Rowlands Castle Village Fair

Saturday 4th July 2026 from 11am to 11pm

Author: Herb

  • Last chance to “Share your Fair photos”

    Last chance to “Share your Fair photos”

    The 2026 Rowlands Castle Village Fair will, we believe, be remembered as one of the most successful in our history.

    From the moment the gates opened until the final band left the stage, the atmosphere on the Green was fantastic. Whether you came for the live music, arena events, stalls, food, bar, or simply to enjoy a day out with friends and family, we hope you had a wonderful time.

    To help capture those memories, we’re running our “Share Your Fair Photos” competition, with a £50 Castle Inn meal voucher up for grabs.

    There are two categories:

    • Best photo or video from the 2026 Village Fair
    • Best photo from any previous Rowlands Castle Village Fair

    To enter, simply:

    • email your photos or videos to enquiries@rcvf.org.uk, or
    • post them on Instagram using the #RowlandsCastleVillageFair hashtag.

    The closing date for entries is Tuesday 4 August.

    Our judging panel will review all entries shortly afterwards, and the winner(s) will be announced on the Rowlands Castle Village Fair website and across our social media channels.

    We look forward to seeing the Fair through your eyes. Good luck!

  • Live Music (for free) and Food – All Day and Evening

    Live Music (for free) and Food – All Day and Evening

    Why leave when the music keeps playing? From 11.30am right through to 11.00pm, the Rowlands Castle Village Fair offers a full day and evening of free live entertainment. Whether you’re coming for the brass band, Forever Queen or DJ Loz, you’ll find plenty of food and drink to keep you going too, with options for meat eaters, vegetarians and vegans alike.

    So settle in, relax and enjoy the fair for as long as you like.

    Music all day

    Village Fair Live acts
    • 11.30am Blendworth Brass Band
    • 12.45pm Victory Morris Men
    • 1.30pm Velvet Whiskers
    • 2.45pm Alice Milburn
    • 4.00pm Marley Blandford
    • 5.15pm AstroModa
    • 6.30pm The Generation Game
    • 8.00pm Forever Queen
    • 10.00pm DJ Loz

    Food and drink options

    The Village Fair BBQ will be serving burgers and hot dogs from Treagust butchers, in buns from Westbourne bakery.

    Vegetarian options are also available; veggie burgers and veggie sausages, which are also suitable for vegans.

    Our popular chicken and chorizo paella will be served from mid-afternoon until it’s gone—so don’t leave it too late!

    Ritas Pizza van

    As the evening entertainment gets underway, Rita’s Pizzas will be firing up the oven with freshly made pizzas for meat lovers, vegetarians and pescatarians

    And the BBQ options will also be available in the evening.

    Drinks at the Village Fair bar

    Need something to wash it all down? The Village Fair Bar will be serving…

    • Lager, real ale and cider on tap
    • Low alcohol choices
    • Pimms
    • Aperol Spritz
    • Wines
    • Soft drinks
    • Bottled Water – also available from the BBQ

    Coffee and cakes

    Available from Our Little Place – a vintage coffee trailer run by Lisa – serving a selection of hot and cold drinks and cakes.

    Our Little Place

    And don’t forget there will be other food & drink options around the green:

    • Ice cream van
    • Slushies
    • Confectionary
    • Home baked produce at the WI stall
    • Refreshments at the Church on the Green
    • Local pubs – The Robin Hood and The Castle Inn
    • The Bumble Bee cafe

    See you on the Green!

    With 11½ hours of free entertainment, fantastic food and drink, and something happening from morning until late evening, there’s every reason to spend the whole day at the Rowlands Castle Village Fair.

    Bring your family, bring your friends—and stay as long as you like. We look forward to seeing you there!

  • Stallholders – information for Saturday 4th July

    Stallholders – information for Saturday 4th July

    The Rowlands Castle Village Fair is almost here—just 2 days to go!

    Several stallholders have been asking what time they should arrive and what they need to do on the day. The answers to these and many other common questions have always been included in the Frequently Asked Questions section of the stall application form (pages 3–4). To make things a little easier, we’ve reproduced the relevant information below in a digital format.

    Schedule for the day

    • 7.00am Start setting up
    • 9.00am-11.00am Buy a bacon bap from the BBQ
    • 10.00am All vehicles off the green. Road closure of part of The Green – from Links Lane to the Robin Hood.
    • 11.00am Fair opens
    • Live music, food and drink throughout the day
    • 5.00pm Pack up. Road re-opened.
    • Music, food and bar continue until fair closes at 11.00pm

    Music is FREE all day

    What time can I set up?

