Key Whitby events in 2023
We love to visit Whitby, especially when an event occurs in the town. To help you plan your trip, we have listed events in Whitby in 2023. All events and activities in this article will be subject to change, and dates will be confirmed as announced by the provider.
Browse Whitby events by month
January 2023
February 2023
March 2023
April 2023
May 2023
June 2023
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April Events in Whitby
Whitby Goth Weekend 2023
Date: 28th – 30th April 2023
Dates later in the year: 27th – 29th October 2023
This family-friendly weekend promises lots of fun and appreciation of all things Gothic. This famous local festival is jam packed with Gothic clothing, artwork, literature, and live music. First, listen to local rock and heavy metal bands as you browse through a fascinating collection of Gothic artefacts. Then, head to a beer-tasting stall, or visit the Bizarre Bazaar Alternative Market for bookstalls, unique homeware, handcrafted jewellery, collectable items, and vintage clothing. When it comes to finding something to eat, there is a wide selection of food stalls serving up tasty delicacies throughout the day.
April Whitby Steampunk Event
Date: 28th – 30th April 2023, The Royal Hotel Whitby
Dates later in the year:
21st – 23rd July 2023, Whitby Pavilion
27th – 29th October 2023, The Royal Hotel Whitby
If you are interested in steampunk memorabilia, you will love these events. Whitby Steampunk Weekend brims with unique seminars, vendors, activities, and presentations. It is regarded as one of the biggest steampunk festivals in the UK. It’s also an excellent option for families looking for something different to enjoy in Whitby. Visitors are invited to dress in their finest steampunk attire and join in on the fun. Expect lots of innovative and exciting costumes and a wide range of diverse activities.
May Events in Whitby
The traditional Penny Hedge Ceremony 2023
Date: 17th May 2023
In a unique custom, the Penny Hedge or Horngarth at Whitby is planted in the estuary of the Upper Harbour. It takes place on the east bank of the River Esk just over the railings on Church Street, and construction begins at around 20 to 9. A lovely, traditional event.
Find further information here.
Yorkshire Game and Country Fayre 2023
Date: 20th – 21st May 2023
The Yorkshire Game and Country Fayre welcomes families to Scampston Hall, a large estate set amongst beautiful parkland. A lovely way to celebrate Spring, this beloved local festival embraces countryside living with locally sourced food, farm animals, traditional games, and longstanding championships. Local gardeners sell a range of products, while the popular tractor show tends to draw in crowds.
Find further information here.
Whitby Fish and Ships Festival 2023
Date: 20th – 21st May 2023
We all know that Whitby serves up tasty fish and chips with a selection of award-winning restaurants and eateries scattered throughout the town. This annual festival celebrates Whitby’s maritime heritage. There is food tasting, music, stalls featuring local sellers, children’s activities and cooking demonstrations to enjoy. This year there will be even more live cookery demonstrations throughout the weekend in the seafood kitchen on Dock End, Endeavour Wharf and Fish Quay, featuring local chefs and celebrity chefs with a particular focus on seafood.
June Events in Whitby
Whitby 60’s Festival 2023
Date: 9th – 11th June 2023
An excellent choice for groups of friends, the Whitby 60s Music Weekend is a popular yearly event. Spanning three days, you will enjoy five fabulous shows with popular acts from the 60s. This event is the perfect way to catch up with friends during the day and dance along to your favourite tunes at night.
Find further information here.
Robin Hood’s Bay Folk Weekend 2023
Date: 9th – 11th June 2023
As one of Whitby’s first music festivals of the year, Robin Hood’s Bay Folk Weekend offers a lively atmosphere for all ages. Expect local musicians, dancers, and singers, along with food stalls and refreshing beverages. Situated in the picturesque Robin Hood’s Bay area, this weekend is particularly popular with locals and visitors who have a passion for folk music. If you live here in Whitby, it’s also a great chance to learn about the local groups and classes available in the area.
Find further information here.
Yorkshire Fossil Festival 2023
Date: 10th – 11th June 2023
Exciting news! The Yorkshire Fossil Festival 2023 is scheduled to be held in Whitby. This highly anticipated event attracts visitors of all ages who are fascinated by the diverse array of exhibits, interactive displays, and engaging talks delivered by top experts in the field. The festival offers an exceptional chance to delve into the fascinating geological past of Yorkshire and the broader UK. Whitby, famous for its cliffs brimming with fossils, is a sought-after destination for geologists and fossil enthusiasts.
Learn more about this years Fossil Festival here
The Malton Show 2023
Date: 25th June 2023
Welcoming in the summer season, The Malton Show is all about showcasing local produce, arts, and crafts. You will find a fantastic Farmer’s Market selling fresh fruit, vegetables, cheeses, preserves, and other local delicacies. Get up close with the horses, learn about the tractors, or watch the annual Middleton Hunt Parade of the Hounds. The Malton show is a fantastic display of country living. There are also street food stalls, live entertainment, and traditional funfair rides.
