free activities for young people
From documentary filmmaking, a Youth Instrument Discovery Day, to fashion and upcycling, young people can experience a breadth of different kinds of creative activity whatever their interests may be.
Develop an understanding about careers in the creative industries through taking workshops with professionals in the industry.
Help steer the direction of creative programming and provide a voice for young people by joining the Youth Advisory.
See what's on below.
What's on
Young People's Reading Social
For ages 17-25. Bring your favourite reading material along to this Reading Social. Take part in a fun, book trivia quiz. Learn more about the Youth Advisory, a working group that provides young people with a voice at Craven Arts, deciding on what activity happens in the building for young Creatives and developing the processes and people who run Craven Arts House. For ages 17-25.
Thursday 9th July
6pm - 9pm
60 Second Doc - Filmmaking Workshop
Learn the basics of documentary filmmaking in this practical session. Join ex-Skipton Academy Student Dawn Feather, a producer, director, postproduction editor for TV and film. By the end of the session you will be able to understand documentary as a format, have learned production planning, camera and post production skills as well as have made your own 60 second film. For ages 15-19.
Saturday 11th July
10am - 4pm
Visible Mending Workshop
Learn how to customise your clothes with visible mending. Learn to use simple stitching and patching methods to mend, update and customise your own clothing. With a focus on sustainability and creativity, you’ll learn different stitching techniques, patchwork and embroidery. You're invited to bring along your own clothing, particularly denim items but there will also be some free tote bags to customise. All other materials are provided. For ages 11-16.
Sunday 12th July
12pm - 2:30pm
Youth Instrument Discovery Day
Have you ever wanted to shred on an electric guitar, drop a beat on the drums, or see what it feels like to play a cello? Whether you’re a total beginner who has never touched an instrument, or a bedroom musician looking to try something new, this is your chance. Craven Arts House is opening its doors for a hands-on, high-energy instrument try-out day. Zero Experience Required: Our friendly local musicians and tutors will be on hand to show you the absolute basics in a fun, relaxed environment. For ages 11-17.
Sunday 12th July
3pm - 5pm
About Cultural Passport
In 2025, the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority awarded funding to the City of York Council as part of the Mayoral Investment Fund to develop and manage the ‘Cultural Passport for Young People’ programme.
The Cultural Passport for Young People provides creative and cultural activities to develop and inspire the future of young people from disadvantaged areas of the Combined Authority boundary.
