Photo credit: © Better Bankside
Harking back to the fascinating history of winter activities at the Thames, Bankside is holding a modern take on a frost fair from 26 until 28 January.
The programme of events includes an artisan market, music and dance, acrobatics, workshops, tours, an elephant parade (featuring a life-sized puppet), horse and carriage rides, skittles and collaborative art.
Traditional frost fairs, observed in London as early as the seventh century and as late as 1814, were held when the Thames froze over, halting regular trade so recreational activities were offered instead. The largest fair was during the Great Frost of 1683 (when the river was frozen for two months) which saw horse and coach racing, bowling, ice skating and puppet plays.
Frost fairs were held to celebrate community so it’s extremely fitting that this event will be raising money for the fabulous Manna Society who provide warm food and advice to the homeless.