York is preparing to transform into a world of wizardry and imagination as WizardFest York returns this May half-term for its second year.
Running from May 23–25, the festival will once again turn York city centre into a “living fantasy world”, with activities spread across key locations including Shambles Market, Parliament Street and St Helen’s Square.
Organised by the award-winning Wizard Walk of York, the event has quickly become one of the city’s most unusual family attractions, celebrating local businesses while bringing fantasy storytelling to the streets of York.
Organisers say this year’s festival is set to be “bigger and more magical than ever”.
A city-wide celebration of magic
WizardFest York will feature a variety of activities across the three-day weekend, encouraging families to explore the city in a new way.
Visitors can take part in free trails including the Magical Owl Trail through Shambles Market and the Black Cat Quest, where participants follow clues hidden around shop windows across the streets.
A brand-new Wizard Activity Zone on Parliament Street will also host wand-making, face painting and a 360-degree photo experience.
Dan Wood, also known as Phoenix the Red and creator of the Wizard Walk of York, said: “WizardFest is all about bringing people together and showing off the best of York.
“We work with local businesses who offer something really special, and it’s amazing to see the city completely transformed for a weekend.”
After the success of last year’s festival, organisers say demand for tickets and workshops has already been high.
Wizard Walks, dragons and interactive experiences
At the centre of the festival is the Wizard Walk of York, a guided storytelling tour led through the city by the Wizard of York, also known as Dan Wood.
The experience combines live magic, comedy and historical storytelling, and previously won “Experience of the Year” at the Visit York Tourism Awards.
Families will also have the opportunity to meet Ignis the Dragon at St Sampson’s Church, attend LEGO-inspired Brick Magic workshops and watch interactive bubble shows and storytelling sessions throughout the weekend.
Many of the activities are aimed at younger children, particularly those aged five to ten, although organisers say the festival is also designed for “bigger kids with a sense of humour too.”
Food and fantasy-themed treats
York’s food scene will also take on a magical twist during the festival weekend.
Visitors can expect wizard-themed ice creams and dragon sundaes at Loopy Scoops, fantasy burgers at Spark York and butterbeer-style drinks served across themed venues in the city centre.
York Cocoa Works will also host chocolate workshops where visitors can create magical treats including chocolate frogs and unicorns.
Costumes, parades and community spirit
One of the highlights of the weekend will be the Fancy Dress Parade and Best Dressed Witch or Wizard competition taking place in St Helen’s Square on the final day of the festival.
Visitors are encouraged to dress up as characters inspired by fantasy worlds, with prizes awarded for the most creative costumes.
Organisers expect the parade to attract large crowds into the city centre as families and visitors join in with the celebrations.
Planning your visit to WizardFest York
WizardFest will run from 23–25 May 2026 across York city centre.
While many activities are free to attend, some workshops and events require advance booking due to high demand.
With live performances, themed food, workshops and family trails taking place across the weekend, organisers are encouraging visitors to plan ahead before tickets “vanish like magic”.
More information and ticket details can be found on the official WizardFest York website and through the Wizard Walk of York website.