    The Fair Committee will be on site from around 7am and will guide you to your allocated pitch. Pitches are pre-allocated and cannot be changed on the day. A single pitch is 3m x 3m. Please remain within this area and leave a space of approx. 1m between stalls.

    If you’ve ordered tables and chairs then these will be provided by the green masters, Bob and Andy, who’ll be wearing pith helmets.

    What time does the Fair officially start?

    The Fair officially starts at 11am.

    What happens if it is wet/raining?

    The Fair will go ahead whatever the weather conditions unless it is unsafe to do so. In the event the Fair is cancelled due to circumstances beyond our control there will be no refunds.

    What time does the Fair finish?

    The Fair begins to wind down from 5pm. However, there will be live music during the evening, and stallholders will be welcome to stay (although you may be asked to move your pitch to facilitate the evening’s events and the safe removal of fairground rides etc).

    Can I drive my vehicle onto the village green?

    You may be able to take your vehicle onto to the village green to unload. ALL vehicles MUST be removed by 10am and CANNOT go back onto The Green until 5pm.

    ALL VEHICLE MOVEMENTS MUST BE SUPERVISED BY A FAIR COMMITTEE MEMBER.

    How can I identify a RCVF committee member?

    Most RCVF committee members will be wearing green RCVF polo/tee shirts and will be available throughout the event. If you cannot see one, please ask at the Grand Raffle and Information Desk, the Bar or the Main Stage.

    Can I use the road to the side of The Green even though it says it is closed?

    No. This road is subject to a Closure Order under the Town Police Clauses Act 1847 between 10am and 5pm. This is for health and safety reasons. There will be NO access without authority of the stewards and access would only be granted in extreme circumstances. Please do not move the CLOSED signs at either end of this road.

    Who do I contact in case of queries on the day of the Fair?

    Any RCVF committee member wearing a green RCVF polo/tee shirt.

    Can I leave rubbish behind?

    Please DO NOT leave any rubbish behind. Please take it home or place in the skips provided at each end of The Green.

    If you think you’ve been scammed!

    We’ve been contacted by a couple of stallholders who have been targetted by scammers trying to sell them stalls for the village fair. If you’ve not received any emails from enquiries@rcvf.org.uk then you may be a victim of the same scammer.

    If you have been affected by this scam, you have our sincere sympathies. We encourage you to report the incident to Report Fraud so that it is officially recorded.

    We would also appreciate it if you could let us know, by emailing enquiries@rcvf.org.uk. This will help us update our report to Report Fraud.

    Unfortunately, the fair is now fully booked, and we are unable to accept any additional stall applications for Saturday.

  • Thanks to DMB Scaffolding for the Live music main stage

    Thanks to DMB Scaffolding for the Live music main stage

    Big thanks to DMB Scaffolding, 6 Spur Road, Portsmouth — not all heroes wear capes, but you certainly stepped up when we needed you.

    You came through at the last minute to supply and erect all the scaffold for our main stage, enabling a fantastic day for the village. We’re so grateful for your generosity, expertise, and support.

    Don’t forget that Live Music is FREE all day and evening at the Rowlands Castle Village Fair.

    #RowlandsCastleVillageFair #rowlandscastle #dmbscaffolding

  • A New Look for the Village Fair Bar

    A New Look for the Village Fair Bar

    If you’ve visited the Village Fair Bar over the years, you’ll probably notice something different this year.

    For 2026, our bar has had a well-earned facelift!

    After many years of loyal service, the old worktops had reached the end of the road. Rather than simply replacing them like-for-like, we decided it was the perfect opportunity to improve the layout too by widening the front of the bar to an impressive four metres. The extra serving space should help our hardworking volunteers serve you even more quickly on Fair Day.

    Initially, we looked at buying replacement worktops, but then the Rowlands Castle community stepped in with an incredibly generous offer.

    Giles Stanley of Rowlands Castle Builders kindly arranged for a brand-new custom-built bar top to be made from beautifully planed timber. Even better, the timber itself was supplied completely free of charge by Covers. One of Giles’s skilled carpenters then expertly crafted the wood into a solid, attractive worktop that’s built to withstand many Village Fairs to come.

    It’s another wonderful example of local businesses supporting their local community. Their generosity has not only saved the Village Fair a considerable expense, but has also given us a bar that we’re incredibly proud of.

    Our sincere thanks go to Covers for donating the timber and to Giles Stanley and Rowlands Castle Builders for donating the craftsmanship and making the whole project possible.

