visit york member events

Member Events

Members enjoy exclusive access to new exhibitions, special Members-only hours, thematic tours and more all year-round. As a Member you and your guest(s) are invited to the following:

Member Preview Days See select special exhibitions before they open to the public. Available to all Members.

Weekend Member Mornings Enter the Museum early on Saturdays and Sundays, 9-10 am, to enjoy select special exhibitions without the crowds.  Available to all Members.

The Met After Hours Explore select areas of The Met's permanent collection at night! Available to   Members with Evening Hours ($210) level and above.  Inside The Met: Conversations and Concerts Delight in cocktails, conversations and concerts with a curated selection of musical talent. Available to Patrons at the Champion's Circle level and above.  Not a Member?  Join today .  Without the support of our Members and Patrons, The Met would not be The Met.  

The Met After Hours for Members and Patrons

Evening with the Director

Heritage Tours for Members

Members-only tours, celebrating the voices, artworks, and histories of the many cultures and identities that illuminate The Met collection.  

Inside The Met: Cocktails, Conversations, and Concerts

Inside The Met: Cocktails, Conversations, and Concerts at The Champion’s Circle level and above.

Last Look for Members

Member Appreciation Week

Member preview days.

Member to Member Tours

Members with Opening Nights Evening Receptions

Evening receptions for patrons, the patrons lounge, weekend member mornings.

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The York County Twist

6 stats to consider about explore york membership.

Are you thinking about joining Explore York? Here's 6 stats to help you plan your membership…

#1: $1 Billion Dollars

Visitors spend more than $1 billion in york county annually dining in area restaurants, staying in lodging properties, visiting attractions, and shopping in retail locations..

Don't miss out!  Explore York can help you reach a diverse range of potential customers and grow your business.

Explore York is the official tourist promotion agency for York County and is accredited by Destinations International (DI). 

We actively market York County to leisure and business travelers, meetings and convention planners, group tour operators, sport and tournament organizers, and to the media.

We’re a member-based destination marketing organization (DMO) with over 50 years of experience and more than 300 members. We’d love for you to join us!

#2: You’ll Receive Direct Member Benefits

Our most popular benefit is one free listing in our annual travel guide  — they're distributed across the us and canada, and we print over 100,000 copies each year for only $.003 per impression, it’s a smart marketing investment for your business..

In addition, as a member you’ll also receive:

• One free listing on YorkPA.org , which sees approximately 15,000 visitors each month.
• Ability to submit events to our online Calendar of Events .
• Ability to submit packages and special offers to our website.
• Social media shout-outs across Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Tik-Tok.
• Features in the York County Twist, our popular blog .
• Promotion to media and visiting travel writers.
• Access to additional Explore York marketing programs and advertising opportunities (check out stat #3 for more info).
• Free participation in the annual Have It Made Here event (if applicable).
• Invitations to exclusive member events such as FAM tours, networking events & professional workshops.

With a standard business membership starting at $300 annually ($175 for our nonprofit partners)… we’re an affordable investment for your growing business .

#3: Extend Your Advertising Reach

Advertising in explore york’s official travel guide offers an excellent return on investment. we distribute over 100,000 guides annually at over 50 high-traffic locations and tourist attractions in and around york county, area lodging properties, each of pennsylvania’s 14 welcome centers, and aaa offices throughout the mid-atlantic region..

It’s our primary fulfillment piece supporting all Explore York public relations and advertising efforts. We also provide guides to hundreds of visitors by request and mail guides to all 50 states and Canada. 

Depending on your advertising size and placement, there’s something to fit your budget. For just $250, a highlighted travel guide listing makes your business stand out. Prefer to go big? A full page ad on the back cover is just over $6k for an annual ad that's in the hands of visitors daily.

You’ll maximize your reach as you deliver your message directly to qualified buyers .

#4: Even More Marketing Opportunities

At explore york, we’re all about promoting your business in the most effective way possible. check out these additional opportunities.

Our Brochure Distribution Program displays your brochures in over 50 racks throughout York County, PA. Think visitor centers, hotels, bed and breakfasts, restaurants, attractions, and more. 

There’s so much value here, all for $560 each year. We limit the number of participants to 70 businesses, to maximize program impact. We ask participating businesses to provide 6,000 brochures to get started in the program.

Our Weddings Marketing Program is all about promoting you with an additional travel guide and website listing category aimed at this robust and always growing market.

For $100 (for members-only), you get an additional listing in our popular visitor’s guide, and you get to choose the category: lodging, transportation, venues, or wedding services.

Our Annual Have It Made Here Event (each June) promotes the makers spirit of York County. Participating businesses open their doors for behind-the-scenes tours, hands-on demonstrations, or educational presentations about the products they make. The event promotes manufacturing, artisan goods, agritourism, and history.

Participation is FREE for all Explore York members! It comes with lots of promotion and buzz, too, from our website to social media platforms. It’s a great way to connect with and nurture your audience.

Our Groups and Meetings marketing program targets motor coach groups, associations, meeting planners, and conventions across the county. As part of this program, you’ll receive Request for Proposals (RFP’s) and targeted sales leads, participate in trade shows, events, sales missions, attend quarterly sales meetings, and more.

With this additional membership ($200 for businesses, $100 for nonprofits, and $750 for full-service hotels), you’ll have your very own groups and meetings listing. Categories include attractions, restaurants/catering, lodging, meeting space, shopping, transportation, and lodging.

Over 1,000 welcome bags are distributed to group and meeting attendees throughout the year containing the official Travel Guide, various York County-focused collateral, and fun and useful branded promotional items.

#5: Membership — It's All About Customization

You're at the center of what we do, and there are many opportunities to truly customize your membership experience..

An example? You get to pick your travel guide listing category, like Things to Do which includes museums, parks & trails, shopping, spas & salons, sports & recreation, and theater & the arts. 

Or Restaurants , which includes Cafes, Coffee & Tea, Snacks & Sweets, Casual Dining, and Upscale Dining.

Then there’s Hotels & Lodging , which includes Bed & Breakfasts, Campgrounds, Hotels and Motels. 

Or Events , like the Good Libations Trails — a program to celebrate the wineries, breweries, and distilleries of the York County Area. We promote member visits through advertising and our digital passport program.

And finally, Visitor Services like Banks, Colleges & Educational Resources, Convention Centers, Healthcare, Relocation Services, and Transportation.

Plus, you’ll be part of our wide network of tourism-focused businesses — with access to an impressive members-only database. Check out our member directory .

If one category is too limiting, you can purchase additional listing categories for $180. It increases your footprint in the travel guide and gives you a wider range of visibility on our website, too.

#6: We Drive Tourism Here in York County

Explore York anticipates more than 10,000 visitors in York County for the 49th Street Rod Nationals East. This show alone has driven an estimated $5 million of economic benefits into the York County economy in previous years.

