Staithes Festival of Arts and Heritage

Staithes Festival of Arts & Heritage has established itself as one of the friendliest festivals on the Yorkshire coast — a must-see weekend in the regional arts calendar.

Step inside a village like no other as the doors of cottages are thrown open, transforming Staithes into a trail of pop-up art galleries showcasing painting, print, ceramics, textiles, sculpture, photography and more.

Alongside the open studios, enjoy a programme celebrating Staithes’ rich history and heritage, including walks, talks, photographs and film shows.

Location: Staithes — 11 miles north of Whitby (TS13 5BH)
Contact:  info@staithesfestival.com

North York Moors, Scarborough Borough Council and Welcome to Yorkshire
Credit: Ceri Oakes

Credit: Ceri Oakes

Staithes Festival of Arts and Heritage

Pop-up art galleries across the village create a unique selling exhibition, with music filling the streets. Enjoy workshops, walks and heritage events celebrating Staithes’ lives and traditions — plus street food and drink, and stunning lighting across a glorious landscape.

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Festival Dates: 11th - 13th September 2026

We’re delighted to announce that the Staithes Festival of Arts & Heritage 2026 will take place on Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 September 2026, with a Preview Evening on Friday 11 September.

Please save the date for what promises to be a very special weekend in the village, celebrating the creativity, character and community spirit that make Staithes so unique.

Visitors can look forward to a vibrant programme of art, heritage and live music,with around 100 artists exhibiting throughout the village, including many new artists joining us for the first time. There will also be a programme of heritage talks bringing Staithes’ rich history and stories to life, alongside two live music actsyou won’t want to miss and street buskers adding to the atmosphere throughout the weekend.

We’re also excited to be introducing new lighting installations with our new lighting partner, helping to bring a fresh atmosphere to the festival weekend.

Whether you are a regular visitor or planning your first trip to Staithes, we would be delighted to welcome you in September for another celebration of art, heritage and community.

We’ll be sharing more details over the coming months, including participating artists, venues, events and visitor information.

For now, please do make a note in your diary:

Preview Evening: Friday 11 September 2026, 6pm–9.30pm

Festival Weekend: Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 September 2026, 10am–5.30pm

We look forward to welcoming you.

With best wishes,

The Staithes Festival Committee