Events & Festivals in Harrogate
Events & Festivals in Harrogate, Knaresborough & Ripon
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- April: Easter Bunny Adventure Trail (Apr 3-6).
- May: Spring Sports Cars in the Park (May 3), Rock Choir Performance (May 10), and Opera with Nicola Mills (May 23).
- June: Tractorfest 2026 (June 6-7), a major exhibition featuring thousands of vintage tractors, machinery, and family entertainment.
- July: Historic Vehicle Rally (July 19) and the Aldborough & Boroughbridge Agricultural Show (July 26).
- August: Lord Chamberlain’s Men Open Air Theatre – Othello (Aug 14) and Fireworks Champions (Aug 22).
- September: Autumn Sports Cars (Sept 6), Harrogate Autumn Flower Show (Sept 18-20), and Apple Day/World Jam Festival (Sept 27).
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The Legacy of Hope Walk
In collaboration with suicide prevention charity, West Wellbeing in Northern Ireland.
Originally planned to be the “Walk Out of the Darkness” event, The Jordan Legacy is inviting you to join us, now on Sunday May 17th, for our “The Legacy of Hope Walk – creating ripples of hope for those affected by suicide”.
Register via this link
Visit the Jordan Legacy website via this link
Creating a Ripple of Hope for Those Affected by Suicide
Every suicide leaves a ripple effect.
Families devastated.
Friends searching for answers.
Communities asking what more could have been done.
At The Jordan Legacy, we believe those ripples can also become ripples of hope.
On Sunday 17 May, the final day of Mental Health Awareness Week, people across the UK will come together for The Legacy of Hope Walk — a national moment of remembrance, reflection and action.
Some will walk together in Harrogate.
Others will walk in their own communities across the UK.
But wherever we walk, we walk for the same reason:
To remember those we have lost and to help prevent future suicides.
Why This Walk Matters
Every day in the UK, families receive the devastating news that someone they love has died by suicide.
The Jordan Legacy was created following our loss of Jordan.
Rather than allowing Jordan’s death to be the end of the story, we chose to turn tragedy into action — working to reduce suicide deaths and support those affected.
The Legacy of Hope Walk continues that mission in Jordan’s memory.
How You Can Take Part
There are three ways to be involved:
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Join the walk in Harrogate: Walk with us and be part of the main event.
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Host your own walk: Gather friends, colleagues or your community and walk together wherever you are, either on the day or a day that suits you
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Walk your own way: Take part individually – in your local park, countryside or neighbourhood, either on the day or a day that suits you.
Wherever you walk, you will be part of a national ripple of hope.
Register via this link
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Easter Artisan Markets Set to Transform Harrogate and Knaresborough
Two of Yorkshire’s most scenic spots are about to come alive this Easter as artisan markets bring street food, handmade goods and a vibrant community atmosphere to Harrogate and Knaresborough.
Little Bird Made is hosting a four-day pop-up market experience, starting at Knaresborough Castle on Good Friday and Saturday, before moving to Valley Gardens in Harrogate for Easter Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday.
Visitors can expect a lively mix of independent traders, showcasing everything from handcrafted products to locally produced food and drink—all set against the stunning backdrop of historic parkland and springtime gardens.
“By bringing our artisans to the grounds of the Castle and Valley Gardens, we’re creating a unique outdoor shopping experience that celebrates Yorkshire’s creative talent,” said Jackie Crozier, managing director of Little Bird Made.
The markets will run daily from 10am to 3pm, offering the perfect daytime outing over the Easter weekend.
Traders are already looking forward to the return. Elizabeth Charters, owner of Pathos Bakery, said Valley Gardens is “one of our original markets,” adding she is excited to see familiar faces and welcome new visitors.
Paula Beaumont, of Paula Beaumont Adventures, said visitors can look forward to “diverse artisan makers and amazing street food” in a beautiful spring setting.
With free entry and a relaxed outdoor setting, the markets are expected to draw both locals and visitors looking for something different this Easter.
For more details or to book a stall, visit www.littlebirdmade.com.
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Harrogate gaming festival returns this weekend with retro classics, modern tech and family fun
A much-loved gaming and toys festival is returning to Harrogate this weekend — and it’s shaping up to be bigger than ever.