    When you stop by the bar on Fair Day for a refreshing drink, take a moment to admire the new worktops. They’re a reminder that the Village Fair is made possible not only by volunteers, but also by the outstanding support of local businesses that generously give their time, skills and materials.

    We hope our new bar will serve the village for many years to come.

    Thank you, Covers and Rowlands Castle Builders!

  • Step into the ring with Gary Logan’s Boxercise

    Step into the ring with Gary Logan’s Boxercise

    Did you go along to the Rowlands Castle Association’s May Picnic earlier this year?

    If you did, you may already know just how much fun Gary Logan’s Boxercise sessions can be. If you missed it, don’t worry—you’ve got another chance to join in at this year’s Rowlands Castle Village Fair!

    🥊 Gary will be back in the Arena on Saturday 4th July, straight after the Dog Show, ready to get everyone moving.

    Boxercise is a brilliant way to burn off some energy, learn new skills and have lots of fun with your friends and family. You’ll get to throw punches at pads, practise simple boxing moves and take part in exciting activities led by Gary.

    And before anyone asks…

    🚫 No sparring! No getting hit!

    This is all about fitness, fun and confidence-building in a safe and friendly environment.

    Whether you’re a budding champion or just looking for something exciting to do between the rides, stalls and shows, come along and give it a go.

    Who knows? You might discover your hidden boxing talent!

    See you in the Arena after the Dog Show!

  • Music from 11am to 11pm at the Rowlands Castle Village Fair

    Music from 11am to 11pm at the Rowlands Castle Village Fair

    One of the highlights of this year’s Rowlands Castle Village Fair is a fantastic programme of live music and entertainment running throughout the day and well into the evening.

    From traditional brass band favourites and Morris dancing to talented local performers, a headline Queen tribute act and a late-night DJ set, there’s something for everyone to enjoy on Saturday 4th July.

    The Day Begins with Tradition

    The music starts at 11.30am when the ever-popular Blendworth Brass Band takes to the stage. A regular favourite at the fair, their uplifting performance is the perfect way to get the day underway.

    Shortly afterwards, at 12.45pm, the Victory Morris Men bring colour, energy and a touch of English tradition to the village green. Their lively display of Morris dancing is always a crowd-pleaser and a wonderful part of the fair’s heritage.

    Local Talent Takes Centre Stage

    Throughout the afternoon, a series of talented performers will keep the entertainment flowing:

    • 1.30pm – Velvet Whiskers
    • 2.45pm – Alice Milburn
    • 4.00pm – Marley Blandford
    • 5.15pm – AstroModa

    Whether you enjoy acoustic melodies, contemporary sounds or energetic live performances, these acts showcase some of the best local musical talent around.

    Evening Entertainment

    As the afternoon turns into evening, the atmosphere shifts up a gear.

    At 6.30pm, The Generation Game take to the stage to keep the crowd entertained with a lively set guaranteed to get people singing along.

    Then, at 8.00pm, the fair welcomes its headline act, Forever Queen. Expect all the iconic hits, soaring vocals and unforgettable stage presence that have made Queen one of the world’s most loved bands. It’s set to be a spectacular performance and a fitting climax to a fantastic day.

    Party into the Night

    Just when you think the music is over, DJ Loz takes over at 10.00pm, keeping the party going with an upbeat mix of crowd favourites until the fair closes at 11.00pm.

    A Full Day of Entertainment

    With live music running from morning through to late evening, plus the dog show, Punch and Judy, fairground rides, food stalls, bar, horticultural show and much more, the Rowlands Castle Village Fair promises a memorable day out for the whole family.

    So bring your friends, bring your neighbours and make a day of it. Whether you’re a fan of brass bands, folk traditions, live bands, classic rock or dancing under the summer sky, you’ll find something to enjoy at this year’s fair.

    Rowlands Castle Village Fair
    Saturday 4th July 2026
    11am – 11pm
    The Green, Rowlands Castle

    We look forward to seeing you there!

  • Kids! Are You Ready for the Rowlands Castle Village Fair?

    Kids! Are You Ready for the Rowlands Castle Village Fair?

    The countdown is on! 🎉

    On Saturday 4th July, the Rowlands Castle Village Fair returns to The Green, and it’s packed with fun things for children and families to enjoy all day long. The fair opens at 11am and there’s something happening from the moment you arrive.

    Ride, Spin, Bounce and Laugh!

    One of the biggest attractions is the funfair, with plenty of rides for children. Whether you love gentle rides, bouncy castles, bungee trampolines or just the excitement of the fairground atmosphere, you’ll find something to enjoy. Even better, many of the rides are being subsidised by Quay Building Services, helping to keep them affordable for families.

