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Whitby Goth Weekend

The Whitby Goth Weekend is a bi-annual weekend festival celebrating goth and alternative culture, music, and fashion held in Whitby. The festival features live music, alternative shopping, and fringe events and attracts Steam Punk aficionados, Goths and a wide range of other alternative lifestyles.  It is a fantastic people watching event as thousands of people turn up in the most wonderful and eclectic dress. It’s very popular and often almost doubles the population of the town overnight. This guide aims to provide an overview of the event, what to expect, and tips for making the most of your experience.

Overview

  • When: The Whitby Goth Weekend occurs twice a year—typically in April and October. The dates for the event are usually announced at the autumn event for the forthcoming year. 
  • Where: The event takes place in various venues around the town, including the Whitby Pavilion, local pubs, and more.
  • Who Attends: Attendees include goths, steampunks, cyberpunks and those simply fascinated by alternative subcultures. All are welcome, regardless of their style. You may even see folks wandering around in a head-to-toe gimp outfit.

History

The festival started in 1994 in the Elsinore Pub and has grown significantly over the years, evolving from a small gathering of like-minded individuals to one of the largest goth festivals in the world.

Key Features

  1. Live Music: The WGW features an eclectic mix of music from various genres, predominantly gothic rock, post-punk, and darkwave. Expect to see both established and emerging bands.
  2. DJ Sets: Alongside live music, many events will showcase DJs spinning goth, industrial, and related subgenres.
  3. Alternative Market: A marketplace selling fashion, accessories, and art related to gothic and alternative lifestyles. Expect to find everything from clothing to music.
  4. Fashion: Gothic fashion is celebrated during the weekend, with many attendees dressing in elaborate and creative outfits.


  1. Workshops and Talks: Various workshops and talks are scheduled covering topics related to gothic culture, music, and lifestyle.
  2. Events and Activities: Beyond music, events may include themed parties, pub crawls, and film screenings.

Planning Your Visit

Accommodation

  • Hotels: Book early as accommodation fills up quickly have a look at our places to stay section.
  • Camping: For a different experience, check if camping options are available.

Getting There

  • By Train: Whitby can be reached via train from York, via Scarborough or direct to Whitby via Middlesbrough.
  • By Car: Accessible via the A171 road, but as you know parking can be limited at the best of times so during WGW expect to either arrive early of get a taxi into town.
  • By Bus: Local bus services operate to and from Scarborough, Middlesbrough and the Coastliner from Leeds.
  • More: Check out the Welcome To Whitby information page https://welcome2whitby.co.uk/information/

What to Wear

  • Embrace your personal style; there’s no strict dress code, but gothic, steampunk, and alternative fashion are encouraged.
  • Bring comfortable shoes, as the event involves a lot of walking, especially if you plan on exploring the town.

Tips for Attendees

  1. Plan Ahead: Create an itinerary to ensure you see the performances and activities you’re interested in.
  2. Arrive Early: Popular events and performances might fill up quickly, so arriving early is advisable.
  3. Engage with the Community: Take the opportunity to meet like-minded individuals and share experiences.
  4. Explore Whitby: Take some time to see the local attractions, such as the Whitby Abbey, the beach, and the quaint streets filled with shops and cafes.
  5. Stay Hydrated and Eat Well: With all the excitement, it’s easy to forget to stay hydrated. Plan for some meals and take breaks.

Important Information

  • Tickets: Purchase tickets in advance for specific events to avoid disappointment.
  • Health and Safety: Follow any health guidelines provided and ensure your safety while enjoying the event.

Conclusion

The Whitby Goth Weekend offers a unique blend of music, fashion, and community spirit, making it a must-visit for goths and those interested in alternative culture. Whether you’re returning or coming for the first time, embrace the atmosphere, and enjoy everything this vibrant festival has to offer!