St Giles' Fair, Annual traveling carnival in St Giles' Street, Oxford, England.
Description
St Giles' Fair occupies the length of St Giles' Street and features mechanical rides, food vendors, and entertainment stalls of all kinds. The setup takes advantage of the street's full width to create a bustling festival space open to visitors of every age.
History
The fair began in 1625 as a parish festival near St Giles' Church, originally focused on selling toys and simple goods. It evolved during the Victorian period into the mechanical amusement carnival seen today.
Culture
The fair takes its name from Saint Giles and his place in Christian tradition, drawing from centuries of local custom. Today it remains a gathering where Oxford families and students come together each September to enjoy rides and entertainment as a community event.
Practical
The fair takes place over two days in September and welcomes visitors to walk through the grounds for free. Individual rides and attractions each have their own payment system run by the operators.
Did you know?
In September 1567, Queen Elizabeth I watched the fair's activities from a window of St John's College across the street. This royal observation reveals how important this Oxford gathering was considered centuries ago.
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