Otley is bursting with activity this August, with something happening nearly every day to keep locals and visitors entertained. From Yorkshire Day celebrations and live music in the Market Place, to author events, family film screenings and free kids’ activities — there’s no shortage of things to see and do. Whether you’re chasing culture, community spirit or just a great cup of coffee between stops, you’ll find it all right here in town. Read on for some of the highlights — and don’t forget to check the full events calendar at the end of the article for even more ways to enjoy Otley this summer.

Yorkshire Day Celebrations
Tomorrow (August 1st) is Yorkshire Day, so good on ya for living in (or visiting) the finest county of them all.
Here in Otley, as well as our banners around town, we’ll be celebrating at the Maypole at noon as Otley Bellman Terry Ford delivers a Yorkshire Day proclamation — before doing it all again a few minutes later under the Jubilee Clock in Market Place. Head down, show your support, and fly the flag for all things Yorkshire!

Music in the Market Place
There’s free live music every Saturday this month. Music in the Market Place is a series of busker-led events brought to you by the brilliant team at Woolpack Studios and proudly sponsored by Otley BID.
To see who’s playing and on what dates, check the events calendar link at the end of the article.

Double Film Bill on Sunday
On Sunday, August 3rd, the Rookery Film Club is back with two fantastic films.
Catch the animated favourite How to Train Your Dragon at 12.30pm — a heartwarming adventure that’s perfect for all ages. Then at 3.30pm, step into the world of John Wick with The Ballerina (15), where an assassin trained in the traditions of the Ruska Roma seeks revenge after her father’s death. Tickets are just £3 per person per film, and there’ll be snacks and drinks available from the bar. Bring the kids, bring your mates, or just treat yourself to a cosy afternoon of big-screen magic in Otley.

Ideas for Keeping the Kids Entertained
If you’re looking for ways to keep the kids entertained this summer, we’ve rounded up the best family-friendly activities happening in Otley over the school holidays — from crafts and climbing walls to films, music and more. Special mention goes to the SEND play sessions every Tuesday in August at Buttercups indoor play area — a calm, welcoming space for children with additional needs to play, explore and just be themselves.
Also weekly in August — but on Wednesdays — Otley BID is once again proud to sponsor the Kids Free Funzone in Market Place, running from 11am–2pm.
There’s something for every age, including climbing walls, crafts, story time, dance, music and crazy golf. Local favourites like Soma Dance, Puffin Pottery and Inspirations Dance will be bringing the fun! Activities vary week to week, so make sure to check the events calendar for full details.

Murder He Wrote
Local author and Otley Courthouse volunteer John R Ellis launches his latest crime novel, The Otley Murders, on August 8th.
The book is the newest in his Yorkshire Murder Mystery series, and you can join him at the Courthouse for a live reading and book signing, hosted in partnership with Bookshop on the Square.
It’s a must for crime fiction fans and curious locals alike.

VJ Day Commemorations
Friday, August 15th marks the 80th anniversary of VJ Day — Victory over Japan Day.
This historic date commemorates the end of World War II, following Japan’s surrender on August 15th, 1945. To mark the occasion, Otley Bellman Terry Ford will deliver a special VJ Day Proclamation at 12 noon in the Remembrance Garden, followed by a second reading shortly after in Market Place.

Woolpack Studios Live
Last month, Woolpack Studios had to cancel their summer open-air gig due to bad weather — but fear not, it’s back on Saturday, August 23rd.
Held outside their venue on Bondgate from noon to 6pm, the event features six hours of live music from the Woolpack crew and friends.
Expect performances from the Woolpack Music Social Club, Otley Ukulele Orchestra, Sara Jasmin Page, The Black Towers, and The Beatleaders.

Farmers’ Market Double Bill
The ever-popular Otley Farmers’ Market returns twice this month — first on Sunday, August 10th, and again on Sunday, August 31st.
Head to Market Place from 9am to 1pm to browse a fantastic range of local produce, artisan goods and tasty treats — perfect for a Sunday stroll and a stock-up on the good stuff.

For details of all these and other events happening in Otley, check out the full calendar: https://www.visitotley.co.uk/whats-on/calendar/