What’s On in York in October? Whether you are visiting the city or, like me, you live here it’s always good to have a list of what’s on so you can plan your month ahead!
Also, have a look at our Halloween in York guide.
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Halloween Outdoor Cinema by Adventure Cinema
Following on from their summer shows, The UK’s No.1 outdoor cinema returns to Castle Howard for Halloween!
Get ready for a Halloween experience like no other. These shows will sell quickly!
Friday the 25th October 2024
The Lost Boys
Saturday the 26th October 2024
Hocus Pocus
Sunday the 27th October 2024
The Witches
Candlelit Concerts – Music from the Movies
Harewood House
Saturday October 12, 2024 6.30PM to 8.45PM
Join us in Harewood’s magnificent Gallery for an exclusive evening of music from the movies, surrounded by candlelight.
Featuring music from Hans Zimmer and John Williams, sit back and soak in the magical atmosphere, whilst you listen to classic film scores from Jurassic Park to Intersellar.
Performed by the Ebor Quartet, this candlelight concert promises to be a night you’ll never forget in the breathtaking surroundings of Harewood House.
Check out all the details at Ignite Concerts.
Concert of Feelgood Music by York composer Tim New
Tempest Anderson Hall, Yorkshire Museum, Museum Gardens – Saturday 19 October 14:30
A FREE concert of witty and cheerful music by York composer Tim New. A celebration of a lifetime’s achievement. Donations to www.alzheimers.org.uk
Link to facebook page:
York Restaurant Week
14th – 20th October 2024
Enjoy some of York’s best dining experience on a budget! For 7 whole days, diners can access a huge variety of food and drink offers, all deliciously priced at £5, £10, £15, £20, £25 or £30. From snacks and brunch to afternoon tea and gourmet meals, make the most of affordable offers with friends and family.
Take a look at the York Restaurant Week site here.
York Unlocked
5th and 6th of October 2024
York Unlocked takes place on the weekend of 5th and 6th of October 2024 will see the doors thrown open to around 70 fabulous buildings FREE of charge.
The unique 2 day event opens up access to the magnificent buildings and open spaces in the city that are often closed to the public. It aims to help both residents and tourists alike to uncover hidden treasures and experience familiar places through fresh eyes.
York Ghost Week
York Ghost Merchants Events
Saturday 26th October — Sunday 3rd November 2024
Ghosts are an obscure yet undeniable part of the story of our city and we celebrate them wholeheartedly.
This is our fifth official Ghost Week; the first took place precariously between lockdowns but proved a welcome diversion at a time that was difficult for all. The following year we built upon this success and hosted “ The Residents” an installation of 1,000 glass Ghosts at the Mansion House, for the second year we showed “The Intaglio Seal” a short film at the Medical Society and last year the Jaggery Family event was held in St Anthony’s Garden .
“The Little York Ghost Hunt” is always at the centre of proceedings and has become embedded firmly in York’s calendar. This year the nights of the Little York Ghost Hunt are Monday 28th – Thursday 31st October inclusive.
Over the years we have added in other events, both of our own making and with select partners. A full programme for 2024 with ticketing information can be found on the Ghost Merchant’s site.
York Races Fixture Details | October Finale 2024
11th and 12th of October.
On the Friday, our Countryside Market also proves an easy way to get some early Christmas gifts.
The Friday offers a chance to catch up with friends whilst enjoying easy access to some of the best views and facilities on the turf.
In recent years, Saturday has become one of the busiest weekend racedays of the month nationwide, so there continues to be a buzz about the grandstands.
What’s On at The Grand Opera House in October?
Clifford St, York YO1 9SW
What’s On at The York Theatre Royal in October?
St Leonard’s Pl, York YO1 7HD
Little Women
Sat 21 Sep – Sat 12 Oct
The Old Paint Shop
Sat 05 Oct – Sat 26 Oct
Freida Nipples presents…The Exhibitionists
Sat 05 Oct
Fool(ish) Improv Present Not Gonna Lie
Thu 10 Oct
The Brendan Duffy Quartet
Fri 11 Oct
Jess Gardham
Sat 12 Oct
The WOW Show with Jude Kelly
Sun 13 Oct
Rebus: A Game Called Malice
Tue 15 Oct – Sat 19 Oct
Dauntless – Grace O’Malley, Pirate Queen
Thu 17 Oct
Bay Bryan: The Meadow
Sat 19 Oct
Dinosaur World Live
Mon 21 Oct – Tue 22 Oct
The Signal-Man
Thu 24 Oct – Wed 30 Oct
Hyde Family Jam
Thu 24 Oct
Company Wayne McGregor Autobiography
Fri 25 Oct – Sat 26 Oct
Pete Selwood: Uninspiring
Fri 25 Oct
Freida Nipples presents…The Exhibitionists : Halloween Edition
Sat 26 Oct
Wonder Boy
Tue 29 Oct – Sat 02 Nov
Mary Rose
Wed 30 Oct – Sat 02 Nov
What’s On at The York Barbican in October?
