Crowd of people participating in an outdoor event or festival on a city street, sitting on the ground and raising their hands, with bunting flags overhead and brick and white buildings in the background.
Collage of musicians performing at an outdoor event, with a crowd and festival setting in the background.
Bright yellow background with a white sunburst design and blue text that reads "Romsey Beggars Fair."

  • The Beggars Fair is an annual free community festival run entirely by a team of enthusiastic volunteers. It has been running since July 1993 and is living up to its aims of showcasing local talent in a friendly, welcoming environment. The day has a great atmosphere that keeps people and performers returning year after year.

    It may not be a nationally known festival like Glastonbury, Cambridge, Sidmouth or Isle Of Wight, but we do believe it’s the biggest of its kind in Hampshire. A pictorial history of all previous runnings of this event can be found on History Of The Beggars Fair 1993 to Current Day.

    One of the original goals of the first organisers in 1993 was “to create a new tradition for Romsey, involving musicians, dancers, entertainers and above all audience”. After 31 events this it certainly now is. A truly unique community event and by far the busiest Saturday in Romsey all year. So turn up early!

    Join The Team!

    If you want to join our team or volunteer to help in any way, beforehand or on the day, then we’ll never refuse an offer of an extra pair of hands. This annual event is run entirely by a group of enthusiastic volunteers that meet once a month or thereabouts. So if you have a talent, skill or just enthusiasm that could benefit the team in organising 2026’s event then email Gary (Chair) for further information. No previous festival experience necessary!

    Help Us On The Day

    As well as new team members throughout the year, we’re also looking for people who can spare anything from a few hours to all day on Beggars Fair day to help with set up and break down of stage areas, sell Programmes and support on our Information Stands

    So, if you’re tempted to assist us in making this annual festival happen in any way then please Contact Us. An extra pair of hands is never refused!