World Fun Fair Month is celebrated in September every year in countries across the world. Fun fairs provide great entertainment for those visiting and allow people to have fun and create great memories. The month aims to show appreciation to the many showmen who partake in the events at the fair and to uphold and celebrate all aspects of the fairground tradition. Showmen from the U.K., Europe, North America, and Australasia join hands and work together to ensure that the event is a truly global and memorable one.
History of World Fun Fair Month
The existence of fun fairs was first noted in 500 B.C. in the book of Ezekiel. Fairs were seen as a commercial event where early trading with foreign merchants commenced. Merchants would come from distant countries to trade their native wares.Religious activity has also been linked to fairs. The Latin word ‘feria’, meaning ‘holy day’ is the logical root word of ‘fair.’ Worship in the early days was centered around temples in great cities, and these cities also had great commercial centers. These were spaces found adjacent to the temples where traders and religious figures could gather. These gatherings made it possible for many types of commodities to be sold or bartered. While this was going on, other forms of activities and entertainment also took place, and this is how the fairs we know today came to be.The First American fair was held at Windsor, Nova Scotia in 1765, and in 1792, a fair in Ontario was held. These fairs still operate today. Elkanah Watson initiated the concept of the county fair. He was given the title ‘Father of U.S. Agricultural Fairs’ for organizing the Berkshire Agricultural Society and creating the Cattle Show in Pittsfield, Massachusetts in 1811. This cattle show was a competition where prize money was up for grabs. He also helped many communities to organize shows.By 1819, most countries in America organized their own agricultural societies. Today, more than 2,000 fairs are held in North America every year and many agricultural fairs are held in the U.K., Australia, Mexico, and other countries.
World Fun Fair Month timeline
The book of Ezekiel mentions the existence of the first fun fair.
The first fun fair in America is held in Windsor, Nova Scotia.
Watson organizes the Berkshire Agricultural Society and creates the Cattle Show in Pittsfield.
Today, more than 2,000 fairs are held in North America every year and many agricultural fairs are held in the U.K., Australia, Mexico, and other countries.
World Fun Fair Month FAQs
What is the biggest fun fair in the U.K?
Hull Fair is one of Europe’s largest travelling funfairs.
What is there to do at a fun fair?
There are many rides for children to enjoy as well as other family entertainment.
Which is the oldest fair in the U.K.?
Loughborough Fair is the U.K.s oldest fair — it was given a charter in 1221.
World Fun Fair Month Activities
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Visit a fun fair
Visit a fun fair and enjoy the day out. Check out all the stalls and eat delicious food!
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Ride the Ferris wheel
Ride the Ferris wheel and watch the world go by from high above. You can also take the opportunity to watch the twinkling stars from the ride and enjoy it with your loved ones.
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Share the fun
If you know someone who has not been to a fun fair, take them with you when you go. Gift them with this new experience and make sure they have an amazing time.
5 Interesting Facts About Fun Fairs
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A fun fair with a purpose
The Common Ground Fair in Maine is an agricultural fair known for promoting organic farming.
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There is no state fair in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania does not have a state fair but it has over 100 smaller fairs.
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Elvis comes in second at a fair
It is believed that Elvis participated in the youth talent show at a Mississippi-Alabama Fair and lost, coming in second place.
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The biggest state fair is in Texas
Texas holds the biggest state fair, which has over two million visitors.
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Dr. Pepper debuted at a fun fair
Dr. Pepper debuted at the 1904 World’s Fair in St. Louis.
Why We Love World Fun Fair Month
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It celebrates fun fairs
This month celebrates fun fairs and the joy they bring to our lives. Why not add some joy to your life and attend one?
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It brings people together
The love of fun fairs brings people together. It’s the perfect opportunity for friends and family to bond over a shared interest.
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It is a month of merriment
This month is filled with fun activities and festivities for people to enjoy. What’s better than an occasion to let loose?
World Fun Fair Month dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | September 1 | Friday |
| 2024 | September 1 | Sunday |
| 2025 | September 1 | Monday |
| 2026 | September 1 | Tuesday |
| 2027 | September 1 | Wednesday |
