When the sun comes out, don’t we all want to go out? It certainly seems that way judging by the abundance of outdoor events going on all over Yorkshire this summer. We’ve picked six of our favourite reasons to get outside and enjoy the entertainment in York and Yorkshire this season.

York Races
York racecourse 0 17th- 20th August

The Famous Ebor Festival is back at York Racecourse this summer, giving you a chance to dust off your fascinators and suits to enjoy the sun and some horse racing. Ladies Day is taking place on Thursday 18th, providing an opportunity to put your glad rags on and watch the Darely Yorkshire Oaks. The unmissable Ebor race will also be taking place on Saturday 20th August, tickets are selling fast so be sure to book soon to avoid disappointment.

Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta
Knavesmire – 23rd- 25th September

The widely popular Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta is returning to York, after several years after the pandemic. Hosted at the Knavesmire, the event entails a Hot Air Balloon launch, light show, fireworks, and live music. Headliners include Scouting for Girls, Craig Charles, Gabrielle and Heather Small. Not forgetting the large range of food and drink being served all weekend.  A firm favourite for all the family to enjoy and a perfect way to end the summer months.

Adventure Cinema
Castle Howard – 12th-14th August

Hosted at Castle Howard, an outdoor cinema is being built in the castle land. Visitors can bring their deckchairs and picnics and soak in the summer sunsets whilst watching an action-packed blockbuster. There is something for friends and families to enjoy, including titles Mamma Mia, Harry Potter, Rocky Horror Picture Show and Encanto. Tickets are selling fast so be sure to book soon to avoid any disappointment.

Maize Maze
York Maze – 16 July – 5 September

This unique place is always a fun visit for all ages, and reopens for 2022 on 16th July until 5th September. York Maze is a giant maze made of maize to get lost in and find your way out. And as if that’s not enough, there are more mazes with puzzles to solve and fun activities at which to climb and bound and slide. It’s a whole lot of excitement right here in York.

Food Lovers Festival
Market Place, Malton – 27-29 August

‘The food fest of the north’ in ‘Yorkshire’s food capital’ is clearly an event for foodies not to miss. Malton Food Lovers Festival has a reputation as the best around, and for good reason. This huge event takes over the streets of this lovely market town over the August bank holiday weekend with Yorkshire’s finest produce, live cooking, artisan stalls, delicious street food, talks, tastings, celebrity chefs, demos, bars and purely positive vibes.

National Book Fair
York Racecourse – 9-10 September

The York Book Fair is a huge literary event which pops up at York Racecourse biannually. Britain’s largest antiquarian book fair is a must visit for collectors and enthusiasts, and equally interesting for all readers. There is something for everyone amongst the myriad of stalls here, from expensive rarities to reading discoveries, and it’s a pleasurable way to while away an end of summer day.

Photos:Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta, Maize Maze, York Book Fair, Castle Howard