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In theUnited Kingdom and some ofits former colonies, afête orfete is a publicfestival organised to raise money for a charity, typically held outdoors. It generally includes entertainment and the sale of goods and refreshments.[1] Fetes are typically held annually, in the summer months.
Village fêtes are common in Britain. These are usually outdoor shows held onvillage greens orrecreation grounds with a variety of activities. They are organised by anad hoc committee of volunteers from organisations like religious groups orresidents' associations. Fêtes can also be seen in former British colonies. InAustralia, fêtes are often held yearly by schools and sometimes churches to raise funds.
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Attractions seen at village fêtes includetombolas,raffles,bowling for a pig,coconut shies,bat a rat stalls,white elephant stalls, cakes, and home produce such as jams and pickles. Competitive baking, such as makingVictoria sponge cake, is part of the classic British fête.[2] Filmed in bunting-draped marquees in scenic gardens,The Great British Bake Off television series is inspired by the quintessential English village fête.[3] Entertainment at fêtes may includeMorris dancing,tug of war,fancy dress, and pet shows. The fête itself is a variation of afair.
InTrinidad and Tobago and otherEnglish-speaking Caribbean territories, fêtes are huge parties held during theCarnival season.
Harvard University'sEliot House uses the term to refer to its spring formal. TheIndependence Day celebration inBloomington, Minnesota, traditionally held on 3 July, has been known as Summer Fete since 1978.
In Australia, fêtes are typically held by primary schools and other not-for-profit organisations (e.g. the local Seniors' Club, church groups) as fundraisers.
The English wordfête, pronounced/ˈfeɪt/FAYT or/ˈfɛt/FET, is borrowed from theMediaeval Latinfestus via theFrenchfête, meaning "holiday" or "party".[4] The 12th-centuryMiddle English rootfest- is shared withfeast,festive,festal andfestival,festoon,Festivus, theSpanishfiesta,Portuguesefesta, etc. and the proper nameFestus.
