Top Events in Harrogate this Autumn

Harrogate is a hub for cultural events, conferences and exhibitions. When visiting Harrogate for a last-minute autumn break, consider including at least one of the following events to your itinerary.

Countryside Live: 21st-22nd October at GYS
Come along to the Great Yorkshire Showground and see two of the small screen’s favourite vets: Julian Norton and Peter Wright from The Yorkshire Vet. This large outdoor event has a variety of attractions, including dog agility and sheepdog displays (not to mention a pop-up country pub).

Raworths Harrogate Literary Festival: 19th-22nd October at the Crown Hotel
Now in its seventh year, Harper’s Bazaar consider the Raworth’s Harrogate Literary Festival one of the best in the UK. The festival is a collaboration of best-selling authors, actors and even politicians. This year’s theme is ‘Generations’, which focuses on how literature is passed down and adapted across the ages. Contributors include Jonathan Aitken, Ann Widdecombe and Denise Welch.

Northern Antiques Fair: 19th-22nd October at the Harrogate Convention Centre
If you’re a budding valuation expert, or you enjoy collecting objet d’art, this antiques fair is a must. The reputable specialist dealers will be offering a great variety of fine art, collectibles, antique furniture and contemporary pieces. 

The Magic Flute: 4th November at the Harrogate Theatre
The award-winning OperaUpClose company are renowned for reinventing classic opera. This time they’ve brought Mozart’s iconic piece bang up to date, setting it in a trendy London nightclub. The Times called it ‘madly brilliant’, so it’s hardly surprising this group are holders of an Olivier award.  

Fizz Festival: 4th November at the Majestic Hotel
Move over beer festivals – we’re going up market. If the idea of sampling champagne, prosecco and cava from all over the world appeals to you, then be sure to visit the Fizz Festival during your stay in Harrogate. Chat to the producers while enjoying bubbly, food and live music. You can even take a champagne masterclass.

All or Nothing – the Small Faces Musical: 6th-11th November at the Harrogate Theatre
Whether you were around during the Mod era or not, you’re bound to enjoy this musical charting the rise of The Small Faces. The show includes all their hits, including Lazy Sunday and Itchycoo Park. Their upbeat brand of rhythm and blues  will put a smile on your face and get you grooving along.

Harrogate Christmas Market: 16th-19th November on the Montpellier Stray
The sixth annual Harrogate Christmas Market is always popular, as rather than being another continental market, this event has a distinctly Yorkshire flavour. The market has 200 stalls selling everything from Christmas decorations to artisan jewellery, as well as a great selection of food and drink. Sip some delicious mulled wine as you take in the magical setting. Free entry.
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Knitting and Stitching: 24th-27th November at the Harrogate Convention Centre
This show is extremely popular with anyone who works with yarn or textiles. Crafters of all abilities, from all over the UK converge on Harrogate to see the latest trends, take workshops, meet designers and to add to their ‘stash’.   

There’s always so much going on in Harrogate, you’ll be spoilt for choice.