Bentham Auction Mart is preparing for one of its most anticipated annual celebrations as its Christmas weekend returns with a vibrant blend of agriculture, community spirit and holiday entertainment. What began as a local festive gathering has grown into a marquee event for the region, bringing together farmers, families and craft makers for two days of seasonal activity.
Illuminated Tractor Run Lights Up the Opening Night
The festivities begin Friday evening, December 12, with local schoolchildren leading a lantern procession accompanied by seasonal music. Their performance will set the tone for what many consider the highlight of the weekend: the Charity Christmas Lights Tractor Run. Around 100 tractors, decorated with elaborate lighting displays, will leave the mart to tour surrounding villages and raise funds for multiple regional charities.
Friday Night Events Combine Agriculture and Community Traditions
Alongside the tractor run, visitors can attend the farmers Christmas carol concert, the prize ceremony for the inaugural Christmas Bakers Challenge and a charity auction featuring a handcrafted dolls house. Organizers note that these activities help reinforce the mart’s long standing cultural role in the community.
Family Focus Expands With New Pedal Tractor Run
Saturday shifts into a full day of family programming, including live music, dancing, children’s shows and performances from school groups across the region. A new addition this year, the children’s pedal tractor run, is expected to draw significant interest from younger visitors.
Workshops, Performances and a Festive Market for Adults
Adults can take part in a needle felting workshop hosted by The Fleece Works of Settle, while the popular balloon nativity returns with its lighthearted, family friendly storytelling. Across both days, more than 60 independent vendors will fill the festive market with handmade goods, seasonal foods, local produce and hot refreshments.
Supporting Rural Charities Through Festive Celebration
Proceeds from the weekend will support Farming Community Network, North West Air Ambulance and St John’s Hospice, continuing the event’s commitment to rural well being and community support.
Event Details
- What: Christmas at Bentham Auction Mart.
- Where: Bentham Auction Mart, North Yorkshire.
- When: Friday December 12 from 5pm to 9pm; Saturday December 13 from 10am to 3pm.
- Admission: Adults £4; Children free.