You may be surprised to know that Sports is York County’s biggest tourism driver through such events as the MLK Kickoff Challenge Volleyball Tournament and MAPL York Volleyball Tournament. These two events alone brought in over 5,000 young people, 600 parents or guardians and over 5,000 spectators. With an average stay in York County of two-nights. The economic impact of these tournaments combined was over $3.4 Million.

The tourism industry remains in recovery but the sports market in York County has been one of the fastest areas to rebound and is leading the economic recovery of tourism.

For each athlete who visited, York County welcomed on average an additional 2.5 guests.

And in May 2022, four travel writers and members of the International Food, Wine, and Travel Writers Association attended a Culinary FAM trip hosted by Explore York . 

The event included shopping in York, touring murals in Royal Square, and visiting Dill’s Tavern, among other things. The writers posted more than a dozen times each to social media channels during their stay and each wrote two articles about their experiences.

All this is just a sampling of the incredible impact the Explore York team has here in our community!

Ready to kickstart your membership? Join today .

As the Official Tourist Promotion Agency for York County, we invite you to become a member. For more details or additional conversation, contact Alexis Noel, Membership Relations Manager, at 717-852-9675 ext. 114 or [email protected] .

Katie Caples

Member Relations Manager

The 11 best things to do in York on your next visit

Jan 1, 2022 • 7 min read

A narrow laneway of 'The Shambles', which is a centre piece of historic York © Chris Lawrence Travel/Shutterstock

With its Roman and Viking history, and hurly-burly medieval core, York is one of England’s must-see cities. Don’t be fooled, though, this isn’t a place stuck in the past. Its walkable center is filled with indie restaurants , quirky shops and inventive drinking dens – a testament to York’s vibrant present-day pulse.  

Arrive at the handsome station (it’s around two hours from London) and dive into our suggestions of the best things to do in York; you’ll soon be swept off your feet by the city’s picture-postcard sights as well as its fun, maverick side. 

Let York Minster draw your gaze towards the heavens

One of York’s great treats is how often, when turning a cobblestone corner or squeezing down an age-old alley, you bump into its soaring cathedral, York Minster . Renowned as one of the world’s medieval Gothic masterpieces, it’s worth getting up close to the interior craftsmanship. Here you’ll find 700-year-old vaulted ceilings and nose-picking gargoyles illuminated by the building’s 128 stained-glass windows.

A trip to the interactive museum in the undercroft reveals details of York’s 2000-year-old history and its tower reaches dizzying heights above the city's rooftops. You can climb to the top for some stunning views of York but be warned – the ancient stairwells are claustrophic and those with a fear of heights should probably stick to admiring the stained-glass windows from the inside.

Step back in time in the Shambles

One of the best-preserved medieval streets in Europe, many of the Shambles’ wonky timber-framed houses date back to the 15th century. Despite its much-photographed charm, this street once housed the city’s butchers and slaughterhouses. The overhanging buildings, which in places almost kiss above the narrow cobbled lane, were designed to shelter shelves of meat from the sun. Nowadays, it’s worth visiting to briefly become part of the hubbub and browse the eccentric collection of independent shops. Slip down an alleyway for lunch in Shambles Market .

Hunt for ghosts

With a centuries-old history littered with turmoil and treachery, it’s little wonder York has a penchant for ghost stories. Even skeptics will be hard-pressed not to enjoy one of the city’s highly rated ghost walks. Led by knowledgeable performers, The Bloody Tour of York , Shadows of York , and The Deathly Dark Ghost Tour all promise plenty of macabre fun. Like your phantoms a little more tangible? As an antidote to mass-produced knickknacks, York Ghost Merchants sell diminutive handcrafted spooks from its theatrical shop on the Shambles.    

Spot trains at the National Railway Museum

Until the 1960s, the vast exhibition halls of the free-to-enter National Railway Museum were part of York’s busy railway works. Now they tell the story of extraordinary engineering feats and house gleaming locomotives and plush royal carriages. Young rail enthusiasts will delight in discovering you can climb aboard many of the exhibits, including a Japanese bullet train. For a small charge, take a ride on the world’s fastest steam locomotive. You can explore more of North Yorkshire and beyond by train if the idea of gazing upon beautiful countryside from the comfort of a reclining seat is right up your track.

Head down the pub for a quick drink (or two) 

Famed for its diverse drinking dens, it would seem rude not to pop into one of York’s many pubs. Some of the city’s oak-paneled taverns have been serving up booze since Tudor times, although if you want to time warp back to the 12th century, take a pew at the House of the Trembling Madness on Stonegate. For a more contemporary feel, and a selection of 40 taps, there’s Brew York’s mural-festooned beer hall. Fancy a pint with a view? At the Lamb and Lion Inn , you can spy the Minster from the beer garden; the King’s Arms overlooks the meandering River Ouse. 

Walk the city walls

Perfect for history buffs, couples and snoopers alike, a stroll along York’s City Walls allows you to peer down onto timeworn snickleways (alleyways) and courtyard gardens from atop the longest medieval ramparts in England. Free to walk, and containing four grand ‘bars’ or gates to the city, these 13th-century fortifications are, in fact, the new kids on the block; the Roman walls lie underneath, protruding briefly in York’s tranquil Museum Gardens . 

It takes a couple of hours to wander the 3.4-kilometer loop, peeping through arrowslits and digesting information boards. You can even pause for a flat white at the cafe within the cannon-scarred Walmgate Bar. Alternatively, ramble a shorter section; the portion between Bootham and Monk bars has superb Minster views. 

York Art Gallery offers Old Masters, modern wonders and ceramics

York Art Gallery offers a welcome respite from the city clamor. The main exhibitions are free to admire; in The Burton Gallery, artworks by Italian Old Masters rub shoulders with 20th-century abstract paintings. Look out for L.S Lowry’s depiction of York’s handsome Clifford’s Tower surrounded by his distinctive matchstick mob. The real draw, though, is the gallery’s Centre for Ceramic Art . Here, prehistoric pots through to glazed delftware are curated to form a 17-meter-long ceramic rainbow. 

Learn more about Vikings and Victorians at York’s museums

Championing immersive experiences long before that was a thing, York’s museums excel at transporting you into the past. At the JORVIK Viking Centre , you’re treated to a smells-and-all ride through the cultural melting pot that was 10th-century York. The animatronic dioramas are based on evidence unearthed while excavating the Viking settlement below the building. 

At the York Castle Museum , visitors are likewise encouraged to see artifacts in context: cue a stroll down a dimly lit Victorian Street and hear what life was like for captured highwayman Dick Turpin in the cell that held him (the building was once York’s notorious prison). 

For a more refined slice of history, the Fairfax House is a rarified gem. Padding through this restored Georgian townhouse gives a glimpse into the lives of 18th-century gentlefolk, as well as a few lessons in interior design. Touring the Treasurer’s House , on the other hand, feels like falling down a rabbit hole into a curious oversized doll’s house, filled with furnishings through the ages.

