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York 50+ Festival

 

The much loved York 50 + Festival returns for its 20th anniversary year and will take place between Saturday 20 September to Wednesday 1 October with a Day of Celebration and Central Parade in York on Saturday 27 September 2025.

This unique event brings together a fantastic mix of talks, performances and social events tailored to inspire, entertain, and connect. Activities are spread out across the city, delivered by local groups, businesses and organisations and are accessible to all.

Age UK York is delighted to be involved in organising this year's event which culminates in the United Nation's designated International Day of Older People (IDOP) on 1 October. 

The full programme is being finalised and will be available here during August and also through the York Older People's Assembly (YOPA) who kindly organise. You can find out more about the work of YOPA and details on the Festival by visiting their website here

There is sponsorship opportunities available too if you would like to be involved in making the Festival possible and opportinities to promote your organisation. Our dedicated sponsorship document provides all the information and opportunities to be involved and please do get in touch to find out more.

Why does the 50+ Festival matter

With currently 77,030 residents aged over 50 in York, our collective goal is to highlight the evolving and diverse experience of growing older here in York.

In the 20 years of the Festival, views around ageing have changed significantly – people are living longer, spanning multiple generations and diverse communities, and redefining what it means to be 50+.

We believe that an ageing population is something to celebrate and expectations of later life are changing significantly. There though also remains significant challenges faced by too many which is why Age UK York, YOPA and our many partners come together with services to help and also the Festival to shine a light on ageing here in York and the plentiful opportunities available.

This festival is an invitation to actively participate in York’s vibrant community and offers a space to challenge ageism and celebrate the energy, creativity, and contributions of older people.