The Wroxton Village Fete

A fete is a staple tradition in villages across the length and breadth of Britain. The Wroxton village fete has been running for more years than people can remember. A fete is a public festival, a real community gathering with stalls, bric-a-brac, a raffle, teas and cakes, Morris dancing, activities for the children and a whole raft of games.

What’s Morris dancing I hear you say.  It’s a type of English folk dance. The dancers wear costumes with bell pads on their shins, their shoes or both. Sticks, swords, handkerchiefs and a variety of other implements may be wielded by the dancers. Morris dancing dates back to the 15th Century and is still well and alive here in Wroxton!

The students are usually treated to a Morris dancing performance from the Ilmington Morris Men during the semester. The Morris Men like the students to take part too!

This year’s fete was held on Sunday 24th May.  

Money raised at the fete has been distributed between the Wroxton Village Community Fund, All Saints Church to repair the church clock and various deserving charities. 

In recent years the Wroxton fete has had a bouncy castle, a magic show, a carousel and a very well-attended dog show. Many of you will remember Chris Hart. Chris is married to Wendy, our History of Art professor. Chris and his dog Charlie were winners a few years ago in the dog who most looks like his owner category or was it the owner who looks most like his dog? To help you distinguish who’s who, Chris is holding the certificate. Charlie has the rosette. 

Some of you may remember the 1978 fete which was held in the College grounds. Digging through the archives, Andrew Rose came across some terrific photos. We had country dancing, race cars, a judo demonstration and even a hot air balloon! 

Students at the College love exploring the village fete. It’s a quintessential English experience, part country fair, and also partly a celebration of village community, the English fete is an English institution.