Enjoy afternoon tea

York has no shortage of places to dine on dainty sandwiches and cream-laden scones, washed down with a fragrant brew. At The Grand , tiers of nibbles are served in 5-star surroundings, whereas afternoon tea at Forest at Galtres Lodge involves a tea pairing menu and miniature Yorkshire puddings. It’s even possible to enjoy a sophisticated cuppa aboard a restored train carriage at the National Railway Museum. 

Most locals, though, would cry sacrilege if Bettys wasn’t on your list of locations to sate a mid-afternoon peckishness. Be prepared to queue, but wolfing down one of their fat rascal fruit scones amid scurrying, white-aproned staff is something of a York rite of passage. 

Get a taste for York’s chocolate past

While other northern cities were busy with textiles and steel, York’s Victorian industrialists were building confectionary empires; Kit-Kat and Terry’s Chocolate Orange were both created in the city’s sweet-smelling factories. 

While not inexpensive, York’s Chocolate Story does a good job at immersing visitors in this history: the interactive tour includes plenty of toothsome treats. At York Cocoa House there are workshops and tasting tours. This independent factory aims to carry the baton for York’s chocolate heritage, with a modern-day focus on eco-conscious and fair-trade practices. 

Sample street food at Spark:York

It’s hard not to fall for Spark:York’s inclusive community feel. This split-level market, created from brightly daubed shipping containers, brings together local indie restaurants and bars on a once disused civic space. Groups can mix and match their orders, choosing from hand-stretched pizzas, incredible fried chicken, and plant-based tacos and burgers. Kids will love the ice-cream cookie sandwiches served by Melk ; their parents may opt for a craft beer. 

You might also like:  Yorkshire's best castles, cathedrals and stately homes Gin, rum and vodka: Yorkshire’s best distillery experiences Say cheese! How the Yorkshire Dales are reviving cheesemaking traditions  

This article was first published October 2021 and updated January 2022

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York’s Calendar: A Local’s Guide to the Best Time To Visit York 🗓️🔍

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THINKING ABOUT VISITING YORK BUT NOT SURE WHEN TO GO? WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED!

Historic walled York in North Yorkshire, England, is a popular tourist destination with rich history and cultural landmarks, including medieval walls, York Minster, Jorvik Viking Centre, and the National Railway Museum.

A friendly, year-round tourist destination, there’s no best month or perfect time to visit York. But the variation in the seasons is notable, and each brings different cultural attractions, festivals, and dramatically different weather!

If I’m pushed – I’d suggest that late Spring is the perfect time to visit York, although the city is absolutely fantastic during December, with one of the best Christmas markets in the UK!

Ultimately, the best time to visit York depends on what you want to see and do in the city and what type of weather you prefer!

From bustling festivals and “the great outdoors” in the summer to cosy winter days by a roaring fire in a friendly pub or browsing for bargains in York’s award-winning Christmas markets , there’s something for everyone in York – year-round.

This article shares the best time to visit York, shares information about the weather and average temperatures, and highlights some of the city’s most exciting events throughout the year.

Let’s get stuck in 🙂 because you are going to LOVE York, just like I do!

When Is The Best Time to Visit York?

I’ve lived in Yorkshire for over a decade and know York well! I know that York has four distinct seasons with dramatically different weather patterns and temperatures:

• 🐣 Spring (March-May) Shoulder Season
• 🌻 Summer (June-August) High Season
• ☂️ Autumn (Fall) (September-November) Shoulder Season
• ❄️ Winter (December-February) Low Season ( except Christmas )

The busiest tourist seasons in York are Easter, the UK school holidays (mid/late July to early September) and Christmas.

1. Visiting York in the Spring 🐣

• Great value time to visit
• Spring flowers in bloom
• Go to the races

York Literature Festival

• Easter celebrations
• Busy at Easter
• Busy over May public holidays
• Likely to rain

Spring in York is gorgeous, with average temperatures rising from 9°C in March to 17°C in May. April, however, is one of York’s wettest months of the year, with an average rainfall of 77 mm! 

☔️ Local Tip: If you plan to visit York in the spring, pack a windproof travel umbrella and light rain gear.

After a long, cold winter, York eagerly awaits the first signs of spring. As the days start to lengthen, it’s a great time to visit before the summer crowds descend.

York buzzes with tourists at Eastertime, and the wonderful Easter services at York Minster (York’s gothic cathedral) are particularly popular.

In early spring, hosts of cheery golden daffodils carpet the banks of the medieval York City Walls and Clifford’s Tower before the delicate pink and white cherry blossoms appear and make the city even more beautiful.

🌸 Find York’s most beautiful cherry tree blossoms between York Station and the city walls, or take a short train ride to see Harrogate’s glorious cherry trees on the Stray.

🌧 If the weather is cold and wet, you won’t run out of amazing places to explore indoors, and you can save money on entry charges to York’s key attractions with a York Pass .

🍺 When you get chilled, warm up by a roaring fire in one of York’s characterful old pubs and tuck into some hearty Yorkshire food while you wait for the sun to reappear.

Alternatively, you can dodge the raindrops in the Shambles – the best-preserved medieval street in Europe – where stalls sell everything from local produce to international delicacies.

Over the busy Easter weekend and during the UK public holidays at the start and end of May, expect accommodations to sell out fast!

➡️ Find the best deals on York’s hotels, B&Bs and private accommodations here .

events in York in the Spring

York chocolate festival.

The festival includes chocolate lollipop making, chocolate tastings, hands-on cookery workshops, and a chocolate walking trail. YUM!

Easter Celebrations

• Awe-inspiring services at York Minster
• Easter-themed gifts to buy in the Shambles market and in the beautiful Käthe Wohlfahrt store
• Edible Easter goodies at Betty’s Cafe & Tea Rooms (look out for the fabulous window display)

Live events celebrating the written and spoken word, with more than 20 events held throughout March at venues across the city centre.  

A day at the races is the perfect excuse to put your glad rags on, sip Champagne and have a flutter on your favourite horse. 

York Races run from April to September on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. They are easy to get to, even if you don’t have a car and a great opportunity to experience some of the city’s rich racing heritage

2. Visiting York in the Summer 🌻

• Warm weather
• Long days for exploring
• Boat trips & river cruises
• Al fresco dining
• Peak season prices
• Availability of accommodations

If you love warmer temperatures and like exploring without the hassle of a coat, summer is the best time to visit York. With the best weather of all seasons, summer is the perfect time to explore York’s atmospheric streets and outdoor attractions.

Average temperatures rarely become oppressive, even in high summer, so you’ll enjoy pleasant weather when you visit York in the summer.

Summertime is York’s busiest season, with the longest hours of sunshine and the warmest days. The city swells with tourists – especially during the UK summer holiday season (late July to early September).

August is typically the busiest month in the city , while early June to early July offers comfortable temperatures with fewer crowds.

If you don’t enjoy crowds,it’s easy to avoid the city centre and use your York Pass to focus on York’s quieter attractions, such as the Yorkshire Museum and Clifford’s Tower, or take a cruise on the River Ouse .

