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What's on - in and around the City of York 2008

DECEMBER 2008


We make no claim that the Events listing below is a comprehensive listing of all that is "going-on" in York, but rather a selection of Events.

Each date starts with "one day" York Events first, then those outside York, and finally those events going on for more than just the one day.

UPDATED 3rd August 2008

Please note -
the events listed may be subject to CANCELLATION OR ALTERATION AT ANY TIME, FOR WHICH WE CANNOT BE RESPONSIBLE.
Please CHECK using the contact details supplied BEFORE setting off for any event.

 Longer Term events/exhibitions etc Currently Running
SCROLL DOWN FOR FUTURE EVENTS

To 31st December 2008 A Taste for China - Celebrating links with China, this exhibition show examples of Chinese lacquerwork, porcelain, teawares, fans and textiles.

To celebrate the long established link between China and England, Fairfax House is displaying some superb examples of early travel journals lacquerwork, porcelain, teawares, fans, mother of pearl and textiles, which were being brought into England by the East Indian Trading companies. Outstanding examples of contemporary work will also be included in the display.

Fairfax House
11th October -
4th January
2009
Exhibition - Faith and Love: Picturing the Bible in Christian Art
Explore the interpretation of Biblical stories by artists and craftsmen over the centuries
The Bowes Museum
Barnard Castle
14th November -
21st December
2008
Christmas Opening - Beautiful decorations in the Hall and festive jollity in the courtyard.
The Cunliffe-Lister family gather natural products form their award winning gardens and estate to create stunning, original deocratons for the Hall. A huge Christmas tree from the estate's forests dominates the Great Hall. Original Elizabethan and Jacobean quarters are decorated in traditional style whilst the extraordinary Long Gallery has a contemporary Christmas mood to complement its collection of modern and impressionist art

Burton Agnes Hall
29th November
- 21st December
2008
Castle Howard will be opening for Christmas in 2008, the Howard family will be welcoming visitors to experience the magic of their Christmas at Castle Howard. The house will be adorned with the Howard family's own decorations and traditional fresh foliage displays. Friendly guides will be located throughout the house to share tales of Christmas past and present, as visitors move between decorated rooms lit by flickering candles and cosy fires.
People will also be able to visit Castle Howard's award-winning Farm Shop, which sells a wide range of seasonal, local food, including Bronze turkeys and Castle Howard Aberdeen Angus beef. The Plant Centre will sell estate-grown Christmas trees and hand-made wreaths. During the weekends Father Christmas will be in his grotto and festive entertainment will take place in the Stable Courtyard


Castle Howard
Future Events and Attractions

1 - 31st
December
2008
Christmas with Jane Austen - See how Jane Austen would have celebrated Christmas. This exhibition uses evidence of family papers, diaries and household accounts.

An annual exhibition which complements our traditional display for the festive season, using the evidence of family papers, diaries, household accounts and the writings of Jane Austen. The rooms are bedecked with evergreens, and period set-piece displays bring the House to life in a very tangible way.

Fairfax House
2/3rd December
2008
Christmas Wreath Workshops & Lunch - Wreath making workshop, including materials and tuition, followed by Christmas lunch. Booking Esential
Beningbrough Hall
2 - 6th December
2008
Carols in Kirkgate - Make a note of this year's dates for our extremely popular annual carol concert. Each year members of York Philharmonic Male Voice Choir and the Kirkgate Singers dress in period costume in our recreated Victorian street to give a nostalgic performance of traditional Christmas music.
Tickets, priced £12 for adults, and £10 for concessions (including a complimentary programme) will go on sale from our admissions desk on Monday, 6 October, and by telephone from Tuesday, 7 October


