Family fun May Fayre makes a welcome return to Sheffield

11th May 2022

The popular and free to attend family fayre will return to Weston Park in Sheffield city centre on 22 May 11am-5pm

• The fayre will host a range of events, including a fun fair, fire-breathing acts, comedy, music, food stalls and more
• The event will be delivered in association with the University of Sheffield and will feature displays from the University Library’s Archives and Heritage Collections.

The May Fayre, a day of free family entertainment in the heart of Sheffield, is returning to the city for the first time since 2019, thanks to a partnership between the University of Sheffield and Sheffield City Council.

Set to be held in Weston Park on Sunday 22 May from 11am to 5pm, the event will feature street performers, exhibitors, bar and food vendors, artisan crafts stalls, children’s fun fair and rides and more. 

Marvel at performances from the Pain-proof Man, the Fire King and Miss Elastina. The Maniax will show a Houdini-esque and hilarious show packed with stunts, illusions, music and comedy. The ladies from Granny Turismo will arrive on their souped-up shopping trolleys with spectacular dance routines as Jones and Barnard showcase their comedy juggling and escapology act. 

One of the new attractions is The Rajasthan Heritage Brass Band from India who will perform their repertoire spanning folk songs and beats, Bollywood hits, sci-fi and intergalactic funk and much-loved pop songs. TEAM BGee welcomes you to sing and boogie along as they parade and perform their funky love classics. The DJ Booth and the Wheels of Steel will roll Saturday Night Fever and Sunday Night at the Palladium into one big glitzy ball of music, mullets and bingo-calling. 

The event, hosted by Sheffield City Council in association with the University of Sheffield, will also feature a display of the key collections from the University of Sheffield Archives and Heritage Collections. These include the Orton and Spooner collection with supporting curator tours and Looking Beyond (National Fairground and Circus Archive), the Blunkett archive (Special Collections) and a Graduation textile wall by Daian Springall (Heritage collection). 

Councillor Mazher Iqbal, Executive Member for City Futures: Development, Culture and Regeneration at Sheffield City Council, said:

"It's brilliant to have our free family friendly events back on, celebrating the diverse and vibrant annual event and cultural programme that we’re proud to deliver in Sheffield.

"Weston Park May Fayre is one of our most popular, and in partnership with the University of Sheffield we have a fantastic line-up of entertainment throughout the day. Alongside the usual attractions, rides, food and drink, there will be quirky, cultural, educational and historical acts and exhibits for everyone to enjoy in the setting of our beautiful Weston Park.

"These events are inclusive to all and a great way to bring our communities together to experience something different. I know it’s going to be another huge turn out and can’t wait to see everyone having a great time."

Professor Vanessa Toulmin, Director of City and Culture at the University of Sheffield said:

“The University of Sheffield has been involved in Western Park for many years, and we’re proud to work with the council to bring these exciting acts to the people of Sheffield. The Fayre is one example of our Made Together programme - working with partners to make the region healthier, greener, more vibrant and innovative for all.’'

Weston Park May Fayre is presented by Sheffield City Council in association with the University of Sheffield and is supported by Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity and Heart Radio. The activities will be open from 11am to 5pm.