Alternatively, spend long sunny days on day trips from York to some of the best places in the surrounding area, including the vast and beautiful North York Moors.

York is in the far north of England! While summer is generally warm, don’t assume it won’t rain! June is the wettest month of the year in York, with an average rainfall of 3 inches (77 mm).

Events in York in the Summer

York early music festival.

This cultural festival will celebrate York’s many medieval churches, guildhalls and historic houses through historically informed music making.

Merchants Adventurer’s Beer Festival

New for 2023, this charity event – in the 665 year old, Merchant Adventurers’ Hall – will bring quality ales, tasty food, local entertainment and (hopefully) summer sunshine together!

York Festival of Ideas

York Festival of Ideas offers stimulating and diverse events for all ages and interests at venues throughout the city, including world-class speakers, films, guided walks, and family-friendly activities.

Summer might just be the best time to dress up and head to the races with friends!

READ NEXT : The Ultimate Packing List for Yorkshire . Discover the essential items you will need for your trip to York.

3. Visiting York in the Autumn ☂️

• Cheaper accommodations
• Awesome Christmas markets
• Atmospheric ghost tours
• Real fires in cosy pubs
• Short daylight hours
• It’s often VERY cold

Autumn is an excellent time to explore some of the city’s famous historical attractions. York Minster is a hot favourite (make sure to arrive early for the remarkable tower tour), or explore life as a Viking in York at the excellent Jorvik Viking Centre.

While there’s a good chance of rain at this time of year, September’s average high temperature is around 17°C. This drops to a chilly 7°C by November, so you’ll want to pack a warm jacket and waterproof shoes.

The days are getting shorter for sightseeing, with the sun setting as early as 4:30 pm in November, so you’ll want to maximise the daylight hours.

It’s still very pleasant to walk around the city in the autumn, to see all the trees wreathed in shades of russet and red. There are fewer tourists than in the summer, but you won’t feel like Billy No-Mates visiting the city – in fact, it’s a great city for solo travellers.

Events in York in the Autumn

Autumn is the best time to visit York for festivals – there’s a packed programme of cultural events to choose from!

York Food Festival

22nd Sept to 1st Oct  2023

York Beer Festival (CAMRA)

Wed 13 – Sun 17 Sept

Fossgate Festival

A unique way to experience city life in York and enjoy one of York’s oldest and most characterful streets, with independent shops, cafes, bars, and the beautiful Merchant Adventurers’ Hall. 

The street is closed to vehicles making it safe for everyone to browse and enjoy. The festival runs from ​12 noon to 7:30 pm; however, bars and restaurants remain open later, in line with their usual opening hours. 

As the most haunted city in Europe, York is a superb place to celebrate Halloween! ➡️ Check out the best ghost tours in York here >

Bonfire Night

Where better to celebrate the 5th of November than the city where Guy Fawkes plotted with others to blow up the Houses of Parliament?

If the organised events with bonfires, fireworks and hearty warming food don’t tempt you out into the cold, pop into the pub where Guy Fawkes was born for the evening instead!

October is your last chance for the year to attend the races.

4. Visiting York in the Winter ❄️

Despite its northern location, winter is a great time to visit York. With less chance of snow than in other parts of England, temperatures are relatively mild – but it can feel much colder when brutally cold winds blow in from the east coast – straight from the Balkans! 

February is typically the coldest month of the year, but it’s also the cheapest time to visit the city.

Top Tip:  Dress for the cold with a winter coat, sturdy shoes to keep out the worst of the weather, a warm hat and gloves, and a scarf.

Winter is a great time to enjoy the  Christmas markets or go ice skating at York’s Winter Wonderland . It’s also the best time of year to go on a spooky guided ghost tour around the medieval streets after dark.

Visit York before the Christmas market arrives, and you’ll have the luxury of exploring an uncrowded city. The local restaurants and pubs will welcome you with open arms at this time of year!

Events In The Winter in York

St nicholas fayre christmas market..

York’s St Nicholas Christmas market in the historic city centre is a gem. More than 80 Swiss-style chalets sell everything from hand-crafted Christmas decorations and gift ideas to delicious roast chestnuts, mince pies and mulled wine or cider. 

The market runs from late November until Christmas Eve, lighting up the medieval city walls and buildings and making the city feel even more atmospheric than usual!

York’s Winter Wonderland

Ice skating at York’s Winter Wonderland is sure to warm you up! The outdoor rink opens from late November until early January, making it ideal for active winter fun with loved ones. 

JORVIK Viking Festival (11th-19th February 2023.)

Vikings pitch their tents in central York in a city-wide celebration of York’s rich Norse heritage. This is Europe’s largest Viking festival and a fun way to ward off the winter chills.

Accommodations in York

York is exceptionally busy at Easter, in the summer, and in the month before Christmas: this is when you’ll find the highest prices. The best hotel room deals are quickly snapped up at these peak times.

T he best deals on hotel rooms in York are in early January and February 🙂

With so much to do in York, why not book a stay and enjoy more of what this exciting city offers?

Parking in York

Here’s the bad news! Parking in York is expensive – and driving around medieval city streets not designed for modern traffic is a nightmare!

If your accommodation has reserved parking, you’re onto a winner. Otherwise, it’s much easier, quicker and cheaper to use one of York’s excellent Park & Ride services or to travel to the city by train.

How To Get To York

York is located in Northern England, in the large, rural county of North Yorkshire. It’s well connected locally and nationally and easy to reach:

York is around 2 1/2 hours from London by train or 3 hours from Edinburgh. Manchester International Airport is 1 hour and 50 minutes by train.

From London and the South: Take the M1 motorway to Leeds, then the A1M to Junction 44. Take the A64 into York.

From Edinburgh : Take the A1M to Junction to Junction 47 and take the A59 into York.

Map of York in the UK

FAQs: the best time to visit York

Is january a good time to visit york.

January is a great time to visit York to shop for bargains, get great hotel deals and breeze through all of York’s tourist attractions without crowds!

Is York worth visiting in winter?

Definitely! York is very atmospheric in the winter, with plenty of things to do, an award-winning Christmas Market and wonderful cosy pubs to hunker down in after a chilly walk.

Does York have good weather?

Absolutely. York’s temperate climate makes it a great city to explore without getting too hot or cold!

Is York UK worth visiting?

I’ve written a whole post on this subject 🙂 Discover more about visiting York here .

What is the coldest month in York?

The coldest month overall is January, however, February typically sees the lowest minimum temperatures. Wrap up warm on those chilly days!

What is the hottest month in York?

Average temperatures peak in York in July, although August also sees warm, pleasant days.

Does it rain a lot in York?

York has a temperate climate and typically sees around 630 millimetres of rain yearly, with rain seen in most months. June is the wettest month of the year in York.

Is York nice at Christmas?

York is enchanting at Christmas. The medieval buildings look wonderful, bathed in the twinkling glow of the Christmas lights, and the award-winning York Christmas markets are a treat to visit.

