A covered ice rink is set to open in Harrogate's Valley Gardens as part of a new programme of festive attractions for Christmas 2026.
The new Harrogate Ice Pavilion will open on Thursday 17th December and run until Sunday 3rd January, excluding Christmas Day.
It forms part of a wider festive programme being delivered by Harrogate BID alongside Visit North Yorkshire, North Yorkshire Council, Harrogate Town Council and Victoria Shopping Centre.
A number of attractions are planned for the town centre, including two interactive curling rinks, a giant snow globe and an interactive Ice Trail.
Five ice sculptures will be positioned around Harrogate on Saturday 12th December, encouraging families to explore different parts of the town centre.
Santa's Grotto will also return on selected dates throughout December, with further details set to be announced.
Organisers have said a scheme will be available to help children from lower-income families enjoy the festive experience.
Jason Maxwell, Chief Executive of Harrogate BID, said:
"We're delighted to be working with Visit North Yorkshire, North Yorkshire Council, Harrogate Town Council and Victoria Shopping Centre to deliver a new festive programme for Harrogate this Christmas.
"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 also welcome back the Little Bird Made Christmas Market on Saturday 5th and Sunday 6th December.
The market will feature independent makers, artists and food producers selling handcrafted gifts, festive food and locally made products.
Harrogate Town Council has committed £15,000 towards the wider festive programme and has set aside additional funding for measures aimed at improving accessibility.
Mayor of Harrogate Councillor Viv Poskitt said:
"Christmas is a truly special time of year, and I am delighted that Harrogate Town Council is helping to support this exciting festive programme for our town.
"I love seeing Harrogate come alive with Christmas trees, decorations, festive events and celebrations that bring people together, create lasting memories and showcase everything that makes our town so special at this time of year."
North Yorkshire Council deputy leader Councillor Mark Crane, whose responsibilities include the visitor economy, said the programme would help support businesses during an important trading period.
He said:
“The festive season is a hugely important time for our high streets and traders, and it’s important we do everything we can to help drive footfall, support local jobs and provide a boost for our businesses during one of the busiest periods of the year.
“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.”
Elsewhere, RHS Garden Harlow Carr will once again stage its GLOW illumination trail, while Harrogate Theatre will host its annual pantomime.
Harrogate International Festivals' North Pole Post Office will also return, giving children the chance to post letters to Father Christmas.
Further additions to Harrogate's Christmas programme, along with opening times and event schedules, are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
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