York Autumn Lights 2025 | Complete Event Guide

Autumn in York isn’t short of charm, but come Monday 27th October, 2025, Elvington Airfield (YO41 4AU) will trade its aviation heritage for something far louder and brighter: Autumn Lights. This touring festival of fireworks and entertainment is touching down in the city with two full pyromusical displays, live acts, food, drink, and plenty to keep the family entertained from daylight through to dark. 

If you’re thinking of going, here’s everything you’ll need to plan your evening properly — without missing the best bits.

What’s on the Line-up

From the moment gates open at 3pm, there’s plenty happening on site. Street food, bars and the funfair kick into gear, while Ryan Swain, the award-winning DJ and compere, keeps the energy high throughout the evening. Younger visitors can meet costumed characters in the funfair area from 4:15pm, before the first bursts of live performance take to the stage.

By late afternoon, La Flamo’s fire show delivers a dose of pyrotechnics without the rockets, and the Spark! drummers set the rhythm with their illuminated performance. The Young Elton tribute act takes things into singalong territory, offering a chance to belt out some classics before the first of the evening’s fireworks begins.

At 7:40pm, children are treated to their own fireworks and special effects show — shorter, earlier and designed to fit around bedtime. The excitement builds from there: Dick & Dom take over the stage at 8pm with their trademark mix of comedy chaos, before handing things over to the main event, the grand firework finale at 9:15pm.

Throughout it all, roaming glow performers add splashes of colour and theatre as they weave through the crowd.

The Fireworks

The clue’s in the name: fireworks are the heart of Autumn Lights. York’s edition offers two displays — the children’s show at 7:40pm and the full-scale finale at 9:15pm. Both are pyromusical, synchronised to a soundtrack that turns sparks into spectacle.

Displays are visible across the airfield, including hardstanding areas — good news if November has been its usual damp self. Do note that the fireworks are loud, as proper displays should be. Families with infants might want to bring ear defenders (also available to buy on the gate).

Food, Drink and Extras

One of the joys of events like this is wandering between the food stalls, eyeing up what to try next. Expect a spread of hot meals, snacks and desserts to suit all tastes. Two fully stocked bars handle the drinks side of things, with both alcoholic and soft options available.

You can bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks if you prefer, but leave the glass and alcohol at home — they’re not permitted on site. Between the rides, the stage shows and the performers, there’s enough variety to keep the evening lively even before the first rocket leaves the ground.

Getting to Elvington Airfield

Elvington Airfield sits just outside York, and if you’re driving, you’ll be pleased to hear that parking is free. As you approach, follow the signs for ‘Autumn Lights’ and stewards will direct you into place. Given the size of the crowd expected, it’s sensible to arrive with time to spare.

Public transport is more limited. Buses serve routes out towards Elvington but don’t run late into the evening, so if you’re not driving, check timetables carefully and consider pre-booking a taxi for the return trip.

Tickets and Entry

Buying ahead is cheaper and less stressful, though there will be limited availability on the gate if the event doesn’t sell out:

• Online: £14.99 adults / £7.99 children (4–16) + booking fees

• On the gate (if available): £20 adults / £10 children

• Under 3s: free

Tickets cover the full programme, including both firework displays and all entertainment. Gates open at 3pm, with final entry at 8:30pm.

Tips for a Smooth Night

York Autumn Lights is designed to be straightforward, but a bit of preparation goes a long way:

• Arrive before 5pm to avoid the busiest queues at the gate and food stalls.

• Layer up. Standing around on an airfield in November makes you realise why pilots wear those thick jackets.

• Plan your firework viewing spot early. The airfield’s open spaces mean good visibility, but the best sightlines always fill first.

FAQs

What time are the fireworks?

The children’s display is at 7:40pm, and the main grand finale is at 9:15pm.

Is parking free?

Yes, parking at Elvington Airfield is free. Follow the signs for ‘Autumn Lights’ as you arrive.

Can I bring my own food and drink?

Yes, you can bring food and soft drinks, but no glass and no alcohol.

Are ear defenders needed for children?

The displays are very loud. Ear defenders are recommended for young children and can be bought on site.

Do I need to book in advance?

Advance tickets are cheaper and guarantee entry. Gate sales are more expensive and not guaranteed.

Why York Autumn Lights is Worth Your Saturday

York has seen its fair share of events over the years, but Autumn Lights brings something different: two professional pyromusical firework shows, live acts with genuine pull, and a proper festival atmosphere that works for families as much as groups of mates. Add free parking, food and drink choices aplenty, and the kind of finale that lights up more than just the sky, and you’ve got a night that’s worth braving the November chill for.

Fancy Some Fireworks of Your Own?

Well, lucky you. Because here at Epic Fireworks, we stock the UK’s biggest and best range of consumer fireworks—everything from mega rockets to garden-friendly fountains. Whether you’re planning a back garden bonanza or a full-blown party with all the pyro, we’ve got you covered.

Even better, our ready-made DIY display packs take all the guesswork out of planning. Just light the fuse, step back, and take the glory.

Browse our display packs now – and make your next celebration go off with a bang.

Looking for More Firework Events To Add To Your Diary This Year?

We’ve rounded up the biggest and best UK firework events happening throughout 2025. Bookmark our guide here: 2025 UK Firework Event Dates for Your Diary

Whether you're after traditional Bonfire Night spectaculars or exhilarating pyromusicals, we’ve done the hard work so you don’t have to.