York’s always a wonderful place to visit with kids, and 2025 is shaping up to be no exception. Whether, like us, you’re lucky enough to live here, or you’re planning a trip with your family, there are already lots of events, activities and attractions to get excited about. Here are our top picks for family-friendly fun in York and the surrounding area in 2025 so far, with plenty more to be confirmed.
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Things to do in York with kids 2025
York Residents Festival 2025
Get your big coats on and enjoy a weekend of free entry and special offers for York locals!
25th and 26th January 2025
York Ice Trail 2025
York Ice Trail is one of the city’s most popular events, and it’s returning for 2025 with brand new sculptures and a new theme: origins.
1st and 2nd February 2025 – Visit the website
The Smartest Giant in Town at the Grand Opera House York
This heart-warming Julia Donaldson tale about friendship and helping those in need is brought to life in a musical, puppet-filled adventure.
5th and 6th February 2025 – Visit the website
JORVIK Viking Festival 2025
Immerse yourselves in all things Viking at the awesome JORVIK Viking Festival 2025. With events and activities galore, including lots of free options for families, there’s plenty to enjoy.
17th to 23rd February 2025 – Visit the website
Dark Skies Festival 2025
This annual celebration of the country’s dark skies returns to the North York Moors for 2025 with plenty of activities for families.
14th February to 2nd March 2025 – Visit the website
Colour and Light 2025
Colour and Light, the fabulous, free outdoor light and sound show, is returning to York in 2025 to York Minster and we love it! It’s the perfect excuse for an evening trip into York with your kids.
February 12th to 2nd March 2025 – Visit the website
Harland Miller’s XXX at York Art Gallery
One for the culture lovers, Yorkshire-born, world-acclaimed artist Harland Miller returns to York Art Gallery with an exciting exhibition this year.
14th March to 31st August 2025 – Visit the website
The Storm Whale at York Theatre Royal
Noi lives with his Dad and six cats by the sea. While his Dad was busy at work one summer, Noi rescued a little whale that washed up on the beach and a friendship began that changed their lives forever…
15th to 19th April 2025 – Visit the website
WizardFest 2025 – Coming to York on May 24th, 25th and 26th 2025 is WizardFest, a brand new event for York. Prepare to experience the magic with York’s first festival of Wizardry, a celebration of York’s many enchanting independent businesses.
WizardFest – Across York – May 24th, 25th and 26th 2025 – Follow WizardFest on Instagram
