These celebrations, deeply rooted in local traditions, offer visitors and residents alike the chance to experience the vibrant community spirit, agricultural heritage, and artistic talents that define this beautiful area. From agricultural shows and music festivals to historical reenactments and Christmas markets, there’s something special to experience in every season. Here’s a calendar of annual events and festivals in the Yorkshire Dales, highlighting what makes each one unique.
Spring
1. The Dales Festival of Food and Drink (May)
The Dales Festival of Food and Drink, typically held in Leyburn, is a celebration of the region’s rich culinary heritage. This festival showcases the best of local produce, from artisanal cheeses and meats to craft beers and baked goods. The event features cooking demonstrations by local chefs, food stalls, and tastings. There’s also a strong focus on sustainability and supporting local farmers, making it a great place to learn about the Dales’ agricultural traditions. The festival is a family-friendly event, with live music, children’s entertainment, and a fun, festive atmosphere.
2. Grassington Festival (June)
Grassington Festival is one of the Yorkshire Dales’ most vibrant cultural events. Spanning two weeks in June, this festival brings the picturesque village of Grassington to life with a diverse program of music, theatre, art, and comedy. The festival attracts performers from across the UK and beyond, offering everything from classical concerts and jazz performances to literary talks and comedy shows. The festival also includes a variety of workshops and exhibitions, making it a fantastic opportunity for visitors to engage with the arts in a beautiful setting.
3. Swaledale Festival (May-June)
Swaledale Festival is a two-week celebration of music, arts, and walking, held in the scenic Swaledale and Arkengarthdale valleys. The festival features a wide range of events, including classical and folk music concerts, art exhibitions, guided walks, and talks. What makes Swaledale Festival particularly special is its setting; many performances take place in historic churches, village halls, and other unique venues, allowing attendees to experience world-class culture in intimate, picturesque surroundings.
Summer
4. The Great Yorkshire Show (July)
While not exclusively within the Dales, the Great Yorkshire Show in Harrogate is an essential event for those interested in agriculture and rural life. This massive agricultural show, one of the largest in England, attracts tens of thousands of visitors each year. The show features livestock competitions, equestrian events, agricultural machinery displays, and a vast array of food and craft stalls. For families, there’s a wealth of activities, including animal encounters, cooking demonstrations, and entertainment. The Great Yorkshire Show is a true celebration of Yorkshire’s agricultural heritage and a must-visit for anyone in the region during July.
5. Kettlewell Scarecrow Festival (August)
Kettlewell, a charming village in Wharfedale, hosts one of the most whimsical and beloved festivals in the Dales: the Kettlewell Scarecrow Festival. For nine days each August, the village is transformed as residents create and display an array of creative and humorous scarecrows. Visitors are invited to follow themed trails through the village, spotting the scarecrows and solving clues along the way. The festival has a joyful, family-friendly atmosphere, with activities for children, live music, and plenty of local food and drink. The Kettlewell Scarecrow Festival is a unique way to experience the creativity and community spirit of the Yorkshire Dales.
6. Muker Show (September)
The Muker Show, held in the small village of Muker in Swaledale, is one of the last traditional agricultural shows of the season and offers an authentic taste of rural life. This one-day event, typically held on the first Wednesday of September, features sheepdog trials, sheep and cattle judging, and displays of local crafts and produce. The Muker Show is also known for its fell race, where competitors run up the steep slopes of Kisdon Hill. The show has a strong community feel, and it’s a great opportunity to see local traditions in action and experience the close-knit nature of life in the Dales.
Autumn
7. Masham Sheep Fair (September)
Masham, a historic market town known for its breweries, hosts the annual Masham Sheep Fair in late September. This event celebrates the town’s long association with sheep farming, which dates back centuries. The fair includes sheep shows, sheepdog demonstrations, and woolcraft displays. One of the highlights is the sheep parade through the town’s market square, where different breeds are showcased. The event also features a range of market stalls selling local crafts, food, and drink, as well as live music and entertainment. The Masham Sheep Fair is a wonderful way to explore the agricultural roots of the Yorkshire Dales.
8. Richmond Walking and Book Festival (September)
For those who enjoy combining outdoor activities with a love of literature, the Richmond Walking and Book Festival offers the perfect blend. This unique event, held over a week in late September, features guided walks through the stunning landscapes of Swaledale and beyond, alongside a program of literary events, including author talks, poetry readings, and workshops. The walks range from gentle strolls to more challenging hikes, making them suitable for all levels of fitness. The festival’s literary side includes appearances by well-known authors and local writers, making it a must-visit for book lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
9. Settle Stories Festival (October)
Settle Stories Festival is a celebration of storytelling in all its forms, held in the market town of Settle. This October festival features a diverse range of events, including live storytelling performances, workshops, film screenings, and art installations. The festival aims to bring people together through the power of stories, with events that appeal to all ages. Whether it’s traditional tales, contemporary narratives, or personal stories, the Settle Stories Festival offers something for everyone, with a focus on creativity, community, and the rich heritage of the Yorkshire Dales.
Winter
10. Grassington Dickensian Festival (December)
The Grassington Dickensian Festival is one of the most magical events in the Yorkshire Dales, transporting visitors back to the Victorian era with a festive twist. Held on the first three weekends of December, the festival sees the village of Grassington transformed with traditional decorations, street performers, and market stalls. Visitors can enjoy carol singing, brass bands, and a variety of festive foods. Many locals dress in Victorian costumes, adding to the authenticity and charm of the event. The Dickensian Festival is a perfect way to get into the holiday spirit, offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere in a beautiful setting.
11. Hawes Christmas Market (December)
Hawes, one of the highest market towns in England, hosts a charming Christmas market each December. The market features stalls selling local crafts, food, and seasonal gifts, with plenty of opportunities to sample Yorkshire Dales specialties. The event also includes live music, children’s activities, and a visit from Santa Claus. Hawes is beautifully decorated for the occasion, and the market provides a festive atmosphere with a strong sense of community. It’s a great place to pick up unique Christmas gifts while enjoying the seasonal spirit of the Dales.
12. Wensleydale Long Sword Dance Festival (December)
The Wensleydale Long Sword Dance Festival is a unique and traditional event held in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales during the winter months. Long sword dancing is a form of folk dance with deep roots in Yorkshire, and this festival celebrates the tradition with performances from teams across the region. The dancers, often dressed in traditional costumes, perform intricate routines with long, rigid swords, creating a captivating display of skill and coordination. The festival is typically held in December, offering a fascinating insight into local culture and an opportunity to experience a lesser-known aspect of the Dales’ heritage.