Our Team

Harrogate International Festivals is the flagship arts Festival for the North of England.

We are a high performing cultural organisation delivering significant impact. Powered by a committed core team and a wider network of specialist freelancers and collaborators. Together, we deliver over 300 events each year, reaching audiences of more than 90,000 people and contributing to Harrogate’s cultural life and visitor economy.

Our team combines creative ambition with practical delivery, working year-round to bring world-class artists, ideas and experiences to the town. From large-scale outdoor events to intimate performances and community engagement, we are driven by a shared belief that great culture should be accessible, inclusive and on the doorstep

Harrogate International Festivals is governed by a Board of Trustees.

Sharon Canavar – Chief Executive

Sharon’s career spans senior arts leadership, partnership development and placemaking, with a focus on the intersection of culture, business and community. She has led organisations through transformation and growth, delivering ambitious programmes and partnerships with clear social and economic impact. A creator of distinctive festivals and events, she develops cultural propositions from concept to delivery, with a strong emphasis on audience experience, wellbeing and civic pride.

The Harrogate International Festival team posed smiling in front of the READ sign at the crime writing festival.

The Festival would not be able to operate without a loyal army of volunteers, to whom we are extremely grateful.

If you’re interested in joining our volunteers, please follow the link below.

Volunteer with Us

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Staff members sat at the sign in table welcoming visitors to the festival.

Work With Us

Fantastic opportunities to join our growing team at Harrogate International Festivals.

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The bar marquee full of people lit up at night.

About Us

The Harrogate International Festivals has fired up hearts and minds since its inception in 1966, revolutionising the cultural landscape of the North Yorkshire spa town.

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Harrogate International Festivals Logo projected onto the ground outside the venue.

Our Trustees

Harrogate International Festivals governed by a Board of Trustees

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The singer Laura Mvula takes the stage, singing into a microphone on a stand whilst holding a keytar (portable keyboard) over her shoulder.

See what’s on

Explore our full range of festivals and events across Harrogate, all year round!

Event listings
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