St Giles Fair has excited wonder throughout its centuries-old history. Developing from the medieval St Giles parish wake, it would become famed for the boisterous crowds drawn to its amusement rides, booths and sideshows. ‘It is,’ wrote John Betjeman in 1937, ‘about the biggest fair in England.’

Rowdiness often led to calls for the fair’s suppression, such as when captured rioters were freed by crowds at the fair following the Otmoor Riots in 1830. But, through an oftentimes riotous history, the fair has continued to flourish as a place not only of entertainment, but of innovation; ‘moving pictures,’ for example, were first screened in Oxford at the fair with Taylor’s Cinematograph Exhibition of 1897.

This talk by guest speaker Tim Healey will tell the story of the fair from the earliest times to the present day, also encompassing other seasonal sprees around Oxfordshire – the Witney Wakes for example, and Charlbury’s Forest Fair. Join the Museum of Oxford for the start of their 2024-25 Lunchtime Talks programme with this richly illustrated presentation capturing all the fun of the fair!

Tickets are available for £5 online or at the Museum Shop (booking fee applies online). It is strongly advised to book tickets in advance due to previous demand.

Tim Healey is a freelance writer and broadcaster who has presented many programmes on BBC Radio 3 and Radio 4. A popular speaker at local history societies, he is also a frequent contributor to The Oxford Times, taking a special interest in local heritage. Tim studied at Balliol College in Oxford and will be known to many as leader of the 17th-century costume band The Oxford Waits.

Complimentary tea and coffee will be available to enjoy during the talk. Please arrive before the start of the talk if you would like to grab a refreshment.

‘A History of St Giles Fair – and other seasonal sprees in Oxfordshire’

£5