Summer 2025 in the Dales: 20 Local Shows, Fairs & Festivals You Shouldn’t Miss

There’s nothing quite like summer in the Yorkshire Dales — rolling hills, charming market towns, and a calendar packed with country shows, artisan fairs, food festivals, and family-friendly events. Whether you’re staying at Akebar Park for the weekend or spending the whole season in your holiday home, there’s plenty to keep you entertained just a stone’s throw from your doorstep.

Here’s our round-up of 20 unmissable events happening in and around the Dales this summer — perfect for a grand day out!

Agricultural Shows & Country Fairs

1. Great Yorkshire Show – Harrogate (8–11 July 2025)
   One of the UK’s biggest agricultural events. Expect livestock competitions, country pursuits, rural crafts, and Yorkshire’s best food and drink. A must-visit!
2. Wensleydale Show – Leyburn (23 August 2025)
   Just minutes from Akebar Park, this traditional show has sheepdog trials, vintage tractors, local produce, and craft competitions.
3. Nidderdale Show – Pateley Bridge (22 September 2025)
   Held in a stunning riverside location, this late-summer show brings together farmers, local food producers, and craftspeople from across the Dales.
4. Reeth Show – Swaledale (25 August 2025)
   This smaller, more intimate agricultural show is full of community spirit and surrounded by stunning scenery.
5. Kilnsey Show – Wharfedale (26 August 2025)
   Over 100 years old, the Kilnsey Show includes fell running, sheep shearing, dry stone walling, and a thrilling harness racing event.

Food & Drink Festivals

6. Yorkshire Dales Food & Drink Festival – Skipton (18th, 19th & 20th July 2025)
   A local favourite! Street food, live music, cookery demos and stalls celebrating Yorkshire’s finest food and drink.
7. Malton Food Lovers Festival – Malton (23–25 August 2025)
   Often called the “Food Capital of Yorkshire,” Malton’s August Bank Holiday festival showcases the best of local producers, street eats, and live entertainment.
8. Yorkshire Dales Cheese Festival – Various locations (14–22 September 2025)
   A week-long cheese-lover’s dream with tastings, farm tours, cheese and wine pairings, and workshops across the Dales.
9. Settle Sausage Festival – Settle (19 July 2025)
   A quirky and fun event that’s exactly what it sounds like – a celebration of all things sausage, with music, beer tents, and competitions.
10. Masham Beer Festival – Masham (2–3 August 2025)
    Hosted in a town famous for its breweries (hello Black Sheep and Theakston!), this laid-back weekend is a must for craft beer fans.

Markets & Artisan Fairs

11. Leyburn’s Friday Market – Weekly
    Historic market square, bustling stalls, local produce, gifts, and handmade crafts. Make it part of your weekly summer routine!
12. Bedale Farmers’ Market – 1st Tuesday of every month
    Fresh veg, meats, breads, and artisan cheeses — perfect for stocking up your holiday home fridge.
13. Richmond Artisan Market – Monthly (Dates TBC)
    Set against the backdrop of Richmond’s cobbled market square, this is a showcase of independent creators and gourmet treats.
14. Hawes Summer Market Day – Weekly on Tuesdays
    Traditional Dales charm meets quality local goods — a lovely day trip from Akebar with cafés and countryside walks nearby.

Quirky & Family-Friendly Events

15. Leyburn 1940s Weekend – Leyburn (26–27 July 2025)
    Step back in time with vintage fashion, wartime re-enactments, live music, and dancing in the market square.
16. Kettlewell Scarecrow Festival – Kettlewell (9–17 August 2025)
    A fun and creative family event! Spot hundreds of handmade scarecrows around the village and enjoy local stalls and refreshments.
17. Richmond Live – Richmond (2–3 August 2025)
    A vibrant music festival featuring local and national acts in a stunning riverside setting.
18. Thorp Perrow Arboretum Summer Activities – Bedale (Throughout July & August)
    Enjoy wildlife-themed events, outdoor theatre, and family-friendly nature trails.
19. Friars Fest – The Friars Head – Akebar Park – DL8 5LY (5th July 2025)
    Live music, sports for the whole family and plenty of refreshments!
20. Swaledale Festival – Various Dales Locations (24 May–8 June 2025)
    Music, poetry, guided walks and more — this cultural festival brings art and nature together in unforgettable ways.

Make Akebar Park Your Summer Base

With all this happening right on your doorstep, Akebar Park is perfectly placed to experience the best of the Yorkshire Dales in summer. Whether you’re here for a short break or the whole season, there’s no shortage of things to see and do.

Looking for more local tips? Pop into reception for our latest event leaflets or ask our team for recommendations — we love helping you make the most of your stay.

See you this summer in the Dales!