How many tourists visit York each year?

York welcomes tourists, as they contribute over £760 million to York’s economy. Around 8.4 million people visit York each year.

Does it snow in York in January?

It can snow in York during winter, but this is unusual. It will be cold, so wearing warm clothes is advisable when visiting York in the winter.

What is the weather like in York at Christmas?

Expect single-digit temperatures in York for Christmas, with an average temperature of 5°C. Pack warm clothes, gloves, your cutest beanie and waterproof boots to keep the chills out.

What is the longest day in York?

The year’s longest day in York is the summer solstice in June.

What is the shortest day of the year in York?

The shortest day of the year in York is the mid-December winter solstice.

Is York good for a day trip?

York is the perfect city for a day trip, with a train journey from Leeds taking around 30 minutes, while direct trains from London take around 2 hours.

Final Thoughts On The Best Time To Visit York

York is a beautiful city to visit year-round. Each season offers its unique charm and attractions. However, the best time to visit York depends on your preferences and interests:

• Spring is the best time to visit York for good value, Easter celebrations, and to enjoy all the spring flowers
• Summer may be ideal for you if you enjoy warm weather, dining al fresco, and outdoor activities
• Autumn has mild weather, cool festivals and the chance to spend Halloween in Europe’s most haunted city !
• Winter could be the perfect season to experience all that York offers if you love traditional festive events and cosy indoor activities

These are the companies I use to book all of my trips. I only recommend companies I use and trust personally.

• ⭐️ Flight Deals : Wayaway or Expedia , or Skyscanner  
• ⭐️ Hotel Booking : Booking.com or Hotels.com
• ⭐️ Self-Catered Accommodation : VRBO
• ⭐️ Tours / Things To Do / Airport Transfers : Viator or Get Your Guide
• ⭐️ Travel Insurance : Travel Insurance Master  
• ⭐️ Car Rentals : Rentalcars.com

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Related Posts

• How To Spend The Perfect Weekend In York, England
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• 14 Exciting Things To Do In York At Night
• What to Pack for Yorkshire – A Complete Packing List
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• Mistletoe Magic: 16 Best Things To Do In York At Christmas 🎁

Coralie Thornton, the owner and author of Grey Globetrotters, has been a traveller for more than four decades. Today, she helps others experience the UK, Europe and bucketlist destinations with meticulously crafted guides and affordable luxury itineraries, Her passion for adventure has led her through over 40 countries, seeking cultural experiences, delicious foods, and hidden gems.

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Top york & beyond attractions.

York Cocoa Works

Bedern Hall

Golden Tours York

Van Gogh Immersive Experience

Yorkshire Museum

The Yorkshire Arboretum

Yorkshire Allied Air Forces Memorial Museum

York Minster

York Cold War Bunker

York Castle Museum

York Army Museum

Treasurer’s House

The York Dungeon

Scampston Walled Garden

The Roman Bath Museum York

The City Walls Experience

North Yorkshire Moors Railway

National Railway Museum – Road Train

National Centre for Birds of Prey

Merchant Adventurers’ Hall

York Mansion House

JORVIK Viking Centre

Fairfax House

DIG: An Archaeological Adventure

Clifford’s Tower

York City Sightseeing

City Cruises York

Castle Howard

The Bar Convent

Captain Cook Museum Whitby

Beningbrough

Barley Hall

Suggested itineraries​.

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Only in York for the day? York’s iconic attractions are all just a short walk from each other – marvel at the magnificent York Minster, discover York’s fascinating Viking legacy at the JORVIK Viking Centre and tour the city with City Sightseeing.

York's Grisly Past Two Day

Staying a bit longer & live and breathe over 2,000 years of York’s darkest history at York Dungeon! Enjoy Georgian York whilst exploring Fairfax House and, then, spend the afternoon just outside of the city at the Yorkshire Air Museum

Travel Beyond York Three Day

On your third day in York take a trip beyond the city to Castle Howard. Here you will find a magnificent Historic House, stunning landscaped gardens, large children’s adventure playground, cafes and a shop.

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Your last-minute guide to Monday's total solar eclipse

A total solar eclipse will cross North America on Monday , offering millions a rare opportunity to see afternoon skies temporarily darken as the moon blocks the face of the sun.

Tune into NBC News NOW as Lester Holt hosts a two-hour special at 2 p.m. ET Monday from Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

The eclipse's path fortuitously cuts across Mexico, 15 U.S. states and a small part of eastern Canada. In all other states in the continental U.S., viewers will be treated to a partial solar eclipse, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun and obscuring part of its light.

Here’s everything you need to know about the rare celestial event.

What is a solar eclipse?

Solar eclipses occur when the sun, moon and Earth align. The moon passes between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light and casting a shadow on Earth.

A total solar eclipse is when the moon fully obscures the sun, whereas a partial solar eclipse means it blocks just a portion of the sun’s face.

Solar eclipses occur only with the new moon. Because the moon’s orbit around Earth is tilted, the three bodies don’t always line up in a way that creates an eclipse.

“Imagine if the moon’s orbit were in the plane of Earth’s orbit around the sun — if that were the case, then every new moon, you’d have a total solar eclipse and every full moon, you’d have a lunar eclipse,” Neil DeGrasse Tyson, director of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History, told NBC News. “So, because things don’t always align, it lends to the rarity of the event and the specialness of the event.”

Where and when will the eclipse be visible?

This year’s eclipse will follow a slightly wider path over more populated areas of the continental U.S. than other total solar eclipses have in the recent past.

NASA estimates that 31.6 million people live within what’s known as the path of totality, where the total solar eclipse will be visible. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path, according to the agency.

The path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Tiny parts of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

After the eclipse crosses into Canada, it will pass over southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

Those outside the path of totality can still take part in the astronomical event by viewing a partial solar eclipse — visible throughout all 48 states of the contiguous U.S. — or a NASA livestream.

The timing, including how long totality lasts, depends on the location, but some spots will see the moon fully cover the sun for up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds.

Below is a list of timings for some cities along the path of totality, as  provided by NASA . A number of other resources, including NationalEclipse.com  and  TimeandDate.com , can also help people plan.

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.

How to safely view a solar eclipse

It is never safe to gaze directly at the sun, even when it is partly or mostly covered by the moon. Special eclipse glasses or  pinhole projectors  are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent eye damage. Failing to take the proper precautions can result in severe eye injury,  according to NASA .

Eclipse glasses are thousands of times darker than normal sunglasses and specially made to enable wearers to look at the sun during these kinds of celestial events.

Sky-watchers should also never view any part of the sun through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses unless they have specific solar filters attached. Eclipse glasses should not be used with these devices, as they will not provide adequate protection.

However, during the few minutes of totality, when the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to look with the naked eye.

Beware of fake eclipse glasses. On legitimate pairs, the lenses should have a silver appearance on the front and be black on the inside. The manufacturer’s name and address should be clearly labeled, and they should not be torn or punctured. Check, as well, for the ISO logo and the code “IS 12312-2” printed on the inside.

