The kids are out for half term – but what is there to do in York? A whole lot, as it turns out.
We’ve put together a guide to all the family-friendly fun happening in York and beyond this February half term.
What’s on in York this February half term
Are we missing an event? Let us know by dropping us a line at [email protected] or submit it here.
Don’t miss
Jorvik Viking Centre
The Vikings are back for the JORVIK Viking Festival 2026! This world renowned festival features living history encampments, workshops, tours, traditional crafts, feasts, family events, evening entertainment and dramatic combat performances.
- Multiple venues
- Mon 16 – Sun 22 Feb
- Multiple times
- More info
February Half-Term at Castle Howard
This February half term, make lasting family memories at Castle Howard. From relaxing walks in the great outdoors to memorable adventures for your children at Skelf Island Adventure Playground, there’s something for the whole family to enjoy.
Let your little ones’ imaginations run wild at Skelf Island Adventure Playground. Set within the beautiful Castle Howard Gardens and suitable for children of all ages, the playground is a must-visit for families looking for outdoor adventure near York this half term. Located on its own island and reached by a spectacular rope bridge, the playground features zip wires, climbing frames, slides, nets and challenging climbing equipment. Perfect for brave explorers.
After a day of exploring, relax and unwind with delicious food and drink. The Boathouse Kitchen is right next to the playground and has pizzas, burgers and milkshakes on offer. It’s the perfect chance to re-charge your batteries over lunch. Alternatively, our Courtyard Café is running a ‘Kids Eat Free’ offer across the week of half term. Why not make a day of it and spend time with the whole family, there’s something on offer for everyone.
- Castle Howard, York, YO60 7DA
- Sat 14 – Sun 22 Feb
- 10am – 4pm
- More info
Dark Skies Festival
We’re delighted to be showcasing our eleventh festival. Join us and the Yorkshire Dales National Park to celebrate the wonders of our skies and explore two incredible International Dark Sky Reserves in the peak of our stargazing season.
- Multiple locations
- Fri 13 Feb – Sun 1 Mar
- Multiple times
- More info
The Rise of the Unicorn at Hole in Wand
This February half term, magic rises across The Hole In Wand as The Rise of the Unicorn arrives from 14 February to 1 March 2026.
Every 900 years, a rare cosmic event known as The Celestial Convergence takes place the moment when unicorn magic is at its most powerful. Under the Moon’s silver light, unicorns gather to renew their enchanted essence, sending waves of celestial energy back into the world to ensure wonder continues for another 900 years.
During this extraordinary time, guests at The Hole In Wand are invited to step into the story and use Unicorn Magic to aid their Wizard Golf quest. As you take on nine magical holes, you’ll search for hidden unicorn horns, unlock enchanted boosts and see how much magic you can harness to improve your final score.
- The Hole In Wand, 14 – 16 Coppergate Walk, York YO1 9NT
- Sat 14 Feb – Sun 1 Mar
- 10am – 7pm
- More info
February Frolics at Piglets Adventure Farm
Get set for a baa-rilliant adventure! Bottle feed cute lambs and laugh at a brand NEW panto. Plus, explore thrilling indoor and outdoor adventure play!
- Piglets Adventure Farm, Towthorpe Grange, Towthorpe Moor Lane, Yo\\rk YO32 9ST
- Sat 14 – Sun 22 Feb
- 10am – 4pm
- More info
February Half-Term at York’s Chocolate Story
Looking for the perfect way to spend half-term with family, friends, or loved ones? York’s Chocolate Story is the ultimate destination for unforgettable chocolate-filled adventures. From interactive experiences to indulgent treats, we’ve got something for everyone to enjoy this February.
- York’s Chocolate Story, King’s Square, York YO1 7LD
- Sat 14 – Sun 22 Feb
- Multiple times
- More info
February Half-Term at York Castle Museum
Experience the sights, smells and sounds of Victorian York like never before in this brand-new immersive installation, open for a limited time from Saturday 31 January until Sunday 22 February. This experience has been created in collaboration with NOVO Theatre and introduces you to the characters and businesses from York’s past.
