St Giles' Fair is renowned as one of the greatest and most prestigious fairs in the country.
St Giles' Fair opening times
In 2025, the fair will be held on Monday 8 and Tuesday 9 September, operating from 11am to 11pm on both days.
The history of St Giles' Fair
The fair traditionally takes place on the Monday and Tuesday after the first Sunday post-St Giles' Day (1 September).
Originating in 1625 as a parish festival honouring St Giles, the fair evolved over centuries. Initially a toy fair in the 18th century, it transformed into a children's fair in the early 19th century. The funfair aspect expanded significantly during the Victorian era, influenced by advancements in transport and mechanical engineering, allowing more visitors and the development of early ride prototypes.
Road closures
Road closures and traffic measures will take place in Oxford city centre from 00:01 Sunday 7 September to 8am Wednesday 10 September to manage the safety of pedestrians and vehicles during the fair.
Banbury Road, Beaumont Street, Bevington Road, Keble Road, St Giles, Magdalen Street East and West, Pusey Street, Woodstock Road and Little Clarendon Street will all have some closures.
Disabled Persons parking will be suspended in St Giles, Broad Street, Keble Road and Pusey Street and relocated to Blackhall Road. Bus and taxi services in St Giles' will be transferred to Broad Street.
More information on the closures can be found on Oxfordshire County Council's road closures webpage