If you don’t have eclipse glasses, you can make a homemade pinhole projector, which lets sunlight in through a small hole, focuses it and projects it onto a piece of paper, wall or other surface to create an image of the sun that is safe to look at. 

All you need is two pieces of white cardboard or plain white paper, aluminum foil and a pin or thumbtack. Cut a 1- to 2-inch square or rectangle out of the center of a piece of white paper or cardboard. Tape aluminum foil over that cut-out shape, then use a pin or thumbtack to poke a tiny hole in the foil.

During the eclipse, place a second piece of white paper or cardboard on the ground as a screen and hold the projector with the foil facing up and your back to the sun. Adjusting how far you hold the projector from the second piece of paper will alter the size of the image on the makeshift screen.

What to look for while viewing the total solar eclipse

For people along the path of totality, there are some fun milestones to keep track of as the total solar eclipse unfolds.

As the eclipse progresses and the sun gets thinner in the sky, it will start to get eerily dark, according to Tyson.

When the last beams of sunlight are about to become obscured, look out for the “diamond ring effect”: The sun’s atmosphere will appear as an illuminated halo, and the last light still visible will look like the diamond of a giant ring.

As the sunlight decreases even further, an effect known as Baily’s beads will be created by the moon’s rugged terrain. Tiny “beads” of light will be visible for only a few seconds around the dark moon, as the last bits of sunlight peer through the moon’s mountains and valleys.

When the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to remove eclipse glasses and look at the total solar eclipse with the naked eye.

Some lucky sky-watchers may even catch a glimpse of a comet .

Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks — nicknamed the “ devil comet ” because an eruption last year left it with two distinct trails of gas and ice in the shape of devil horns — is currently visible from the Northern Hemisphere as it swings through the inner solar system.

The comet can be seen in the early evenings by gazing toward the west-northwest horizon. During the eclipse, when skies darken during totality, it may be possible to see the comet near Jupiter, but its visibility will depend on whether it’s in the middle of an outburst and thus brighter than normal.

Most likely, all eyes will be on the alignment of the moon and sun.

“Most people won’t even notice,” Tyson said. “But if you know to look, it’s there.”

When is the next solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse will be in 2026, but it will mostly pass over the Arctic Ocean, with some visibility in Greenland, Iceland, Portugal and northern Spain. In 2027, a total solar eclipse will be visible in Spain and a swath of northern Africa.

The next total solar eclipse visible from North America will be in 2033, but only over Alaska. Then in 2044, a total solar eclipse will cross Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, parts of Canada and Greenland.

The next total solar eclipse to cross the continental U.S. coast-to-coast in will occur in 2045. The path of totality for that eclipse will cut through California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia and Florida.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

Lucas Thompson is a content producer for the NBC News Climate Unit.

New York City Council

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Speaker Adams, Council Members Encourage New Yorkers to Join Participatory Budgeting Vote Week to Shape $24 Million in Capital Funding

April 5, 2024

From Saturday, April 6 through Sunday, April 14, New Yorkers 11 years old and up can vote online and in person at poll sites in 24 participating Council districts

City Hall, NY – Today, Speaker Adrienne Adams and the New York City Council encouraged New Yorkers to make their voices heard during Participatory Budgeting Vote Week from April 6 through April 14. New Yorkers can vote online or in-person at voting sites in the 24 participating Council districts to decide how $24 million in capital funding will be spent in the Fiscal Year 2025 city budget. Participatory Budgeting projects focus on improving neighborhood schools, parks, libraries, and other public spaces.  

“Since October, New Yorkers across the city have created and refined proposals to improve their communities,” said Speaker Adrienne Adams . “As Participatory Budgeting Vote Week begins, residents ages 11 and older in participating districts will now be able to vote for their favorite projects to be funded in the upcoming city budget. I thank every New Yorker who has contributed throughout this Participatory Budgeting cycle, and I encourage all eligible residents to get out and vote online or in person from April 6 to April 14!”

Starting Saturday, April 6, New Yorkers who live in or have a special connection (i.e. attending school, work, etc.) to a participating Council district can vote online or in-person on Participatory Budgeting proposals to fund neighborhoods institutions. Voting will remain open through Sunday, April 14. This year, 24 districts across Queens, the Bronx, Manhattan, and Brooklyn are participating.

The following list includes participating City Council Districts:

New Yorkers can call or contact their Council Member’s office or check their social media pages to confirm the exact hours, locations, and times of neighborhood Participatory Budgeting poll sites. Council Member’s District Offices will also be used as voting sites during the week.

The spending proposals on this year’s ballots were created by New Yorkers who attended neighborhood assemblies and budget delegate meetings throughout the fall and winter. All projects are capital budget proposals, which are significant neighborhood infrastructure investments. They were crafted and refined in conversation with relevant city agencies and facilitated by participating Council Members’ offices.

Last year, proposals funded by the City Council’s Participatory Budgeting initiative included:

• Upgrading library technology in Manhattan ($235,000)
• A gymnasium upgrade for MS 390 in the Bronx ($750,000)
• Tree planting and sidewalk improvements in Queens ($352,000)
• Establishing a Family Resource Center at PS 124 in Brooklyn ($500,000)

2024 is the 13 th year that the Council has hosted Participatory Budgeting since the initiative began in 2011. To read more about the Council’s Participatory Budget initiative and past results, visit council.nyc.gov/PB .

“Participatory budgeting is democracy in practice,” said Council Member Shaun Abreu . “When people have a voice in civic affairs — and a hand in allocating public funds — we see the positive change in our neighborhoods. This year’s ballot is chock-full of innovative proposals, and I look forward to funding important projects that the people want to see in Upper Manhattan. Our community is at its strongest when we come together to focus on the issues that matter.”

“Government should be inclusive, collaborative and accessible, and that’s what PB is all about,” said Council Member Erik Bottcher. “Every year, our constituents get to participate in the government process and vote on capital projects for their community. PB is a volunteer driven process, and we couldn’t do it without the incredible delegates who commit their time and ideas. I can’t wait to see the great projects that win this year!”

“Participatory Budgeting is a way to involve more members of the community in the decision making that improves our neighborhoods,” said Council Member Gale A. Brewer . “Ideas that come from the grass roots can be among the most innovative and effective in affecting our quality of life. I’m looking forward to seeing what comes up this year!”

“No one knows how to address the challenges facing our community better than the community itself,” said Council Member Tiffany Cabán . “That’s why every year, my office devotes over $1 Million to participatory budgeting. Our commitment to democracy calls us to find as many ways as possible of empowering those affected by governmental decisions to have an equal say in those decisions. I’d enthusiastically encourage everyone who can to get involved in participatory budgeting. We keep us safe. We keep us healthy. We keep us strong.”

