Unmissable Events in Harrogate in 2023
Wednesday 5th April, 2023 by hs-admin
Harrogate is one of Yorkshire’s most stylish locations. Boasting striking historic buildings and lush gardens, you can expect a beautiful backdrop as you explore the Victorian spa town. You’ll have lots to discover when visiting Harrogate including an array of independent shops, restaurants, bars, cafes and pubs. If you’re looking to unwind, we’d recommend a visit to the famous Turkish Baths who have been perfecting the art of relaxation since 1897! A rural district, Harrogate also contains the medieval city of Ripon, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the four market towns of Knaresborough, Masham, Pately Bridge and Boroughbridge.
The perfect base for a romantic retreat, family staycation, getaway with friends or solo adventure, Harrogate will certainly provide memories to treasure. There are so many varied events throughout Harrogate so we’ve highlighted some of our favourites in today’s blog post. Will you be visiting any this year?
Harrogate Spring Flower Show
20th – 23rd April
Kick start the spring season with Harrogate Spring Flower Show! The first major event in the national gardening calendar, this show is a real treat for those who enjoy gardening. There’s plenty to discover and lots of inspiration to be had.
You can explore the grand floral hall and the spectacular floral art pavilion as well as enjoy live theatres and music. There’s plenty of advice from nurseries and growers so even if you’re a novice gardener, you’ll leave feeling confident. When it comes to shopping, there’s lots to choose from! From food and drinks to home and gifts, you’ll soon lose track of time perusing everything on offer. Buy your tickets for the Harrogate Spring Flower Show here.
Henshaws Beer Festival
28th – 30th April
Calling all beer fans, Henshaws Charity Beer Festival returns this year! After a successful event last year, the festival is back and better than ever for 2023.
Offering two daytime family friends events as well as two adult evening sessions, there is something for everyone. Local breweries Cold Bath Brewing, Daleside, Harrogate Brewery, Roosters and Turning Point are hosting the event so you know you’re in for a real treat! As well as beers, you can also sample gins, ciders and wines all produced in Yorkshire! The festival has live music across two stages, fun activities and games for all ages. When it comes to eating, there will be pop up vendors serving dishes from Mexican to Pizza!
Best of all – the Beer Festival raises funds for people living with sight loss and disabilities across the north of England so it’s for a fantastic cause!
Tickets are £18 on the day or £15 if pre-booked online.
Harrogate Food & Drink Festival
24th – 25th June
Harrogate Food & Drink Festival is a fantastic celebration of international influence and local talent showcased through international food, independent drinks, art, charity and live music.
When it comes to eating and drinking, there is something for everyone! There will be an array of street food vendors serving up everything from traditional Yorkshire classics to Greek delights to Indian cuisine. If you fancy a tipple, you’ll find the best businesses so you can get your hands on a fruity cocktail or an independent ale – and everything inbetween!
This epic two day event also features interactive tasting sessions, markets, live music, chef demos, art displays, a fun fair and children’s activities.
Make use of the early bird offer and book your tickets from £4.95 per adult for a limited time only.
Great Yorkshire Show
11th – 14th July
The Great Yorkshire Show returns this year for 164th time! Known as one of the best agricultural shows in the UK, this four day extravaganza takes place on a 250-acre show ground and welcomes 140,000 people. A celebration of all things agriculture, food, farming and countryside, the show is a delight for all ages.
You can expect incredible show jumping, cookery demonstrations and a garden show. There are also hives and honey, forestry and an incredible food hall for you to enjoy!
The grounds are open from 8am – 6pm each day so you can really make the day of it. Tickets are available now so we’d recommend purchasing in advance to avoid disappointment.
Dark Skies Festival
3rd – 25th November
Dark Skies activity evenings take place at How Stean Gorge in Pateley Bridge through November on Fridays and Saturdays between 7pm – 8:30pm. The Yorkshire Dales National Park has been officially designated an International Dark Sky Reserve making this area one of the best places in the world to view the skies. An incredible experience, you’ll be able to star gaze as you glide across Scar House Reservoir in a canoe.
Under the blanket of the moon and stars above, you’ll be able to paddle your rafted canoe and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Make your evening even better and pre-order a delicious pizza and dine in the panoramic glass floored cafe which overlooks the gorge!
We expect this one to sell out so we’d recommend booking if you’d like to experience the Dark Skies Festival for yourself.
Harrogate Christmas Fayre
1st – 27th December
Harrogate Christmas Fayre returns to Harrogate this year for 10 days of festive fun. With a brilliant mix of traditional European Christmas stalls and local traders, you’ll have many stalls to explore. From arts and crafts to delicious treats, unique gifts to festive decorations, your shopping experience will certainly be special at the Christmas markets.
As well as shopping, there will also be live music and entertainment for the whole family. Whether you’re taking a spin on the ice skating rink, hopping on the candy cane express train or exploring the winter wonderland village, little ones will absolutely love the whole event. Harrogate Christmas lights will be on and the air will be filled with festive cheer to make your experience magical.
Harrogate Christmas Fayre is also dog friendly so if you’re planning a dog friendly retreat in Harrogate, you can bring your pup along for the festive fun!