Ilkeston Charter Fair Countdown: 774th Event Approaches

Family fun with thrill rides and traditional stalls set to return to Market Place for five days, culminating in a historic mayoral opening ceremony.

Ilkeston Town Hall facade on a sunny afternoon.
AI

Ilkeston Town Hall facade on a sunny afternoon.

Preparations are underway for the 774th Ilkeston Charter Fair, a five-day event featuring thrill rides and traditional stalls, set to officially open on Thursday 22 October.

Thrill rides, hook-a-duck stalls, and candy floss sellers will once again transform the Market Place and surrounding streets for a five-day celebration of family fun. The much-loved street fair commences at 6pm on Wednesday 21 October.
The traditional opening ceremony, steeped in history, will take place at noon on Thursday 22 October. Crowds eager to witness this living history event are expected to gather from around 10:30am in front of Ilkeston Town Hall.
The proceedings commemorate King Henry III granting permission in 1252 for a fair to be held by the people of “Elkesdon”. An official will read the ancient charter, and as the clock on St Mary’s Church strikes noon, the Mayor will ring bells, signalling the commencement of the rides.
The 774th Ilkeston Charter Fair will continue until 8pm on Sunday 25 October.
Based on information from the official source: Erewash Borough Council (07/10/2026)