Grasmere Sports, one of the most popular traditional events in the Lake District, will be free to enter for all visitors this year.
Organisers said the event, on August 30, will be free and a modest parking charge will be introduced instead.
They said the change was designed to help people manage rising costs while continuing to enjoy one of Cumbria’s best-loved cultural and sporting gatherings.
Paul Abbott, chair of Grasmere Sports, said the decision reflects a commitment to keeping the event open and affordable: “Everything is getting more expensive, and we don’t want that to stop people from enjoying Grasmere Sports.
“By removing the entry fee, we’re making it easier for families to come along and experience these wonderful traditional Lakeland sports.
“If you can arrive on the 555 or 599 buses, walk, or cycle, you’ll be able to enjoy the event completely free.
“We want to see as many people as possible enjoying this unique day in the heart of the Lakes.”
The annual event, which has taken place for more than 170 years and predates the modern Olympic Games, brings together traditional and outdoor disciplines.
Events include Cumberland & Westmorland Wrestling, fell running, tug of war, a dog show, and hound racing.
Paragliding races trailed for the first time last year will be, as of 2026, a permanent fixture at Grasmere Sports, run jointly with Cumbria Soaring Club.
During the day, visitors can enjoy circus acts, a fun fair, and entertainment from The Wonder Wheelers and their range of unusual bicycles, including Penny Farthings, unicycles, tall bikes, mini-bikes, tandem variations and more.
Drum Nation, the Cumbria-based samba drumming collective, will perform alongside Circus Avago, offering hands-on circus skills for all ages, including juggling, plate spinning, stilts, diabolo and tightrope walking.
Sam the Scam returns with Beat the Cheat and his Bunko Booth, featuring traditional fairground games, magic, sleight of hand and comedy with strong audience participation.
There will be capacity for over 1,000 cars on site for those who need to drive, while continuing to encourage sustainable travel where possible.
Gates open at 9am, with proceedings beginning after the traditional opening by the Bellman at 10am.
Westmorland & Lonsdale MP Tim Farron, who regularly competes in the fell running event at Grasmere Sports, said: “Grasmere Sports is a jewel in the crown of our local calendar and a brilliant celebration of our heritage.
“I’m delighted that more families will now be able to come along without worrying about the cost. I’ll be there as always for the fell race, though I can’t promise I’ll be anywhere near the front! It’s fantastic to see the event continuing to evolve while staying true to its roots.”
