Harrogate plans spectacular festive events to boost town centre at 'important time of the year for businesses'

Plans have been revealed for a spectacular programme of festive events in Harrogate town centre this Christmas season to entertain families and boost footfall.

Working in partnership with Visit North Yorkshire, part of North Yorkshire Council, Harrogate Town Council and Victoria Shopping Centre, Harrogate BID’s Christmas offer is designed to encourage residents and visitors to explore Harrogate, support local businesses and enjoy everything the town has to offer throughout the festive period.

At the heart of the celebrations will be a series of festive attractions organised by Harrogate BID, including Santa's Grotto, two interactive curling rinks, a giant snow globe providing the perfect festive photo opportunity, and an interactive Ice Trail.

Jason Maxwell, Chief Executive of Harrogate BID, said: "Christmas is one of the most important times of the year for our town centre businesses, and this programme has been designed to create a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere that encourages people to spend time in Harrogate, support local businesses and enjoy everything our town has to offer.”

Valley Gardens will host Harrogate Ice Pavilion - a covered ice rink, which will be open from Thursday, December, 17 until Sunday, January, 3, excluding Christmas Day – bringing even more festive fun to Harrogate over the Christmas holidays.

On Saturday, December 12, visitors will be able to admire five spectacular ice sculptures in he town centre, encouraging families to explore Harrogate while discovering its fantastic shops, cafés, restaurants and attractions.

Families will once again be able to visit Santa's Grotto on selected dates throughout December, with further details to be announced.

A scheme will also be available to help ensure children from lower-income families can enjoy the festive experience.

The popular Little Bird Made Christmas Market will return to Valley Gardens on Saturday, December 5 and Sunday, December 6, bringing together a carefully-curated selection of independent makers, artists and food producers offering handcrafted gifts, festive treats and local products.

Coun Viv Poskitt, the Mayor of Harrogate, said: "I am delighted that Harrogate Town Council is helping to support this exciting festive programme for our town.

"The Town Council has committed £15,000 of partnership funding towards the programme and has also set aside additional funds to support measures that improve accessibility.”

Beyond the town centre, visitors will also be able to enjoy some of Harrogate's much-loved festive attractions. RHS Garden Harlow Carr will once again host its spectacular GLOW illumination trail, transforming the gardens into a dazzling winter wonderland, while Harrogate Theatre will bring festive cheer with its annual pantomime.

Families can also visit the magical North Pole Post Office, organised by Harrogate International Festivals, where children can post their letters directly to Father Christmas as part of a much-loved festive tradition.

North Yorkshire Council’s deputy leader, Coun Mark Crane, whose responsibilities include the visitor economy, said:

“We are delighted to be working alongside Harrogate BID and local partners to support an exciting programme of festive events that will make Harrogate a must-visit destination this Christmas.

“Harrogate plays a crucial role in North Yorkshire’s seasonal offer and we look forward to showcasing it as part of Visit North Yorkshire’s Christmas marketing campaign, encouraging residents and visitors to enjoy everything this special spa town has to offer.”

Additional festive attractions are also in planning, with further details to be confirmed over the coming weeks.