York Castle
Museum
3rd December
2008
Christmas Musical Evening - 7.30 pm. Join us for an evening of festive music guaranteed to rouse your Christmas spirit, a great start to the season for all the family. Mulled wine and mince pies available. Booking tel: 01765 643164 / 643199 Fountains Abbey
& Studley Royal
Water Gardens
4th December
2008
Barley Hall by Candlelight - Share a goblet of mulled wine with 'Lord and Lady Snawsell' in a festive atmosphere, with tales and music to entertain you into the night. 7.00 pm. Booking Essential
Barley Hall
4th December
2008
The Black Swan Folk Club present - Ulster singer Fil Campbell, accompanied by Tom McFarland and Brendan Emmett 8.00 pm
Black Swan,
Peasholme Green
B.S.F.C.
4th December
2008
Christmas Theatre Evening - 7.30 pm. Join us for an evening of festive theatre in the visitor centre theatre, a great yuletide treat for all the family. Mulled wine and mince pies available. Booking tel: 01765 643164 / 643199 Fountains Abbey
& Studley Royal
Water Gardens
4th December
2008
New World Pioneers - Three shows in one as a selection of the finest young roots artists Canada has to offer bring their New World sounds to the UK. Old Man Luedecke is a banjo songster accompanied only by his loving five string and foot stomps, singing his melodic gems blending old time sensibilities with an unusual vision and poetic sense. Catherine MacLellen has a pure and haunting voice producing deeply confessional, powerfully poetic songs which continue to reveal hidden layers with every listen. Ryan LeBlanc is a progressive solo instrumentalist from New Brunswick interlacing guitar, djembe, harmonica and banjo to produce a wide variety of innovative, upbeat and passionate compositions! 7.30 pm Selby Town Hall
5th December
2008
York Astronomical Society lecture - "Coronal Conundra and Prominence Puzzles" - By Dr Colin Steel - Manchester University
Whilst the 'main business' of star i.e. the production of energy takes place in the core there are many interesting processes taking place in the outer layers and atmospheres. The Sun has three layers of atmosphere known as the photosphere, chromosphere and corona. This talk will give a general introduction to the Sun and will then feature some of the phenomena in the atmospheres including the appearance of the corona at eclipses, sunspots, prominences, coronal loops and solar flares. In addition, the Sun influences events in the Earth's atmosphere and the talk will conclude with a description of some of these. All are welcome

8.00 pm
Denham Room
Priory Street Centre
Y.A.S.
5th
December
2008
Regency Christmas - The History Wardrobe invites you to step back in time for a merry evening in the Age of Elegance. Ticket includes viewing of Hall until 7 pm and seasonal refreshments. Booking essential. Show starts at 7.30 pm
Kiplin Hall
Scorton
5th December
2008
Jo Caulfield - Best-known for her legendary one-woman shows, Jo Caulfield is the current queen of UK comedy. She is a regular on Have I Got News For You, Mock The Week and Never Mind The Buzzcocks, acts as head writer for Graham Norton and both wrote and starred in three series of her own critically acclaimed Radio 4 comedy show, “It’s That Jo Caulfield Again”. Jo’s razor sharp observations on the human condition and her ability to weave in and out of material and audience banter ensures that she is in demand all over the world and remains one of the few comedians to consistently sell out entire runs at the Edinburgh Festival. 7.30 pm Selby Town Hall
5-7th
December
2008
Sledmere Christmas Food & Craft Festival - An excellent opportunity for Christmas gift and food shopping Sledmere House
5-7th
December
2008
Deck the Hall – Enjoy period Christmas trees and decorations throughout the Hall, courtesy of local groups and the Friends and volunteers of Kiplin Hall. Long Gallery decorative theme for children and Christmas activities. Plus Exhibition by Local Artists – originals and prints for sale. 5/6th 11.00 am - 7.00 pm; 7th 11.0 am - 4.00 pm
Kiplin Hall
Scorton
6th December
2008
Farmers Market - The York Farmers Market was one of the first to be established in the north of England in the Autumn of 1999. The success as the forerunner to this movement in the north has led to a large number of other markets opening and, more importantly, created an alternative source of income to many farmers and producers.
The main benefit of the farmers market here at Murton is that it is all under cover come rain, snow or high wind with a large private car park adjacent.
There is always seasonal activity and special events at the markets, adding extra value and interest.
The main principle of the farmers market is that it is local producers selling fresh quality produce direct to local consumers in an atmosphere which promotes dialogue and understanding of food production including environmental and welfare standards. This cuts down food miles and puts money back into the local economy rather than imported goods.
The market always offers an extensive range of produce including:-
Meat – Yorkshire beef, lamb and pork; chicken, duck, geese, pheasant, partridge, wild game (in season); wild boar; pies, sausages, burgers etc.
Vegetables – Fresh vegetables and salads (including organic growers); exotic mushrooms; fresh fruit in season.
Bakery – Cakes, scones, quiches, puddings, fruit pies.
Other products – Yorkshire cheeses, home made soups, fruit wine, apple juice, organic milk and butter.