The Odyssey Video Games & Toys Festival is back for 2026, transforming The Crown Hotel into a vibrant hub of nostalgia, cutting-edge gaming and family-friendly entertainment on Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th April.
Running from noon to 5pm each day, the event promises a packed programme designed to appeal to all ages — from lifelong gamers to curious newcomers.
🎮 Retro favourites meet modern gaming
Visitors will be able to step back in time with playable consoles from the 80s, 90s and early 2000s, while also exploring high-performance gaming PCs and the latest titles.
The festival brings together local expertise and creativity, including support from Phase 4 Computers, alongside indie developers showcasing new and original games.
It’s a rare chance to experience the full evolution of gaming — all under one roof.
🧸 Toys, collectibles and hidden gems
Beyond the screens, the festival features a bustling marketplace filled with toys, trading cards and collectibles.
Expect everything from vintage action figures to modern memorabilia, with exhibitors including Arcade Kid and Toy Land, plus a wide range of independent traders.
Whether you’re a serious collector or just browsing, there’s plenty to discover.
Events & Festivals in Harrogate
👨👩👧 A perfect Easter holiday day out
With the school holidays underway, organisers say the event is designed to be easy, affordable and fun for families.
Children can dive straight into hands-on play, while adults can enjoy browsing stalls, watching demos or reliving classic games.
Support also comes from local organisations including Harrogate Town AFC, Geek Retreat and Andy’s Man Club.
A spokesperson said:
“Odyssey provides an accessible indoor activity right in the centre of Harrogate. It’s the perfect addition to a family day out.”
📍 What you need to know
- Where: The Crown Hotel
- When: Saturday 4th & Sunday 5th April 2026
- Time: 12pm – 5pm
Tickets are available online, with special family offers also available through local promotions.
Blending nostalgia, innovation and community spirit, the Odyssey Video Games & Toys Festival is set to be one of Harrogate’s must-visit events this Easter.
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Harrogate Bee Social
Harrogate Bee Social launches app to help women build real friendships For full details, Click Here
A fast-growing women’s community in Harrogate has taken its next step with the launch of a dedicated app designed to bring people together in real life—not keep them online.
It has grown to more than 1,000 members since launching in September 2025, officially unveiled the app on 14 March. The platform supports women aged 18 to 80 across Harrogate and the surrounding district, making it easier to discover events, join groups and stay connected.
Events & Festivals in Harrogate
A different kind of social app
Unlike traditional social platforms, the Harrogate Bee Social app is focused on encouraging face-to-face interaction. Its core aim is simple: help women step out, meet new people and build genuine friendships in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
Members can quickly browse and book a wide range of local events, including coffee mornings, wellness sessions, creative workshops and social evenings. Interest groups and regular updates also make it easier to stay involved and feel part of a growing community.
Building a strong women’s community in Harrogate
Harrogate Bee Social has quickly established itself as a supportive network for women at all stages of life. Whether new to the area, starting a fresh chapter or simply looking to expand their social circle, members are welcomed into an inclusive space built on connection and shared experiences.
The community’s growth reflects a wider demand for authentic, in-person interaction—something many feel has been lost in an increasingly digital world.
Events, friendship and real connection
At the heart of Harrogate Bee Social is a varied programme of events designed to suit different interests and comfort levels. From relaxed meetups to structured activities, there are opportunities for everyone to get involved.
The new app enhances this experience by simplifying bookings and communication, allowing members to focus on what matters most: meeting people, trying new things and enjoying life.
A welcoming and inclusive approach
Harrogate Bee Social places strong emphasis on kindness, inclusivity and respect. Women of all backgrounds, lifestyles and personalities are encouraged to join, with a clear focus on creating a safe, supportive and pressure-free environment.
There are no cliques or expectations—just an open invitation to connect, socialise and build lasting friendships.
Why Harrogate Bee Social matters
As friendships evolve through life changes such as moving, career shifts or family commitments, finding new connections can be challenging. Harrogate Bee Social aims to remove those barriers, offering a simple and enjoyable way to meet like-minded women locally.
With the launch of its app, the community is set to grow even further—helping more women across Harrogate discover the benefits of real-world connection.