July Events in Whitby
Whitby Soul Weekender 2023
Date: 9th July 2023
The Whitby Soul Weekender is a weekend of none stop music. It has been well-loved since 2002 and is one of North Yorkshire’s most famous soul events. Kick back to Motown, Northern Soul, and Modern Soul music throughout the night. In addition, there are a whole host of local, regional, and international artists throughout the day. Expect live DJs, plenty of bars, and a dance floor arena.
Find further information here.
Tour de Yorkshire 2023
Dates: (Exact dates to be confirmed)
Line up along Whitby’s historic streets and cheer with the cyclists at the Tour de Yorkshire. Consisting of professional racers and fundraisers, this is a fantastic free event for all the family. Anyone can sign up to participate in the race, but it is certainly no easy feat. The longest route starts and ends in Leeds, spanning 123.3 kilometres and ascending 1748 metres. This impressive course ventures through some of Yorkshire’s most popular towns and villages, creating an authentic community atmosphere across the region. You will be able to watch a good section of the race from Whitby as the cyclists soar through its historic town centre.
July Whitby Steampunk Event
Date: 21st – 23rd July 2023, Whitby Pavilion
Dates later in the year:
27th – 29th October 2023, The Royal Hotel Whitby
If you are interested in steampunk memorabilia, you will love these events. Whitby Steampunk Weekend brims with unique seminars, vendors, activities, and presentations. It is regarded as one of the biggest steampunk festivals in the UK. It’s also an excellent option for families looking for something different to enjoy in Whitby. Visitors are invited to dress in their finest steampunk attire and join in on the fun. Expect lots of innovative and exciting costumes and a wide range of diverse activities.
August Events in Whitby
Staithes Lifeboat Weekend 2023
Dates: 18th – 20th August 2023
Located in the nearby town of Staithes, this Lifeboat Weekend introduces the public to the area’s fantastic lifeboat service. You can meet the teams and take a look inside the boats. This event is open to families and is a great way to teach the kids about water safety. This is a fundraising event, with all proceeds going to the local lifeboat services. Expect live music performances, competitions, and games to enjoy.
Find further information here.
Whitby Traction Engine Rally 2023
Date: 4th – 6th August 2023
The Whitby Traction Engine Rally boasts a spectacular live stunt show. Expect dancers, musicians, entertainers, and a fantastic firework display on Saturday evening. This traditional steam fair is an excellent choice for families. You will enjoy various activities and events, including tractor pulling, classic cars, arts and crafts, and a funfair. There are also lots of tasty food stalls, offering a little something for everyone.
Find further information here.
Hinderwell Horse and Agricultural Show 2023
Date: (Exact dates to be confirmed)
Those who love horses should visit the Hinderwell Horse and Agricultural Show. It originally began to resolve a dispute between two men over who owned the best foal. It has since grown into an annual family-friendly event. This event provides a platform for the area’s finest horses and ponies, with jumping contests and gymkhana. There is also a popular dog show alongside a display of sheep and ferrets. Other activities include live music, talent shows, vintage machinery, and a market of local produce, plants, and preserves. Fantastic to enjoy if you are visiting nearby Whitby.
Find further information here.
Whitby Regatta 2023
Date: 12th – 14th August 2023
Taking over Whitby’s waters every year, the regatta is a beautiful display of rowing boats and yachts. Watch the famous boat races from the shore and cheer the contestants along. This event draws large crowds yearly; the regatta is a popular event with a fantastic atmosphere. The race cultivates with a prize presentation followed by a spectacular firework display.
Find further information here.
Whitby Folk Week 2023
Date: 19th – 25th August 2023
The Whitby Folk Week comprises a diverse programme of exciting events and activities. Take part in medieval dance workshops and learn how to play the banjo at this fun event for all ages. Experience some engaging storytelling performances, or bring your instrument for the popular music sessions. There is also a fantastic lineup of famous folk artists and dance troupes to enjoy the entire week.
Find further information here.
Egton Show 2023
Dates: (Exact dates to be confirmed)
Another community agricultural show, the Egton Show, brings together local farmers, tractor drivers, and horse owners. Sample tasty local produce, fruits, vegetables, butcher meat, preserves, and freshly baked cakes, at the farmer’s market. There is also a fantastic horse show and a wrought iron farrier display. Egton is one of the largest village shows in the UK, with various arts, crafts, local delicacies, and entertainment to enjoy.
September Events in Whitby
Whitby Motown Weekender 2023
Date: 8th – 10th September 2023
Dance along to classic Motown hits at this fun-filled festival at Whitby Pavilion. Step back to the 60s, 70s, and 80s with a jam-packed weekend of bands and artists. This is a dancing weekend with limited seating, featuring four live acts, 20 DJs and three rooms for dancing.
Find further information here.
Catch of Comedians, The Laughing Lobster Comedy Club
Date: 15th September 2023
Get ready for an unforgettable night of comedy! The Laughing Lobster Comedy Club proudly presents their biggest and best show yet at the iconic Whitby Coliseum on Friday, September 15th. Doors open at 8pm sharp, so arrive early to secure your spot. Please note that seating is unreserved and available on a first-come, first-served basis. This event is strictly for over 16s only. Drinks will be available at the venue and are not included in the ticket price.
