Special Events
Upcoming Events!
Festival of Lights Parade
Saturday, December 7th
(Rain date December 8th)
Join us in celebrating York's Holiday Season with the Festival of Lights Parade. The parade starts promptly at 4:30pm on Saturday, December 7th. Applications are available at the York Parks & Recreation Office and below via PDF or NEW ONLINE AT THE LINK BELOW. All are welcome!!! We would like to encourage the businesses in York to get involved in this community parade. What a great way to advertise your business and at the same time join in the spirit of the holidays and be involved in your community…a friendly competitive spirit could put a “Best Business’” banner on your float this year! Other honors include Best Children’s Float, Best Antique Car, Best Use of Lights, Best Theme, and Best Community Organization Float.
ALL WHO WOULD LIKE TO JOIN US CAN FILL OUT THIS FORM HERE: FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS PAPER REGISTRATIONONLINE REGISTRATION HERE: ONLINE REGISTRATION
Winter Community Concert
Sunday, December 15th
The Festival of Lights finale! Join us in the York Community Auditorium at York High School for a festive community concert! The Seacoast Wind Ensemble will be performing many holiday favorites to delight audiences. The York Arts Company will be accepting donations at the door to support theatrical and musical programming in York.
This is a FREE Community Event
Donations for Youth Programming Accepted at the Door
LOCATION: Community Auditorium at York High School
DAY: Sunday, December 15th
TIME: 3:00pm-4:00pm, Doors open at 2:30pm
ROAD RACES
Listed below in the following order:
- Big A 50K (May)
- Four on the 4th (July)
- York Days 5K (Late July/ Early August)
- Mt. A Trail Challenge 5K/1 Mile (September)
Big A 50k
THANK YOU FOR AN AMAZING 2024 EVENT! Over $4,000 was raised to go towards maintaining the trails and protecting the significant habitats found in the Mount Agamenticus Conservation Region!
Sign Up for the 2024 Big A 50k: Click HERE!
For More Information about Mount A: Click HERE!
2024 Potluck Aid Station Food Sign-ups: Click HERE!
The Big A 50K Course
The course is composed of three 10.35 mile loops starting at the summit of Mount Agamenticus (Big A) and climbing back up the Big A and going over Second Hill and Third Hill and back up the Big A. There are opportunities to cross the finish line at approximately 10 miles and 13 miles (or any multiple of them up to 31 miles/50K). The terrain is mostly single track with some dirt road and ATV-type trails. Footing is technical with plenty of rocks, roots, and elevation changes. Trail running shoes are recommended. The full 50K has approximately 5,787 feet of elevation gain.
Course Records
- Patrick Caron 4:48 (2017)
- Lila Gaudrault 5:22 (2022)
Race Contacts
Please direct registration related question to Nick Darby – ndarby@yorkmaine.org
For race related questions email Geoff & Bob – Yorktrailrunner@gmail.com
For more info click here
Four on the 4th
THANK YOU FOR AN AMAZING 2024 EVENT! Over $30,000 was raised for the Rotary Club of York!
2024 Race Results
Sign Up for the 2024 Four on the 4th: Click HERE! (LINK CLOSED UNTIL 2025)
York Parks & Recreation and York Rotary are happy to announce the 2024 Annual Four on the 4th Road Race in York, Maine!
Registration opens on Monday, February 19th, 2024 at 8:00am and stays open until July 2nd, 2024 or until filled, whichever comes first. The race is limited to 1,000 participants so register early! The first 500 registrants will be guaranteed a free race shirt. Beyond 500 registrants, shirts will be given upon availability.
NO DAY OF REGISTRATION AVAILABLE! All registrations must be completed by July 2nd at 8pm!
Those participating in the race on July 4th will pick-up their bib and shirt that morning, at York High School between 6:30am-7:25am. The race begins at 7:30am sharp. Early bib pick up will be available at YHS on July 3rd from 3:00pm-5:00pm.
This is the 45th Annual Four on the 4th and we hope you join us! Thank you again for your support!
Race Contacts
Please direct questions to Nick Darby – ndarby@yorkmaine.org
York Days 5k
THANK YOU FOR AN AMAZING 2024 EVENT! Over $10,000 was raised for Youth Programming in York!
Sign Up for the 2024 York Days 5k: Click HERE! (Link Closed until 2025)
The fourth race in the Seacoast Road Race Series, this 5K is part of the Annual York Days Celebrations. This race benefits youth programming throughout York. Registration opens on Monday, February 19th, 2024, at 8:00am and ends July 26th, 2024, at 8:00pm. The first 400 to register will be guaranteed a free race shirt in their requested size. Beyond the first 400 to register, shirts will be given upon availability.
