Who doesn’t love a bank holiday? Especially the August one, with its promise of sunshine and extra time to hang out as a family before the term starts again. There are lots of lovely things to do in and around York with kids over this August bank holiday – here’s our pick of the best of what’s on.

Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta 2021

Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta, formerly York Balloon Fiesta, returns for 2021 with the biggest hot air balloon festival Yorkshire has ever seen. Expect hot air balloons, children’s entertainment, live music, tribute acts, food and drink, as well as a large funfair. There’ll be a Hot Air Balloon Night Glow, followed by a brand new firework, drone and laser show. 27th to 30th August 2021 – Visit the Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta website for details & tickets

Living History Bank Holiday at Eden Camp

See history come to life at Eden Camp’s August Bank Holiday Event! Re-enactors will be on-site over the bank holiday weekend; the groups will be portraying both military and civilians, helping to enhance the 1940s theme and allowing visitors to get up close to uniforms, clothing, and kit of the period. 27th to 30th August 2021 – Click here to visit the Eden Camp website

Vikings! At Whitby Abbey

 Face the marauding Vikings as they continue their wave of terror along the northeast coast. Explore their encampment and witness spectacular displays of combat. Hear tales of daring conquests and learn about the weapons and skills which made the Vikings feared throughout Europe. There will even be a chance for your young warriors to learn some battle skills and take part in their own Viking skirmish! Whitby Abbey – Saturday 28th to Monday 30th August 2021 – Click here to visit the Whitby Abbey website

Malton Food Lovers’ Festival

Set across the streets of Yorkshire’s Food Capital, Malton Food Lovers Festival, 28, 29 & 30 August 2021, is a celebration of Yorkshire’s finest produce & cooking. Expect artisan stalls, delicious street food, talks, tastings, celebrity chefs, demos, festival bar, live music & much, much more! Malton’s 3 day family foodie extravaganza is a festival like no other. Malton town centre – 28th to 30th August (inclusive) – Visit the Visit Malton website for more info

Great Northern Food Festival at Scampston Hall

Described as a giant farmers’ market, the festival will host over 200 exhibitors and an expected 20,000 visitors during the weekend. The Great Northern Food & Drink Festival will feature a fine selection of food and drinks, crafts, locally produced meats, cheeses and baked goods, all to taste and take home, and all celebrating what’s so great about the North. Scampston Hall, Malton, North Yorkshire, YO17 8NG – 28th – 30th August (inclusive) – Visit the Great Northern Food Festival website to book