As you arrive at the coaching inn, The Last Stop, you’ll hear emotive soundscapes from five lively Yorkshire folk making their way to visit the street for different reasons. This new experience promises to excite and entertain, transporting you back in time to the 1870s and allowing you to delve deeper into the real stories behind the objects from our historic collections. Linger, listen and travel with us!
- York Castle Museum, Eye of York, York, YO1 9RY
- Sat 14 – Sun 22 Feb
- Multiple times
- More info
February Half-Term on the Homefront
This February Half term, Eden Camp invites visitors of all ages to step back in time this February Half Term as Eden Camp brings the spirit of the WWII Home Front to life! Families can discover how ordinary people made extraordinary efforts through hands-on activities, interactive displays, and fascinating stories of resilience. From learning clever “make do and mend” tricks to exploring life in wartime Britain, it’s the perfect blend of education and adventure. Join us for a week of immersive fun that will ignite curiosity and inspire all ages!
- Eden Camp Modern History Museum, Malton, YO17 6RT
- Mon 16 – Sun 22 Feb
- 10am – 5pm
- More info
Family fun
Rebuild the railway in bricks
This February half term, re-imagine the railways as you build with LEGO® bricks. Take in the magnificent railway layouts displayed, follow the minifigure trail and add to our very own railway bricks layout.
- National Railway Museum, Leeman Road, York YO26 4XJ
- Sat 14 – Sun 22 Feb
- 10am – 5pm
- More info
Glow Nocturnal at Carlton Towers
Explore magical glowing native animal inflatables at Carlton Towers. Tickets include entry to the event and one parking space. Set in the grounds and gothic splendour of the state rooms at Carlton Towers – a magnificent stately home near Selby. Explore the Nocturnal installation at your leisure and discover the Victorian Gothic interior of Carlton Towers.
Food and drink available in the Stables tearoom and wood-fired pizza from the Horsebox in the Courtyard. The Beaumont Bar will also be open. Mandala colouring for children.
- Carlton Towers, Carlton, DN14 9LZ
- Sat 14 – Sat 21 Feb
- 4-8pm
- More info
February half term at RHS Garden Harlow Carr
Join Mr Toad, Ratty, Mole and Badger at RHS Harlow Carr in 2026. Starting in February half term, and lasting all year, enjoy discovering an interactive garden trail and activities based on the well-loved book The Wind in the Willows.
With a brand-new garden trail, storytime and interactive planting sessions, there’s plenty to keep all the family busy this holiday.
- RHS Garden Harlow Carr, Crag Lane, Beckwithshaw, Harrogate, HG3 1QB
- Sat 14 – Sun 22 Feb
- 10am – 4:30pm
- More info
Indoor Funfair in Harrogate
With jaw-dropping rides and amazing inflatables for all ages, Harrogate Indoor Funfair offers all the fun of the fair in an indoor, climate-controlled and family-friendly environment.
- Great Yorkshire Showground, Railway Road, HG2 8NZ
- Sat 14 – Sun 22 Feb
- 10am-1pm & 2pm-5pm
- More info
February Half-Term Holiday Pass at Oxygen Trampoline Park York
Are your heroes all out of crime to fight this half-term? Good news — we’ve got a mission for them. Introducing the Half-Term Super Pass — an epic holiday pass designed for one hero to take flight. It includes 5 x 60-minute Open Play sessions to use anytime between 14th–22nd February. Spread them out, stack them up, or go full hero mode with multiple sessions in one day – the choice is yours.
It’s a real steal… and the villains don’t stand a chance!