Participants may pick up their race shirt and bib on race day, Sunday, July 28th. The race begins at 8am sharp and day-of bib and shirt pick up opens at 7:00am.
THERE WILL BE NO RACE DAY REGISTRATION. All registrations must be complete by July 26th!
Thank you again for your support!
Race Contacts
Please direct questions to Nick Darby – ndarby@yorkmaine.org
Mt. Agamenticus Trail Challenge
THANK YOU FOR AN AMAZING 2024 EVENT!
Registration is CLOSED until 2025 - 5K starts at 9:00 AM - 1 Mile starts at 9:20 AM
Our 8th Annual Mt. A Trail Challenge 5K/1 Mile event will be held Saturday, September 21, 2024 at the summit of Mount Agamenticus.
Run, hike, roll or stroll through either our 1 Mile or 5K course. This challenge is timed the good ol’ fashioned way with stop watches, thanks to our local York Highschool Cross Country Team. There are no traditional age category prizes, but there will be a raffle for all participants!
This year, any previous participants who beat their own personal Trail Challenge record can receive a Mount Agamenticus Conservation Region logo pin!
As always, all funds raised go right back into Mount A conservation & education efforts. Thank you for your continued support! Looking to be involved day-of or leading up to the event? Volunteers are always needed! Sign up here.
Course Descriptions:
5k Course: Starts in open field at summit, follows Big A trail around the top for a gentle warm up. Follow down the road to Hairpin Turn trail to the first water stop. Continues to Ring trail and follows it all the way around counter-clockwise, to second water stop before a challenging climb back to the top. Course will overlap slightly before the connection to Witch hazel trail. This year the course follows a portion of the Big A once again and finishes at the start area.
1 Mile Course: Starts at the center platform and follows the universal access trail around the inner loop and then outer perimeter to finish near our pollinator garden. Virtual participants: look for pink signage to help guide your way.
➤ 2023 In-Person 5K Results
➤ 2023 In-Person 1 Mile Results
Race Contacts
Please direct questions to Nick Darby – ndarby@yorkmaine.org
FAQs
Where and when is the race?
Race dates, times and locations are listed on our website and runsignup.com
How do I register for a race?
Register online, using a race’s link listed above.
What is the race’s course?
Each race’s course should be linked to their respective registration page or linked above.
Where can I pick up my bib once I’ve registered?
Bib pick up takes place on race day beginning 1 hour before the race start time. We also offer early bib pick up on occasion.
Can I get a refund once I’ve registered?
Race registrations are non-refundable.
Am I eligible for a t-shirt?
All runners registered before the t-shirt deadlines will receive a race t-shirt. A shirt deadline is posted on all registration forms.
Where do I get my t-shirt?
T-shirts are given to eligible participants the day of the race, or at an early bib pick up.
Where can I find my race results?
Results will be posted on this page, under each race.
Can I run with a baby jogger/stroller?
Baby joggers/strollers are welcome, but we ask that runners who use them please begin the race toward the back of the pack. In some cases, a volunteer may guide your baby jogger/stroller through the chute at the finish area.
Can I run with my dog?
For the safety of your dog and other runners, we do not allow dogs at our any of our races.
COMMUNITY EVENTS
Check out our exciting lineup of community events, conveniently listed in chronological order from January to December! Join us throughout the year for a variety of fun and engaging activities that cater to all interests and ages. Don't miss out on these opportunities to connect with your neighbors and make lasting memories together. Mark your calendars and get ready to experience the best of what our community has to offer!
Sweetheart Ball
Sweetheart Ball - Thursday, February 6th, 2025
Kids aged 4-12 accompanied by an adult figure of their choosing.
This is our 9th Annual Sweetheart Ball! Come treat your child to a festive evening of dressing up and dancing. A photo area will be set up, complete with fun accessories. This semi-formal event will include family friendly music, dancing, and light refreshments. Space is limited and pre-registration is a must for this event, we suggest registering early as we anticipate a sellout again this year!
A huge thank you to the Union Bluff Meeting House for hosting us again this year!
REGISTRATION: November 1st - Until Full
DATE: Thursday, February 6th
COST: $30 per couple / $10 each extra guest
LOCATION: The Meeting House at the Union Bluff
TIME: 5:00pm-6:30pm
Sign Up Here: You and your date - 2 tickets!
Additional Child
(These links will only show one item each. To register for 2 tickets AND additional child, follow one of these links and search "sweetheart"!
