Britain's What's On Event Guide

Mop Fair

One of the oldest fairs in the county is making its way to Cirencester in October as the town welcomes Nichols Amusements of the Showmen's Guild of Great Britain for the return of the annual Mop fair offering fairground rides and stalls.
Dating back to the 12th century, the Mop Fair takes its name from its original purpose, which was a hiring event, where servants carried the tools of their trade to show that they were available for work. In recent times Mop Fairs have become funfair for the community to enjoy. Marshal Nichols' family have been bringing the Mop to Cirencester for generations and has worked closely with the Town Council to deliver the Mop each year.
The Nichols family has delivered Cirencester's Mop Fairs for over 100 years, the Charter dates back over 700 years. William Nichols was the first member of the family to present a fair, at Buckingham Charter Fair, and his grandson Marshall Nichols, third generation showman from the Nichols family, continues with the tradition today, delivering a number of historic Charter Fairs, including Cirencester.
Road closures will be in place in the town centre between 4pm Sunday until Midnight Monday.
Set up takes place from 4pm Sunday.