Easter Fair on Hampstead Heath
Londoners making hay while the spring sun shines — briefly.
Alex Q. Arbuckle
1956
Beginning in the 19th century, the grassy expanse of London’s Hampstead Heath became the go-to destination for Easter celebrations, as Londoners eager to enjoy the spring weather flocked to a growing annual fair. By 1910 as many as 200,000 people crowded on the Heath, enjoying cotton candy, carnival games and thrill rides. The fun continued even during World War II, and the rides only got bigger. Here, photographer Bert Hardy wanders the grounds of the 1956 fair, capturing throngs of Londoners enjoying a respite from city life.
Visit Premier Exhibitions at 417 5th Avenue to see the past become present again at "Retronaut's New York." This pop-up exhibition of extraordinary, digitally restored photographs captures New York City at the turn of the 20th century. It's only open until May 15, so be sure to get down there before it’s gone.