A Brief History of Kingston Green Fair

Some Words

The following is based on a short interview conducted by Kingston Live with Sam Hermitage, Chair of KGF and co-founder of Green Futures.

In The Beginning

It all started in 1987, and everybody expected a garden fete. The instant popularity of the fair surprised all of us. With free entry, hundreds turned up and there were lots of smiling faces. An open air stage showcasing local bands (playing for nothing). Children's area, stalls (some came of their own free will, others had to be badgered and persuaded) and a pub - who could ask for more?

The Initiators

Jean Vidler (Green activist) and Des Kay (local artist and performer) started the fair as an alternative to the over militaristic and commercial nature of the annual Kingston May fair of the time.

Green Issues

The fair was started by people who were frustrated with the green apathy of the eighties. By bringing together what was considered radical almost revolutionary groups such as Kingston friends of the earth, woodcraft folk and the dear Peace council we began the uphill task of educating the public. That they (we) could make a difference to the way we live and the future of the planet.

How It Has Changed

The fundamental issues of the fair: Protection of the environment. Peace and Human Rights, have never changed. Only explored , developed and re-emphasised. To fit our ever-changing and precarious world. Always remembering the community and the fun of the fair.

How People Hear About The Fair

We have a great web site. We produce pretty fliers. The local papers are badgered and persuaded Into printing our press releases. Our reputation stretches far and wide and the fair is seen as a model for similar (green) events fairs and festivals throughout the country and beyond.

Years of Attendance

Some people have been coming most of their lives. We did a survey a couple of years ago in Canbury Gardens during a rare year off. And found some had turned up, without noticing there had not been any publicity and had been coming every year since childhood!