The Christmas Season in Harrogate
Things to Do.
Harrogate Town Centre & Weekend Markets
Various festive activities, artisan stalls (such as Little Bird Made markets), and seasonal town centre attractions run throughout December across locations like Cambridge Street, Valley Gardens, and Crescent Gardens.
Litttle Bird Made artisan market takes place at the histric Valley Gardens on the 5-6 December. It features a selection of independent makers, artists and food producers, offering a range of handcrafted gifts and local treats.
Harrogate Christmas Ice Rink
At Valley Gardens from Thursday 17 Dec 2026 - Sunday 3 January 2027.
GLOW at RHS Harlow Carr
Enjoy the spectacular GLOW illumination trail at RHS Harlow Carr which transforms the gardens into a dazzling winter wonderland.
This year’s event promises an unforgettable experience with touch-sensitive installations, spectacular displays and captivating soundscapes.
Dates: Selected dates Thursday 26 November to Wednesday 30 December 2026
Times: 4.30pm to 8.30pm. Last entry 7.30pm
Christmas at Castle Howard
Dates: 12 November 2026 to 3rd January 2027.
Spend a fantastically festive day at Castle Howard enjoying its award-winning House experience. This year it’s a Victorian extravaganza that will leave you full to the brim with festive cheer.
Other delights include:
Father Christmas in the Castle
All-new Santa’s Grotto in the Jellycat Shop
Joyful A Christmas Carol Theatrical Afternoon Tea
Delicious Christmas Afternoon Tea
Popular Wreath Making workshops.
Great Yorkshire Christmas Fair
Venue: Hall 1, Great Yorkshire Showground, Railway Road, Harrogate, HG2 8NZ
Dates: Thursday 26th to Sunday 29th November 2026
Opening Hours: Thursday to Saturday: 9:30 am – 5:00 pm; Sunday: 9:30 am – 4:00 pm
Parking: Free parking is available on-siteValley Gardens from Thursday 17 Dec 2026 - Sunday 3 January 2027.
Discover 180 unique gifting, food and fashion stalls – all under one roof at the great Yorkshire Christmas fair. Indoor festive fair featuring 180 top companies selling everything you could want to thrill family and friends at Christmas.
Tickets: £5 and £9