At least once a year, we head to Whitby to celebrate all things Gothic, including culture, music, and fashion.
Whitby is the perfect home to celebrate all things gothic. The town hosts an alternative music festival and unique market twice a year. The original event resulted from around forty pen pals meeting at The Elsinore Pub in Whitby. Since then, the weekend has become the world’s premier goth festival, attracting thousands to the town each spring and autumn. Here are 5 reasons why we love Whitby Goth Weekend.
1. Whitby is the perfect setting
Whitby is the perfect setting for Whitby Goth Weekend for several reasons. Whitby Abbey dominates the town, with Gothic architecture, its association with Bram Stoker’s Dracula, and a coastline that has claimed many sailors. Whitby has the most haunting atmosphere we have ever experienced.
This unique ambience perfectly complements the Whitby Goth Weekend. We love seeing the streets filled to the brim with people dressed in elaborate gothic and alternative fashion.
2. The live music is fantastic
The festival features a diverse lineup of live music, catering to various tastes within the gothic and alternative music scene. Whether you’re into industrial, darkwave, or post-punk, you will find something that resonates with you.
Famous bands such as The Damned and artists including Toyah have graced the festival’s stages over the years. Fields of Nephilim and The Sisters of Mercy have become more recent favourites.
3. We love to see creative expression being celebrated
One of the most inspiring aspects of Whitby Goth Weekend is the opportunity for creative expression. Attendees put great effort into their outfits, often incorporating intricate makeup, accessories, and elaborate costumes. This celebration of individuality and creativity is truly uplifting to witness.
4. You can meet new people and learn so much
The weekend offers a chance to immerse yourself in gothic literature, art, and history. With workshops, talks, and discussions led by enthusiasts and experts, you can deepen your understanding of the subculture and its influences. Don’t worry if you are new to the scene; people are so welcoming.
5. We love to pick up something unique from the Bizarre Bazaar
The Bizarre Bazaar is one of the highlights of the Whitby Goth Weekend. It is one of the UK’s most well-established and longest-running alternative markets and has long supported the WGW. The bazaar features over 100 stalls across venues such as The Spa Pavilion, Whitby Leisure Centre, and Whitby Brunswick Centre.
You’ll discover unique trinkets, gifts, and rarities from alternative merchandise makers and suppliers. Additionally, there’s a fantastic selection of dark art and other unique items to take home with you.
Whether you’re drawn to the music, the fashion, or the sense of community, there’s something for everyone to love about Whitby Goth Weekend. If you haven’t had the chance to experience it yet, put it on your bucket list!
Header image credit: © Copyright – All rights reserved by Simon McCabe