“Students across District 10’s public schools have enthusiastically engaged in the participatory budgeting process, actively practicing their civic engagement skills,” said Council Member Carmen De La Rosa . “Given the constant threats of cuts and the aging infrastructure of our school buildings, this year’s process was dedicated to investing in education. Participatory budgeting is a unique part of the co-governance process, allowing some of our youngest constituents opportunities to learn about how our city runs, making budgetary decisions, and casting ballots. We are looking forward to Vote Week — we have exciting capital project proposals that could provide much-needed renovations to our public-school buildings that will improve the learning experiences for our students.”

“I’m excited to launch Participatory Budgeting Vote Week in Council District 18! Over the past two years, our office has initiated a transformative process, securing funding for essential infrastructure projects in our schools and parks that had been neglected for far too long,” said Majority Leader Amanda Farías . “With Participatory Budgeting, the City Council has empowered our communities to actively shape our city’s budget and future. Community participation is the cornerstone of good governance, and now more than ever, it’s vital for every voice in our community to be heard. Let’s ensure our neighborhoods thrive by voting for the projects that matter most to you. Together, let’s forge a stronger, more inclusive city.”

“As a council member involved in this process for a decade, I’m thrilled to see how widespread it has become and I am genuinely excited about this year’s diverse project proposals,” said Council Member Jeniffer Gutierrez . “The variety and ingenuity of projects we’re seeing reflect the evolving needs and creativity of our community. Participatory budgeting continues to be a vital tool for community-driven decision-making, and I am excited for Vote Week to get started!”

“Participatory Budget Vote Week is my favorite time of the year! PB is essential to get everyday New Yorkers involved and engaged in their local community, policy making, and understand our city’s budget,” said Council Member Shahana Hanif . “PB is real power with real money and the votes reflect the priorities of our communities. It is a more inclusive version of democracy, where everyone over the age of 11 and regardless of citizenship status, meaning youth to new immigrant communities, have a say in how to transform and build our city. My path to public service began with volunteering as a PB delegate in the Arts and Culture Committee in District 39. I worked with my neighbors to develop a young women’s self-defense workshop series which won that cycle! If you are voting, submit an idea next year. If you are volunteering, think about joining your local community board. See you at a PB polling site in District 39.”

“The Participatory budgeting process is an opportunity for our communities to make their voices heard and ensure that public funds are allocated where our neighbors choose,” said Council Member Crystal Hudson. “It’s a special process that strengthens civic participation and bolsters our democratic principles. I’m excited for the start of vote week tomorrow and can’t wait to see my community turn out to ensure our neighborhoods have all the resources they need.”

“As a council member representing the vibrant 40th Council District, I believe that Participatory Budgeting (PB) is not just a process; it’s a testament to the power of democracy in action,” said Council Member Rita Joseph . “By empowering community members to directly decide how to allocate part of the public budget, PB fosters inclusivity, transparency, and civic engagement. Together, through Participatory Budgeting, we can build a city that truly reflects the values and priorities of its people.”

“We’re proud to reintroduce Participatory Budgeting to District 25, empowering residents to have a direct voice in public spending,” said Council Member Shekar Krishnan . “From enhancing our schools to supporting the cherished Elmhurst Hospital and expanding our tree canopy, we’re excited to see the community’s investment priorities this year. A heartfelt appreciation goes out to our budget delegates – we couldn’t reach the finish line without their invaluable contributions.”

“I am proud to continue engaging District 45 in the annual citywide Participatory Budgeting initiative, keeping the power in the hands of constituents to shape and decide on capital projects that would improve the district,” said Council Member Farah Louis. “Ballot items this year prioritize vital investments in education, providing new and upgraded educational opportunities for our youth at schools across the district, and environmental conservation to protect our trees and sidewalks. When we are civically engaged, amplifying our diverse yet still collective voice, we can ensure that the concerns of every resident are heard and addressed in order to build a brighter future for generations to come.”

“Participatory Budgeting is a powerful fixture of civic engagement and an important avenue towards teaching the city’s youth about representative democracy,” said Council Member Julie Menin . “This initiative is just one example of the power that constituents have to make an immediate and lasting difference in their communities. I am grateful for the success that we have had in past years and look forward to using city dollars to ensure that our constituents have a direct role in the budgetary process.”

“We are excited for our second year of Participatory Budgeting and giving our community another chance to decide how to spend $1 million in capital investments,” said Council Member Sandy Nurse . “This year, we are thrilled to have 11 projects on the ballot for District 37 and we anticipate things getting competitive during Vote Week! We look forward to more years of collaborative decision-making and community advocacy addressing issues that matter to our constituents. Participatory Budgeting amplifies our community’s voice, ensuring that every constituent, including our youth, has a direct role in shaping their local priorities.”

“Bringing Participatory Budgeting into our community for the third consecutive year has been a source of immense pride,” said Council Member Kevin C. Riley . “Participatory Budgeting is more than just a process; it’s an invaluable tool that allows us to identify budget priorities at the grassroots level. As we kick off Cycle 13 of Participatory Budgeting Vote Week, I’m energized by the opportunity it presents for our constituents, including our youngest members at just 11 years old, to actively engage in shaping our community’s future. Together, let’s harness the power of PB to make impactful decisions for our neighborhoods.”

“Participatory budgeting gives New Yorkers a say in how we invest in our communities,” said Council Member Lincoln Restler. “This year, District 33 prioritized investing in our highest need schools. We hosted school community assemblies to identify projects that would further educational equity in our neighborhoods.”

“Participatory budgeting is an exciting way to increase local civic engagement, and my office is proud to work with community members to decide how to spend $1 million on capital projects,” said Council Member Carlina Rivera . “Last year thousands of our District 2 neighbors cast a ballot and selected projects to improve library technology, community gardens, and local public schools. Participatory budgeting funding helps enhance quality of life and community pride.”

“For the third year in a row, residents from West Bronx will directly determine how to spend $1 million in city taxpayer funds in our neighborhood,” said Council Member Pierina Sanchez. “Each proposed project came from and was supported by our local organizers, from parent leaders to student volunteers. The essence of participatory budgeting is that power lies with the people, and I am excited for the votes to be cast. Thank you, Speaker Adams, for leading the participatory budget process and bringing the public into the decision-making process for the allocation of city funds.”

“Participatory budgeting is a remarkable tool for empowering members of our district, especially young students, to engage in civic participation,” said Council Member Lynn Schulman . “It’s always inspiring to see the district come together in shaping the future of our community, one vote at a time. I am looking forward to see what projects my constituents choose. Their decisions will directly impact the neighborhoods of the 29th Council District

“As we kick off Participatory Budgeting Week, I am excited as it is always an amazing opportunity for everyone to see how powerful partnership is between local government and community members,” said Council Member Althea Stevens . “This collaborative effort exemplifies the power of partnership and the collective vision for a brighter future. In District 16, we have prioritized projects aimed at enhancing spaces for our youth, schools, education, and culture and community facilities. Participatory budgeting is not just about allocating funds; it’s about empowering our community to shape its own destiny. I urge everyone to exercise their right to vote and ensure their voices are heard in determining the investments that will shape the future of our community.”

