The Masham Sheep Fair is one of North Yorkshire's best-loved rural events, celebrating Masham's long history as a major sheep market. Held every year on the last weekend in September, it transforms the town into a lively festival of farming, heritage and family entertainment.
For 2026, the fair takes place on Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 September.
Visitors can enjoy:
Sheep shows and sheep racing
Sheepdog demonstrations
The traditional Bishop Blaize procession
Morris dancers and handbell ringers
Craft, fleece and local produce stalls
Art exhibitions
Tours of Theakston and Black Sheep breweries
Children's attractions and family entertainment
The fair began over 40 years ago as a charity fundraiser and has since raised around £200,000 for Yorkshire charities, while continuing to celebrate the area's farming traditions. Entry is free, with donations and parking fees helping support local good causes.
If you're planning a visit, it's worth arriving early as the town gets very busy. Masham's independent shops, cafés and breweries are all within easy walking distance, making it a great day out even beyond the fair itself.
You can find the full programme and latest updates here:
https://www.mashamsheepfair.com/
