug
- 11am – 4pm
- More info
Go Racing In Yorkshire Summer Festival
A celebration of racing in Yorkshire in the height of summer at Thirsk Racecourse.
- Thirsk Racecourse, Station Road, Thirsk, YO7 1QL
- 28 Jul
- 11am – 5pm
- More info
York River Art Market
York River Art Market returns to the riverside this summer, as it enters its 8th year. Situated along Dame Judi Dench Walk, each event hosts a variety of over 30 indie artists and makers. There is something for everyone’s taste and budget.
- Dame Judi Dench Walk, York
- 5, 6, 12, 13, 19 & 20 Aug
- 10am
- More info
York 10k
The York 10K offers runners the unique opportunity to race through the heart of this wonderful city.
The route starts and finishes in Knavesmire Road, close to York Racecourse. It then takes in some of the city’s most historic landmarks, including the ancient city walls, Clifford’s Tower and the minster.
- Knavesmire Road, York
- 6 Aug
- 9:30am
- More info
York Land Rover Show
York Land Show is back, bigger and better than before. There will be trade stands, club stands, food stalls, competition vehicle displays, raffle, remote control land rover course, family activities, and more.
- RCM 4×4, Unit Forest Business Park, York, YO19 4RH
- 20 Aug
- 10am – 4pm
- More info
York Unleashed Comic-Con
York’s geekiest event is back! Media guests are TBA but there will also be stage talks, cosplay masquerade and loads of other stuff to see and do.
- York Racecourse, Knavesmire, York, YO23 1EC
- 3 Sep
- 11am – 5pm
- More info
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