Goose Fair
The annual Goose Fair in Tavistock dates back to the early 12th century, when a Michelmas Fair held every September 29th provided the opportunity for business and animal trading, and was a social event for wives and daughters. The name Goose Fair probably came about as farmers brought their geese ready for fattening for Christmas, and the only other Goose Fair (in Nottingham) has a simiar connection.
When the new calendar was introduced in 1752 the 'loss' of 11 days changed the date of the Michelmas Fair to October 10th, and now the Fair is held on the second Wednesday in October each year. The dates for the next few years are 8th October 2008 and 14th October 2009.
Market traders come from all over the country to sell their wares and provide entertainment. Stalls and side shows are set up in the centre of the Town, and some 200 spaces are let by the Town Council for traders and community groups. A further 70 spaces are let to members of the Showman's Guild in Bedford Car Park by West Devon Borough Council, and that Car Park is shut for the whole Goose Fair week. Traders wishing to have space must apply to the Town Council (01822 618116) well in advance of the day as there is always a waiting list.
Parking in the Town on Goose Fair day is very restricted, and the Town Council 
organises a Park and Ride scheme, well signed on the approaches to Tavistock. Depending on the car park used the charges are £5 per car (Lumburn Rise and Harford Bridge) or £2 per adult and £0.50p per child from Yelverton. There is very limited disabled (blue badge) parking in one small car park, and that is normally full early on. The Yelverton park and ride site normally operates at least one disabled friendly bus.