Whitby is a popular destination all year round. Local events offer something interesting to experience throughout the year. Here's our round-up of some of the key dates. Whether you're a music-lover, festival-goer or outdoor enthusiast, there's something for everyone.
Spring
Easter Quest at Whitby Abbey (28 March – 19 April)
Whitby Abbey is perhaps Whitby's most famous landmark. Cared for by English Heritage, the Abbey has a long and rich history and is well worth visiting in its own right. The visitor centre is full of ancient artifacts, bringing the Abbey's story to life.
Throughout the Easter holidays English Heritage are running an Easter Quest in the grounds of the Abbey. Follow the Easter trail, hunt for eggs and answer questions along the way to win a delicious chocolate reward!
The Easter Quest runs every day throughout the Easter holidays, and is just £2 per child for both members and non-members. This is in addition to the general admission fee, which is free for English Heritage members.
Find out more on the English Heritage website.
Easter Outdoor Adventure Programme at East Barnby (2 – 10 April)
East Barnby is one of North Yorkshire Outdoor Leaning Service's education centres. It's mostly used by school groups who stay in East Barnby's accommodation and take part in a wide range of outdoor experiences.
This Easter they're offering a series of activities to the general public, as follows:
- Thursday 2 April – climbing (could include scrambling and weaselling)
- Tuesday 7 April – jumbo paddleboarding and seashore explore
- Wednesday 8 April – mountain biking and bushcraft
- Thursday 9 April – canoeing and team games
- Friday 10 April – moorland adventure and beck scramble
These activities are for children aged between 8 and 13. Each activity runs for a full day, from 8:30am to 4:15pm. Each activity day costs £50 per young person, with a 10% discount available for siblings or booking more than one day.
This is a fantastic opportunity for young people to engage in exciting outdoor activities. Full details and information on how to book can be found on the YOLS website.
Made in Whitby Easter Festival (3 – 6 April)
Made in Whitby has added another festival to their calendar for 2026. This new event will be held in the public grounds of Whitby Abbey, in front of the visitor centre. Featuring a wide range of local businesses, Made in Whitby showcases the wonderful products being manufactured locally.
This unique event will also highlight the history, myth, legend and folklore of Whitby. The event starts at 12noon on 3rd April, with the arrival of St Hild and her monks via rowing boat in Whitby harbour. These historic figures will process up Church Street and the 199 Steps, heralding the start of the festivities.
Enjoy three days of fantastic food & drink, live entertainment and the opportunity to meet Whitby's wonderful makers.
Follow Made in Whitby on Instagram for full details.
Whitby Goth Weekend (1 – 3 May)
Whitby Goth Weekend is one of the largest Gothic events in the world. Celebrating Gothic culture, music and fashion, it draws visitors from around the globe. Whitby Goth Weekend features lots of live music in venues around the town, as well as the Bizaare Bazaar, an alternative shopping event.
Whether you're coming dressed for the occasion, or simply an interested observer, Whitby Goth Weekend is a spectacle.
Fish & Ships Festival (16 – 17 May)
Whitby’s maritime heritage takes centre stage during the Fish & Ships Festival, a lively celebration of seafaring traditions and coastal cuisine. Visitors can sample freshly prepared seafood dishes, watch cooking demonstrations, and learn about the town’s maritime history.
Harbour-side entertainment, workshops, and nautical displays create a bustling festival atmosphere. Artisan traders and local producers offer regional delicacies and handmade goods, making it a treat for food lovers and culture seekers alike.
With fantastic food, live music, and picturesque views of the waterfront, this event captures the essence of Whitby.
Summer
Whitby 60s Weekend (5 – 7 June)
Step back in time during Whitby 60s Weekend, when retro fashion, classic cars, and nostalgic music fill the streets with colourful energy. Tribute bands and live performers recreate the sounds of the swinging decade, encouraging visitors to dance, sing along, and embrace vintage style.
Markets and themed events add to the fun, offering everything from memorabilia to handmade crafts inspired by the era. The friendly atmosphere invites visitors of all ages to take part, whether by dressing up or simply enjoying the music. It’s a joyful celebration of cultural heritage set against Whitby’s charming seaside backdrop.
Based at Whitby's Spa Pavilion, Whitby 60s Weekend is a true celebration of a much-loved decade.
Made in Whitby Summer Festival (2 – 3 July)
The Made in Whitby Summer Festival highlights the town’s creative talent. Stalls showcase locally made artwork, crafts, jewellery, homeware, food and drink. This event supports independent makers while giving visitors insight into the inspiration drawn from Whitby’s coastal landscapes and historic architecture.
Made in Whitby shines a spotlight on our local producers. Live entertainment adds to the relaxed festival vibe, making it easy to spend a leisurely day browsing and socialising. And, as it's hosted by Whitby Brewery, the beer's pretty good too!
