The fair runs from Friday 25 September to Sunday 4 October, boasting more than 400 rides and attractions and thrills aplenty for all ages.
Attending for the very first time is Elevate 85, standing at 85m in height and the tallest ride ever to attend Goose Fair, which will offer incredible panoramic views of the fair and the city beyond. The 80m high Skyfall, the world’s tallest portable drop tower, will also be making a welcome return after its popular debut in 2025. Psycho is another new addition this year, 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.
Following feedback from visitors and residents in previous years, the fair will now be opening at midday on Friday 25 September. 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 12pm on Friday 25 September 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.
- World’s tallest portable drop tower returning to Goose Fair – all you need to know about 2026 event
- Tram workers announce six days of strike action during Goose Fair
“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.”
Opening Times
Friday 25 September 12:00 – 23:00
Saturday 26 September 12:00 – 23:00
Sunday 27 September 12:00 – 21:00 (SEND session 12:00 – 13:00)
Monday 28 September 16:00 – 22:30
Tuesday 29 September 16:00 – 22:30
Wednesday 30 September 16:00 – 22:30
Thursday 1 October 16:00 – 22:30
Friday 2 October 16:00 – 23:00
Saturday 3 October 12:00 – 23:00
Sunday 4 October 12:00 – 21:00 (SEND session 12:00 – 13:00)
