Visitors urged to plan ahead for busy Midsummer Fair weekend

Midsummer Fair has returned to Midsummer Common in Cambridge. It opened on Wednesday (19 June) and runs until this Sunday (23 June).

Visitors and residents are being encouraged to plan their trips in and around the city this weekend. It is the 811th return of the fair to Cambridge and as with previous years, it is expected to be a busy weekend in the city.

Midsummer Fair 2024. Picture: Keith Heppell

Roads may be busier than usual, especially those closer to Midsummer Common, so travel times might be longer than expected - especially on Sunday, which is ‘family day’ (when all rides are £2 all day).

As with all large events, the city council is working closely with its event partners, including Cambridgeshire County Council and the police, to prepare for one of the city’s most popular annual outdoor events.

Extra litter bins are being provided and increased litter picks will be carried out. Temporary toilets are also being provided on Midsummer Common to support the event.

Over the weekend it is important that non-emergency crimes are reported through 101 and emergencies to 999, so that resources can be allocated in a timely manner.

On Saturday 22 June there will be a community hub based at Midsummer Common. Residents and fair-goers can use the hub to report other concerns in person from 8am until 8pm.

On Saturday, concerns can also be reported by calling 07803 888 430.

The mayor of Cambridge, Cllr Baiju Thittala, opened Midsummer Fair on Wednesday with the traditional proclamation ceremony.

Speeches by the mayor and the town crier were followed by the centuries-old tradition of scattering pennies.

The fair includes family rides, children’s rides, a giant funhouse, ghost train, dodgems, and stalls with prizes and street food.

There are also on-site toilets and 24-hour security. The fair is also a dog-friendly event.

Midsummer Fair 2024. Picture: Keith Heppell

The fair is open from 5-9pm today (Friday, 21 June), 12-9pm on Saturday and 12-9pm on Sunday. For more information, visit bit.ly/3XstI59.