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Knaresborough Bunny Hunt 2026: Easter Trail Returns Bigger, Brighter and More Popular Than Ever
One of North Yorkshire’s most loved Easter events is back, as The Great Knaresborough Bunny Hunt returns from 28 March to 12 April 2026—promising family fun, colourful creativity and a boost for local businesses.
Now celebrating its 9th year, the event has become a firm favourite for both residents and visitors. Since launching in 2018, it has raised nearly £22,500 for local charities, while helping drive footfall into Knaresborough’s independent shops, cafés and attractions.
Created and presented by Painting Pots Knaresborough, the Bunny Hunt was designed to offer a simple but engaging activity during the Easter holidays—one that is affordable, accessible and rooted in the local community. For just £4, families can pick up a Bunny Hunt map from outlets including Painting Pots, Castlegate Bon Bon, PJ Ices and The Black Mulberry.
From there, the adventure begins. Participants follow a trail through Knaresborough’s historic streets, hidden corners and picturesque riverside, searching for beautifully hand-painted ceramic bunnies displayed in shop windows and community venues. Each bunny features a unique design, adding a sense of discovery and excitement as visitors explore the town.
The trail not only keeps children entertained but also encourages people to spend time in local businesses they might not usually visit. Shops and venues taking part benefit from increased visibility, making the event an important part of the town’s seasonal economy.
Once the hunt is complete, participants can hand in their forms to receive a sweet treat, along with entry into a prize draw featuring rewards generously donated by local businesses.
Beyond the fun, the Bunny Hunt continues to support a wide range of local charities and organisations. Beneficiaries this year include Mum Club Harrogate, Don’t Wake the Baby Parenting Podcast, Red Kite Children’s Day Nursery, Pure Swim Yorkshire, Time Together, Mamas Eco Clean, The Dental Hub and NYnet.
With strong backing from sponsors and the local community, the event continues to grow year on year, attracting visitors from across the region.
Combining creativity, exploration and community spirit, The Great Knaresborough Bunny Hunt offers a perfect way to enjoy Easter while supporting local causes. Whether you’re planning a family day out or looking for something different to do during the holidays, it remains one of the standout seasonal events in North Yorkshire.
For full details and updates, visit: www.greatknaresboroughbunnyhunt.co.uk
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Ibiza Symphonica is coming to Harrogate — and it’s set to be one of summer’s biggest nights
A huge open-air concert is heading to the Great Yorkshire Showground this summer, bringing Ibiza’s iconic dance anthems to Harrogate in a one-night-only spectacle.
On Saturday, August 15, 2026, Ibiza Symphonica will transform the showground’s Main Ring into a live music arena, combining a full orchestra with powerhouse vocalists for a high-energy celebration of the last 30 years of club classics.
Big names, big sound, one unforgettable night
The line-up includes Heather Small, Rebecca Ferguson MBE and Alison Limerick, with a special DJ set from BBC Radio 2 presenter Scott Mills.
Expect euphoric Ibiza hits reworked with live strings, brass and vocals — delivering a festival-style atmosphere with a unique orchestral twist.
First major concert since Elton John
The event marks a major moment for Harrogate, as it will be the first outdoor concert at the Great Yorkshire Showground since Elton John performed there in 2012.
With tickets capped at just 8,000, organisers are promising an “intimate” large-scale experience, running from 6pm to 10.30pm.
Tickets and key details
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Date: Saturday, August 15, 2026
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Time: 6:00pm – 10:30pm
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Location: Great Yorkshire Showground, Harrogate
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Tickets: From £45
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Pre-sale: March 19 at 10am (registration required)
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General sale: March 20 at 10am via Harrogate Theatre
Why this show is different
Ibiza Symphonica isn’t just another concert — it’s a full-scale live production inspired by the legendary Ibiza club scene. Originally launched on the island in 2018, the show reimagines dancefloor anthems with a live orchestra, turning classic tracks into cinematic performances.
With a standout line-up, a landmark venue and a feel-good soundtrack of Ibiza favourites, this is shaping up to be one of the UK’s most talked-about live events of summer 2026.
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Harrogate Dog Show returns next month with cutest pups, fun classes and dog market
The much-loved Harrogate Dog Show is set to return next month, bringing adorable pups, proud pooches and a packed programme of family-friendly fun to the town centre.
Organised by Harrogate BID in association with Your Harrogate Radio and the Victoria Shopping Centre, the popular event will take place on Saturday, April 11 in the centre’s piazza.