    Don’t Miss Punch and Judy!

    Get ready for plenty of giggles at the famous Punch and Judy Show. Ben Bamboozle will be performing throughout the day, with shows at:

    • 11:45am
    • 1:00pm
    • 2:00pm
    • 3:45pm

    So if you miss one, don’t worry—you’ll have another chance to see Mr Punch, Judy and all their hilarious adventures.

    Woof! Woof! The Dog Show

    Love dogs? Then head over to the Dog Show, which starts at 12:30pm on The Green. You’ll see dogs of all shapes and sizes showing off their talents and competing for rosettes. Who knows—you might even spot the village’s next canine superstar! 🐕🏆

    Can You Win a Prize?

    Make sure your parents buy some tickets for the Grand Raffle. There are always fantastic prizes up for grabs, and the winners will be announced at 5:00pm. You never know—you could be taking home a prize! 🎁

    Explore the Horticultural Show

    Step inside the Parish Hall and discover the Horticultural Show. You’ll find amazing flowers, vegetables, photographs, artwork, cookery and much more. Some of the entries are created by children, so perhaps you’ll be inspired to enter next year. 🌻🍰📸

    Music, Food and So Much More

    As you wander around the fair you’ll hear live music, see colourful stalls, watch Morris dancers, meet local groups and discover lots of exciting things to do. There will be delicious food and drinks available throughout the day, so you can keep your energy up for more adventures.

    See You on The Green!

    Bring your family, bring your friends and come ready for a fantastic day of fun, laughter and community spirit.

    📅 Saturday 4th July 2026
    ⏰ 11.00am – 11.00pm
    📍 The Green, Rowlands Castle

    We can’t wait to see you there!

  • Horticultural show entry deadline – 1st July 8.30pm

    Horticultural show entry deadline – 1st July 8.30pm

    Have you got a prize-winning rose, a spectacular bakewell tart, a favourite photograph, or a piece of artwork you’re proud of? Then why not enter this year’s Horticultural Show? Every exhibit helps make the show a success, and you’ll be joining a tradition that has been enjoyed by generations of village residents.

    The ever-popular Horticultural Show returns to the Village Hall this year, once again organised by the Rowlands Castle Gardening Club and proudly sponsored by Blendworth Hills – Inspired Villages.

    Whether you’re a keen gardener, enthusiastic baker, talented photographer, creative artist, or simply enjoy having a go, there’s a class for everyone. Taking part is great fun, and you might even go home with a prize!

    There are classes for:

    • Fruit, vegetables and flowers
    • Floral art
    • Arts and Crafts
    • Cookery
    • Photography

    There are categories for both adults and children. Young exhibitors, aged up to 12, can win cash prizes, while adults can compete for a wide range of cups, trophies and awards.

    You don’t need to be an expert to enter. Many classes attract first-time exhibitors, and everyone is welcome. Why not challenge yourself and showcase something you’ve grown, made, baked, photographed or created?

    Entry deadlines

    • Garden Show: Friday 26th June
    • Horticultural Show classes: 8.30pm on Wednesday 1st July

    Please deliver or post your completed entry form(s) to:

    1 Yardlea Close
    Rowlands Castle
    PO9 6DQ

    To help the organisers plan the show, it would be greatly appreciated if you could submit your entries as soon as possible.

    Village Fair magazines containing entry forms and full details are available from Home Hardware, Londis and many other local businesses.

    For more details see the Horticultural Show page.

  • Live Music – Blendworth Brass Band

    Live Music – Blendworth Brass Band

    🎶 Live Music at the Rowlands Castle Village Fair! 🎶

    Get ready for a fantastic day of family fun, community spirit, and great entertainment at this year’s Rowlands Castle Village Fair! 🎉

    We’re delighted to welcome back the ever-popular Blendworth Brass Band, who will be performing on the village green from 11.30am. 🎺 Their lively mix of traditional favourites and uplifting tunes always creates a wonderful atmosphere and is the perfect soundtrack to a summer’s day at the fair.

    📅 When: Saturday, 4th July 2026
    ⏰ Fair opens: 11:00am
    🎺 Blendworth Brass Band: From 11:30am
    📍 Where: Rowlands Castle Village Green

    Bring your family, friends, and neighbours along for a memorable day packed with live music, delicious food, children’s attractions, local stalls, displays, and much more. 🎡🍔☀️

    We look forward to seeing you there! 🎉🎶