Whitby Steampunk Weekend (25 – 26 July)
Imagination and invention take centre stage at Whitby Steampunk Weekend, where Victorian-inspired costumes and futuristic creativity blend in spectacular fashion.
Visitors can admire intricate outfits, browse quirky handmade accessories, and attend talks or workshops exploring steampunk culture. The event’s playful atmosphere encourages self-expression, making it a favourite for photographers and families alike. Against the backdrop of Whitby’s dramatic coastline and historic streets, the festival offers a truly unique and memorable summer experience.
Whitby Regatta (8 – 10 August)
Whitby Regatta is one of the town’s oldest and most beloved events, combining traditional water sports with lively entertainment onshore. Visitors can watch sailing races, rowing competitions, and daring displays that showcase skill and teamwork.
Fairground rides, food stalls, and live music create a festive atmosphere along the harbour. Evening fireworks light up the coastal skyline on the Monday night, providing a spectacular finale to the day’s activities. With its rich history and community spirit, the regatta offers something for everyone, from families seeking fun to visitors eager to experience Whitby’s enduring connection to the sea.
Autumn
Musicport World Music Festival (23 - 25 October)
Set against the stunning backdrop of Whitby’s dramatic coastline, Musicport has grown from a local celebration into a nationally acclaimed festival, known for its eclectic mix of world-class artists, immersive cultural experiences, and a commitment to bringing people together through music.
From Grammy-nominated acts to captivating performances from around the globe, the festival offers something for everyone. Add to that our family-friendly activities, vibrant marketplace, and the magical ambiance of Whitby Pavilion, and it’s clear why Musicport is a firm favorite among festival goers.
Find out more and book your tickets on the Musicport website.
Illuminated Abbey (23 – 31 October)
As autumn nights draw in, Illuminated Abbey transforms Whitby’s famous ruins into a magical display of light and colour. Artistic projections and atmospheric soundscapes enhance the dramatic setting, creating an unforgettable evening experience. Visitors can wander through the grounds, enjoying seasonal refreshments and capturing striking photographs of the glowing landmark. The event blends history, creativity, and a touch of mystery, perfectly suited to the Halloween season. Whether you attend with friends, family, or as part of a romantic getaway, the illuminated spectacle offers a memorable way to experience Whitby’s heritage in a fresh and imaginative light.
Whitby Goth Weekend (30 October – 1 November)
Returning in autumn, Whitby Goth Weekend brings an even darker, more atmospheric edge to the town’s alternative scene. Elaborate costumes, themed markets, and live music performances create a captivating festival environment that draws visitors from across the country.
The late-October timing enhances the dramatic mood, with misty coastal views and Halloween influences adding to the spectacle. Fans of gothic culture can enjoy social events, creative showcases, and opportunities to connect with a passionate community. For newcomers, the welcoming spirit and visual drama make this an ideal introduction to one of Whitby’s most distinctive celebrations.
Whitby Christmas Market (13 – 15 November)
The festive season begins early with Whitby Christmas Market, where twinkling lights and cosy stalls create a cheerful winter atmosphere. Visitors can browse handcrafted gifts, seasonal decorations, and locally produced food and drink. Carol singers, and warming treats such as mulled beverages add to the charm. The market offers an ideal opportunity to start holiday shopping while enjoying the town’s scenic coastal setting. With friendly traders and a relaxed pace, it provides a delightful way to spend a winter weekend, soaking up community spirit and preparing for the celebrations ahead.
Whitby Lit Fest (19 – 22 November)
Following a successful first event in 2025, Whitby Lit Fest is back for its second year. The event celebrates the power of writing with a varied programme of talks, workshops, and readings. Authors, poets, and creative professionals gather to share insights, inspire audiences, and discuss literature. Visitors can attend panel discussions, book signings, and interactive sessions designed to encourage imagination and expression. The festival highlights local history, adding depth to Whitby’s literary connections. Cosy venues and a welcoming atmosphere make it easy to engage with new ideas and meet fellow book lovers. For readers and writers alike, the event offers a stimulating cultural highlight in late autumn.
Find out more and book tickets via the Whitby Lit Fest website.
Winter
Made in Whitby Christmas Festival (12 – 13 December)
The third and final Made in Whitby event of the year. The Christmas Festival provides a final festive flourish before the holiday season. Local makers showcase beautifully crafted gifts, decorations, and seasonal treats, ensuring visitors can find something truly special. Guests can chat with makers, learning about how they design and make their products. Live music enhances the cosy atmosphere, making it a perfect outing for families and friends. Set against Whitby’s wintry coastal scenery, the festival celebrates community, craftsmanship, and festive joy, bringing the events calendar to a warm and memorable close.
