Ripon to host huge free family celebration for St Wilfrid’s Procession and Yorkshire Day
The historic St Wilfrid’s Procession is expanding into a full day of free family entertainment and live events to mark the county's big day
Ripon city centre will transform into a vibrant hub of celebration this August, as the historic St Wilfrid’s Procession joins forces with Yorkshire Day for an expanded, full-day festival.
The entirely free family event will bring a mix of live entertainment, community spirit, and centuries-old tradition to the Market Place, running from midday until the traditional Hornblowing ceremony at 9pm.
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Free entertainment kicks off at 12pm, featuring stilt walkers, face painters, free children’s rides, and two large new rides brought in specifically for older children and teenagers.
The main spectacular, the St Wilfrid’s Procession, will arrive at the Market Place at approximately 1.30pm.
The parade will bring its signature mix of live music, colourful floats, historical costumed characters, and local community groups through the city streets, celebrating Ripon's unique heritage and its long-standing connection to its patron saint.
Antony Prince, Chair of St Wilfrid’s Procession, said: “St Wilfrid’s Procession is one of Ripon’s most treasured traditions, but this year we have a chance to make the day even more special by celebrating Yorkshire Day at the same time.
“With the support of Ripon City Council and Ripon BID, we are extending the day to create a brilliant free family event that brings people into the heart of the city and shows Ripon at its very best.
“Our ambition is simple: we want Ripon to be the jewel in Yorkshire’s crown. From the fantastic procession in the afternoon to the special Hornblowing ceremony at 9pm, this will be a full day of history, entertainment, community and Yorkshire pride.”
The annual event is run entirely by a dedicated committee of local volunteers, alongside public donations and business sponsors. Visitors and residents are encouraged to head into the city centre to support local traders and take part in the historic double celebration.
Ripon Yorkshire Day and St Wilfrid’s Procession takes place on August 1 from 12pm, with the procession itself taking place from 1:30pm and concluding at 9pm.