A fantastic choice of fresh quality local produce at very competitive prices and the benefit of knowing where it's come from and how it's been produced


York Farmers Markets
6th December
2008
'St Nicholas Walking Tour' - a fascinating Yuletide look in York Minster at the life and legends of St Nicholas - the origin of Santa Claus 10.30 am
YorkWalk
6th December
2008
The Western Front Association lecture by Robert Oliver. Annual General Meeting followed by "The West Yorkshire Regiment at Third Ypres." 2.30 pm
Phoenix Block
York St John University College
WFA - Yorks. Branch
6th December
2008
York Barbican Players perform a programme to include Shostakovich - Violin Sonata 7.30 pm
St Helen's Church
St Helen's Square
York Barbican Players
6th December
2008
Wetherby Races Wetherby
Racecourse
6th December
2008
National Trust Winter Concerts - An Evening With… Brian Patten
Join us for a memorable evening of poetry with one of the country's most popular poets. Booking is essential and early booking is advisable. 7.00 pm (Doors open 6.30 pm) Tickets £22 Tel 01439 748283
Nunnington Hall
6th
December
2008
Victorian Musical Evening with the magical Harp Singers. Ticket includes viewing of Hall until 7 pm and seasonal refreshments. Booking essential. Show starts at 7.30 pm
Kiplin Hall
Scorton
6/7th December
2008
York Artists Group exhibition and sale The Chapel
York Cemetery
6/7th December
2008
Christmas Fair - Unique Christmas presents and mulled wine in a serene festive setting. 10.00 am - 5.00 pm
Barley Hall
6/7th December
2008
Christmas Fair weekend - A tradional Christmas weekend Ryedale
Folk Museum
6/7th December
2008
Craft & Toy Fair Beck Isle Museum
Pickering
6/7th December
2008
Santa Specials North Yorkshire
Moors Railway
6/7th December
2008
Music & Lights at Christmas - 3.30 pm - 5.00 pm. Indulge in festive shopping at our large National Trust shop and lunch at Fountains Restaurant and then enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the Abbey and Elizabethan Manor House bathed in coloured lights with seasonal music (recorded). Last admission 4.00 pm Fountains Abbey
& Studley Royal
Water Gardens
6/7th December
2008
Christmas Choirs - Experience Brodsworth's festive spirit with a chance to buy unique gifts. 2.30 - 3.30 pm Brodsworth Hall
6-21st
December
2008
The Harrison Collection - The first chance to see a representative selection of artefacts from this outstanding Yorkshire collection. The exhibition is part of our development project to house the collection permanently in Ryedale Ryedale
Folk Museum
7th December
2008
Music in the 18th Century Country House - Adrian Le Harivel, a curator at the National Gallery of Ireland, will examine the evolution of country house music and highlight the context in which it was performed and played.

The appearance of a specific music room in English country houses and townhouses reflects the importance given to music by patrons like the Duke of Chandos, the Earl Tylney at Wanstead and closer to home,the Lascelles family at Harewood House. Adrian Le Harivel, a curator at the National Gallery of Ireland, will examine the evolution of country house music and highlight the context in which it was performed and played. This event is also part of the York Early Music Christmas Festival. 2.30 pm

Fairfax House
7th December
2008
Winter Abbey Tours - 1.30 pm. Join a free tour to discover fascinating facts and stories about the abbey and monks Fountains Abbey
& Studley Royal
Water Gardens
7th December
2008
National Trust Winter Concerts - An Evening of Music and Readings with Louis de Bernieres
Join us for an intimate evening of music, poetry and readings with one of the world's foremost authors, Louis de Bernières – author of Captain Corelli's Mandolin. Aside from writing, Louis is a keen musician and mandolin player and is joined for the evening by flautist, Ilone Antonius Jones of the Antonius Players. Booking is essential and early booking is advisable. Tickets: £20 Tel 01439 748283. Concert 7.00 pm (doors open 6.30 pm)
Nunnington Hall
9th December
2008
Craft Market - Castle Howard will be hosting a Craft Market on Tuesday 9th December at the Stable Courtyard from 10am to 4pm. Local stallholders will be selling the best of the region's crafts.
The Stable Courtyard is also home to Castle Howard’s farm shop, chocolate shop, gift shop, book shop and plant centre. The butcher’s counter at the Farm Shop will be selling estate-reared Aberdeen Angus beef and locally sourced meat, most of which comes from a 15 mile radius of the Farm Shop. The deli counter stocks fine regional cheeses, pâtés and cooked meats.
Access to the Craft Market and shops in the Stable Courtyard is free of charge, and there is also free car parking

