What’s On This Weekend (18–19 July 2026) in Harrogate, Knaresborough & Ripon

Looking for the best things to do this weekend? Whether you’re planning a family day out, searching for live music, theatre, festivals or outdoor entertainment, there’s plenty happening across Harrogate, Knaresborough and Ripon.

🎸 Harrogate Fake Festival

Saturday 18 July | The Stray, Harrogate

One of the biggest events of the summer returns to Harrogate with a full day of live tribute music, street food, bars and festival fun.

Expect spectacular performances celebrating:

• The Killers
• Bon Jovi
• Elton John
• Kings of Leon

If you love live music and festival atmosphere, this is the place to be.

🎭 Legally Blonde Jr. at Harrogate Theatre

Upstage Academy brings the hit musical Legally Blonde Jr. to the Harrogate Theatre stage this weekend.

Perfect for families and musical theatre fans, this energetic youth production is packed with memorable songs, humour and outstanding young talent.

🎶 Live Music Across Harrogate

If intimate live music is more your style, Harrogate’s venues have plenty to offer throughout the weekend.

Don’t miss:

• Blues Bar – live bands throughout the weekend.
• The Den – live music and DJs.
• Rooster’s Brewery Taproom – live performances and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Kota at Cedar Court Hotel – food, drinks and live entertainment on Saturday.

🎭 Ripon Theatre Festival

Ripon is transformed into an open-air stage with one of North Yorkshire’s most popular cultural festivals.

Discover:

• Street theatre
• Live music
• Circus acts
• Comedy
• Puppetry
• Family entertainment
• Outdoor performances

Many events are completely free, making this one of the region’s best family weekends.

🎵 Sunday Summer Concert

Pack a picnic and head to Spa Gardens on Sunday afternoon for a free concert featuring Harrogate Spa Town Ukes.

🧙 Summer in Oz at Mother Shipton’s Cave

Knaresborough

Step into the magical world of Oz as Mother Shipton’s Cave hosts its colourful summer experience.

Enjoy:

• Interactive Oz-themed displays
• Woodland adventures
• Family activities
• Photo opportunities
• Magical storytelling

A fantastic family day out throughout the weekend.

⚡ Pokémon Summer of Play

Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal

Pokémon fans can explore trails, activities and games as part of the popular Summer of Play, alongside family-friendly events including Lego activities at Ripon Library.

🌸 Explore Knaresborough

Even without a major festival, Knaresborough is one of Yorkshire’s most picturesque destinations.

Why not enjoy:

• Riverside walks along the River Nidd
• Knaresborough Castle
• Boat hire
• Independent cafés
• Traditional pubs
• Boutique shops

It’s the perfect place to combine with a visit to nearby Harrogate or Ripon.

🌿 More Great Family Days Out

If you’re looking to make a full day of it, don’t miss:

• RHS Garden Harlow Carr
• Valley Gardens
• Ripley Castle
• Newby Hall & Gardens
• Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal