Goose Fair will run from Friday, September 25 until Sunday, October 4
The nights are drawing in and there is almost a very slight nip in the air – that can only mean one thing, Goose Fair is almost here.
Some of the hundreds of rides and stalls are starting to arrive at Forest Recreation Ground with the 2026 event just a week away.
More than 350 rides, games and food and drink stalls will be in the city from Friday, September 25 until Sunday, October 4.
Goose Fair’s tallest-ever ride Elevate 85, which stands at at 280ft (85m tall) – taller than the higher point of Nottingham’s Council House (200ft) and the Victoria Centre flats (246ft) – is among the rides to have arrived on site.
Skyfall, the world’s tallest portable drop tower, will also return after a popular debut year in 2025.
Another new addition for 2026 is Psycho – a looping thrill ride that spins and swings its riders through the air.
All the Goose Fair classics will be in attendance too, such as waltzers, dodgems, gallopers, and the Cake Walk – the only ride still operating that featured when the fair was held at Old Market Square in 1927 – plus lots of side-show games such as hook-a-duck, hoopla, darts, and basketball.
Nottingham City Council said that following feedback from visitors and residents in previous years, the fair will now be opening at noon on Friday, September 25.
This extended opening gives fairgoers an additional four hours to enjoy the rides and attractions, while offering a quieter weekday afternoon alternative to the busier evenings and weekends.
To officially open the event, the traditional bell-ringing ceremony will take place at noon on Friday, September 25 adjacent to the tram stop at Gate 8, with the Lord Mayor of Nottingham ringing the silver Goose Fair bells.
The ceremony will also include a performance from the Djanogly City Academy choir, plus a reading from poet, researcher and seventh-generation Showman, Sheldon Chadwick.
SEND sessions will once again take place on Sundays from 12pm-1pm. These sessions allow children and people with special educational needs and disabilities to enjoy the fair without the loud noises and bright lights.
Businesses at the Forest, including Homemade Café and Forest Sports Zone, will remain open as usual during Goose Fair.
Councillor David Mellen, executive member for leisure, culture and tourism at Nottingham City Council, said: “With just one week to go until Goose Fair returns, excitement is really starting to build across the city. As the first rides arrive on site, we’re looking forward to welcoming thousands of visitors for one of Nottingham’s most iconic events.
“This year’s fair will feature a fantastic mix of traditional favourites alongside exciting new rides and attractions, ensuring there’s something for every generation to enjoy.
“We’re also pleased to be introducing an earlier opening time on Friday, giving people even more opportunity to experience Goose Fair, whether they prefer to visit during the day, in the evening or over the weekend.
“Goose Fair is not only a much-loved tradition, it also delivers significant benefits for Nottingham, attracting visitors from across the region, supporting local businesses and showcasing the city as a vibrant destination for events. We can’t wait to see the fairground lights return and welcome everyone back for another memorable year.”
