York has a festival for everyone – and 2026 is set to be no different.
Vikings, ice, chocolate – we’ve got the lot. Pretty much every month has an immersive experience going on and our guide below can help you plan your year.
If you are travelling to York to enjoy the festivals, we have put together a helpful travel guide. For day trips, Park & Ride is the best option as the city can get congested. If you are staying longer or need access to your car, our car parks guide will help you.
York Residents’ Festival
It’s all about York and the people who live here.
Show a valid York Card, student card or identity card that proves York residency and get access to special offers on attractions, shopping, dining, and unique experiences.
Colour & Light
Colour and Light returns – but this time on two iconic York buildings – York Castle Museum and Clifford’s Tower.
A continuous ten-minute show will bring York’s historic characters to life in a creative and vibrant family-friendly projection.
York Ice Trail
An Enchanted City – the theme for 2026. The historic streets of York will host spectacular and dazzling ice sculptures, leading you on a mysterious trail.
NEW for 2026 – Ice Village & ice carving masterclasses.
JORVIK Viking Festival
Vikings return to the streets of York once more.
The festival is set against the backdrop of the Winter Adventure at the JORVIK Viking Centre.
It includes a festival feast, Viking games and culminates the battle for York – making it a brilliant family day out.
York Literature Festival
Full details of the 2026 festival are still to be announced, but guests include Rónán Hession, Laura Bates and Susanna Clarke.
York Chocolate Festival
Who doesn’t like chocolate? And York is a city famous for making it, so this festival is a perfect way to celebrate.
There will be a market with lots of yummy treats to indulge in, a taste trail around the city – including samples, as well as family activities.
York Pride
The largest LGBT+ celebration in North Yorkshire! The streets of York will be filled with love, diversity and celebration as the parade makes its way to Knavesmire.
York Festival of Ideas
Join the festival for 200 mostly free in-person and online events designed to educate, entertain and inspire. It includes world-class speakers, performances, exhibitions, tours and family-friendly activities.
York Festival of Mystery Plays
This two week long celebration includes art, poetry, trails and exhibitions.
York Georgian Festival
The Georgian Festival is returning to one of the city’s most magnificent residences – York Mansion House.
The official residence of the Lord Mayor of York will recreate historic events and entertainment in May
York Food Festival
This annual event is a food-lover’s dream! Stalls, samples, masterclasses… everything you wanted to know about food but were afraid to ask.
Aesthetica Short Film Festival
This international film festival hosts cutting edge productions, family films, games, workshops, masterclasses and more.
York Whisky Festival
The UK’s oldest Whisky Festival, outside London and Scotland, returns for 2026!
Sample some of the best home-grown whiskies from Scotland and around the globe. Learn about them, then buy whatever takes your fancy.
York Christmas Tree Festival
Experience the fantastic Christmas Tree Festival, set inside York Minster, with 70 trees on display in the cathedral’s Nave, Chapter House and Lady Chapel.