On the first Saturday in June, Midsummer Common becomes host to one of Cambridge's most popular community events. Growing in ambition since its inception in the 1970s, Strawberry Fair transforms the Common with colour and pizzazz into a one-day feast of free entertainment aimed chiefly at families but attracting a wide mix of party goers. Several live music stages and marquees, circus tents, ethnic and eclectic trade stands, exotic food outlets, beer tents and charity stalls combine to offer an alternative day out for several thousand visitors.

Over the preceeding week the organising committee (see more details ) wrestle with the logistical challenge of creating a temporary town on the Common with shops, streets and sanitation, culminating in a long and noisy fair day. The subsequent clean-up effort restores the Common to a trampled but welcome serenity.