“I believe that self-governing through participatory budgeting is paramount,” said Council Member Nantasha Williams . “It’s about empowering our communities to take charge of their destinies, to have a direct say in how resources are allocated, and to shape the policies that affect their lives. By actively engaging in this process, we not only strengthen the fabric of our democracy but also foster a sense of ownership and accountability in our neighborhoods.”

“We can’t wait to see voters at our schools, local parks, and other Participatory Budgeting voting locations from April 6-14 to help us decide how to spend $1 million to improve our community,” said Council Member Julie Won . “Our PB ballot has eight capital projects for District 26, from tree planting across our neighborhoods to school infrastructure improvements for our scholars. Thousands of our neighbors cast their votes last year, and we’re excited to repeat the process for a second year. See what’s on our ballot at http://council.nyc.gov/julie-won/pb-cycle-13/ and visit http://vote.pbnyc.org to vote online.”

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• New York City Council Announces Historic First Contract with the Association of Legislative Employees April 2, 2024
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How Biden’s White House Gathering for Ramadan Unraveled Over Gaza

Some Muslim community leaders said it would be wrong to attend an iftar meal with President Biden while Gaza is under siege.

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By Erica L. Green

Reporting from Washington

When the White House invited Muslim community leaders for a dinner this week celebrating the holy month of Ramadan, the responses started coming in fast: Decline. Decline. Decline.

Many of the invitees, distressed over President Biden’s support for Israel’s war in Gaza, said they would not attend an iftar meal with the president on Tuesday evening while so many Palestinians were under siege.

“How can we talk to you about famine and starvation over bread and steak?” said Dr. Thaer Ahmad, a Palestinian American doctor who was in Gaza in January.

The moment epitomized just how problematic the war in Gaza has become for Mr. Biden, who is increasingly critical of Israel but still resisting calls from within his party to set conditions on weapons sales to the country.

The White House pivoted quickly as it became clear that the Ramadan event would be controversial, holding a pared-down meal just for staff members and a separate meeting for Muslim community leaders like Dr. Ahmad.

The meeting, which lasted for more than an hour, was attended by Mr. Biden; Vice President Kamala Harris; Jake Sullivan, the national security adviser; and other senior officials. Three doctors who had recently treated patients in Gaza were among those who spoke to the president.

More than 32,000 people have been killed in the war, according to the Gazan health authorities.

Dr. Ahmad said he told Mr. Biden that Israel’s impending ground invasion of Rafah would be a “blood bath and a massacre.” He also handed the president a letter from an 8-year-old girl in Gaza who lost her entire family in the war.

“We in Rafah are suffering a lot because we live in a very small tent and the tank can enter the tent and run me over,” the girl wrote in the letter, which was obtained and translated by The New York Times.

The letter continued: “We don’t want massacres and suffering. We want safety, to live like the rest of the world’s children. Please, Biden, stop this war, it’s enough, stop this war please.”

After speaking for about six minutes, Dr. Ahmad told the president he was leaving.

“I said, ‘Out of respect for my community, and out of respect for the many people who are grieving, and who are in a lot of pain, I have to walk out of this meeting.’”

He said Mr. Biden responded that he understood.

“Part of me wanted to express the frustration that the entire community has, the anger and the resentment,” Dr. Ahmad said. “But also part of me wanted to get up and walk out on the decision makers, and give them an idea of how it feels to have somebody walk away from them.”

It was a far cry from a celebration last year at the White House marking the end of Ramadan, which drew hundreds of community leaders, White House staff and politicians who snacked on hors d’oeuvres and took selfies with the president. One attendee shouted “We love you!” to Mr. Biden before he started speaking.

This year, as the Biden administration hosted its pared-down meeting and meal, protesters knelt outside the White House in prayer.

Tuesday’s meeting with Muslim leaders and community members was among several the administration has held in recent months, both internally with staff and with outside groups, as it has tried to calm widespread indignation over the war.

Mr. Biden’s stance has angered crucial constituencies in Mr. Biden’s base, including young people, Black voters and progressives.

Karine Jean-Pierre, the White House press secretary, declined on Wednesday to comment on the details of Tuesday night’s meeting, saying it was private. But she said that the president knows that it was a “deeply painful moment for many in the Arab and Muslim communities.”

“The president also expressed his commitment to continue working to secure an immediate cease-fire as part of the deal to free the hostages and significantly increase humanitarian aid into Gaza,” she said. “And the president made clear that he mourns the loss of every innocent life in this conflict — Palestinian and Israeli.”

When asked about Dr. Ahmad walking out, Ms. Jean-Pierre said the president respected the right to peacefully protest.

Salima Suswell, the chief executive officer of the Black Muslim Leadership Council, who also attended the meeting, said she told Mr. Biden about the “moral dilemma” some members of the Black Muslim community feel supporting him because of the war in Gaza.

“Black people identify and somewhat relate to this issue that involves oppression and the dehumanization of people,” Ms. Suswell said. “Our ancestors lived through 400 years of it.”

She said Mr. Biden said he was committed to the Black community.

Ms. Suswell, who stayed for the duration of the meeting, said attendees shared their experiences from the ground in Gaza. One of the doctors passed around photos of children there, she said.

Both Mr. Biden and Ms. Harris expressed that they wanted the war to end as soon as possible. When asked about calling for an immediate and permanent cease-fire, Mr. Biden said that Israel would push back because of concerns about the hostages.

“They both said, ‘We don’t want to see this war continue,’” Ms. Suswell said.

Hiba Yazbek contributed reporting from Jerusalem.

Erica L. Green is a White House correspondent, covering President Biden and his administration. More about Erica L. Green

Our Coverage of the Israel-Hamas War

News and Analysis

Faced with deepening Democratic resistance to arming Israel , President Biden threatened to condition future support on how Israel addresses concerns about civilian casualties and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza . The threat is not idle, aides said, but Biden hopes to force a course correction  rather than follow through.

A grandmother taken captive on Oct. 7 by Hamas was probably killed when an Israeli helicopter, in response to the attack, fired on the vehicle in which she was being held , said Israel’s military.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel is facing challenges on multiple fronts:   domestic support is eroding, there is  international fury over the death toll in Gaza, and the fallout from the killing of seven aid workers has heightened global anger.

Internal Roil at TikTok: TikTok has been dogged for months by accusations that its app has shown a disproportionate amount of pro-Palestinian and antisemitic content to users. Some of the same tensions  have also played out inside the company.

Palestinian Detainees: Israel has imprisoned more than 9,000 Palestinians suspected of militant activity . Rights groups say that some have been abused or held without charges.

A Hostage’s Account: Amit Soussana, an Israeli lawyer, is the first former hostage to speak publicly about being sexually assaulted  during captivity in Gaza.

A Power Vacuum: Since the start of the war, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel has done little to address the power vacuum that would appear after Israeli forces leave Gaza. The risks of inaction are already apparent in Gaza City .