York is a fantastic city with plenty to offer! There’s always something happening, from historical events to modern festivals. Here are some of the best events in York that the team at Stayful have put together, these events are often annual throughout the year and are a must when visiting the beautiful city of York.

York Minster Events

The iconic cathedral often hosts special services, concerts, and exhibitions. The Minster’s choir performances and Christmas services are particularly beautiful.

You can explore the York minster events here.

Yorkshire Museum and Gardens Events

They have temporary exhibitions, outdoor events, and educational talks throughout the year. During the summer months, they often host events like stargazing or guided tours.

You can explore the York museum and garden events here.

Jorvik Viking Centre Events

The Viking Festival is one of the major highlights, but they also have workshops, reenactments, and exhibitions dedicated to York’s Viking past.

York Food and Drink Festival

This is a big event for food lovers! Typically held in September, it brings local producers, chefs, and foodies together for tasting sessions, cooking demos, and more.

York Races

The races are a major event, especially during the summer months, with both flat and jump races. The course itself is beautiful, and the atmosphere is always lively.

Ghost Tours and Halloween Events
York is one of the most haunted cities in the UK, and there are plenty of ghost tours year-round. For Halloween, the spooky vibe ramps up with special themed tours, events, and storytelling.

York Festival of Ideas

This is an annual festival (usually in June) featuring talks, lectures, workshops, and performances across various disciplines, from science to art.

The Great Yorkshire Show

If you’re in the area in July, the Great Yorkshire Show (not in York itself, but close by) is a major agricultural event with livestock, local produce, and more.

York Christmas Market

For a festive atmosphere, the York Christmas Market (usually in November and December) is wonderful. It’s full of stalls selling local crafts, food, and gifts, set against the backdrop of the historic Shambles, it is known as one of the best Christmas markets in England so well worth a visit when exploring a short stay in York.

Micklegate Run Soapbox Challenge

This quirky event involves homemade soapboxes racing down the famous Micklegate Hill. It’s a fun and fast-paced spectacle that usually happens in the summer.