Castle Howard
9th December
2008
York RSPB Talks - Roy Croucher on "Birds of Serbia & Montenegro" 7.30 pm
Temple Hall
YSJU
Lord Mayors Walk
York RSPB
9th December
2008
Carols in Kirkgate - Make a note of this year's dates for our extremely popular annual carol concert. Each year members of York Philharmonic Male Voice Choir and the Kirkgate Singers dress in period costume in our recreated Victorian street to give a nostalgic performance of traditional Christmas music. Tickets, priced £12 for adults, and £10 for concessions (including a complimentary programme) will go on sale from our admissions desk on Monday, 6 October, and by telephone from Tuesday, 7 October

York Castle
Museum
10th December
2008
Farmers' Market - Castle Howard will be hosting a Farmers' Market in the Stable Courtyard from 10am to 4pm. Fifteen stallholders will be selling the best of regional produce including meats, preserves, cheeses and much more.
The Stable Courtyard is also home to Castle Howard's farm shop, chocolate shop, gift shop, book shop and plant centre. The butcher's counter at the Farm Shop will be selling estate-reared Aberdeen Angus beef and locally sourced meat, most of which comes from a 15 mile radius of the Farm Shop. The deli counter stocks fine regional cheeses, pâtés and cooked meats.
Access to the Farmers' Market and shops in the Stable Courtyard is free of charge, and there is also free car parking

Castle Howard
11th December
2008
The Feast of Christmas - at Bedern Hall the 14th century Dining Hall of the Vicars Choral of York Minster.
A reprise of our successful Christmas event, this time with a more medieval flavour. In an evening for anyone curious about the foods we eating during the festive season, we answer your questions with humour and style.
Tickets to includes reception drink, 5 courses, music and entertainment. Booking essential
7.00 pm
Bedern Hall
11th December
2008
Barley Hall by Candlelight - Share a goblet of mulled wine with 'Lord and Lady Snawsell' in a festive atmosphere, with tales and music to entertain you into the night. 7.00 pm. Booking Essential
Barley Hall
11th December
2008
The Black Swan Folk Club present - singer-songwriter Mike Silver 8.00 pm
Black Swan,
Peasholme Green
B.S.F.C.
11-15th December
2008
The York Early Music Christmas Festival 2008 Various Venues

The National Centre
for Early Music
11th December
2008 -
31st January
2009
Dick Turpin - The Panto Written by Berwick Kaler. Directed by Berwick Kaler and Damian Cruden
For 21 years one man has been heralded as the greatest villain in all of Pantoland, that is until notorious highwayman Dick Turpin rides into York, and robs him of his title. Join Dame Betty Turpin, her nephew Dick, and his horse Black Mess in what promises to be the most hilarious historically incorrect pantomime you're ever likely to see.
Traditional, home-grown family pantomime doesn't get any better than this - all the gags, slapstick and buckets of water you might dare to expect, with plenty of wonderful surprises.
Not only is this Berwick Kaler's 30th panto at York Theatre Royal but our abominable villain, David Leonard, is also celebrating his 21st with us. So saddle up for the side-splitting ride of a lifetime with York Theatre Royal's DICK TURPIN - THE PANTO


