York bursts into life in spring, with longer days, blue skies, blossom lining the streets, and daffodils brightening every corner. There’s a real sense of renewal as our historic city becomes a delightful seasonal escape. Whether you’re strolling along cobbled streets, uncovering York’s rich chocolate heritage, dipping into artisan chocolatiers, or setting off on an Easter egg hunt, there’s plenty to enjoy this Easter.
Easter Highlights in York
Chocolate Festival Market
1 – 5 April 2026
Indulge your sweet tooth at the Chocolate Festival Market, where a tempting mix of chocolatiers, bakers, and confectioners come together. Alongside classic chocolate delights, you’ll also discover creative treats and even savoury bites with a sweet twist, all from talented local and regional producers.
Ashley McCarthy – Chocolate Sculpture
1 – 5 April 2026
Watch chocolate artistry come to life as skilled chocolatier Ashley McCarthy – known for Extreme Chocolate Makers – creates a spectacular live sculpture. Sponsored by Stableside York, this year’s horse-themed creation promises to impress visitors of all ages.
Alongside this, internationally celebrated pastry chef Florian Poirot will unveil an extraordinary sugar-work showpiece, adding even more wow-factor to the festival experience.
Chocolate Festival Taste Trail
1 – 5 April 2026
Follow your nose (and your map!) around York on this delicious tasting adventure. With over 10 stops to explore, you’ll sample everything from handcrafted chocolates and cakes to sweet drinks and confections. It’s a fun, interactive way to discover the city’s vibrant food scene and support local businesses.
Discover Eggsplore York
28 March – 12 April 2026
Take part in a charming city-wide trail featuring handcrafted ceramic eggs, each telling the story of York’s independent businesses. Track them down for a chance to win your very own sculpture and an Easter hamper—perfect for families and explorers alike.
York Minster – Easter Celebrations
Easter 2026
Experience Easter in the stunning surroundings of York Minster, with special services and sightseeing throughout Holy Week. Don’t miss Love to LEGO!, where you can help build a LEGO® recreation of the medieval shrine of St William of York alongside artist Warren Elsmore.
Mini Easter Egg Making
1 – 5 April 2026
Get hands-on this Easter by crafting your very own chocolate creation. Learn how to mould and decorate an Easter Egg Chocolate Bar, choosing from a variety of toppings to make a delicious treat to take home – or enjoy on the spot!
York’s Chocolate Story – Easter Specials
1 – 5 April 2026
Step into York’s famous chocolate heritage with a guided tour at York’s Chocolate Story. Discover the origins of chocolate, try your hand at truffle rolling, or join a masterclass to create beautifully personalised treats under the guidance of expert chocolatiers.
York Art Gallery Exhibition
February – August 2026
Take a cultural break with a visit to York Art Gallery, where over 100 stunning Japanese woodblock prints are on display, including Hokusai’s iconic Great Wave. Expect striking landscapes, legendary figures, and even the chance to create your own print.
Courtyard Easter Play
1 April – 6 April 2026
Enjoy a day of free family fun in the St Sampsons Centre courtyard from 10:30 am to 4 pm! Try your hand at giant egg painting – any skill level welcome, and see your creation featured in our online gallery. Test your aim in Eggs vs Bunnies or take on the Bean to Bar game by tossing bean bags into a chocolate bar target. Don’t miss our hands-on chocolate cookery sessions, where you can make truffles, cornflake nests, and even chocolate pasta!
Wine and Chocolate Tasting
3 April 2026
Indulge in two hours of pure deliciousness at York’s famous Chocolate Festival. This year, we’re pairing premium, sustainably produced chocolate with wines from Sardinia, exploring five distinct grape varieties alongside chocolate-based treats. Guided by Butterflies Chocolates, you’ll discover the history, flavours, and chemistry behind these two beloved indulgences—and even have the chance to taste and purchase your favourites. Sweet meets sophisticated in a tasting experience not to be missed!
Yorkshire Craft Festival
7 April – 12 April 2026
Taking place in the heart of York on Parliament Street, the festival will showcase regional designer-makers and craft groups, celebrating the rich diversity of both modern and traditional craft skills our region has to offer. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of demonstrations and hands-on workshops designed to educate, inspire, and support aspiring crafters. Alongside the demonstration marquees, the Made in Yorkshire craft show will highlight some of the finest arts and crafts from across the region.
York Castle Museum – Spring Through the Ages
Spring 2026
Celebrate Easter with engaging, family-friendly activities inspired by York’s chocolate-making past. From interactive exhibits to seasonal displays, it’s a fun and educational day out that brings the city’s sweet history to life.
York at Easter is a joyful blend of chocolate, culture, and springtime charm. Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or planning a longer escape, you’ll find plenty of ways to treat yourself and make lasting memories in the deliciously delightful Chocolate City.