For the Love of Student Art
For the Love of Student Art Showcase
February 14th - March 1st, 2025
Opening Reception Thursday, February 13th, 5pm - 7pm
We are thrilled to have the opportunity to share student art with the community at this showcase held at the York Art Association. Special thanks to the wonderful art teachers from the York Schools for making student art available for this show and to the York Art Association for their generous hospitality. This showcase will be held February 14th-March 1st, with an opening reception on Thursday, February 13th from 5:00pm-7:00pm. Artwork will be displayed until March 1st and available to view Friday through Sunday from 11:00am-5:00pm.
Be on the lookout for other artistic happenings at YAA from late February to early March!
Thank you, York Art Association, for hosting us again this year!
York Art Association is located at 394 York St, York Harbor, ME 03911.
Springtime Surprises
(2025 Date coming in January 2025)
Springtime Surprises at Mount Agamenticus!
April 6th, 2024!
We hope that families will plan to join us for this fun-filled morning at Mount Agamenticus. We’ll be sure to have all the favorite springtime activities including an egg hunt, visit with the Easter Bunny, prizes, games, goodies and more. Come dressed for the weather as this is an outdoor event and don’t forget to bring your own basket or bag. Registration in advance will be a must! Registration is required due to popularity!
LOCATION: Mt. Agamenticus Summit!!
REGISTRATION: Ongoing until full, space is limited. York Residents Only!
DATE: Saturday, April 6th
COST: FREE
SCHEDULE: Up to Kindergarten - 8:00am-9:00am
1st Grade & Up - 9:00am-10:00am
York Residents Only, please!
Registration in advance is a must, as space is limited!
Ellis Parks Summer Concert Series
2024 Schedule (2025 schedule coming in April 2025)
6:30pm-8:30pm at the Gazebo
July 4th - Big Picture Band
July 5th - New Magnolia Jazz Band
July 6th - Gerry T Band
July 7th - Brian Walker
July 11th - Miraj
July 12th - ELVIS!!
July 13th - After Hours Band
July 14th - Fred Dame Jr.
July 18th - Key Elements Band
July 19th - All Together Now
July 20th - Sing Along with Rich
July 21st - Dover Community Band
July 25th - Cool Beans
July 26th - Merrimac Valley Concert Band
July 27th - Truth About Daiseys
July 28th - Johnny Bubar
August 1st - World Famous Grassholes
August 2nd- Seacoast Wind Ensemble
August 3rd - Amherst Town Band
August 4th - 60's Invasion
August 8th - ELVIS
August 9th - Windham Swing Band
August 10th - Compaq Big Band
August 11th - Mark Marquis Band
August 15th - Eastern Sound Band
August 16th - Amherst Brass Quintet
August 17th - Morlocks
August 18th - Fugitive
August 22nd - North River Music
August 23rd - Bel Airs
August 24th - The Visitors
August 25th - Stone Broke
August 29th - Knock on Wood
August 30th - Paul Marquis
August 31st - Chris Desmond
Family Health & Fitness Day
THANK YOU FOR A GREAT 2024 EVENT
Family Health & Fitness Day will be held on June 8th, 2024 at York Beach Ball Field in Short Sands!
Celebrated the second Saturday in June each year, this special day promotes the importance of parks & recreation in keeping communities healthy and active. Come enjoy a wide range of wellness opportunities totally for FREE!
2024 Flyer: Click Here
York Days Craft Fair
Get ready for an incredible fair experience! With over 50 local vendors and crafters showcasing their amazing creations, this event is not to be missed! Best of all, public entry is absolutely free! Treat yourself to delicious food and drinks available for purchase, while the kids enjoy endless fun with giant lawn games and entertainment. We've got you covered with convenient portable restrooms and hand sanitizing stations on-site for your comfort and safety.
Beach Bonfire Benefit
THANK YOU FOR HELPING US RAISE OVER $20,000 for the YCSA FOOD PANTRY IN 2024!
The Annual Beach Bonfire Benefit in York, Maine is a heartwarming tradition that has been going strong since 2001. It was initiated by the Woods family of Graystone Builders of Maine after the tragic events of 9/11. Their goal was to raise funds for the New York City Fire Department. Over the years, this event has evolved into a beautiful community gathering that supports various local charities and organizations.
Here’s how it works: The Woods family and their friends stack firewood to create a massive bonfire on Long Sands Beach in York. The warmth of the flames not only brings people together but also benefits those in need. The proceeds from this event, which has raised over $100,000, now go to organizations like the York Community Service Association Food Pantry (YCSAFP). It’s heartwarming to see how a simple act of kindling a bonfire can make a significant impact on people’s lives.
