Hull Fair facts for kids
Hull Fair is one of Europe's biggest traveling funfairs! Imagine a giant carnival that packs up and moves from place to place. This amazing event comes to the city of Hull, England, for one exciting week every year. In 1993, the fair celebrated its 700th birthday, which shows just how old and special it is!
The fair usually starts on the Friday closest to October 11th. It stays open every day except Sunday, offering tons of rides, games, and food. Unlike smaller local fairs, Hull Fair attracts huge attractions and visitors from all over the country. The Lord Mayor of Hull officially opens the fair on the first evening, usually around 5 pm. The very first Hull Fair took place a long, long time ago, from March 9th to 23rd in the year 1278.
The Story Behind the Fair's Date
Have you ever heard of a calendar changing? In 1752, something big happened with the calendar in Great Britain. People switched to a new system called the Gregorian calendar. This change meant that 11 days were skipped! So, Wednesday, September 2nd, 1752, was immediately followed by Thursday, September 14th, 1752.
Many people in Hull were very upset. They thought losing these 11 days meant they would also lose their beloved fair. Angry crowds gathered, shouting, "Give us back our eleven days!" Because of their strong feelings, the citizens of Hull got their wish. To make sure the fair always happened, October 11th, or the Friday nearest to it, became the official start date. This tradition continues even today!
What Makes Hull Fair Special?
Hull Fair is famous for its huge variety of attractions. You can find everything from thrilling roller coasters to classic carousels. There are also many games where you can win prizes, like hook-a-duck or shooting galleries. The fair is also known for its delicious food, including traditional treats like candy floss, toffee apples, and local specialties. It's a place where families and friends can make lasting memories.