- Oxygen York, Clifton Moor Centre, Hurricane Way, Rawcliffe, York YO30 4XU
- Sat 14 – Sun 22 Feb
- 9am – 7pm
- More info
February Half Term: Sledmere’s Sneaky Squirrel Trail
This February half term, follow the trail of acorns and see if you can find our sneaky squirrels hiding in and around our Parkland and Gardens. Along the way, each squirrel has a playful rhyme and a fun challenge to complete.
Our Sneaky Squirrel Trail is a fun outdoor adventure for children and grown ups. It’s perfect for children, filled with rhyme, fun and imagination set across our beautiful Parkland and Gardens.
- York Art Gallery, Exhibition Square, York, YO1 7EW
- Sat 14 – Sun 22 Feb
- 10am – 5pm
- More info
February Half-Term at York Art Gallery
This February Half-Term, celebrate creativity and craftsmanship at York Art Gallery. There’s a programme of artist-led workshops, self-led creative activities, talks and interactive storytelling for all ages, inspired by the collections and Harold Gosney: Materials and Making exhibition.
During your visit, explore the newly re-displayed paintings in the Burton Gallery and discover amazing interactives including the Not a Pot dressing up area, sensory toolkit and handling collection.
- York Art Gallery, Exhibition Square, York, YO1 7EW
- Sat 14 – Sun 22 Feb
- Multiple times
- More info
February Half-Term at the Yorkshire Museum
Celebrate Viking history at the Yorkshire Museum this February Half-Term. Get involved in a family-friendly programme of artist-led workshops, self-led creative activities and interactive performances, inspired by the highly acclaimed Viking North exhibition and JORVIK’s renowned Viking Festival.
All activities, performances and talks at the Yorkshire Museum are included in your general admission ticket, as well as giving access to thousands of years of Yorkshire’s history through astounding artefacts and extraordinary exhibits. It’s your last chance to see Star Carr: Life After Ice before it closes on Sunday 19 April, don’t miss it!
- Yorkshire Museum, Museum Gardens, Museum Street, York, YO1 7FR
- Sat 14 – Sun 22 Feb
- Multiple times
- More info
‘Hop into the wild’ Family Trail
From 14 February to 8 March, the National Trust is celebrating the release of Disney and Pixar’s “Hoppers”, in Cinemas 6 March. Discover the ‘Hop into the wild’ family trail, with storytelling and outdoor play.
If you’re a family with little ones to entertain this school holiday, come and enjoy the great outdoors, guided by cutouts of the “Hoppers” gang. Collect your free discovery passport, explore the animal kingdoms, and most importantly, unleash your wild side!
Ready to hop right in today? Join in the fun at Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal.
- Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden, Fountains, Ripon, HG4 3DY
- Sat 14 Feb – Sun 8 Mar
- 10am – 4pm
- More info
February Half-Term at Murton Park
Get ready for an exciting February Half Term packed with adventure, joy, and a fascinating journey through history!
This February half-term week, immerse yourself in the thrilling world of Norse explorers and discover their incredible stories. Join us for an unforgettable experience filled with craft activities, engaging tales, and opportunities to unleash your inner explorer!
- Murton Park, Murton Lane, Murton, York, YO19 5UF
- Mon 16 – Sun 22 Feb
- Multiple times
- More info
February Half-Term at York Minster
We’ve seen the Romans, Anglo-Saxons, Vikings and Normans. Now, we’re ready for you. Come rain or shine, York Minster is the perfect place for family fun this February half term. With hands-on activities, visiting Vikings, immersive cinematic experiences and creative crafts, there’s something for every generation to enjoy. Discover what’s happening throughout the week and plan your half‑term adventure at York Minster.
- York Minster, Deangate, York, YO1 7HH
- Mon 16 – Sun 22 Feb
- Multiple times
- More info
February Half-Term at Waterstones
Head to Waterstones York for all your half term fun! From Monday 16th – Sunday 22nd we have a host of exciting activites including a daily story time session, a treature hunt (with prizes to be won), mask making and a teddy bear’s picnic!
