Frost fair

The frost fair was a type of festival that was held on the frozen River Thames in London. The official event was held in various years between 1608 and 1814.

History
The frost fairs were held during a period known as the “Little Ice Age,” which contributed to colder winters in western Europe and other parts of the world. This is thought to have lasted roughly between the sixteenth and nineteenth centuries.

Although kings and queens were walking on the frozen Thames since at least the sixteenth century, the first official frost fair was held in 1608. Activities included sledding, ice skating, and horse racing.

The last frost fair was held in 1814. The ice was said to be thick enough to support the elephant that had been paraded across the Thames.

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