What’s on in North Yorkshire 2026

Looking for unforgettable experiences on your next Yorkshire coast holiday? Whether you’re dreaming of seaside towns, countryside escapes, or vibrant festivals, North Yorkshire has something for everyone in 2026. From family-friendly attractions to cultural celebrations, this guide highlights the best events in North Yorkshire to add to your itinerary.

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Easter Events in North Yorkshire

Easter 2026 falls on Sunday 5th April, with the long weekend starting Friday 3rd April. It’s the perfect time for a spring getaway in Yorkshire.

Try the Easter Adventure at Stockeld Park which includes a forest trail with forest friends, playgrounds, giant eggs, a woodland walk, the Easter Bunny, and live action characters or climb Brimham Rocks for an Family friendly trail or Easter egg hunt. There will be Easter Adventure trails at Newby Hall or the delectable York Chocolate Festival for 2026, from 1st – 5th April.

Whitby Goth Weekend

A must-see for fans of gothic culture and alternative music, Whitby Goth Weekend returns. Celebrating literary greats like Bram Stoker and his Dracula, the weekend sees thousands of revellers dressing up and heading to the seaside town.

Here you’ll catch the Bizarre Bazaar Alternative Market and enjoy alternative music. It happens twice a year, so pop these year’s dates in your calendar:

• Spring edition: 1st–3rd May
• Autumn edition: 30th Oct–1st Nov

Find out more about Whitby Goth Weekend here

Bridlington Kite Festival

There’s nothing like the Yorkshire coast for flying a kite – and Bridlington Kite Festival always delivers. Taking place on 16–17 May 2026, this colourful spectacle at Sewerby Cliff Tops features giant kites shaped like dragons, frogs, and more. A perfect free event for families.

Scarborough Open Air Theatre Season

Celebrate Yorkshire’s maritime heritage at Scarborough Seafest, expected again in July 2026. Enjoy seafood stalls, live music, and family entertainment on the West Pier.

You’ll also find arts and crafts, street entertainers, fairground rides and children’s activities, so bring the whole family along. And the best part? Admission is free!

Find out more about Scarborough Seafest here >

Yorkshire Race Days

God’s own country is teeming with racecourses, so if you fancy a flutter, be sure to fill your calendar with the best Yorkshire racing events.

Yorkshire’s racecourses offer thrilling events throughout the year, here’s just a few to get you started:

• Dante Festival at York: 13–15 May
• John Smith’s Cup: 10–11 July
• Ebor Festival: 19–22 August
• St Leger at Doncaster: 10–13 September

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Whitby Regatta

Love yourself a good old-fashioned boat race? Head to Whitby for the annual Whitby Regatta, which returns this year from Saturday 8th – Monday 10th August. Celebrating more than 180 years of outdoor aquatic entertainment, the festival features rowing races and a whole host of other activities.

Whitby Regatta brings boat races, RAF flyovers, fireworks, loads of family fun to the coast and more…

Find out more about Whitby Regatta here >

Bridlington Pride

What better way to celebrate summer than with Pride celebrations? Bridlington Pride will return for 2026, dates to be confirmed for July.

Hit the streets from 12pm to watch the parades, featuring costumes, bright colours and dancing. Then it’s onward to the festival and the long awaited after party. You can catch all the action out on the streets and in Bridlington Spa, complete with drag queens, live music and art shows.

Find out more about Bridlington Pride here >

York Food and Drink Festival

Feeling hungry? We’ve got just the treat for you with this North Yorkshire event. The York Food and Drink Festival returns to the historic city of York from Friday 18th September to Sunday 27th September.

Hit Parliament Street for a huge range of artisanal Yorkshire foods, as well as live cooking demonstrations and taste trails. There’s even a chocolate festival on from Wednesday 1st to Sunday 5th April. While you’re there, don’t forget to visit other York gems including the York Minster and the National Railway Museum.

Find out more about York Food and Drink Festival here >

Christmas in Yorkshire

North Yorkshire transforms into a festive wonderland from November to December:

• York Christmas Market: TBC
• Castle Howard Christmas Experience: TBC
• Robin Hood’s Bay Victorian Weekend: TBC

Plus more….

Read the blog on our best Christmas Markets to visit 2025

Stay in a Yorkshire Coastal Cottage

Make your 2026 holiday truly special with a stay in one of our handpicked Yorkshire coastal cottages. Whether you’re exploring seaside towns like Whitby, Scarborough, or Bridlington, or heading inland to York or the North York Moors, we’ve got the perfect base for your adventure.

For more inspiration on how to spend your time in our delightful county, give our guide on the most beautiful places in Yorkshire a read! You wont be short on things to do with our blog on 4 fabulous days out in North Yorkshire!