With summer already upon us, you may be left pondering what to do throughout the warmer months. From entertainment, festivals and music performances, York is set to be filled with eye-catching performances and events all summer long.

Whether you are a local or visiting York for a holiday, here are some of the unmissable events taking place in and around the historic city this summer, with something for all to enjoy whether you’re a family, alone or with friends.

Open Mic Nights

York is home to a wide range of open mic nights for whether you are a keen musician looking to play yourself or if you are on the lookout to find some new talent within Yorkshire. There are weekly open mic nights held at The Fossgate Social on Tuesdays, The Habit and Golden Fleece on Mondays and The Red Lion on Sundays.

The Crescent

Formerly a working men’s club, The Crescent is a pillar stone of York’s live music scene, with a wide range of acts taking to the stage weekly, the venue is well worth a visit this summer in York. On the 1st of July, local talent Serotones are taking to the stage alongside YouVee, Pavilion and The Palava in aid of charity CALM. Moreover, Hyde Family Jam are playing on 15th July, Kieff are performing on 24th July and comedian Dom Joly is undertaking his 1st UK tour ‘Burning Duck Comedy’ since 2011 on 13th September.

Yorkshire Day Celebrations

August sees the celebration of Yorkshire day which is hosted annually on 1st August with cities around Yorkshire set to be hosting a variety of activities to commemorate the special day to celebrate the beloved county. Scarborough are hosting entertainment, brass bands, face painting and many more events for the whole family to enjoy on 30th and 31st July from 10am to 4pm.

North Yorkshire Moors Railway

If you enjoy a relaxing train ride, then be sure not to miss out on the Annual Steam Gala which is taking place from 22nd to 25th September. The event entails the chance to ride a choice of up to 12 locomotives in steam including the likes of LNER A4 ‘Sir Nigel Gresley’. The trains will be stopping at Pickering, Levisham, Newtondale Halt, Grosmont, Goathland and Whitby, with shops, trade stalls, live music, and a beer festival at the different stations.

York Theatre Royal

Much loved sci-fi musical Little Shop of Horrors is taking residence for the first time at York Theatre Royal this summer from 14th- 23rd July. The performance follows the story of a flower shop assistant who discovers a mysterious plant which changes his fortune and consequently sees many plot twists throughout. Furthermore, later in the summer, captivating drama Noughts and Crosses is coming to the theatre from 16th- 24th September. Both the novel and television adaption have proved to be highly popular, and the story is highlighted as one of profound importance, so be sure not to miss out!

York Races

The famous Ebor festival is taking place from 17th to 20th August at York Racecourse, with a Ladies Day, Juddmonte International and the long-awaited Ebor race. It provides a perfect opportunity to get dressed up and enjoy the summer sun. Even if races aren’t to your interest, the York Racecourse is hosting a Music Showcase weekend on 22nd and 23rd July with performances from Madness and Sugababes.

Grand Opera House

York’s Grand Opera House is over 120 years old and is hosting a wide range of shows for all to enjoy this summer. From An Evening with Fran Lebowitz on 29th June, to The Carpenters Story on 30th June, to an Elton John tribute on 1st July, there is something for many musical tastes. As well as these performances, it is worth checking out a new musical The Osmonds which will follow the origin story of boyband The Osmonds which will be at the Opera House from 2nd to the 6th of August.

Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta

From 23rd to 25th September, the Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta is returning to York. Hosted at York Knavesmire, the popular event is set to be bigger than ever with hot air balloon launches, large selections of food and drink and live music all weekend. Friday is set to see Scouting for Girls and Craig Charles headlining, with Gabrielle and Heather Small on the Saturday night and much more to be announced.

Image Credits: York Races, York Balloon Fiesta, York Theatre Royal