Whitby Goth Weekend

26/03/2016

Twice a year Whitby becomes its alter ego- Goth town. Since its debut in 1994, Whitby Goth Weekend has become one of the world’s most popular Goth music events. People from all over the UK visit Whitby for a weekend of music, drinking and shopping.

Whitby Goth Weekend was founded by Jo Hampshire who saw the beautiful seaside town of Whitby as the fitting location for the festivities due to its Dracula connections. The Whitby festival was held annually until 1997 before becoming the twice-yearly event that it is today. A Whitby public house named the Elsinore, was the first meeting point of the Whitby Goth Weekend where 40 Hampshire pen pals arranged a gothic meet. The Elsinore along with others is still a venue for the weekend today.

The town of Whitby, including its residents and businesses, is very accepting of the Whitby Goth Weekend and many are known to participate whether it by displaying themed decorations or offering venues for events. Whitby Spa Pavilion hosts the main even as it is Whitby’s largest venue. Whitby Spa Pavillion along with Whitby Leisure Centre and Whitby Brunswick centre is the venue for the Bizarre Bazaar ‘Goth Market’.

The weekend officially begins on the Friday of each Whitby Goth Weekend however there are fringe events held on the Thursday, Sunday and Monday. These events include club nights, markets, and charity sports matches such as the football match between Whitby local Goth team Stokoemotiv Whitby and visiting team Real Gothic. The October Whitby Goth Weekend also holds a custom car show names ‘Whitby Kustom’.

Whitby Goth Weekend is the perfect weekend for people from all walks of life to come and experience the incredible events during the weekend. An Adult weekend ticket for Whitby Goth Weekend is priced around £58 while a child is £29- other ticket options are available. There is also a late bus available back to Scarborough, but be sure to book a seat! Of course you can wander around the streets, enjoying the atmosphere and taking in the sights and sounds absolutely free of charge.