Harrogate’s own award-winning DJ Rory Hoy is set to bring his feel-good beats back to the Henshaws Beer Fest this May bank holiday. Confirmed for the Saturday daytime slot, Rory joins a strong lineup of local talent and crowd-pleasers for the much-anticipated 2025 edition of the event.
“I’m so looking forward to doing it all again in 2025,” says Rory. “The thing I’m most looking forward to is seeing all the beautiful people enjoying themselves. My goal is to bring smiles to faces and I hope I will succeed in this.”
No stranger to big stages, Rory has performed at major events like Leeds Festival, collaborated with Fatboy Slim, and released eight critically acclaimed albums. Known for his infectious energy and party-starting DJ sets, he’s guaranteed to get the crowd moving when he takes the main stage at 3pm on Saturday 3rd May.
A Knaresborough native, Rory is also a music producer, author, and filmmaker. Diagnosed with autism at the age of five, he’s a passionate advocate for autism awareness and has a long-standing connection with Henshaws, becoming a celebrity ambassador for the charity in 2017 after volunteering at its Arts and Crafts Centre.
“As someone with autism, it’s heartwarming to know that charities such as Henshaws can provide a safe and secure environment for those with many differing disabilities to come together in a happy and social atmosphere and always leave with a smile on their face,” he says.
“You only have to walk into the wonderful Henshaws Arts and Crafts Centre in Knaresborough to see how much it means to the residents, and how much it empowers them to reach their full potential.
“It’s an inspiring place with inspiring people who work there, who are compassionate and dedicated. The whole ethos is built on positivity, and going beyond expectations, and I feel so honoured and privileged to be a part of it.”
What to Expect from Henshaws Beer Fest 2025
Running from Saturday 3rd to Sunday 4th May at the Henshaws Arts and Crafts Centre, this year’s festival offers a packed weekend of live music, quality local beers, and family-friendly fun, with proceeds supporting Henshaws’ work with people living with sight loss and disabilities.
Beer Line-up Includes:
- Cold Bath Brewing Co
- Daleside
- Harrogate Brewing Co
- Turning Point
- Roosters
Music Schedule Highlights:
Saturday 3rd May, Daytime (12pm–5pm)
Main Stage:
- 12pm – Rufus Beckett
- 1pm – Hamish Harper
- 2pm – Leo Hicks
- 3pm – Rory Hoy
- 4pm – Voice of the People
Saturday 3rd May, Evening (6pm–11pm, adults only)
Main Stage:
- 6pm – Ade Payne
- 7pm – Harrogate Spa Town Ukes
- 8pm – Crafted in Rock
- 9pm – Pepperhead
- 10pm – Captain and the Bear
Sunday 4th May, Daytime (12pm–6pm)
Main Stage:
- 12pm – Lochlan Shaw
- 1pm–3pm – Shindig DJs
- 3pm – Stray Dogs Howlin
- 4pm – Drop Leg Steppers
- 5pm – Hot Sauce
Indoor Stage:
- 2pm – The Lights
- 3pm – Jim Thistle
- 4pm – S.M.I.F.F.F & slimJIM
Alongside the music and pints, festivalgoers will be helping Henshaws provide life-changing support and creative opportunities for people with disabilities.
Tickets are available now at the Henshaws website. Don’t miss your chance to drink good beer, dance to great music, and support a brilliant cause.
