What's on in East Yorkshire

From international sporting events and vibrant music festivals to food markets that shine a spotlight on the tastes of our region, there's always something special to see, hear, taste and be part of in East Yorkshire. Concerts in our minsters, literature festivals in our market towns, racing on our beaches and artful exhibitions across our galleries, museums and stately homes - are you ready to discover what's on?
 

Festivals in East Yorkshire

East Yorkshire hosts a variety of festivals and cultural events throughout the year, offering everything from live music to walking and giant puppets! 

The Walking East Yorkshire Festival takes place each September, and offers an impressive programme of outdoor activities, from wine tasting at local vineyards to exploring stately homes and gardens and hiking the Yorkshire Wolds. It's a wonderful way to discover more of East Yorkshire. 

If music is your passion, the Jazz and Blues Festival at Burton Agnes Hall might be right up your street. Having first began in 2007, the festival is still going strong, attracting Jazz and Blues fans from across the UK each July. The festival is uniquely set in the grounds of one of England’s finest country houses and there's no better setting to enjoy a superb line up of bands on manicured lawns.

Or for a different musical vibe, TribFest is the world's biggest tribute band festival, and is held each summer at another of East Yorkshire's great stately homes, Sledmere House. Enjoy performances from over 50 top tribute bands across six stages, plus there's comedy and a special Kidzone, making it an event the whole family will love.

The Beverley Puppet Festival is another fantastic family friendly event. Taking place every two years on the historic streets of Beverley, audiences are treated to giant, fantastical puppet creatures roaming amongst them, as well as small intimate performances in various venues around the town.

Family friendly events

Families visiting East Yorkshire will find plenty to enjoy, with events designed to entertain all ages. From colourful outdoor displays and interactive performances to nostalgic celebrations and seaside fun, there’s always something on that brings people together and creates lasting memories.

Bridlington Kite Festival sees some of the world's largest inflatable kites take to the skies above Sewerby cliff tops. With professional kite demonstrations, have a go sessions and popular parachuting teddy bear drops, there's lots to see and do.

If you prefer a day out with a faster pace, gather the family and head to Bridlington's south beach for Race the Waves. This annual event attracts thousands of people who come to watch vintage vehicles racing along the sand. The event is a nod to the past, when Yorkshire's beaches were used for land speed record attempts.

At Sewerby Hall and Gardens, families can enjoy a year round programme of events and activities which include crafting sessions, theatrical performances, and even medieval jousting!

Seasonal and year-round events

No matter the time of year, East Yorkshire offers a packed calendar of events. Whether it's romantic horse and carriage rides at Valentine's Day, Easter egg hunts, spooky woodland walks at Halloween or sparkling fireworks displays on Bonfire Night. And of course there's Christmas, a time when East Yorkshire feels truly magical.

Beverley’s Festival of Christmas is one of the biggest events in the region, with delicious produce, unique handmade gifts, carol singers and the scent of mulled wine and roast chestnuts in the air. This is the perfect place to kick off your festive season in style. 

And let's not forget about the Winter Woodland at Sewerby Hall and Gardens, a spectacular display of lights sounds, and special effects which bring the grounds to life. With thousands of twinkly lights, interactive characters and toasted marshmallows, we can't think of a better way to get into the Christmas spirit.

Book a stay in East Yorkshire

If you’re planning to come and enjoy one of the region’s memorable events, then make the most of your visit by extending your stay for a night or two. Stay close to the action in a quality hotel or relax after a busy day at a quiet glamping site, stay for longer in a country cottage for time to explore the area. Whether you’re here for a day or a long weekend, book your stay and turn your event experience into a memorable getaway.

Find out more about where to stay.

This is truly a year-round destination, so whenever you choose to visit East Yorkshire and whatever you’re interested in doing, you’ll always find something special to do and new experiences to enjoy.