Christmas and New Year on the Yorkshire coast

The Yorkshire coast is bursting with Christmas activities and events to welcome in the new year in with a bang! Whether you want to meet Santa, laugh along with a Christmas pantomime or celebrate in style, you're sure to find a fun-filled event for you.

From Christmas markets where you can pick up handmade gifts to unique festivals filled with festive charm, the coast comes alive at Christmas. Not forgetting the arrival of Santa in Scarborough and the annual Whitby Krampus Run, which bring together old traditions with a new way of doing things that you won't find anywhere else! Along the coast in Filey, the famous Fishtive Tree is made up over over 100 crab and lobster pots, and is lit up from 6pm on the first Saturday in December, followed by a firework display.

You'll also find a superb selection of independent and national shops located along the Yorkshire coast, as well as a wide variety of places to eat and drink to refuel in between your Christmas shopping.

Why not treat yourself with a short break so you can make the most of your trip? You'll find so many wonderful places to stay along the Yorkshire coast, whether you want to be part of the action in our larger towns like Scarborough and Whitby, or enjoy a more peaceful setting in our coastal villages in the North York Moors National Park.

Christmas events on the Yorkshire Coast

Experience unique events and festivals that capture the character of the Yorkshire coast.

Put on your costume for Robin's Hood's Victorian Weekend which sees the village decorated in twinkling lights, and family activities and entertainment through the winding streets, and prepare to be dazzled by Scarborough Lights, as the town is lit up with dozens of lights installations and displays. You'll find many local events too, from Christmas light switch-ons to the annual Boxing Day race.

🎄 Stay Longer, Go Further 🎄

Make the most of your Christmas break in North Yorkshire by staying a little longer and exploring a little further. Discover family-friendly events, magical ice-skating rinks, and even meet Father Christmas himself.

Wander through bustling market towns like Pickering and Thirsk, treat yourself to a luxurious stay in Harrogate, or experience the festive buzz at Selby’s Christmas markets. Visit the enchanting Castle Howard for its spectacular Christmas displays, or explore the festive decorations and winter gardens at Fountains Abbey.

Enjoy lively pantomimes in theatres across York, Scarborough, and Richmond, and pick up those last-minute gifts at traditional Victorian fairs in towns like Ripon and Whitby. Soak up the festive atmosphere with candlelit concerts at Ripon Cathedral or cosy up for a carol service in the charming villages of the Yorkshire Dales. Wherever you go in North Yorkshire, Christmas cheer awaits!

Find out more about Christmas in North Yorkshire on the Visit North Yorkshire website.