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29
Jul
5 things to do in and around Harrogate this weekend, July 31-August 2
Delve into the world of orchids
The Summer Orchid Show at RHS Garden Harlow Carr in Harrogate is taking place this weekend, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the remarkable diversity and beauty of orchids.
Featuring displays created by local orchid societies and specialist growers, it will highlight both rare and exotic varieties while providing practical advice on orchid care and cultivation.
Visitors can also meet Burnham Orchids, specialist growers from Devon, and purchase orchids directly from the exhibitors.
Free for RHS members, under-fives and carers, £5.25 for children aged five to 16, £15.05 for adults, 10am to 4pm, August 1-2, RHS Garden Harlow Carr, Crag Lane, Harrogate, HG3 1QB.
Ripon celebrates St Wilfrid’s Procession and Yorkshire Day. Photo: Harrogate Informer.
Witness one of Yorkshire’s oldest traditions
Before the Yorkshire Day celebrations begin on August 1, Ripon will continue one of its oldest and most cherished traditions with the St Wilfrid’s Procession.
Dating back to a royal charter granted by King Henry I in 1108, the annual event honours St Wilfrid, the founder and patron saint of Ripon, and has evolved from a simple religious procession into a vibrant community celebration featuring decorated floats, marching bands, performers and community groups.
The historic route winds through the city’s streets, attracting thousands of spectators each year.
Free, entertainment begins at 12 noon in Market Place, followed by the procession at 1.30pm. The day continues with a St Wilfrid’s Procession Service and prizegiving at Ripon Cathedral from 4pm, before concluding with the traditional Hornblowing Ceremony at 9pm. August 1.
Enjoy Yorkshire Day
As detailed above, Yorkshire Day takes place on 1 August and will be celebrated across the Harrogate district, with a range of events highlighting the area’s heritage, culture and community spirit.
The annual occasion is a chance to showcase everything that makes Yorkshire special, from its picturesque countryside and historic cities, market towns and villages to its thriving food and drink scene, rich literary heritage and proud traditions.
Whether you’re attending a local celebration, exploring one of the district’s attractions or simply enjoying the great outdoors, Yorkshire Day offers the perfect opportunity to celebrate the people, places and history that have shaped England’s largest historic county.
Tockwith Show. Photo: Chris North
Celebrate Yorkshire’s farming community
Tockwith and District Agricultural Show returns to Cattal Moor Lane on Sunday, celebrating the region’s farming heritage, local communities and rural traditions.
Under the leadership of new chair Phil Tottie, the 2026 show will feature nearly 300 classes, more than 120 trophies and more than £6,000 in prize money, with a special focus on goats.
A new Farmers’ Hub will provide a dedicated space for farmers and agricultural communities to connect, while visitors can enjoy livestock displays, equestrian events, crafts, food, family activities and countryside demonstrations.
Yorkshire Air Ambulance has been named this year’s charity partner, with fundraising on the day supporting its vital work, as the Tockwith and District Agricultural Society continues its mission to promote agricultural education and celebrate the contribution of farming to the region.
Free for under 12s, £5 for children aged 13 to 16, £16 for adults, from 8am, August 2, Cattal Moor Lane, Tockwith, York, YO26 7QH.
Attend a milestone of automotive heritage
Classic motoring returns to Nidderdale on Sunday as the Harrogate MG & Classic Car Club hosts its 2026 show at Bewerley Park, Pateley Bridge.
Celebrating its 40th show, the event will bring together MG enthusiasts and classic car fans for a day of automotive heritage, featuring the MG Owners Club Concours and Condition competitions, classic vehicle displays, trade stands, autojumble, live entertainment and family activities.
Visitors can also enjoy refreshments and a fun dog show, making it an enjoyable day out for classic car enthusiasts and families alike.
Free for under 12s, from 9am, August 2, Nidderdale Showground, Bewerley Park, Pateley Bridge, HG3 5BD.
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