York Youth Festival will take place in Rowntree Park from 2pm until 5pm on Wednesday 23 July with a range of free entertainment for 11 to 18-year-olds.
The event aims to provide a safe social space where young people can enjoy music, take part in activities, find out about what’s on in the city, make new friends and try something new.
There will be free food and activities, including a football kickabout, badgemaking, sports, games, and live music. People are also being encouraged to take picnics and blankets to chill out on while soaking up the atmosphere.
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To support the event the Youth Council is working with Emerging Talent, which provides opportunities for up-and-coming bands to perform in music venues across York, to help promote young musicians and youth bands that would like to perform, with slots available for 10- and 15-minute musical sets.
Local community groups have also been invited to run stalls and activities, such as giant Jenga and table tennis kit.
The festival is being held in response to a Make Your Mark survey, carried out in 2024, when the Youth Council heard from more than 5,000 children and young people in the city who called for more opportunities, leisure and culture.
Will, a member of the Youth Council, said: “Our survey revealed that the main priorities for young people in York are opportunities, media and culture, so our festival will help address these challenges, and we can’t wait until we hold the event.”
Naomi, also a Youth Councillor, added: “It’s going to be an amazing event for young people from around the city, giving them a space to get together and have some fun. It’s been great to see how supportive organisations and community groups have been already, and we’re grateful to HAF for providing the food and Emerging Talent for providing a valuable platform for young local musical acts.”
The York Youth Festival is being hosted by York Youth Council supported by City of York Council’s Communities Team, and involves local youth groups and youth providers.
People are being invited just turn up and have fun. Picnics are welcome. More information on the event can be found on the Youth Council website at www.york.gov.uk/york-youth-council/york-youth-festival.
Anyone interested in a musical slot should get in touch with Emerging Talents by emailing Mark and Julie Ellerker at theelkyork@gmail.com.
Anyone interested in providing an activity or stall should contact the Communities Officer, Shiona at yorkyouthcouncil@york.gov.uk.
York Youth Council is made up of young people who speak up for the 17,000-plus people aged 11 to 18 in the city and campaign on important issues to influence decision makers.
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