And for a lunchtime treat, our cafe is open from 09.00 – 17.00. With a range of fresh sandwiches, beautiful cakes and first class coffee! This is free to attend and does not require a ticket.
- Waterstones York, 15 Coney Street, York, YO1 9QL
- Mon 16 – Sun 22 Feb
- 9am – 6pm
- More info
February Half-Term at Yorkshire Air Museum
We’ll be opening the mighty Pathfinder Airport Crash Truck up for visitor access for four days – 15th, 16th, 19th and 22nd. This beast of a machine always proves popular. Normal museum days – no special tickets required.
- Yorkshire Air Museum, Halifax Way, Elvington, York YO41 4AU
- From 15 Feb
- 10am – 4pm
- More info
Family Fun at the Abbey!
It’s potty time at the Abbey! Get hands on with Project Wild at Selby Abbey this February half term for fun family activities taking place as part of the Selby Abbey: The Origin Stories project. Visitors to the Abbey will have a chance to make their own biodegradable plant pots and grow a herb of the kind that might have been cultivated by medieval monks. Drop-in nature tours of the churchyard will also take place, along with the opportunity to meet a grass snake and slow worm! Suitable for all ages. Free.
- Selby Abbey, The Crescent, Selby, YO8 4PU
- Wed 18 Feb
- 10am – 3pm
- More info
Fun On The Farm With Ms Rachel
Join Us for a Magical Ms Rachel Event at Yolk Farm! Due to popular demand, Ms Rachel is coming back to Yolk Farm! Get ready for another afternoon filled with joy, laughter, and unforgettable memories as we bring the magic of Ms Rachel to life with our special tribute event.
- Yolk Farm, Minskip Road, Boroughbridge, York, YO51 9HY
- Sat 21 Feb
- 1:30pm
- More info
Super shows
Annie
York Light Opera Company returns to York Theatre Royal with the beloved classic hit Annie! Packed with unforgettable songs like Tomorrow, Hard Knock Life, and You’re Never Fully Dressed Without a Smile, this heartwarming tale of hope, family, and second chances is a must-see for audiences of all ages.
Expect dazzling choreography, stunning costumes, and a full live band, alongside a stellar cast of local talent bringing this timeless story to life. Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic of Annie.
- York Theatre Royal, St. Leonard’s Place, York, YO1 7HD
- Thu 12 – Sat 21 Feb
- Multiple times
- More info
The Addams Family
Flying Ducks Youth Theatre are back to bring you a whimsical, spooky adventure in the delightfully dark world of the Addams Family! This musical adaptation brings to life this hauntingly eccentric family through a night of unexpected revelations.
When Wednesday Addams, falls in love with a “normal” boy, chaos ensues. As the two families converge over dinner, secrets are revealed, and the true meaning of family is put to the test. With catchy songs and a hilarious script, this fun, fast paced musical promises to entertain audiences of all ages.
- Joseph Rowntree Theatre, Haxby Road, York, YO31 8TA
- Thu 19 – Sat 21 Feb
- 7pm (2pm Sat matinee)
- More info
Crafts, art and workshops
LUSH York & Avocado Events Half Term Workshops
Join Lush York and Avocado Events for our Bath Bomb Workshops 16th to 20th February. Make your very own bath bomb, get hands on with products and take home a goodie bag.
- Lush Cosmetics York, 52 Coney Street, York YO1 9ND
- Mon 16 – Fri 20 Feb
- Multiple times
- More info
YorKAOS: Kids Art Exhibition
YorKAOS is back for 2026! Join their team for a free public exhibition showcasing artwork by York children aged 5 to 11, including painting, drawing, photography, and video. Proceeds from artwork sales support local charities YorMind (by York Mind), The Island, Snappy Trust, St Leonard’s Hospice, and Explore York Libraries and Archives.
- SPARK:York, 17-21 Piccadilly, York, YO1 9PB
- Tue 17 – Sat 21 Feb
- All day
- More info
