York Residents’ Festival 2017: What’s new, what’s free and where to go

Learn about everything from pubs to chocolates, try your hand at singing, go backstage at the theatre – and do it all for free.

That’s the magic of York Residents’ Festival 2017, back for its 22nd year, and bigger than ever.

Organised by Make It York, this year’s festival includes more than 90 attractions, events and offers to enjoy.

It’s a way for York’s tourist sector to say thank you to residents for being unofficial ambassadors to the seven million people who visit the city each year – and to showcase their wares, of course.

Residents must show a valid YorkCard or York Student ID Card to gain admission at each venue and to take advantage of the many shopping and restaurant offers. YorkCards are available from Explore York Libraries, price £5 for adults, free for under-18s.

In the centre of town children can have a play at being bus drivers on a bus from event sponsor First York, clamber up the army climbing wall and have their faces painted.

And that’s just for starters. Here’s our guide to what else to try this action-packed bargain weekend. For some of these you need to book in advance, so do double check.

What’s new for 2017

Attractions

History

Entertainment

Walks

Health and fitness

Out of town