Screaming thrill-seekers, bright lights, and thumping music filled the air in Yarm last night as the fair rolled back into town.
The High Street cobbles were taken over by the thrills of the fair on Thursday (October 15) as the first night of the three-day event kicked off.
Families flocked in their hundreds to enjoy the colourful sights, with adults and children alike lapping up the atmosphere along the High Street.
The waltzers, crazy frog, and dodgems were among the attractions returning for 2026, while the eye-catching booster - a rotating thrill ride - towered above the town.
Yarm Fair 2026 (Image: THE NORTHERN ECHO)
Yarm Fair 2026 (Image: THE NORTHERN ECHO)
Also on the High Street last night was the Miami, which rotates a row of seats around a wall, a ghost train, and the Super Star, which lifts passengers into the air and spins on a rotating arm.
Yarm Fair 2026 (Image: THE NORTHERN ECHO)
Yarm Fair 2026 (Image: THE NORTHERN ECHO)
There was plenty for kids to enjoy too, with a mini ice coaster, big wheel, and fun house being among the popular attractions for little ones.
Yarm Fair 2026 (Image: THE NORTHERN ECHO)
Yarm Fair 2026 (Image: THE NORTHERN ECHO)
The event has been a tradition in the town for centuries, dating back to 1207 when King John granted Yarm a weekly market and two annual fairs.
Yarm Fair 2026 (Image: THE NORTHERN ECHO)
Yarm Fair 2026 (Image: THE NORTHERN ECHO)
In that time, it has only been cancelled twice, once during the Covid pandemic, and for one day in 2023 following stormy weather.
Yarm Fair 2026 (Image: THE NORTHERN ECHO)
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The fair will once again return tonight from 6pm until 10pm as well as on Saturday from the earlier time of 1pm, also until 10pm.
The Saturday typically hosts the Riding of the Fair, a centuries-old tradition that sees horses trot their way up and down the High Street in a nod to the event’s livestock trading history.
Prices for the rides were around the £5 mark on Thursday, although each ride is subject to change and this may be different tonight and tomorrow.