Boston May Fair 900th Anniversary Exhibition

This year, Boston celebrates the 900th anniversary of its first May Fair. To mark this historic milestone, Boston Guildhall Museum will host an exhibition celebrating the fair from 22 March to 17 May 2025.

The exhibition will feature photographs and objects from Neil Watson and the Showman’s Guildhall. Additionally, the museum is inviting local residents and visitors to contribute to a community exhibition by sharing their memories of past May Fairs.

If you have photographs of the May Fair and would like to contribute to the exhibition, Boston Guildhall asks you to please include the names of the people in the photos if known, an approximate date, and any stories or memories associated with the image/s. Submit your contributions to TICBoston@boston.gov.uk by 12 February 2025 for a chance to be featured in the exhibition.

By submitting a photograph, you agree to its use in the exhibition and any related promotions, while retaining copyright ownership.

For those without email access, images can be brought to the Guildhall during its opening hours (Wednesday to Saturday, 10.30am to 3.30pm).

Unlike many towns that have moved their fairs to out-of-town locations, Boston continues to host its fair in the town centre. It remains one of the top street fairs in the country, cherished by showmen, townsfolk, and visitors.

Cllr Sarah Sharpe, Portfolio Holder for Culture at Boston Borough Council, said: “We are very fortunate to live in a town with such rich heritage and history.

“Celebrating 900 years of the Boston May Fair is a fantastic achievement, and something we should all be very proud of.

“I have many fond memories of the May Fair and am excited to see others’ experiences at the exhibition.

“This is a remarkable celebration, and I highly encourage everyone to contribute their photos to make the exhibition the best it can be.”

For more information about the 900th anniversary of the Boston May Fair and the exhibition, visit the Boston Guildhall’s Facebook page.