Croydon Harvest featuring The Walnut Fair

Croydon Harvest is back for an autumn extravaganza where giants roam and hope blooms!  

Inspired by the history of Croydon’s Walnut Fair (1314 – 1868) this centuries-old tradition comes back to life with plenty of surprises and spectacles. Join us for a free family-friendly weekend like no other.  

• Folk dancing from around the world – see performances and join free workshops from Morris to Bhangra 

• Street performances; theatre shows; face painting; fortune telling; and the return of the Magic Shed 

• Harvest stories (for adults and children) from Africa, Asia, Mexico and even the rather off-putting tale of John Barleycorn… 

• Vauxhall City Farm in The Queen’s Gardens 

• Street food; a craft and community market and seasonal cocktails at our Harvest Bar 

• Autumnal crafts – create a Ukrainian wheat crown (vinok); jewellery; miniature baskets and much more 

• Join the Jonkonnu Queen, the Walk of the Dandelion, and The Orbitza Parade 

Plus hear a talk on The Walnut Fair on Thurs 2 Oct, 6.30pm – 7.30pm at Croydon Clocktower. 

Pull on your cosiest jumper and step into the best of harvest! 

A quick note: Storm Amy is making the Saturday weather forecast more than a little breezy! We will do our best to keep things going, lots of the programme can move into the Clocktower but unfortunately if the predicted wind speeds become a reality, there may have to be some timetable amends and some cancellations.  Sunday however is looking much better! 

Filming and photography will be taking place at this event. Please visit the Information Desk or let a member of staff know if you do not wish to be captured on camera.

Bring Your Harvest Donations!

We’re partnering with the Food Poverty Network to collect donations for local foodbanks. Please bring a tin or a cupboard item and drop it off at the collection point which will be The Orbitza on Croydon High Street.

Harvest Market Stalls

In keeping with the origins of trading at the Walnut Fair, we’re happy to bring you an array of independent and ethically-led market stalls to Croydon Harvest. With small businesses offering food, homewares, clothing and more, we are delighted to be showcasing businesses committed to community and sustainability alongside stalls with information from local organisations.

The History of The Walnut Fair

The Walnut Fair is an annual tradition which took place in Croydon Town Centre, starting in 1314.

By 1644, travellers flocked from the East End and beyond to buy walnuts by the hundreds. Customs of the October fair also included a variety of entertainment such as travelling theatre and circus, and popular goods sold included oysters and gingerbread.

The fair attracted large crowds to the Fair Fields, until it was finally closed down in 1868 for being too bawdy!

Read more about the fascinating history of The Walnut Fair in this article by Will Noble for Londonist: Croydon Edit.