From academic lectures by internationally renowned figures, a varied series of folk, Americana and classical music concerts, workshops, exhibitions and poetry to a large-scale outdoor community day, the programme included an eclectic mix of interests and activities.
Initiated in 2021, the festival's practical archaeology project The Big Dig, thought to be unique in the UK, saw 185 primary school pupils take part in this year's excavation of the medieval site in Paradise. In total over 1,200 such local pupils have participated in the project so far.
The Big Day Out at Scarborough Castle family day attracted nearly 1,800 residents and visitors.
One of the town's more recent festivals to be established, this sixth consecutive year reached an overall attendance of almost 5,000 people.
5. Big Ideas By The Sea Festival 2026
Festival co-director John Oxley MBE introduces an event at St Mary's Church. Photo: Alan Yarker
6. Big Ideas By The Sea Festival 2026
Members of the Jake Leg Jug Band in concert at St Mary's Church Photo: Alan Yarker
7. Big Ideas By The Sea Festival 2026
Reverend Sam Treadwell is escorted to the opening of The Big Day Out at Scarborough Castle by the Roman VI Legion from York. Photo: Alan Yarker
8. Big Ideas By The Sea Festival 2026
Legio VI Victrix Eboracum (Roman VI Legion from York) re-enactment group at Scarborough Castle Photo: Alan Yarker