York Theatre Royal
12th December
2008
Tom McConville (The Newcastle Fiddle Player) with Dave Wood in concert Reeth Memorial Hall
Reeth
12/13th
December
2008
National Trust Winter Concerts - Juan Martin
Join us for a memorable evening of music by perhaps the world's greatest flamenco guitarist, Juan Martin. Voted one of the Top 3 guitarists in the world by “Guitar Player” magazine, don't miss this fantastic opportunity to see one of the guitar greats in such an intimate venue. Booking essential. With only 100 seats available each night, early booking is strongly advisable. Tickets: £22 Tel 01439 748283. Concert 7.00 pm (doors open 6.30 pm)
Nunnington Hall
13th December
2008
A Traditional Christmas Evening - 6.00 - 10.30 pm
Enjoy a seasonal dinner with Christmas family entertainment in the floodlit Abbey and Fountains Restaurant. Booking tel: 01765 643197
Fountains Abbey
& Studley Royal
Water Gardens
13th December
2008
The Sowerby Music 21st Birthday Autumn Season - The Maerlock - contemporary folk ensemble. 7.30 pm St. Oswald's Church
Sowerby, Thirsk
Sowerby Music
13th December
2008
Kirkby Fleetham Folk Club - Vicki Swan and Johnny Dyer “establishing themselves as one of the best young duos around on the folk scene today” Famous Willows Folk Club + support from Phil Drane 8.30 pm
The Village Hall
Kirkby Fleetham
nr Northallerton
KFFC
13th December
2008
Stan Laurel: Please Stand Up! - Stan Laurel; reclusive, mysterious and possibly the greatest comedian who ever lived. But what’s the real story from up there on the silver screen and backstage? With extensive research and assistance from Lois Laurel-Hawes, Stan Laurel's real life daughter, this play will get closer than ever before to discovering the real man behind the laughs and his relationship with the world when the cameras stopped running. 7.30 pm Selby Town Hall
13/14th December
2008
Christmas Fair - Unique Christmas presents and mulled wine in a serene festive setting. 10.00 am - 5.00 pm
Barley Hall
13/14th December
2008
Festival of Angels - A magical weekend of ice sculptures and outdoor entertainment with a sprinkling of snow guaranteed!
The Quarter's Festival of Angels is a true winter festival, bringing York a winter wonderland of ice-sculptures, stalls, outdoor food and drink, street entertainment and snow showers. You'll see Santa in the Streets and can follow the Parade of Angels on Sunday, led by the beautiful Golden Angel
Festival of Angels
13/14th December
2008
Santa Specials North Yorkshire
Moors Railway
13/14th December
2008
Christmas Choirs - Experience Brodsworth's festive spirit with a chance to buy unique gifts. 2.30 - 3.30 pm Brodsworth Hall
13/14th December
2008
On the Hoof - 10.45 am - 12.30 pm. Enjoy the sight of the wild deer herd munching through their winter feed. 15 minutes walk from the visitor centre, by St Mary's church Fountains Abbey
& Studley Royal
Water Gardens
13/14th December
2008
Music & Lights at Christmas - 3.30 pm - 5.00 pm. Indulge in festive shopping at our large National Trust shop and lunch at Fountains Restaurant and then enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the Abbey and Elizabethan Manor House bathed in coloured lights with seasonal music (recorded). Last admission 4.00 pm Fountains Abbey
& Studley Royal
Water Gardens
14th
December
2008
National Trust Winter Event - Juan Martin Master Class - Join in or come and watch.
An unmissable opportunity to join in a Master Class with one the true “guitar greats”. Share the stage with Juan Martin.
After his two concerts on the Friday and Saturday evenings at Nunnington, Juan will conclude the weekend with a Master Class for students and aspiring players. Benefiting guitarists of varying levels of skill, the class will help accomplished players develop their techniques while also being able to help less accomplished players learn techniques that will offer a good foundation for future learning.
Though the class is not suitable for complete beginners, even quite low grade students can benefit from advice on hand positions etc before poor playing habits become the norm and affect future potential. (If in doubt regarding ability, then please ask). Juan has previously ran Master Classes across the world in Canada at the University of Halifax, in Toronto at the Guitar Association, in Baltimore at the First International Guitar Conventions and recently in Australia at the Adelaide Guitar Festival. He has also held classes in Tehran, Norway and his homeland of Spain.
The Master Class package includes a 2- 2.5 hour Master Class with Juan in front of an audience, and can include two concert tickets for Juan's Saturday evening concert performance so that the participant and a guest can see Juan play before the class. (Concert tickets subject to availability)
Juan Martin Master Class opportunities are very rare and student spaces are limited to a maximum of 12 so early booking is strongly advisable. An ideal Christmas gift for the accomplished or the aspiring guitarist.
Booking is essential. Tel 01439 748283 . 10.30am Master Class Student : £40 (includes one complimentary audience ticket for the Master Class event if required for a guest but we must know at time of booking)
Master Class + two concerts tickets (Sat ) : £84 All tickets subject to availability Master Class audience tickets (open to all) : £10 Min 4 students required for this event with a maximum of 12 students.
No filming or recording equipment allowed in the venue for any of the Hall's events
Nunnington Hall
14th December
2008
Christmas Carols - Join the band for seasonal festive music at the abbey. Plus, a chance to buy some unique festive gifts. From 1.30 pm Rievaulx Abbey
14th December
2008
Winter Abbey Tours - 1.30 pm. Join a free tour to discover fascinating facts and stories about the abbey and monks Fountains Abbey
& Studley Royal
Water Gardens
14th December
2008
Carols by Candlelight - 3.00 pm. Traditional carol service in the Abbey with candles for children. Seasonal refreshments available Fountains Abbey
& Studley Royal
Water Gardens
14th December
2008
Christmas Carol Concert - Leeds Philharmonic Society will be singing Christmas Carols in Harewoods' All Saints Church
2.00 – 3.00 pm.
Leeds Philharmonic Society is one of the leading choirs in the North of England founded in 1870. As well as a series of concerts in Leeds Town Hall, the Chorus has performed in many other venues including the Royal Albert Hall, London, Bridgewater Hall, Manchester, Symphony Hall Birmingham and The Sage Gateshead.
Come and enjoy this seasonal treat and take advantage of Harewood's beautiful Grounds, Gardens, Below Stairs and the Courtyard Cafe before we close for the winter this year
Harewood House
11th December
2008
The Black Swan Folk Club present - THE Christmas Party 8.00 pm
Black Swan,
Peasholme Green
B.S.F.C.
18/19th December
2008
Gala Christmas Concert with The Shepherd Group Brass Band. 7.30 pm
The Joseph
Rowntree Theatre
19th December
2008
Annual Christmas Carol Concert. Admission free. Gates and doors open at 6.55 pm. Wrap up warm and bring your voice for singing! Free mulled fruit punch and mince pies afterwards The Chapel
York Cemetery
19th December
2008
York Astronomical Society lecture - "Christmas Meeting"
In-House talks, presentations, entertaining astronomy videos and the YAS Christmas "Take away" Dinner. Always a popular event so please come along and if you feel like eating, be ready to buy your favorite take-away from local takeaways to eat at the event. Tables, will be supplied, but you might like to bring your own plate and cutlery :-). The eating part is optional, so still come along and enjoy the presentations even if you won't be partaking of the food afterwards. All are welcome
8.00 pm
Denham Room
Priory Street Centre
Y.A.S.
19-22nd
December
2008
Santa Specials North Yorkshire
Moors Railway
20th December
2008
Farmers Market - The York Farmers Market was one of the first to be established in the north of England in the Autumn of 1999. The success as the forerunner to this movement in the north has led to a large number of other markets opening and, more importantly, created an alternative source of income to many farmers and producers.
The main benefit of the farmers market here at Murton is that it is all under cover come rain, snow or high wind with a large private car park adjacent.
There is always seasonal activity and special events at the markets, adding extra value and interest.
The main principle of the farmers market is that it is local producers selling fresh quality produce direct to local consumers in an atmosphere which promotes dialogue and understanding of food production including environmental and welfare standards. This cuts down food miles and puts money back into the local economy rather than imported goods.
The market always offers an extensive range of produce including:-
Meat – Yorkshire beef, lamb and pork; chicken, duck, geese, pheasant, partridge, wild game (in season); wild boar; pies, sausages, burgers etc.
Vegetables – Fresh vegetables and salads (including organic growers); exotic mushrooms; fresh fruit in season.
Bakery – Cakes, scones, quiches, puddings, fruit pies.
Other products – Yorkshire cheeses, home made soups, fruit wine, apple juice, organic milk and butter.

