Events in October

Abingdon is a great place to be at any time of year, but autumn brings some extra special activities. Here’s a taster of some of the fantastic events happening in and around the town this October.

Michaelmas Fair

Monday 10 October, 2–11.00pm

The historic Michaelmas Fair in Abingdon has its roots in medieval times, when farmworkers would gather at the fair in the hope of being hired. Named for St Michael, legend says that Michaelmas is the last occasion each year when you should pick blackberries because the Devil has cursed them!

Held throughout the town centre and along Ock Street, Abingdon’s Michaelmas Fair is one of the longest street fairs in Europe. It makes for a wonderful afternoon and evening out for all the family, with entertainment, food and drink, funfair rides and sideshows.

Runaway Fair

Monday 17 October, 12– 9.00pm

Another annual fair in Abingdon is the intriguingly named an equally ancient Runaway Fair, held just one week after the bigger Michaelmas Fair. Historically, farmworkers who found their employer not to their liking would run away and put themselves up for hire once more.

Based around the Market Place and High Street, there is family fun to be had once again with entertainment and rides for children. It’s a wonderful chance for townsfolk and people from the surrounding area to enjoy a late autumn evening get-together.

Abingdon Marathon

Sunday 23 October, from 9.00am

Whether you are taking part as a runner or simply turning out to cheer on those who are running this marathon, this is a fun day out

A flat, fast two lap circuit takes runners through Abingdon town centre and the surrounding countryside, starting and finishing at Tilsley Park athletic stadium. 

Tree Climbing

Monday 24 October, 10am–4.45pm

The Earth Trust at Little Wittenham near Abingdon is putting on a fantastic half-term event for children, open to all ages. This is a chance for them to get out in the fresh air and be adventurous, using ropes and harnesses to head for the treetops. Booking essential, via www.bigtreeclimbing.co.uk.

Mud Pie Monday

Monday 24 October, 10–11.30am

Pack your wellies and waterproofs for another half-term event at the Earth Trust at Little Wittenham, near Abingdon. Mud Pie Monday is a drop in event, where buckets of mud equals buckets of fun – a fantastic chance for children to get creative and messy!

Pumpkin Night

28 October, from 6pm

Halloween has become big news in the UK, and The Bear and Ragged Staff in Cunmor on the outskirts of Abingdon are putting on entertainment and fun for all the family in support of the Mayor’s Charities. The event not only supports the Mayor in this way but what many people love to watch is the election of the new Mayor of Cumnor, which concludes with a dunking in the village pond.

This year you can be sure of a fine time at The Bear, with fireworks, a magician and Morris dancing, plus the biggest pumpkin and marrow competitions. Then there’s a charity auction, raffle and spot prizes. You won’t go hungry either, with a pig roast and barbecue available, plus a chance to sample a beer or two from the beer tent. Why not dress up in your spookiest costume and join in the fun?