Steeped in history, North Yorkshire’s market towns embody a Christmas spirit which feels both traditional and unique to the region.

To experience a very special Christmas atmosphere, head to Robin Hood’s Bay over the weekend of December 7 and 8. A stunning location any time of year, at Christmas, with the cobbled streets shimmering under the twinkling of lights, Robin Hood’s Bay Victorian Weekend is a great occasion to seek out special gifts while soaking up the festive atmosphere; carol singers, a Punch and Judy Show and a duck race are just a few of the attractions to entertain the whole family.

Robin Hood's Bay Victorian WeekendRobin Hood's Bay Victorian Weekend (Image: Visit North Yorkshire) For a truly unique take on Christmas and the traditional festive ‘tree’, then head along the coast to Filey to witness the Filey Fishtive Tree. A celebration of the town’s association with the fishing industry, the ‘tree’ is a sculpture created out of crab and lobster pots, atop of which is a giant leaping salmon. The full glory of the Filey Fishtive Tree is revealed at a special lighting up ceremony, with carol singers and a grand firework display, which takes place on Saturday, December 7.

Filey Fishtive Tree is revealed at a special lighting up ceremonyFiley Fishtive Tree is revealed at a special lighting up ceremony (Image: Ceri Oakes) Naughty boys and girls might want to avoid Whitby over December 7 and 8. This is the weekend the Krampus roams the streets. The event has since been held annually since 2015 and has continued to grow in popularity. A long-established tradition across parts of Europe, on the Eve of the Feast of St. Nicholas the saint visits homes to give gifts to good children, accompanied by his dark counterpart The Krampus, who teases and punishes naughty boys and girls.

Beware the Krampus roaming the streets of WhitbyBeware the Krampus roaming the streets of Whitby (Image: Ceri Oakes) The switching-on of the Christmas lights is a sure sign that the festive season is officially under way, and the Christmas Fair switch-on at Selby Abbey is always a magical occasion, made all the more special by the stunning location and the grandeur of the Abbey. The Christmas Fair takes place on November 30. With plenty of stalls selling food and Christmas gifts, this year the Sarah-Jade BSL choir will be performing throughout the day, too.

Little Bird Market in Valley GardensBird Market in Valley Gardens (Image: Visit North Yorkshire) And if you are still pondering the perfect gift for a very special person, then a visit to the Little Bird Made artisan market is an absolute must. Over the coming weeks the market will take up residence in towns across the county, including Harrogate’s Valley Gardens, Ripon and Easingwold.

Knaresborough’s St John's church will once again host the unique Christmas Tree Festival. This beautiful parish church dates mainly to the 15th century, though it incorporates parts of an earlier 12th-century building.

Every year more than 70 Christmas trees decorated by local groups and businesses are on display, creating a stunning ‘exhibition’.

St John's Christmas Tree Festival, KnaresboroughSt John's Christmas Tree Festival, Knaresborough (Image: Visit North Yorkshire)

Admission to the festival is free, but there will be the opportunity to donate to the church and the event's chosen charity. A popular attraction, at busy times and for your safety, you may be asked to wait outside the building.

Officially, Yorkshire’s food capital, the two-day Malton Christmas Festival is the shopping event of the year. Expect a fabulous weekend of festive fun in and around Malton’s picturesque Market Place, with delicious food and festive gift stalls, street food, live music from local brass bands and choirs and family entertainment.Malton Christmas FestivalMalton Christmas Festival (Image: Richard Ponter) If you need to briefly escape the hustle and bustle of Christmas, then a visit to Helmsley could be the ideal solution. Situated at the start of the Cleveland Way National Trail, enjoy aa few hours taking in the splendid North Yorkshire countryside before heading back to enjoy Helmsley’s bustling market square, boutiques and cafes. Coincide your visit with lights switch on, on November 29.
Grassington, with its All Creatures Great and Small fame, will turn on the Christmas Lights on Friday, November 22, while the Christmas Markets will take place on Saturday, November 30, and Saturday, December 7. And like Helmsley, this pretty village has plenty of cafes and tea rooms, and beautiful walks in the area, too.

Skipton Christmas Lights Switch-On - November 24, 2024

This annual Christmas event begins with the Santa Fun Run at 10am alongside live entertainment, food and drink stands, and Christmas stalls to browse before the light switch on at 5pm.

Skipton Christmas Market - December 1 and December 8 

Browse festive stalls featuring some of the region’s top artisan makers, sing along with live music and tuck into delicious food and drinks.

Settle Christmas Market and Lights Switch On – November 30 

A lively market with an array of local produce, food and drink, and gift stalls selling wreaths, skincare and more - perfect for completing your Christmas shopping. Enjoy family entertainment and live music before the Lights Switch On at 5pm.

Ripon Christmas Lights Switch On - November 16 

Meet Santa and his reindeer as they make a special visit to Ripon to spread some magic, with fairground rides and live entertainment before the switch on at 6pm.

Ripon Cathedral Christmas Food & Gift Fair - November 22 - November 23

Explore 100 fantastic stalls brimming with Christmas gifts, food and drink at the beautiful Ripon Cathedral. Savour mulled wine and festive treats while enjoying Christmas music.

Find out more: visitnorthyorkshire.com/christmas