York Residents’ Festival is back for 2025!
Once again it will offer locals free entry to top attractions and exclusive offers from businesses and experiences across the city.
Organised by Make It York, the annual festival is a thank you to residents who share the city with York’s millions of visitors throughout the year – giving them the chance to explore the city’s attractions, enjoy fantastic food and support local businesses.
It returns on Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 January 2025.
The list of offers will go live at the Visit York website on Friday 10 January from 12pm.
New for 2025, you can pre-book tickets online for a variety of attractions – including complimentary tours of the Abbey Church at Ampleforth Abbey, free behind-the-scenes tours at York Theatre Royal, and 150 free tickets to York Dungeon.
The festival features free entry to some of York’s most iconic attractions, such as Beningbrough Hall, Merchant Adventurers’ Hall, and City Cruises.
Residents can also expect great deals on days out, with exclusive offers on Mountain Goat tours of the Yorkshire Dales, Oxygen York, and Lost Earth Adventurers.
Food lovers can enjoy discounts at some of York’s most loved venues – with 10% off at Love Cheese and The Speakcheesey, 25% off dining at Rio Steakhouse, and 10% off at York Gin.
Sarah Loftus, managing director of Make It York, said: “York Residents’ Festival is the perfect opportunity to rediscover your own city with exclusive offers, free tickets, and unforgettable experiences that showcase our amazing city.
“Make the most of this special weekend and explore everything on offer – don’t miss out!”
How to take part
To take advantage of the offers, please present a valid York Card, student card or identity card that proves your York residency. If presenting an identity card, this must clearly state ‘York’ (e.g. driving licence or older person’s bus pass).
The York Card is available to all who live or work within the York area. The York Card costs £6 for adult residents or £10 for non-residents who work in the city, and free to children and young people up to the age of 18. It’s valid for 12 months and is available to purchase as a digital card online or at any Explore library.