Nottingham's Goose Fair is back

It was last in the city in 2019, because of covid restrictions.

Author: Maddy Bull

For the first time in two years, hot mushy peas and Grantham gingerbread officially return to Nottingham, as the gates to Goose fair open today.

Europe's largest travelling fair was forced to stay away from the city for two years, because of the coronavirus pandemic.

More than 250 rides and attractions will be on the Forest Rec Ground for an extended 10 day event, for the first time in the fair's history.

The highlight of the fair is of course it's food!

Fair favourites mushy peas, Grantham ginger bread and the iconic cock on a stick will all be available.

Visitors will also be able to eat their way around the world with a diverse range of food from Spanish Churros, handmade Italian pizza, Mexican tacos, Nigerian fried plantain and Hawaiian Poke bowls.

Councillor Pavlos Kotsonis, Portfolio Holder for Leisure, Culture and Planning at Nottingham City Council, said:

“Goose Fair has a special place in the life of our city and it’s great to see it back this year, bigger and better than ever after two years away.

"We are very proud of its more than 700 year history and so many Nottingham people have a story to tell about it.

“Whether you are looking forward to the big rides or just having a go at hook-a-duck, it’s great to welcome Goose Fair back to the city.”

Showman’s Guild (Notts & Derby branch) chair, William Percival, said: “Nottingham Goose Fair is one of the largest travelling fairs in Europe that welcomes over 400,000 visitors each year. Members of the Showmen’s Guild are thrilled to be back in Nottingham, and look forward to welcoming visitors from across the region and beyond during the specially extended ten-day fair.”

Showman’s Guild (Notts & Derby branch) chair, William Percival, said:

“Nottingham Goose Fair is one of the largest travelling fairs in Europe that welcomes over 400,000 visitors each year.

Members of the Showmen’s Guild are thrilled to be back in Nottingham, and look forward to welcoming visitors from across the region and beyond during the specially extended ten-day fair.”

Opening times:

  • Friday 30th Sept: 4pm to 11.30pm
  • Saturday 1st Oct: 12pm to 11.30pm
  • Sunday 2nd Oct: 12pm to 9pm
  • Monday 3rd Oct: 4pm to 10.30pm
  • Tuesday 4th Oct: 4pm to 10.30pm
  • Wednesday 5th Oct: 4pm to 10.30pm
  • Thursday 6th Oct: 4pm to 11pm
  • Friday 7th Oct: 4pm to 11.30pm
  • Saturday 8th Oct: 12pm to 11.30pm
  • Sunday 9th Oct: 12pm to 9pm

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