The Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival 2025 officially opened its doors yesterday for its milestone 65th edition. On hand to help cut the cake was none other than the Mayor of Harrogate, Councillor Chris Aldred, who joined the show’s organisers, exhibitors, and visitors for a joyful morning filled with smiles, celebration – and slices of birthday cake for all.
The Mayor not only cut the official birthday cake to mark 65 years of the UK’s most beloved summer retail trade show, but also added his signature and a heartfelt message to the show’s gigantic birthday card, created by The Greeting Card Association and brimming with well-wishes from across the retail community.

Home & Gift contributes significantly to Harrogate’s economy, helping to drive footfall, support local businesses, and enhance the town’s reputation as a leading retail destination. According to figures from the Harrogate Convention Centre, the show has welcomed more than 267,000 visits over past editions, generating a combined economic impact of approximately £30 million, including spending in local hotels, restaurants, and independent shops.

This milestone moment comes just weeks after the Home & Gift team proudly joined the London Pride Parade, partnering once again with The Greeting Card Association to hand out 30,000 inclusive LGBTQIA+ cards to crowds of 1.5 million spectators in a colourful show of support for diversity, creativity, and connection. It’s a continuation of Home & Gift’s commitment to celebrating and championing the full spectrum of its community.

“Having grown up in Harrogate, this show is especially close to my heart” said Zoe Bonser, Portfolio Director at Clarion Events. “It’s a joy to welcome our community here each summer, to share the magic of this beautiful town with my team and our audience, and to give something back to the local businesses that make it so special. Home & Gift truly feels like a celebration of place, people, and purpose.”

With an expanded Design Point 1, over 500 brands, and thousands of new product launches on show, Home & Gift 2025 is the biggest edition in more than a decade. Buyer numbers remain strong, with the show floor buzzing with footfall, trend discovery, and meaningful new connections.
And of course, it wouldn’t be Home & Gift without a toast (or two). From al fresco drinks by Cold Bath Brewing Co. to the legendary Show Party at Revolución de Cuba, this is retail’s most sociable sourcing experience.
Whether you’re interested in the design-led discoveries, the community spirit, or just a celebratory slice of cake – Home & Gift 2025 is serving up a summer of sourcing to remember and there is still time to join.