All the fun

of Carter's Steam Fair at Paradise Gardens.  Made it down there on Saturday in the sunshine, anticipating the downpours on Sunday.

I have a thing about merry-go-rounds, or 'gallopers' as they are called in Carters.  Apparently all the horses are named after members of the Carter family which I find quaint, endearing and slightly freaky all at the same time.


There were plenty of non-fairground attractions. The Central School of Speech and Drama Costume Archives exhibition showed some of their treasures.


The tea dance tent - infectious music, enthusiastic audience participation.

 
Even the staff quarters at this amazing fair are authentically retro.


A rather unusual artist called Paka, who was hilarious.  At one point he nearly barbequed a small dog at the front of the crowd. (Yes.  Those are real flames.)

Followed by Eurovision on Saturday, baking and guests on Sunday, then Hot Breath Karaoke (I'm kind of sorry I missed their Eurovision event because it looked priceless) at the Lauriston, stumbling distance home.  I love my 'hood.