The theme for the 2026 edition of the Harrogate district’s most incredible community event which was first held in 1966 has been revealed.

The theme for Knaresborough Bed Race is to be ‘the Swinging Sixties’, organisers Knaresborough Lions Club announced.

It’s a particularly appropriate choice as next year's race will be the 60th anniversary of its launch in the days when The Beatles were top of the pops and James Bond was new.

The theme should also appeal to the creative talents of the runners and riders, their seamstresses, carpenters and designers who make Knaresborough Bed Race such a spectacular event for 20,000-plus spectators.

Flashback to the early days of Knaresborough Bed Race which will be celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2026. (Picture contributed)

placeholder image — Flashback to the early days of Knaresborough Bed Race which will be celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2026. (Picture contributed)

Knaresborough Lions’ Bed Race chairman, Jatinder Singh Kalsi, said: “The Swinging Sixties theme will provide a canvas on which teams can express their famous creative talents to come up with imaginative displays.

“At the same time, it is especially apt as this will be the 60th anniversary of the running of the Great Knaresborough Bed Race.

"The theme will commemorate a spectacular community event, the brightest star in Knaresborough’s calendar, and one that places the town on the international map.”

Entry forms for Knaresborough Bed Race 2026 will appear on the event’s website in January and need to be completed and returned to the Lions by the end of February.

A lottery to decide on final places will be held in March.

Organisers welcome the involvement of others, and any organisation and individual keen to support Bed Race should get in touch via: www.knaresboroughlions.org or www.bedrace.co.uk