This season, North Yorkshire is alive with the spirit of Christmas, offering a wide variety of events from unique local festivals and cherished traditions to lively Christmas markets and festive light switch-ons. Each town offers a chance to explore not just the festivities, but also local shops, cosy cafés, and charming places to stay, making your Christmas visit even more special.
Selby Christmas Market & Lights Switch-On
Saturday, 30th November 2024
Join the festive celebrations at Selby Abbey, where the Christmas market is brimming with seasonal gift stalls, food and drink, and even a visit from Santa. The magical lights switch-on event draws crowds every year, making it a must-see for families.
Malton Christmas Market
Saturday 7th – Sunday 8th December 2024
Experience the joy of Malton’s Christmas market, known for its artisanal food stalls and festive atmosphere. It’s the perfect opportunity to pick up unique gifts and taste delicious local delicacies, centered around the town’s pretty marketplace.
Harrogate Christmas Fayre
Friday 29th November – Sunday 15th December 2024
Harrogate’s famous Christmas Market returns with festive shopping from local and European traders selling unique gifts and decorations. Getting around is easy with the Candy Cane Express road train, transporting you around town on Fridays to Sundays during the Fayre. Take a ride on the giant Ferris wheel for stunning views of Harrogate’s Christmas lights from above, and don’t miss the weekend Little Bird Market in Valley Gardens, offering an array of festive treats and handcrafted items from artisan makers.
Skipton Christmas Lights Switch-On
Sunday, 24th November 2024
This annual Christmas event begins with the Santa Fun Run at 10am alongside live entertainment, food and drink stands, and Christmas stalls to browse before the light switch on at 5pm.
Scarborough Sparkle
Friday 29th November – Sunday 1st December 2024
Experience a magical Christmas wonderland at Scarborough Sparkle with fairground rides, entertainment, and live music. Warm up in the cosy Tipi, take a land train ride around North Bay, and then browse stalls for gifts and tasty treats.
Discover more Christmas events
There’s even more festive events, attractions and days out across North Yorkshire this Christmas. Explore charming towns, indulge in local food and drink, or why not book a festive overnight stay to fully experience the Christmas spirit?
Explore Christmas around North Yorkshire
Christmas around Harrogate, Ripon and the Dales
Christmas around the North Yorkshire Coast and Moors