Battle at the Beach! - Pickleball Tournament
THANK YOU FOR A GREAT 2024 BATTLE AT THE BEACH!
This pickleball tournament offers a fun competition with divisions for all levels, from beginners to advanced. Enjoy like-level competition knowing that 100% of your registration fees support the YCSA and York High School Athletic Boosters. The tournament welcomes everyone, from those entering their first tournament up to those who have played tournaments for years.
We will be playing on 10 outdoor courts at York High School. York High School has plenty of parking and is located steps from Long Sands Beach, in the beautiful oceanfront town of York, Maine. What a fabulous weekend getaway just over an hour from Boston and offering 4 beaches in York alone plus explore Ogunquit, Wells, and Kennebunkport just minutes up the highway! Easy for locals in our community as well as a fun weekend getaway for those looking to visit the seacoast of Maine... day trip it or make a weekend of it!
To Register, or FMI: Click HERE
Festival of Frights - Trunk or Treat
Festival of Frights Parade with “Trunk or Treat”
Friday, October 25th
(Rain date October 29th)
The York Parks & Recreation Department, with special help from the York Police Department and Center for Active Living, is pleased to host this Halloween event to be held October 25th at Short Sands. The event will consist of a Halloween costume parade that begins at Short Sands basketball courts at 4:30pm and finishes at the Center for Active Living, 36 Main Street. If you’d like to be in the parade, please line up at Short Sands Basketball Courts no later than 4:15pm. Following the parade portion of the event there will be a “Trunk or Treat” for all participants to get some candy and treats at the Center for Active Living. Get those costumes ready and join us for a night of fun!
REGISTRATION: Drop In
COST: FREE
LOCATION: Parade starts at Short Sands Basketball Courts and ends at the Center for Active Living, 36 Main St - “Trunk or Treat” immediately following parade
DAY: Friday, October 25th (Rain date October 29th)
TIME: Parade line starts to form at 4:15pm - Parade leaves for the Center for Active Living at 4:30pm
ANY BUSINESS OR ORGANIZATION WHO WOULD LIKE TO JOIN US CAN FILL OUT THIS FORM HERE: TRUNK REGISTRATION
Veterans Breakfast
Annual Veterans Breakfast - Monday, November 11th, 2024
Join us for our Annual Veterans Breakfast! Held on Saturday, November 11th from 6:00am-12:00pm at Norma’s Restaurant. Free special for Veterans, generously sponsored by the York Committee for Veteran Affairs. All others may purchase any meal of their choosing. This event started and continues to thrive off the generosity of our community and sponsors! Thank you to all veterans for your service!
No registration necessary, just stop by
Norma's Restaurant at 529 US Rte 1 in York
on Monday, November 11th
And as always, thank you for your service!
Festival of Lights
Festival of Lights Parade
Saturday, December 7th, 2024
(Rain date December 8th, 2024)
To see our other Festival of Lights happenings, check out our Festival of Lights page by clicking HERE!
Join us in celebrating York's Holiday Season with the Festival of Lights Parade. The parade starts promptly at 4:30pm on Saturday, December 7th. Applications are available at the York Parks & Recreation Office and below via PDF. All are welcome!!! We would like to encourage the businesses in York to get involved in this community parade. What a great way to advertise your business and at the same time join in the spirit of the holidays and be involved in your community…a friendly competitive spirit could put a “Best Business’” banner on your float this year! Other honors include Best Children’s Float, Best Antique Car, Best Use of Lights, Best Theme, and Best Community Organization Float. The Festival of Lights holiday parade is held to celebrate the season, and we would very much like your organization or club to participate in this celebration.
ALL WHO WOULD LIKE TO JOIN US CAN FILL OUT THIS FORM HERE: FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS REGISTRATION
Winter Community Concert
Winter Community Concert- Sunday, December 15th, 2024
The Festival of Lights finale! Join us in the York Community Auditorium at York High School for a festive community concert! The Seacoast Wind Ensemble will be performing many holiday favorites to delight audiences. The York Arts Company will be accepting donations at the door to support theatrical and musical programming in York.
This is a FREE Community Event
Donations for Youth Programming Accepted at the Door
LOCATION: Community Auditorium at York High School
DAY: Sunday, December 15th
TIME: 3:00pm-4:00pm, Doors open at 2:30pm
More happenings in town!
Stay connected with everything happening around town! Our community calendar is your go-to source for local events hosted by other groups, businesses, and nonprofits. Have an event coming up that the community should know about? Let us know, and we’ll make sure it’s added to the calendar. Together, let's keep our town vibrant and informed!
Community Event Calendar
See what else is going on in town with other groups, businesses and non-profits!