Macmillan Carol Concert by Candlelight, Ripon Cathedral
Monday 4 December, 7.30pm
The Macmillan Carol Concert is the start of Christmas for many. This wonderful evening offers a festive programme of uplifting music in the atmospheric surroundings of the candlelit cathedral featuring professional musicians and choirs. All proceeds go directly to Macmillan Cancer Support to fund projects in the local area.
To book tickets, click here
Wreath Making Workshop, Staveley Arms
11 December from 6pm
Pop over the road to the Staveley Arms to join Sophie from Walter and Blossom for a festive evening of wreath making with seasonal refreshments. Spaces are limited so early booking is recommended, contact Sophie direct at hello@walterandblossom.co.uk
Festive Music and Lights at Fountains Abbey,
Every Saturday and Sunday until 31 December
After a winter walk around the water gardens, as the light begins to fade, wander through the abbey ruins lit by all the colours of the rainbow. Walk beneath the cellarium’s vaulted ceilings and listen to live choirs and bands as they fill the ruins with festive music and carols. Refreshments available including hot food from the Mill Café.
For more information on live performances click here
Festive Trail and Santa’s Grotto – Thorp Perrow Arboretum, near Bedale
Until 24 December
Follow the festive trail until you reach Santa’s grotto nestled deep in the woods. The elves will welcome and guide you through the winter wonderland where you’ll meet a host of wonderful creatures, before arriving outside Santa’s cosy log cabin. He’ll welcome you to his sitting room for a chat and a photo with a gift for every child.
Pre-booking is essential, for more information, click here
RHS Glow at Harlow Carr, Harrogate
Until 30 December, 4.30-8.30pm
Experience Harlow Carr in a whole new light as you follow an enchanting trail around magnificent trees and shrubs awash with colour, as the gardens are illuminated by dazzling installations including a ‘pixel lawn’ covered in hundreds of synchronised dancing lights.
Take a break along the way to tuck into festive treats and warming drinks from Betty’s Tea House including mulled wine, mince pies, or hot chocolate.
Book tickets here
Christmas Canal Cruise and Market
16 & 17 December, 11am-4pm
Cruise along Ripon’s scenic canal aboard the Pride of Ripon with cosy blankets for your knees and mulled wine, fruit punch or a luxury hot chocolate and a mince pie for a festive treat. On your return to dry land, finish your Christmas shopping at the local producers’ market in the canal basin. For further information and bookings click here.
Illuminated Winter Wonderland, Ripon Spa Gardens
15-17 December, 2pm to 8pm
As darkness falls, the Spa Gardens will be filled with twinkling lights and carol singing, with an alternative Christmas tree competition, seasonal refreshments and a visit from Santa and his reindeers, a festive atmosphere is guaranteed. Entry is free but all donations will be gratefully received. Find out more here
Christmas Carol Concert, Ripon Cathedral
December 17, 5.30pm
Celebrate Christmas in Ripon’s stunning medieval cathedral with a traditional carol concert featuring the wonderful Ripon Cathedral Choir accompanied by the excellent St Cecilia Orchestra. A bar will be open for refreshments throughout the event. Book tickets here.
New Year’s Eve, Ripon Market Square
New Year’s Eve celebrations in Ripon Market Square begin shortly after the famous Hornblower sets the ‘watch’ at 9pm with live music from a steel band and fireworks after midnight. Find out more here.