A fantastic choice of fresh quality local produce at very competitive prices and the benefit of knowing where it's come from and how it's been produced
York Farmers Markets
20th December
2008
A Traditional Christmas Evening - 6.00 - 10.30 pm
Enjoy a seasonal dinner with Christmas family entertainment in the floodlit Abbey and Fountains Restaurant. Booking tel: 01765 643197
Fountains Abbey
& Studley Royal
Water Gardens
20/21st December
2008
Medieval Festive Falconry – The Hunt for Christmas.
Meet our costumed falconers and discover the vast feasts they supplied to help celebrate Christmas in medieval times. From 12.00 noon
Rievaulx Abbey
20/21st December
2008
Christmas Choirs - Experience Brodsworth's festive spirit with a chance to buy unique gifts. 2.30 - 3.30 pm Brodsworth Hall
20/21st December
2008
Music & Lights at Christmas - 3.30 pm - 5.00 pm. Indulge in festive shopping at our large National Trust shop and lunch at Fountains Restaurant and then enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the Abbey and Elizabethan Manor House bathed in coloured lights with seasonal music (recorded). Last admission 4.00 pm Fountains Abbey
& Studley Royal
Water Gardens
21st December
2008
The Sheriffs' Riding or Yoolgirthol every 21st December (St Thomas's Day). Beginning at Micklegate Bar (the main entrance to the city from south and arrival point for all visiting monarchs) and stopping at various stations throughout the city in order that a proclamation may be promulgated, heralded by a long blast on a horn. An amnesty is declared to "all manner of thieves, whores, dice-players and other unthrifty folk for the feast of Yule, until the twelve days be past; God Save The Queen"
Or as described by Sir Francis Drake in 1736 - "The sheriffs, by the custom of the City of York do ride to several parts every year betwixt Michaelmas and midwinter, that is Yoole, and do, at several parts of the said City make a proclamation.
The ceremony of riding, one of the greatest shews in the City, is performed on this manner. The sheriffs appear on horseback, apparelled in their black gowns and velvet tippits, their horses in suitable furniture, each sheriff having a white wand in his hand, and a badge of his office, and a servant to lead his horse who also carries a gilded truncheon. Their sergeants at mace, attorneys and other officers of their courts, on horseback in their gowns riding before them.
These are preceeded by the city's waites, or musicians, in their scarlet liveries and silver badges playing all the way through the streets. One of these waites wears on his head a red pinked or tattered ragged cap, a badge of great antiquity.
Then follows a great concourse of country gentlemen, citizens, &tc. on horseback who are invited to this honour and afterwards to dine with them, and I have seen near four hundred people at the entertainment.
"


