Whitby offers a full program of events and festivals throughout the year which attract visitors from far and wide.. Some of the best ones are included below with information about when they run and ticket prices. Contact info is also provided including links to the relevant websites.
Whitby Goth Weekend - Running from the last weekends of April and October, the WGW is a major Whitby festival and consists of live musical events, performed by popular bands and DJs. It was originally organised in 1994 by a small group of friends incuding promoter Jo Hampshire and has grown to become one of the biggest Goth events in the world. Many events are held at the Whitby Spa Pavilion although others are run by various establishments around Whitby, including The Resolution Pub and the Metropole Hotel. Activities include a charity fooball match between Goths and a local newspaper, craft-markets, club-nights and sandcastle building. Tickets are from £39 and can be purchased online.
Tel: 07970 704702 | When: April, October | Ticket prices: From £39
Moor and Coast Festival - The Moor and Coast Festival celebrates traditional music and performances and is held during May. It consists of three days of music, song and dance and also features fringe events such as street performances and local ghost walks. The main venue is Whitby Communication College with further acts performing at the Friendship Rowing Club. Other attactions during the festival include a real ale bar, workshops and ceilidhs. Tickets are around £40, with more information available on the website.
Tel: 01947 820408 | When: May | Ticket prices: From £36
Whitby Regatta - This is one of the oldest regattas in England and dates back to the early 19th century, where fishermen raced their fishing smacks. The event gradually began to incorporate Yachts into its program and in 1847, The Whitby Challenge Cup was run for the first time and yacht racing became the regatta's centre-piece. It now attracts over 20,000 people and takes place over three days in August. In addition to the yacht racing, there's also rowing races and air displays from the Red Arrows. Other notable events include an air sea rescue demonstration, live music, fireworks and a 4k fun run. Tel: 01947 825896| When: August | Ticket prices: Free
Whitby Folk Week - Whitby Folk Week is also a major event in the town and runs for seven days during August. Over 600 events are held each year including concerts, dancing, singarounds and street entertainment, all with the aim of celebrating traditional folk music. The festival has grown each year and has come a long way since its inception, as a dance-based festival.
It now attracts a diverse range of big-name acts from all over the United Kingdom, who are keen to sample the unique, vibrant atmosphere. Visitors can also enjoy a number of fringe events throughout the town and there's an extensive children's programme which helps to involve the young ones in this unique annual event. Season tickets and individual tickets are available as well as student discounts. Under 11s are admitted free.
Tel: 01947 833669 | When: August | Ticket prices: £120 (week-long tickets)
Other Festivals
Musicport Festival -
Created in 2000, the Musicport Festival aims to promote live music and performances in Whitby and the surrounding area. It attracts a range of top artists such as the Levellers, Courtney Pine and Midge Ure. It takes place during late October and consistently receives rave reviews from the press. Some of its venues include the Whitby Pavilion Theatre, which plays host to a variety of acts, from stand-up comedians to live bands. Tickets start at about £15 in price, see the website for further details.Tel: 01947 603475 | When: October | Ticket prices: From £15
Whitby Live 60's Festival - Fans of the swinging 60s will enjoy this festival, which runs for two weekends during June. It features a number of reknowed 60's performers such as Hermans Hermits, Ivy League and the Persuaders. A collection of tribute bands also perform during the festival covering the songs of the Beatles, The Shadows, Elvis and Cliff Richard. Concerts and live performances take place at the Whitby Pavilion Theatre and other venues in nearby towns such as Bridlington.
Tel: 01947 604855 | When: June | Ticket prices: £12 to £20 (Individual shows), £58 (all shows)
