Check out these Easter holiday activities

Make the most of the Easter holidays with a mix of adventure, creativity and family fun across the Harrogate district. 

From heart-pumping gorge scrambling in Nidderdale and magical theatre shows at Harrogate Theatre to hands-on craft workshops at Mercer Art Gallery and historic adventures at Knaresborough Castle, there’s something to delight children of all ages. 

Families can dive into outdoor thrills, explore centuries-old castles, or enjoy creative sessions decorating eggs and making musical instruments.

For a more personal touch, why not set up your own Easter egg hunt at home or in the garden, complete with clues and playful challenges? Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-fuelled excitement, cultural inspiration, or simply quality time together, these activities promise memorable moments and plenty of smiles.

Dance the night away to '80s hits

Step back into the glamour and unforgettable sounds of the 1980s as Made in the 80s arrives at Masham Town Hall.

This lively tribute show features a full live band and talented vocalists performing some of the decade’s most iconic pop hits, including Sweet Dreams, I Wanna Dance With Somebody, Simply The Best, I’m So Excited and Just Can’t Get Enough. 

Guests can enjoy both seating and a dancefloor – though arriving early is recommended to secure a seat. 

All proceeds from the evening will go towards the ongoing maintenance and repair of the historic town hall, making it a great night out for a good cause.

£17 per ticket, doors open at 7pm, show starts at 8pm, April 3, Masham Town Hall, Little Market Place, Masham, HG4 4DY.

From classic consoles to cosplay: visit this gaming festival

The Odyssey Video Games & Toy Festival will be held at The Crown Hotel this weekend, bringing a colourful celebration of retro gaming, toys and pop-culture nostalgia to Harrogate.

Visitors can explore a retro gaming zone packed with classic consoles and arcade favourites from the past four decades, alongside a lively marketplace featuring toys, trading cards, artwork, merchandise and rare collectibles from traders across the UK. 

Indie game developers will also be showcasing new projects, while cosplay is welcome throughout the event, adding creativity and fun photo opportunities. Designed for gamers, collectors and families alike, it promises an entertaining day out with plenty to see and do.

Tickets from £7.50, 12 noon-5pm, April 5, The Crown Hotel, Crown Place, Harrogate, HG1 2RZ.

Unleash your inner artist at this guided paint-and-sip evening

Get creative at a paint-and-sip session at Three’s A Crowd, guided by a resident artist – no experience required. This time, the focus is on painting beautiful water lilies, with all materials provided, including canvas, easel, apron and paint. A lively soundtrack sets the mood, inspiring your masterpiece from start to finish.

Each class is limited to 25 participants, ensuring plenty of one-on-one guidance as you follow step-by-step instructions. Perfect for a solo outing or a fun night with friends, you’ll leave with a finished piece to take home – and can stick around afterwards to enjoy drinks at the bar.

Tickets are £35, 12 noon-2.30pm, April 4, Three's a Crowd, 11 West Park, Harrogate, HG1 1BL.

Experience the soulful sounds of Lance Gold

This Easter weekend, Lance Gold brings his signature soul and Motown hits to Ripon Bowling Club, the beloved social hub on Bondgate Green. Known for his smooth vocals and energetic performances, Gold will fill the club with timeless classics that get everyone singing and dancing along.

Whether you’re a regular enjoying the snooker and pool tables or simply looking for a relaxed way to spend Easter Sunday, his performance promises a night of unforgettable music, local charm and plenty of feel-good vibes.

3pm-5.30pm, April 5, Ripon Bowling Club, 26 Bondgate Green, Ripon, HG4 1QW.

easter events