Information courtesy of Visit York

See also – Festivals in York throughout the year

Things may be a little different, so it’s worth making sure you have the most up-to-date information on the things you’d like to see and do before you set out.

When spending time in York we ask that you be considerate and observe social distancing to allow yourself and others to enjoy the city safely.

Light and Dark
The nights may be drawing in, but York’s creative spirit shines just as brightly as ever. This autumn we’re inviting you to celebrate the Light and Dark of the city, to reflect on the past and be led towards the glow of the future.
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York Mediale  from 21 Oct
Cutting edge technology brings you the art of the future. York Mediale have six experimental projects, inspired by 2020, a time of social distancing, climate emergency and political upheaval, which explore and challenge what connects us.
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Where’s Wally Spooky Museum Search  10 Oct – 28 Nov
Where’s Wally? Well, he’s hiding all around the York Army Museum this autumn. See if you can seek him out among the objects in their incredible collection. Those able to spell out the message Wally is concealing will receive a special prize.
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Fountains by Floodlight  19 – 25 Oct
See Fountains Abbey in a completely different way as the ruins are spectacularly lit up. Watch as the night falls over the abbey and the stones start to glow with light. Soak up the atmosphere as music echoes throughout the ruins. It’s an experience you won’t forget.
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Haunted Halloween Village at Mother Shipton’s Cave  24 Oct – 1 Nov
Book now for Halloween at Mother Shipton’s Cave. Discover the spooky forest and Halloween Haunted Village, but watch out for witches, ghosts and creepy skeletons around every corner! Where could be better for Halloween than the home of a real-life witch?
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Hallowtween at York Maze  24 Oct – 1 Nov
Hallowtween is a frighteningly fun event aimed at families with children aged 10-15 who are too old for trick or treating, and are ready to take on a more exciting experience. After its huge success last year, Hallowtween returns with even more freaky thrills. Book now.
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Indie Shopping Streets
Despite its smaller size, York is home to an unrivaled selection of independent shops, selling everything from ghosts to Gorgonzola. Have a look at our blog post on York’s Indie Shopping Streets for inspiration on getting some indie retail therapy.
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York’s Green Spaces
There’s never been a better time to stretch your legs and reconnect with nature in one of the many beloved gardens and green spaces of York and the surrounding area.
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York Restaurant Week  12-18 Oct
York Restaurant Week is nearly upon us once again. Get deliciously cheap, tasty deals for a set price of £5, £10, £15 or £20. Vouchers are free to download now ahead of the offers beginning on Monday.
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Book a Browse at The Blue House Bookshop
The Blue House Bookshop has a brilliant selection of books for children and young adults. You can now have the bookshop to yourselves for half an hour to browse at your own pace, available any evening from 5pm – 7pm, or Sunday afternoon.
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‘The Heart of Yorkshire’ Exhibition at York Minster  19 Sept – 21 Jan
A new exhibition, “The Heart of Yorkshire: Creativity and Culture in York Minster’s Collections”, is now open and showcases a selection of the Minster’s treasures in the stunning setting of the Chapter House.
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Coming Soon – York Design Week  26 Oct – 1 Nov
The popular festival returns at the end of the month with an online and socially distanced programme of events to inspire your inner creativity and drive thought provoking conversations. This year’s theme is “Be An Activist.”
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The Character of Home  6 – 31 Oct
Step back in time and experience an intimate performance staged in the finest Georgian townhouse in England. As you wander around Fairfax House, your actions will determine how the story unfolds. Book now.
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The Yearly Trick of Looking New Exhibition  Until 19 Oct
The Yorkshire Arboretum plays host to Meg Huby’s brand new, free to view exhibition, celebrating life in the grounds. Paintings bring to life the cycles and ideas of the changing, natural, green spaces in the Arboretum.
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Ghost Hunt at Bedern Hall  30 Oct
Join Paranormal Research York and go on a ghost hunt investigating the 14th Century building that is said to be the scene of a scandal or two. Be prepared for a spooky encounter this Halloween – places are limited so book now.
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Carlton Towers Outdoor Market  Until 24 Oct
An outdoor market with Carlton Towers as your backdrop, featuring an array of small, local retail businesses, offering some of the best products and produce in Yorkshire.
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These events have been hand picked by Visit York.

Go to Visit York’s What’s On page to see a full list of things to do in York.