Starts 6.00 pm
from
Micklegate Bar
The York Waits
21st December
2008
Winter Abbey Tours - 1.30 pm. Join a free tour to discover fascinating facts and stories about the abbey and monks Fountains Abbey
& Studley Royal
Water Gardens
21st December
2008
RHS Harlow Carr Gardens - Walk – Winter Interest. 2.00 pm
RHS Harlow Carr
pdf leaflet
22nd December
2008
Farmers Market - The York Farmers Market was one of the first to be established in the north of England in the Autumn of 1999. The success as the forerunner to this movement in the north has led to a large number of other markets opening and, more importantly, created an alternative source of income to many farmers and producers.
The main benefit of the farmers market here at Murton is that it is all under cover come rain, snow or high wind with a large private car park adjacent.
There is always seasonal activity and special events at the markets, adding extra value and interest.
The main principle of the farmers market is that it is local producers selling fresh quality produce direct to local consumers in an atmosphere which promotes dialogue and understanding of food production including environmental and welfare standards. This cuts down food miles and puts money back into the local economy rather than imported goods.
The market always offers an extensive range of produce including:-
Meat – Yorkshire beef, lamb and pork; chicken, duck, geese, pheasant, partridge, wild game (in season); wild boar; pies, sausages, burgers etc.
Vegetables – Fresh vegetables and salads (including organic growers); exotic mushrooms; fresh fruit in season.
Bakery – Cakes, scones, quiches, puddings, fruit pies.
Other products – Yorkshire cheeses, home made soups, fruit wine, apple juice, organic milk and butter.

A fantastic choice of fresh quality local produce at very competitive prices and the benefit of knowing where it's come from and how it's been produced


York Farmers Markets
26/27th December
2008
Wetherby Races Wetherby
Racecourse
27-30th December
2008
Christmas Abbey Tour - 1.30 pm. Join a free tour to discover fascinating facts and stories about the Abbey and monks Fountains Abbey
& Studley Royal
Water Gardens
28th December
2008
Winter Abbey Tours - 1.30 pm. Join a free tour to discover fascinating facts and stories about the abbey and monks Fountains Abbey
& Studley Royal
Water Gardens

 

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