Now in its sixth year, the dog show has become a firm favourite in Harrogate’s events calendar, attracting dog owners, families and visitors for a day celebrating the town’s four-legged companions.
Seven fun categories will be featured this year, giving dogs of all shapes and sizes a chance to shine. Popular classes include Cutest Puppy, Handsomest Dog, Best Purebred, Best Crossbreed, Fanciest Female, and the crowd-pleasing Dog the Judge Would Most Like to Take Home.
Registration for the competition opens at 10am, with judging beginning at 11am. Entries will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, with limited places available in each category.
Alongside the show, visitors can explore a dog-themed market on Cambridge Street, organised by Real Markets. Stalls will offer a range of treats, accessories and gifts for dogs and their owners.
Bethany Allen, Operations Manager at Harrogate BID, said the team is looking forward to welcoming the event back to the town centre.
She said the show has become “a firm favourite in Harrogate’s events calendar” and offers a fantastic day out for families, dog owners and visitors alike.
With plenty of wagging tails, adorable pups and friendly competition expected, the Harrogate Dog Show promises another lively celebration for dog lovers across the region.
Discover the best events and festivals in Harrogate, Knaresborough and Ripon in 2026. From world-class music and food festivals to traditional Yorkshire celebrations and seasonal markets, the Harrogate district offers something happening all year round.
Whether you’re planning a weekend break in Harrogate, a Yorkshire staycation, or looking for what’s on near you today, this guide brings together the biggest and most popular festivals from May through to Christmas.
May & June 2026 Festival Events
The festival season begins with live music, food, and community celebrations across the district.
- Harrogate Music Festival (May–June) – A flagship cultural event featuring classical, jazz and contemporary performances.
- Great Knaresborough Bed Race (June) – One of Yorkshire’s most unique events combining spectacle, sport and community spirit.
- Harrogate Food & Drink Festival – The Stray (June) – Street food, artisan producers, live music and family entertainment.
Events & Festivals in Harrogate
July 2026 Festivals
Summer in Harrogate is packed with major national events and international visitors.
- Great Yorkshire Show (July) – One of the UK’s largest agricultural festivals celebrating food, farming and countryside life.
- Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival (July) – A globally recognised literary festival attracting bestselling authors and fans.
August 2026 Festival Events
A mix of lifestyle, food and outdoor festivals continues across the district.
- Harrogate Fashion Week (August) – A leading UK fashion and retail event.
- Harrogate Food & Drink Festival – Ripley Castle (August) – A summer highlight with gourmet food, drinks and live entertainment.
September 2026 Festivals
Late summer brings music, flowers and large outdoor events.
- Love to Be… Festival (September) – A major open-air music festival on The Stray.
- Harrogate Autumn Flower Show (September) – One of the UK’s top gardening and horticultural events.
October 2026 Festivals Events
Autumn focuses on culture, ideas and seasonal experiences.
- Berwins Salon North (Autumn Series) – Inspiring talks blending science, culture and big ideas.
- Harvest Festivals & Food Events – Local markets and seasonal celebrations across Harrogate, Ripon and Knaresborough.
November & December 2026 Festivals
The district transforms into a festive destination with Christmas markets and winter events.
- Harrogate Christmas Market & Lights Switch-On – A magical festive experience with shopping, food and entertainment.
- Ripon & Knaresborough Christmas Festivals – Traditional Yorkshire markets, fairs and seasonal celebrations.
Events & Festivals in Harrogate
Why Visit Harrogate forFestival Events in 2026?
Harrogate district is one of the UK’s top destinations for events, festivals and things to do. With a mix of historic venues, open green spaces like The Stray, and vibrant town centres, it offers a unique setting for unforgettable experiences.
- Year-round festivals and live events
- Easy access from Leeds, York and across the UK
- A perfect destination for weekend breaks and day trips
- A thriving scene for food, culture, music and family events
Plan Your Visit
Looking for more things to do in Harrogate today, upcoming festivals, or local recommendations? Explore the full guide for:
- Attractions and landmarks
- Places to stay
- Food and drink
- Local businesses and services
- Live updates for events, travel and weather
Everything you need to plan your visit to Harrogate, Knaresborough and Ripon is right here.
