Plan your day

A large group of people sitting a grass lawn, laughing and clapping.

Get festival ready!

The spectacular Hat Fair weekend is fast approaching, and while our team are busy curating some fantastic acts for you to experience, it's never too early to start planning your perfect festival day out.

Whether you're a Hat Fair regular or joining the party for the very first time, here are some handy tips to help you get ready for Winchester's favourite weekend.

1. Lock in the dates

Keep your weekend clear! Hat Fair takes place from Saturday 3 July 2027 to Sunday 4 July 2027.

2. The Hat Fair survival kit

Because Hat Fair is an outdoor, open‑air festival, a little preparation goes a long way. Here is what we highly recommend tossing into your backpack:

  • A reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated while you wander. There are a few free water refill stations dotted around the city.
  • Options for the British summer: Sunscreen and sunglasses in one pocket; a light raincoat in the other. We perform rain or shine!
  • Some loose change: While the festival is free, our incredible street artists perform for your generosity. Keep some cash handy to drop in their hats after a mind‑blowing performance! (Many also take contactless now, but cash is still king of the streets).

3. Travelling to Winchester

Winchester is a beautiful, historic city, which means parking in the very centre during Hat Fair weekend can be a bit of a puzzle. We highly recommend travelling green:

  • By train: Winchester Railway Station is just a short, flat 5‑to‑10‑minute walk from the main festival zones.
  • Park & Ride: If you are driving, Winchester's excellent Park & Ride buses run frequently throughout the weekend and will drop you right in the heart of the action without the stress of city‑centre parking.

More information