Yorkshire Day in Ripon

Spend Yorkshire Day in Ripon as St Wilfrid’s Procession becomes a full-day family celebration.

 If you are looking for a fantastic free day out this summer, Ripon is the place to be.

 On Saturday, 1 August, the city’s historic St Wilfrid’s Procession will be bigger than ever, combining with Yorkshire Day to create a full day of free entertainment, family activities, and traditional celebrations in the heart of the city.

 From 12pm, Ripon Market Place will be buzzing with attractions before the famous procession arrives at around 1.30pm. The celebrations continue throughout the afternoon and evening, finishing with Ripon’s centuries-old Hornblower Ceremony at 9pm. What can you enjoy? There is something for every generation, including:

 The spectacular St Wilfrid’s Procession with colourful costumes, music, community groups, and historic characters.

Free family entertainment throughout the city centre.

Larger fairground rides for older children and teenagers.

Children’s rides, stilt walkers, and face painting.

A lively Yorkshire Day atmosphere celebrating everything that makes the county special.

The iconic Hornblower Ceremony, one of Ripon’s best-loved traditions.

 Best of all, every attraction is completely free, making it one of North Yorkshire’s best-value family events this summer.

 Experience one of Yorkshire’s oldest traditions.

 The St Wilfrid’s Procession has been part of Ripon’s history for generations, celebrating the city’s connection with its patron saint. Every year the streets come alive with music, colourful floats, local organisations, and hundreds of participants, creating an unforgettable spectacle that attracts visitors from across the region. This year’s expanded event gives you even more reasons to spend the entire day exploring Ripon, from its independent shops and cafés to its historic streets and welcoming atmosphere.

 Antony Prince, Chair of St Wilfrid’s Procession, said:

 “St Wilfrid’s Procession is one of Ripon’s most treasured traditions, but this year we have a chance to make the day even more special by celebrating Yorkshire Day at the same time. “With the support of Ripon City Council and Ripon BID, we are creating a fantastic free family event that brings people into the heart of the city and showcases everything that makes Ripon so special.

 “Our ambition is simple – we want Ripon to be the jewel in Yorkshire’s crown. From the spectacular procession through the city to the historic Hornblower Ceremony at 9pm, this promises to be a memorable day celebrating history, entertainment, community, and Yorkshire pride. “We are incredibly grateful to our sponsors, donors and the army of volunteers who make this event possible. St Wilfrid’s Procession is organised by the community, for the community, and their support helps keep this wonderful tradition alive for future generations.”

 Make a day of it. Why not arrive early, explore Ripon’s historic centre, enjoy lunch at one of the city’s cafés or restaurants, browse the independent shops and then soak up the festival atmosphere throughout the afternoon?

 Whether you are visiting for the colourful procession, the free family entertainment or simply to celebrate Yorkshire Day, you will discover why Ripon is one of North Yorkshire’s most charming and historic cities.

 With free attractions, a packed programme of entertainment and a warm Yorkshire welcome, this promises to be one of the region’s standout summer events.