The historic and much-loved annual event, the Witney Feast, returns this September, bringing together nearly 800 years of tradition, community spirit, and festive cheer.
Originating in 1243 to celebrate the opening of the ‘new’ St Mary’s Church, the Feast has grown into one of the region’s most anticipated events, offering something for everyone.
Several events are being hosted by St Mary’s as part of Witney Feast 2024.
The celebrations begin on Saturday (September 14) with a day of Bavarian fun at the Oktoberfest Beer Festival.
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St Mary’s Church will be transformed with visitors able to enjoy a variety of local craft beers, savour German sausages, and experience the energetic sounds of an authentic Oompah band from noon until 7pm.
Admission is free, making it a perfect way to spend the day with friends and family.
A civic service and a one-of-a-kind Gallopers Fairground Service on the Leys on Sunday evening will open one of the largest fun fairs in the county and celebrate both the town's rich history and its ongoing community spirit.
The Bishop of Sheffield will lead a formal civic service at 6pm at St Mary’s Church which will be attended by the Mayor of Witney Cllr Owen Collins and other local dignitaries.
Following this, and scheduled to start after 7pm, the Gallopers service will be set among the beautifully decorated golden horses and cockerels of the carousel, and will feature hymns played on a traditional fairground organ, creating an extraordinary blend of worship and festivity.
On Monday afternoon and evening, the celebrations continue with a more relaxed gathering for bakes and beer at St Mary’s Church.
Teas, cakes, and ales will be available for visitors to the fair on the Leys, looking to unwind and enjoy the spirit of the Witney Feast.
And on Sunday (September 15) St Mary's is hosting an exhibition of photographs from members of the Witney Photo Group.
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Entry is free and the bar is open: Sunday September 15 in the afternoon 2pm - 6pm, and after the Gallopers Service 7pm to 8pm and on Monday September 16 from 3pm until 7pm.
The event, which has been celebrated for 800 years, gets its name after King Henry III provided two deer from the Royal Forest of Wychwood to celebrate the rededication of St Mary’s Church in 1243.
Townsfolk feasted on those deer in the celebrations that followed, giving the event its name.
This annual event traditionally takes place on the two days following the first Sunday of September, aligning with the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin.
St Mary’s Church said it "invites everyone in the community to join in the celebrations of this historic festival that honours Witney’s past while embracing the joy and togetherness of the present".
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