York's Over 50s Festival Returns This October

The York Over 50s Festival is making its return this autumn, bringing a massive lineup of activities to the city from 1 October to 18 October 2026. Organised by the York Older People's Assembly (YOPA) alongside Age UK York, this annual event has become a staple of the local calendar. While it is designed to celebrate ageing well and support the older generation, the organisers emphasise that the festival is highly inclusive, welcoming people of all ages to join in, connect, and share experiences across generations.

This year's programme features over 115 events spread across various categories, including sports, active leisure, creative arts, culture, and social learning. The festival kicks off with an Information Fair on Thursday 1 October, running from 10am to 4pm. This launch event will be hosted across two central venues: the Guildhall and the Spurriergate Centre on Coney Street. Visitors can explore around 30 different stands offering practical advice, interactive tasters, and tips on health, finance, and general wellbeing. Key local organisations and groups will be present, including York Mind, York Carers Forum, York Wheels, and the York Blind and Partially Sighted Society, alongside legal experts from Harrowells and Crombie Wilkinson.

Beyond the opening fair, the schedule is packed with diverse activities. Highlights include the Bob Towner Lecture on 1 October, a central parade on 3 October, and dedicated social gatherings like the Friendship Lunches hosted at The Chopping Block. There is also an information morning scheduled at the York Theatre Royal. For those interested in active lifestyle options, the City of York Council's Sport and Active Leisure department will be involved, alongside yoga experts and representatives from the Madhyamaka Buddhist Centre.

If you want to plan your visits, the full event programme is accessible online via the York Older People's Assembly website. Physical copies of the programme booklet are also being distributed across the city, so you can easily pick one up at local libraries, community centres, central information outlets, or at the Friends Meeting House in Friargate. Whether you are looking to pick up a new hobby, get some practical lifestyle advice, or simply enjoy a social afternoon in a friendly environment, the festival offers plenty of opportunities to engage with the local community.