Strawberry Fair 2023: Celebrating Revolution with Music, Art, and Community

Cambridge's beloved Strawberry Fair is set to enchant visitors once again as it returns to Midsummer Common this weekend.

This year the fair embraces the theme of 'Revolution', promising a day filled with music, art, and a true sense of community. As one of the UK's largest and longest-running free festivals, Strawberry Fair continues to honour its roots, remaining independent and un-partnered to major sponsors. This 'curiously Cambridge' and extraordinary event is made possible by an army of passionate unpaid volunteers, and hopes to attract 40,000 visitors throughout the day.

The festivities kick off with a lively parade through Cambridge, commencing at 11am and culminating at Midsummer Common's Village Green at 12pm for the grand opening. Spectators will be treated to a vibrant display of costumes, stilt walkers, street performers, and more. The parade sets the stage for the exhilarating experiences that await at Strawberry Fair.

Music aficionados will find themselves in paradise as the fair showcases an array of talented artists across multiple stages. The Centre Stage and Shady Rebel Nasty Love Stage will provide non-stop music throughout the day, while the WigWam Stage, the Flying Pig Stage, the CamBuskers Stage, the RBG Stage, and the Portland Ballroom, the largest indoor stage, will also offer an exceptional lineup. To amplify the excitement, this year introduces two new stages: the Revolting Youth Stage and Plastic Den.

Liz Nathan, Chair of the fair's committee, expressed her enthusiasm, saying:

“We can’t wait to bring you a fun and inclusive free day out for all the family, at a place where music, art, and people celebrate our passion together, the ultimate expression of true community in Cambridge. It can only be Strawberry Fair 2023! “Please come down and see us. Donate if you can, volunteer if you can, and immerse yourself in what we do, because the fair lives on when it’s a part of all of us.”

Beyond the music, Strawberry Fair offers a delightful array of attractions. Scarecrow Corner houses various community and social awareness stalls, while the Druid circle hosts everything from massages to storytelling. This year, attendees can also enjoy the newly introduced Strawberry Fair Café, serving tea, coffee, and cakes throughout the day. The Strawberry Arts Area showcases the work of talented local artists, providing interactive theater, workshops, and activities for all to enjoy. Poetry and spoken word enthusiasts will also definitely enjoy the Wild Strawberries Poetry and Spoken Word Stage.

Strawberry Fair stands as a testament to the power of community and the dedication of its volunteers. Read how it all started here and get ready for Strawberry Fair 2023!