Head to Ripon for your classical fix

Over nearly three decades, the Ripon International Festival has welcomed a wealth of classical, literary and stage names such as the Hallé and Royal Philharmonic orchestras, Sir Derek Jacobi and Wendy Cope.

This year promises another fantastic line-up of classical music from orchestras to smaller string ensembles, as well as a brass band and a traditional Chinese harp concert, and folk and Hungarian gypsy music.

A highlight will be the gala concert in Ripon Cathedral of Tchaikovsky’s Fifth, featuring the Royal Northern Sinfonia and violinist Jennifer Pike, conducted by Janusz Piotrowicz.

It will end on October 9 with author and historian Philippa Langley investigating the enduring mystery of the ‘Princes in the Tower’, and the findings of a project to uncover the truth.

Ticket prices vary, see website for details, September 5 to October 9, Ripon Cathedral and other local venues.

Celebrate your dogs at fun family festival

DogFest comes to Harewood House for a weekend of action-packed demos, expert consultations and a range of activities.

Dogs go free so bring your favourite furry friend along and join in a dog show, agility course and big walk. There’ll be behaviour and play zones, along with live music and lots more.

Even better, Stray Ferret subscribers can get two tickets for the price of one – click here to get yours and find out more.

Tickets £14-91, September 7 and 8, Harewood House, for details visit the DogFest website.

Immerse yourself in local history and culture

Discover the history of the Harrogate District and head to the many free events on offer as part of the country-wide Heritage Open Days.

With a host of events taking place at venues across the area, there’s something for everyone during this ten-day festival of history and culture.

Visitors can explore a range of tours, talks, walks, exhibitions and buildings not usually open to the public across Harrogate, Ripon, Boroughbridge, Knaresborough, Spofforth, Pateley Bridge and Ripley.

See our full list of Heritage Open Days.

September 6-15, various venues and times.

Go bonkers at the bingo

Classic bingo with a crazy twist is promised by the Cedar Court Hotel in Harrogate this Friday.

With classic pop tracks, unconventional prizes and a few good games of bingo, this event will appeal not just to fans of the traditional game but also anyone wanting a good boogie (you get a glow stick thrown in with your ticket) or hoping to grab a cash prize.

If you so wish, you can enjoy a one-course meal as part of the evening too.

Tickets £10-£25, arrive from 7pm for first game at 8pm, September 6, Cedar Court Hotel, Park Parade, Harrogate. 

Get a dose of the best medicine

Top-notch entertainment comes to Knaresborough on Friday as the Frazer Theatre Comedy Club returns after its summer break.

The corker of a line-up features Edy Hurst, Lewis Dunn, Lovdev Barpaga and Lou Conran.

With ticket prices unchanged since the club launched ten years ago, it offers a great value evening of laughter and entertainment.

Tickets £10 in advance, £12 on the door, see website to book, 8pm September 6, Frazer Theatre, Knaresborough. 

Also check out...

• Long Course Weekend, September 6-8, Masham.
  
• The Great Caravan Motorhome & Holiday Home Show, September 6-8, Great Yorkshire Showground.
  
• Decorative Home & Salvage Show, September 6-8, Ripley.
  

The Stray Ferret subscribers can receive exclusive offers and discounts, click here to find the extensive list, many of which include activities and things to do.