Celebrating 50 Years of the historic East Ilsley Sheep Fair

East Ilsley’s popular Sheep Fair was re-launched in 1975 so this year it is celebrating its 50th anniversary in style!

Join in on the Millennium Green on Sunday, June 8, from noon to 4pm, with a full weekend of festivities kicking off on the Friday evening.

Friday night’s Anniversary Dance Party will be a lively pre-fair celebration featuring live music with local favourites Mash, the Baa serving local beers and drinks and delicious food available to buy.

Tickets are just £10 for adults and £5 for young adults aged 12 and over.

On the Sunday there’s free entry to the main event, a 50th celebration promising a fun-filled day for all ages, with something for everyone, including:

Traditional tea tent and the much-loved Baa serving local drinks from Renegade Brewery and Bumblebee Cider.

Craft stalls and produce competition.

Tombolas, raffles, book stall and games.

The ever popular dog show sponsored by Larkmead Vets.

Children’s entertainment with Mr Muddle.

Blewbury Brass Band.

Live music from local band One Lump or Two.

Family races and children’s activities.

Ferret racing.

There will also be a tasty selection of food including a barbecue serving burgers from Vicar’s Game and run by Compton Scouts, street food, crepes from Caroline’s Little Kitchen, and the essential ice cream van. And, of course, there will be real sheep to visit!

Entry is free, with donations gratefully received via The Good Exchange at https://app.thegoodexchange.com/project/20812/the-east-ilsley-sheep-fair/east-ilsley-sheep-fair-2025-50th-anniversary

All profits go towards the following year’s event and donations to support local charities and groups including the Ilsleys Primary School, Stay & Play, St Mary’s Church, the Local History Society, the Autumn Group and the Millennium Green Trust.

Organisers are extremely grateful to the East Ilsley Trust Fund and the East Ilsley Parish Council for their help with funding this year.