York turns 800

In 2012, York celebrates its 800th year as a city. On July 9, the date when York’s royal charter was granted, choirs and musicians will perform a specially commissioned musical piece at the Eye of York, a lawn by the city’s 18th-century administrative buildings.

In addition to exhibitions, music festivals and tours, other events include the York Cycle of Mystery Plays, Aug. 2-27, the Traditional Dance Festival, Sept. 8, and Illuminating York, Oct. 24-27. Contact York City of Festivals (18 Back Swinegate, York, England, YO1 8ZD, U.K.; phone 01904 554666).