What’s On In Whitby

April

3rd – 6th of April 2026

Made in Whitby

Made in Whitby Easter Festival from 3rd – 6th April 2026 at Whitby Abbey. Enjoy storytelling, live performances, and local business stalls set against stunning Abbey ruins. Don’t miss it!

23rd – 26th of April 2026

Gothic Gathering

Four Days of Vampire events in the home of Dracula hosted at the Pavillion.

May

1st – 3rd of May 2026

Whitby Goth Weekend

The first of the two annual Goth events. This alternative festival is not to be missed.

16th – 17th of May 2026

Whitby Martine & Shanty Festival

This annual festival celebrates Whitby’s maritime heritage. There is food tasting, music, stalls featuring local sellers. Explore everything that’s special about the Yorkshire Coast’s magnificent maritime culture and food, from the building of its boats to its award-winning fish restaurant’s.

28th of May 2026

The Planting of The Penny Hedge

In a unique custom, the Penny Hedge or Horngarth at Whitby is planted in the estuary of the Upper Harbour – it must be completed by 9am on Rogation Wednesday, also known as Ascension Eve, and must be strong enough to withstand three tides. The hedge is woven from hazel and willow and legend has it that it is planted in penance (the Penny name comes from penance or from the penny knife used to cut the stems) in memory of a long-ago episode in which the local hermit was beaten to death by huntsmen after he protected their wild-boar prey – the huntsmen received pardon for their crime if they agreed to build a hedge every year and their descendants still do so today.

30th of May 2026

Tina Live at Whitby Pavilion

A full concert style stage show, charting the hits and career of Tina Turner from the early days onwards.

Starring Julie Nevada as Tina with her amazing band and dancers, this fully live energetic stage show charts the career of one of the world’s most iconic performers.

Powerful vocals, live band, backing singers and fabulous professional dancers with electrifying dance routines makes Tina Live ‘Simply the Best’ night out of the year!

June

5th – 7th of June 2026

Whitby’s 60’s Spectacular

From Friday night to Sunday night, enjoy a full weekend of sixties music, featuring some of the biggest names of the 1960s. (One of two annual 60’s events)

28th of June 2026

Whitby Pavilion Craig Revel Horwood: Revelations – Songs Boys Don’t Sing

Craig is promising fans a “Fab-U-Lous” night of glamour, tall tales and big songs from his album, which features ‘Don’t Rain On My Parade’ from Funny Girl, ‘On My Own’ from Les Miserables and, amongst many others, ‘Little Girls’ from Annie, a song that Craig has sung in many productions playing Miss Hannigan.

As the longest-serving judge on BBC One’s Strictly Come Dancing, Craig has become the undisputed king of the glitter ball and is now regarded as a national treasure. After starting his career as a dancer, Craig worked on the nation’s biggest musicals before becoming a successful choreographer, director and best-selling author. Also a remarkable singer, Craig has performed in many musicals and shows across the UK.

July

3rd – 5th of July 2026

Whitby Soul Weekender 2026

The Whitby Soul Weekender is a weekend of non-stop music. It’s 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 many local, regional, and international artists throughout the day. Expect live DJs, plenty of bars, and a dance floor arena.

18th of July 2026

The Upbeat Beatles

The Upbeat Beatles bring the legendary music of the Fab Four to life in a spectacular show that’s fun for all ages. Our expert musicians share a deep passion for the iconic group, delivering performances that capture the spirit and energy of the Beatles.

The authentic stage sets, vintage outfits, and classic instruments ensure they look and sound like the real thing. Relive the magic of the Beatles’ greatest hits. From the iconic early albums like “Please Please Me” and “With The Beatles” to the psychedelic wonder of “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band” and the timeless beauty of “Abbey Road,” our setlist includes over 30 hits that transport you straight to the Cavern Club.

24th – 26th of July 2026

Whitby Summer Steam Punk Weekend

Visit the wonderfully whimsical world of Whitby Steampunk Weekend; it is a rather splendid affair indeed. 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 can dress in their finest steampunk attire and enjoy the fun. Expect lots of innovative and exciting costumes and a wide range of diverse activities.

August

31st of July – 2nd of August 2026

Whitby Traction Engine Rally

The Whitby Traction Engine Rally boasts a spectacular live stunt show. Expect dancers, musicians, entertainers, and a fireworks 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 many tasty food stalls offering something for everyone.

8th – 10th of August 2026

Whitby Regatta 

Watch the famous boat races from the shore and cheer the contestants along. This event draws large crowds yearly; the regatta is popular and has a fantastic atmosphere. There are many free events for the entire family, and the race ends with a prize presentation followed by a spectacular fireworks display.

22nd – 28th of August 2026

Whitby Folk Festival

Whitby Folk Week celebrates traditional British songs, dances, music, and storytelling.

Take part in medieval dance workshops and learn how to play the banjo at this fun event for all ages. Experience engaging storytelling performances, or bring your instrument for popular music sessions. There is also a fantastic lineup of famous folk artists and dance troupes to enjoy the entire week.

28th – 31st of August 2026

Whitby Pirate Festival

The Whitby Pirate Festival is an annual event held in Whitby. Organised by the Whitby International Pirate Society, this swashbuckling festival celebrates all things pirate-related.

September

5th of September 2026

Whitby Pavilion The Ultimate MOD Review

‘The Mod movement,’ a vibrant British youth culture, has endured since the 1960s, leaving a lasting impact on fashion, music, and lifestyle. Mod embodies a spirit of individuality and style characterised by sharp suits, iconic scooters, and a love for rhythm and blues. Today, the legacy of Mod continues to inspire new generations, blending classic influences with contemporary flair.

So step back in time and immerse yourself in the electrifying era of the 60s – 90s with a show that’s set to blow your mind. With hit after hit from massive Mod acts including The Kinks, The Who, The Jam, Ocean Colour Scene, and Small Faces, this is a high-quality, authentic nod to a scene that is as relevant now as it was back in the day.

Final Date TBC 2026

NYMR Annual Steam Gala

NYMR Experience the thrill of our Annual Steam Gala in 2026 as they showcase up to 10 magnificent locomotives in full steam.

Embark on a captivating journey riding behind both our special guest locomotives and our esteemed home fleet engines throughout the four-day event. Our intensive timetable, with evening running on both Friday and Saturday, allows you to hop-on and hop-off all day and enjoy the picturesque route with stops at Pickering, Levisham, Newtondale Halt (available by request), Goathland, Grosmont, and Whitby stations.

October

23rd – 25th of October 2026

Music Port

Music port 2026 is a three-day music festival, featuring music acts across three stages, a DJ hub, a festival bazaar, and a pop-up comedy theatre. 

23rd – 31st of October 2026

Illuminated Abbey

Get ready for a dazzling experience! Illuminated Abbey is back for 2026, promising to be bigger and better than ever. Witness Whitby Abbey illuminated in all the colours of the rainbow, enjoy live performances.

November

30th of October – 1st of November 2026

Whitby Goth Weekend

Whitby Goth Weekend is an alternative music event founded in 1994. Goths from around the world gather in Whitby to celebrate gothic culture, music and fashion

19th – 22nd of November 2026

Whitby Literature Festival

Whitby’s Literature Festival is a celebration of writing and authors, past and present, in many genres, including novels, short stories, plays and poetry, some of which have been inspired by Whitby along the way.