St Giles’ Fair
St Giles’ Fair is one of Oxford’s most historic and vibrant annual events, taking place on Monday 8 and Tuesday 9 September 2025, from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM each day. Held along St Giles’ Street and extending into Magdalen Street, Banbury Road, and Woodstock Road, the fair transforms the city centre into a bustling funfair, attracting thousands of visitors.
Dating back to 1625, the fair began as a parish festival celebrating the feast of St Giles. Over the centuries, it evolved from a toy fair in the 18th century to a children’s fair in the early 19th century, and later expanded during the Victorian era with the introduction of mechanical rides and attractions. Today, it is considered one of the largest street fairs in Europe, featuring a mix of traditional amusements like carousels and dodgems, alongside thrilling modern rides, food stalls, and live entertainment.
St Giles’ Fair offers a unique blend of historical charm and contemporary excitement, making it a must-visit event for families, students, and tourists alike.
