Nottingham City Council and the Showmen’s Guild have finalized the schedule for the 2026 Nottingham Goose Fair, confirming the historic event will return to the Forest Recreation Ground for a ten-day stint. The fair is scheduled to run from Friday, 25 September, through to Sunday, 4 October, maintaining the extended format that has become a staple of the city’s autumnal calendar.
As one of Europe’s largest travelling fairs, the event typically draws more than half a million visitors to the Forest Recreation Ground. With over 400 rides and attractions ranging from traditional carousels to high-speed white-knuckle experiences, the fair remains a primary driver for the local visitor economy.
Forest Recreation Ground schedule and visitor expectations
The confirmation of the ten-day window allows the Nottingham City Council and the Showmen’s Guild to begin the logistical preparations required for an event of this scale. The Forest Recreation Ground will undergo its annual transformation into a sprawling entertainment hub, accommodating hundreds of independent operators.
Data from the 2025 event indicates that the fair continues to be a significant regional draw. While 83% of attendees last year were from Nottinghamshire, the remaining 17% travelled from across the East Midlands and further afield. This influx of visitors is a critical component of the city’s economic strategy, providing a concentrated boost to local businesses and the transport network.
Enhanced parking measures and resident ride vouchers
A primary focus for the 2026 edition is the mitigation of the fair’s impact on those living in the immediate vicinity of the Forest Recreation Ground. Following feedback from local communities, the Nottingham City Council has confirmed that the temporary resident parking permit scheme will be expanded. This measure is designed to prevent fair-goers from occupying residential street parking, a recurring concern for those living in the Hyson Green and Forest Fields areas.
In addition to parking controls, the Showmen’s Guild is collaborating with the council to provide a tangible benefit to local households. Residents in the streets closest to the site will be eligible for complimentary ride vouchers. These vouchers are typically valid on selected weekday evenings, intended to encourage local attendance during off-peak periods while acknowledging the disruption caused by the event’s noise and increased footfall.
Economic impact and regional visitor data
The financial significance of the Nottingham Goose Fair was underscored by an economic impact report following the 2025 festivities. Total consumer spending was estimated at £11.8 million over the ten-day period. This expenditure is distributed across several sectors, including £7 million on rides and attractions, £3.5 million on food and drink, and £1.3 million on local transport services.
Councillor Neghat Khan, Leader of Nottingham City Council, noted that the event provides a unique experience that supports the city’s identity. Having attended the fair since childhood, Khan emphasized that while the economic benefits are clear, the council is committed to balancing the event’s success with the needs of local residents. The council is currently working with ward councillors to refine the resident support package, with further details expected to be mailed to eligible households in the coming months.
Showmen’s Guild preparations and logistics
William Percival, Chair of the Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire branch of the Showmen’s Guild, confirmed that preparations are already underway. The Guild works closely with city engineers to manage the complex arrival and setup of heavy machinery at the Forest Recreation Ground.
The 2026 fair will continue to feature the traditional “Goosey” mascot and a variety of food stalls offering fairground staples like mushy peas and mint sauce, alongside modern international cuisine. Operational hours and specific gate information will be released as the opening date approaches. Residents requiring information regarding the parking permit extension are advised to monitor official council communications for the application window.
Source: Nottingham City Council
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