Grantham’s Medieval Onion Fair, a tradition dating back to the reign of King Richard III, is returning to the market town to offer visitors a glimpse into the past. According to the South Kesteven District Council, the event will be held alongside the regular market and monthly farmers' market, showcasing a variety of onion-themed displays, products, and decorations.
For residents and visitors, the event serves as a celebration of local history and commerce, harking back to a time when the fair drew crowds to view holy relics at St Wulfram's church. Beyond the produce, the fair highlights medieval life through the participation of the Knights of Skirbeck, who will demonstrate period crafts such as blacksmithing, armour-making, tanning, and candle-making.
The Rutland Renaissance Dancers are also scheduled to perform, hosting a dance workshop and a medieval fashion show to entertain the crowds. Market traders are expected to participate by wearing medieval costumes and decorating their stalls to match the theme of the celebration. The event stems from a charter granted by King Richard III, which established the town's rights to host a weekly market and two annual fairs, with the onion celebration becoming a central feature of these gatherings over the centuries.