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  3. Celebrate the summer holidays by taking part in our activities
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A group of children in the pool wearing arm bands beside a selection of colourful floats
Packed summer events across North Yorkshire
From swimming sessions to cultural events and outdoor adventures, there are activities for everyone to enjoy and make the most of this summer.

Celebrate the summer holidays by taking part in our activities

A packed programme of events and activities will be taking place across North Yorkshire to help you make the most of the summer holidays.

From affordable swimming sessions and outdoor adventures to heritage trails, arts activities and family learning opportunities, there are plenty of ways for people of all ages to stay active, discover something new and enjoy time together during the school holidays.

Families looking to make a splash can take advantage of the summer swimming programme organised by our Active North Yorkshire service. The programme includes a range of fun and affordable sessions available at Active North Yorkshire’s 13 leisure and wellbeing hubs across the county.

Whether children are building their confidence in the water or enjoying inflatable fun sessions, there is something for all ages and abilities, with activities starting from just £1.10.

Find out more about our swimming and active sessions

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Children having fun in a swallow pool

For those looking to learn new skills this summer, Active North Yorkshire is also offering National Pool Lifeguard Qualification courses. The nationally recognised qualification provides comprehensive training in lifeguarding, pool rescue techniques, CPR and first aid, equipping participants with the skills needed to become a qualified pool lifeguard.

Find out about upcoming National Pool Lifeguard Qualification courses

Meanwhile, visitors to Scarborough can explore the town’s history through the Scarborough 400 Giant Deckchair Trail. Created to celebrate 400 years since the discovery of Scarborough’s spa waters, the free trail features 10 oversized deckchairs at locations highlighting key moments in the town’s heritage.

Each stop includes information boards and QR codes offering fascinating insights into Scarborough’s past, while interactive activities help engage younger visitors. The trail runs until Sunday 6 September and forms part of the wider Scarborough 400 celebrations. Details can be found on the Visit North Yorkshire website.

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Deckchair on the grass beside the lake at Peasholm Park

Across the county, dozens of free and low-cost activities are also taking place throughout the summer holidays. Highlights include arts and crafts workshops, theatre performances, museum events, storytelling sessions, outdoor learning experiences and family-focused activities.

Find out more about our arts and culture events

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Three children sitting digging in soil

Libraries will host the Summer Reading Challenge, Read to the Beat, until Saturday 12 September, alongside a programme of music-themed events, creative workshops and family learning sessions.

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Small group of children sitting together holding books

Eligible children and young people aged 16 and under can also access fully funded holiday activities and healthy meals through the FEAST programme. Information can be found on our FEAST page.

With events taking place in communities across North Yorkshire, families are encouraged to check local listings and venue websites for details and booking information.

See the other stories from this month's Your North Yorkshire.


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© 2026 North Yorkshire Council

The council provides services across North Yorkshire including Harrogate, Ripon, Scarborough, Whitby, Northallerton, Thirsk, Selby, Tadcaster, Malton, Pickering, Richmond, Skipton and more.

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