What Festive Events Are Happening In Harrogate For Christmas This Year

Getting into the spirit of Christmas can sometimes feel like a bit of a mission, can't it? Finding things to do with the family that don't cost a fortune but still create those brilliant memories is the goal. Well, it looks like Harrogate has a couple of absolute gems lined up for this festive season. The town is bringing back two massively popular events: a special post office with a direct line to the North Pole and a huge carol concert that hasn't happened for years. It’s all about creating that magical Christmas feeling for children and adults alike, right in the centre of town.

Send your letters from the North Pole Post Office

Remember the excitement of writing a letter to Father Christmas? That careful list-making, the promise to be good, and the hope of getting a reply. In Harrogate, that tradition is alive and well. The town’s very own branch of the North Pole Post Office is officially open for business, and it’s become a huge part of the local festive fun. Located at the Harrogate International Festivals office on Cheltenham Parade, this isn't just any old post box. Kids (and, let's be honest, grown-ups too) can post their important letters directly to Father Christmas.

The whole experience is designed to be extra special. Visitors are greeted by twinkling fairy lights, Christmassy music, and even magical snow flurries. It’s a wonderful way to create some lasting Christmas memories. Once a letter is posted, there’s a clever modern twist. By scanning a QR code (one of those square barcode thingies you point your phone camera at), families can download a special letter and a personal message right from Father Christmas himself.

This lovely little setup is funded by Harrogate BID and produced by the brilliant team at Harrogate International Festivals, who have made this free event a cornerstone of the town's Christmas celebrations. Every year, thousands of letters get posted, showing just how much this magical connection means to the community. You can post your letters anytime between now and midday on 24 December.

A grand festive concert makes its return

After more than five years away, a much-loved Harrogate tradition is back. The Mayor’s Christmas Carols concert is returning to the stunning Royal Hall on 21 December, and it’s set to be a proper festive treat. What makes it even better? It's completely free to attend. This is a real community event, bringing together talented local people to celebrate the festive season. The concert will feature the fantastic Harrogate Band playing alongside local choirs, filling the grand hall with all the classic carols and festive music you could wish for.

It’s a family-friendly affair, so everyone is welcome to come along and get into the Christmas spirit. And there’s a rumour that a very special guest might be making an appearance – yes, Father Christmas is expected to pop in! While the concert is free, it’s also an opportunity to support a good cause. Any funds raised during the event will go towards the Mayor’s chosen charities. It’s a wonderful way for the local community to come together, enjoy some beautiful music, and give something back.

The event is a big collaboration, supported by Harrogate International Festivals, Harrogate BID, Harrogate Band, and Harrogate Town Council. Given its popularity in the past, tickets are expected to go fast. Here are the key details for the events:

• The North Pole Post Office: Open now until 12:00 pm on Wednesday, 24 December. Located at the Harrogate International Festivals office, Cheltenham Parade.
• The Mayor’s Christmas Carols: Takes place at the Royal Hall, Harrogate, on 21 December at 6:00 pm. Tickets are free but booking is essential.

The people behind the festive magic

Putting on events like these takes a lot of hard work and collaboration. The people leading the organisations involved are really passionate about making Christmas in Harrogate a special time for everyone. Gemma Rio, Chief Executive of Harrogate BID, spoke about the return of these festive favourites.

“Christmas is such a special time of year in Harrogate, and we are delighted to see the return of the town’s North Pole Post Office and the Mayor’s Christmas Carols concert. They really tap into the spirit of Christmas, not only bringing families together but also local businesses and organisations who work so hard at this time of year to create a real festive buzz.”

Sharon Canavar, who is the Chief Executive at Harrogate International Festivals, also shared her excitement.

“The North Pole Post Office has become really popular since it started five years ago, bringing a little bit of festive magic for children. It’s something free that all the family can be a part of and a chance to create some special Christmas memories.”

“I’m delighted, too, that the Mayor’s Christmas Carols are making a welcome return. For many of us this signalled the countdown to the big day and it promises to be another joyous occasion at the Royal Hall. We expect tickets to go quickly so book early to avoid disappointment!”

To book the free tickets for the carol concert, people should visit the Harrogate International Festivals website what's on page.