Discover the best spring events across Yorkshire in 2026, from festivals and family days out to hidden gems at Stump Cross Caverns.
We may be a little biased, but we don't think there's a better place to welcome in the springtime than Yorkshire.
Around here, the season gathers together in a gentle rhythm. The days begin to glow a little longer as the weeks pass, with the fields and hedgerows welcoming pale blue skies smeared with peaches-and-cream cloud.
It's lovely. And that's before we even get to the packed calendar of events waiting to be explored across the region.
Throughout the season, communities and venues across Yorkshire host a vivid mix of events celebrating food, music, literature, seasonal change and creativity. And good news: they're as varied and colourful as a wildflower meadow.
Here's your guide to what's on this spring, with options ranging from big festivals to quirky local celebrations.
Culture, cuisine and community
York Chocolate Festival
Wednesday 1 to Sunday 5 April
A must for all sweet-toothed visitors, this annual event transforms the centre of York into a chocolate-lover's paradise. There'll be artisan stalls, tastings and masterclasses, as well as cosy spaces where you can lounge with a hot drink.
Packed with treats and plenty of fun for all ages, it makes for a great spring day out in one of Yorkshire's most historic cities. (And just wait until you smell that chocolate in the air…)
Filey Food Festival
Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 April (first weekend)
Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 June (second weekend)
Based around the town's beautiful Crescent Gardens, Filey Food Festival celebrates tastes from Yorkshire and beyond.
Expect street food stalls showcasing fresh seafood and local cheeses, as well as gourmet pies and artisan chocolate cakes. There'll be chef demos and family-friendly entertainment, too.
Harrogate Spring Flower Show
Thursday 23 to Sunday 26 April
Held at the Great Yorkshire Events Centre, this is one of the biggest horticultural highlights of the season. You can expect impressive displays, gardening inspiration and plenty of photo-worthy blooms to kickstart the spring spirit.
Whitby Goth Weekend
Friday 1 to Sunday 3 May
It might not seem all that mainstream, but Whitby Goth Weekend is actually one of the most famous tourist attractions in the country, not just the region.
Set in a beautiful seaside town steeped in gothic lore, the festival is a must-visit for anyone interested in goth culture. Lured in by the bewitching power of Count Dracula, visitors from across the UK and beyond stay for the fashion, music, markets and community-led fringe events.
It's very, very popular. So, if you're planning to visit, make sure to book your accommodation early.
Ilkley Food & Drink Festival
Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 June
Set by the River Wharfe in picturesque Ilkley, this festival is a highlight for local produce, street food, cookery demos and live entertainment.
The best bit? The festival's easy-going two-day weekend format is perfect for families and busy foodies.
Beverley Folk Festival
Friday 19 to Sunday 21 June
Held in East Yorkshire since 1983, this three-day festival brings acoustic music, dance, comedy and storytelling to Beverley town and racecourse. Expect performances and workshops that appeal to families and music lovers alike.
Harrogate Food & Drink Festival
Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 June
Held on The Stray in Harrogate, this event combines artisan food stalls with live music and family-friendly areas. It's a great excuse to enjoy an early summer weekend in one of Yorkshire's most elegant towns.
Celebrating the great outdoors
H4: Ride2Stride: The Settle-Carlisle Walking & Music Festival
Tuesday 28 April to Monday 4 May
If you love getting outdoors, this festival of walks, talks and music will be right up your country lane.
The programme spans multiple routes and guided walks across the Western Dales and Eden Valley, celebrating their landscape and culture. It's a gorgeous way to experience the area, with expert local guides and walks to suit all abilities.
Bridlington Kite Festival
Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 May
Families and coastal lovers will adore this colourful weekend of giant, imaginative kites soaring above Sewerby Cliffs.
This vibrant spectacle also features free children's activities such as inflatable assault courses, as well as plenty of food and drink facilities to choose from.
Yorkshire Cycle Festival
Friday 12 to Sunday 14 June
At this event, cyclists of all ages and abilities converge for a weekend of rides, talks, workshops and community events around York. It's perfect for families who love exploring on two wheels.
H4: The Swaledale Marathon
Saturday 13 June
Here's one for the cardio lovers! Organised by the Swaledale Outdoor Club and held annually since 1979, this 24-mile course passes through some of Swaledale's finest scenery. Whether you choose to tackle the fell run or challenge walk event, be warned: they're not for the faint-hearted. Competitors must navigate themselves and complete the course within 10 hours.
Other spring highlights
Spaw Sunday
Sunday May 3
Spaw Sunday is a traditional Yorkshire and Lancashire celebration, where ancient holy well waters are blessed, smelled and even tasted. The event also features local gatherings, brass bands, dancing and traditional food. It's a charming local ritual rooted in folk custom.
WizardFest
Saturday 23 to Monday 25 May
A spellbinding city-wide festival in York, WizardFest celebrates all things fantasy, magic and storytelling. The programme includes theatrical performances, film screenings, family activities and immersive fun, such as LEGO wand-making workshops.
York Festival of Ideas
Saturday 30 May to Friday 12 June
Led by the University of York, this is a thought-provoking celebration of culture, science, politics and creativity. It's packed with talks, workshops, debates and performances in venues across the city.
The spring beneath your feet at Stump Cross Caverns
While most events celebrate spring above ground, there's another kind of seasonal magic hiding deep beneath the Dales.
Stump Cross Caverns invites visitors throughout spring and beyond to explore an ancient subterranean world. Here, you can tour limestone passageways, spot amazing rock formations and attend engaging educational workshops on geology and natural history. It's a very special way to celebrate the awakening of the natural world and add a geological twist to your spring plans.
Why not pair your morning or afternoon festival visits with an adventure beneath the surface? The contrast between that fresh spring air and the cool underground corridors makes for a uniquely Yorkshire adventure.
Looking for an amazing family day out in Yorkshire this spring? Stump Cross Caverns is always an unforgettable experience – even when those April showers strike! It's quick and easy to book your cave tickets online.