October Events in Whitby
Musicport 2023
Dates: October 20th – 22nd 2023
The event starts on Friday evening and goes until Sunday night. You can enjoy an eclectic mix of music acts in three stages: the Main Stage, the Club stage, and the Theatre. Plus, there’s a DJ hub with an area for dancing, workshops, and a festival bazaar. If you’re looking for a more intimate experience, you can check out The Blunderbus, a pop-up comedy theatre with a bar with a unique and friendly atmosphere. Food vans will be available right outside the venue, but if you’re feeling adventurous, the town is just a 10-minute walk away and has a variety of eateries to suit all tastes.
Find further information here.
NYMR Light Spectacular
Dates: 27th October to 5th November and 10th to 12th November 2023
Step aboard the heritage carriages that are decorated with thousands of twinkling lights. As the train begins from Pickering Station, you can enjoy the beats of a DJ mix that will get every family member in the mood to party! Every attendee will be given an interactive LED wristband, which will harmonise with the music, making you an essential component of this performance. This is a great family event to enjoy together.
Find further information here.
Illuminated Abbey 2023
Dates: 22nd – 31st October 2023
It’s coming back and will be bigger and better than ever. Illuminated Abbey is returning for 2023! See Whitby Abbey lit up all of the colours of the rainbow. Enjoy live performances, try local food and toast marshmallows at this fun, family-friendly event.
Find further information here.
Due to Storm Babet affecting the setup, Illuminated Abbey’s opening night won’t be able to go ahead as planned on Sat 21st Oct. Gusts of almost 60mph lashed the North East Coast, making preparations for the event very difficult on the windswept Abbey headland. The opening night will now be Sun 22nd Oct. If you have pre-booked your ticket for Saturday 21 October, your ticket will be valid for any other night of Illuminated Abbey. If you would prefer a refund, please email [email protected] and let them know.
The Royal Emporium IV and Dressing for Pleasure
Date: 27th – 29th October 2023, The Royal Emporium IV and Dressing for Pleasure
Two venues filled with a selection of Gothic and alternative clothing, accessories, jewellery, and art. The Royal Emporium at the Royal Hotel Whitby and Dressing for Pleasure at the Rifle Club. Both venues feature lounges and bars. Entry is free, and both are open Friday – Saturday, 10 am – 5 pm and Sunday, 10 am – 4 pm. Dress up, have a look around, and enjoy a drink!
November Events in Whitby
Whitby Blues Festival 2023
Date: 10th -12th November 2023
We’ve had Soul and Motown, and now it’s time for some Blues music. Whitby knows how to put on a Blues festival with a brilliant line-up and great food options. Popular acts include The Animals, the Kyla Brox Band, Mojo Preachers, The Cinelli Brothers, and the Henrik Freischlander Band. Dance the night away with friends as you listen to some of your favourite hits throughout the day.
Find further information here.
Whitby Christmas Festival 2023
Date: 17th – 19th of November 2023
We are excited to share that Whitby’s Christmas festival is happening on the 17th, 18th, and 19th of November. It’s a fantastic free event that you won’t want to miss. Stay tuned for more updates on what’s in store for this year’s festival in the upcoming months.
Find further information here.
Another Winter’s Tale at Flowergate Hall 2023
Date: 26th November 2023
Other dates and nearby venues:
Sunday 12th: Sleights Village Hall
Tuesday 14th: The Goathland Hut
After two sell-out evening shows last year, Another Winter’s Tale returns to Whitby’s Flowergate Hall on 26th November 2023 for a matinee at 4 p.m. Another Winter’s Tale from the award-winning Dogwood Productions CIC, produced especially for the winter, is rich in original live music, puppetry, humour, songs, and an enthralling story. It includes shadow puppets, hand puppets, marionettes and a Kamishibai, a traditional Japanese street theatre. Though it is suitable for children above eight years old, don’t be fooled by the idea of puppetry. It is, above all, a ghost story!
December Events in Whitby
Robin Hood’s Bay Victorian Weekend 2023
Date: 2nd – 3rd December 2023
The Robin Hood’s Bay Victorian Weekend is an idyllic way to celebrate Christmas. Enjoy traditional Christmas carols along the charismatic cobbled stone streets as you explore this fantastic event. In addition, you will find a charming craft fair and a range of fun Victorian games. The entire town participates in this event, with shops, pubs, and cafes transforming into a typical Victorian village. Find unique Christmas gifts from a wide selection of homemade cards, jewellery, homeware, toys, and tree decorations here.
Find further information here.
Whitby Krampus Run 2023
Date: 2nd -3rd December 2023
This is a popular alternative Christmas event on the Eve of the Feast of St. Nicolas. This particular day is believed to be when the Saint visited the homes of good children to hand them gifts, accompanied by the dark Christmas figure Krampus, who was there to punish the naughty children. A controversial character, this is a humorous event where you are invited to dress up in your best Krampus outfits and run through the streets. The event has only been running, quite literally, since 2015, but it has quickly risen in popularity amongst adults and children.