Paragon St, York YO10 4AH
Here are some of the highlights at The York Barbican, but please check their listings for lots more events.
Fairground Attraction
This year, after an absence of 35 years, all four original members of 80s band Fairground Attraction are reuniting for a 14-date UK tour.
Gary Meikle – No Refunds
Back with another self-written, self-deprecating show.
World Seniors Darts Tour Matchplay – Weekend Ticket
York Barbican is once again set to host the World Seniors Matchplay.
World Seniors Darts Tour Matchplay – Individual Session Tickets
York Barbican is once again set to host the World Seniors Matchplay.
York Guildhall Orchestra: A John Barry Celebration
Come along to a concert of nostalgic reminiscing, and enjoy the film music world of John Barry.
Carrie Hope Fletcher – Love Letters
Actress, Author, Vlogger and award-winning West End sensation Carrie Hope Fletcher is heading out on a brand-new UK tour.
Peter Hook & The Light – SUBSTANCE // WORLD TOUR // 2024
PETER HOOK & THE LIGHT have announced a mammoth run of dates for 2024, the live dates will see the band play the Substance albums by Joy Division and New Order in full.
Chris Kent – Back At It
Cork man Chris Kent returns with his brand new show “Back At It”.
Katherine Ryan: Battleaxe
TV’s beloved Katherine Ryan makes a hugely welcome return to the stage with her brand-new live show, Battleaxe.
What’s Love Got To Do With It?
Celebrating the music of the incredible rock and soul legend Tina Turner; Enjoy Private Dancer, Proud Mary, Simply The Best and many more.
An Audience with Lucy Worsley on Jane Austen
Following her sold-out Agatha Christie tour, acclaimed historian Lucy Worsley leads us into the life of one of English literature’s most cherished figures.
Steve Hackett Genesis Greats, Lamb Highlights & Solo
Legendary guitarist Steve Hackett announces the dates for his 2024 UK tour: Steve Hackett – Genesis Greats, Lamb Highlights & Solo.
Thank You For The Music
Calling all Dancing Queens, this is your night to say, Thank you for the Music!
Squeeze 50th Anniversary Tour
The “Cool for Cats”, “Up the Junction”, and “Labelled with Love” hit-makers are celebrating their 50th anniversary!
Ben Portsmouth: This is Elvis
Ben Portsmouth brings you his jaw-dropping tribute to The King of Rock and Roll!
Imperial Classical Ballet Presents: Swan Lake
A timeless ballet with exquisite dancing featuring a live orchestra with over 30 musicians.
Lucinda Light
The hugely popular star of Channel 4’s Married At First Sight Australia extends her UK tour.
An Evening Of Burlesque
Roll up, roll up. . . the UK’s longest running burlesque show returns – bigger than ever And, it’s bigger than ever. Expect the unexpected – it’s cabaret o’clock!
Twilight in Concert: The Film with Live Band
The legendary romance fantasy film Twilight has been announced to tour the UK, just ahead of Halloween, in an in concert format, live to film.
Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club
Bringing the best live stand-up to York, featuring comedians from shows such as Mock The Week, 8 Out of 10 Cats, and many more.
Bongo’s Bingo Halloween
Bongo’s Bingo is a night full of madness, mayhem and sheer joy that will keep you coming back for more
The Cult 8424 – 40th Anniversary Tour
The Cult have announced The 8424 Tour, commemorating 40 years as a band, with shows spanning the U.K. and Europe.
Adam Ant
80’s legend Adam Ant returns to York Barbican!
What Festivals are on in York in October?
Yorktoberfest
18-19 & 25-26 October 2024
York is set to enjoy beer, bratwurst and all things Bavarian when – Yorktoberfest – returns to York Racecourse this October. The residents of York and beyond will be invited to eat, drink and be merry-go-round at the Clocktower Enclosure on the Knavesmire, where a giant Bavarian-styled beer tent and traditional funfair will set a festive scene.
What’s On at The Joseph Rowntree Theatre in October?
Haxby Rd, York YO31 8TA
The Poldark Show Presents El Mistico
Thu 10 OctEl Mistico is mystical; a unique unforgettable performance!
An evening of Italian Dining
Mon 14 OctLa Piazza Antica – Goodramgate Join us in the private dining room of this historic building for a delicious three-course Ita…
R.O.G.E.R. Radio Attempts Frankenstein
Sun 20 OctThe cheeky chappies and lovely ladies of R.O.G.E.R. Radio take on Frankenstein
Also check out our other monthly What’s On guides.