State Fair of Virginia 2026: Tickets, Rides and Attractions

Fall in Virginia means cooler air, county fairs, and one big event that ties it all together. The State Fair of Virginia returns to The Meadow Event Park in Doswell from September 25 to October 4, 2026. This ten-day celebration brings livestock shows, carnival rides, live music, and Southern fair food to Caroline County. Whether you visit with kids, grandparents, or friends, there is something for every age group.

This guide covers the dates, hours, ticket prices, rides, attractions, and daily highlights. Additionally, it answers common questions so you can plan a smooth visit.

When Is the State Fair of Virginia in 2026

The fair runs for ten days, from Friday, September 25 through Sunday, October 4, 2026. Gates open daily at 10 a.m. and close at 9 p.m. Amusement rides usually begin at 11 a.m. each day. The midway often stays open a bit later on weekends, at the discretion of fair management, so evening visitors should plan accordingly.

Because the fair spans two full weekends plus a full week in between, families have flexibility. Weekdays tend to be quieter, while weekends bring bigger crowds, more entertainment, and a livelier atmosphere overall.

Where to Find the Fair

The event takes place at The Meadow Event Park, located at 13191 Dawn Boulevard in Doswell, Virginia. The venue sits in Caroline County, roughly halfway between Richmond and Fredericksburg. It is easy to reach by car from most parts of central Virginia, and on-site parking is typically available for a separate fee.

Daily Schedule Overview

Every day of the fair follows a similar rhythm, though special events and concerts shift the details slightly. Mornings are calmer and better suited to browsing exhibits and livestock barns. Afternoons bring games, contests, and demonstrations. Evenings are reserved for concerts and a busier midway.

Below is a general outline of a typical fair day. Exact program times can shift, so it helps to check the official schedule board near the entrance once you arrive.

Time	Activity
10:00 a.m.	Gates open, exhibit halls and livestock barns begin
11:00 a.m.	Midway rides open
12:00 p.m.	Livestock judging, cooking demos, contests
2:00 p.m.	Stage entertainment, agricultural shows
5:00 p.m.	Food vendors reach peak activity, live music begins
7:00 p.m.	Main concert or grandstand event
9:00 p.m.	Gates close, midway may run slightly longer on weekends

This structure repeats across the ten days, though weekends often add extra performances and longer ride hours. Therefore, if your goal is fewer lines, a weekday morning visit is usually the smartest choice.

Ticket Prices and Admission

Ticket pricing generally includes a general admission fee, with discounts for seniors and children. Based on recent fair pricing patterns, here is what visitors can expect.

Ticket Type	Price
General admission (adult)	Standard gate price, varies by day
Senior admission	Around 14 dollars
Children ages 5 to 12	About 12.50 dollars online, 12 dollars at the gate
Children 4 and under	Free

Ride tickets and wristbands are usually sold separately from general admission. Multi-day passes and online discounts are often available as well. For the most accurate and current pricing, always check the official ticket page before your visit, since fair pricing can change from year to year.

Rides and the Midway

The midway, sometimes branded as Midway Madness, is the heart of the fair for many visitors. It features a wide mix of thrill rides, classic carnival favorites, and gentler rides designed for younger children. Expect Ferris wheels, spinning rides, drop towers, and games of skill scattered across the midway grounds.

Rides typically open at 11 a.m. each day. Wristbands allow unlimited rides for a set window of time, while individual ride tickets work well for visitors who only want to try a few attractions. Families with small children will also find kiddie rides in a dedicated area, making the midway accessible for toddlers as well as teenagers.

Live Entertainment and Concerts

Music plays a major role at the State Fair of Virginia. The 2026 lineup includes performers such as Herman’s Hermits featuring Peter Noone, Yacht Rock Schooner, Tyler Braden, Chapel Hart, Junior Sisk, and Drew Baldridge. These acts perform on the main stage throughout the fair’s run, offering everything from classic rock nostalgia to modern country sounds.

In addition to headline concerts, the fair usually hosts smaller stage acts, local bands, and specialty shows throughout the day. Some years have also featured stunt shows and extreme sports performances, so it is worth checking the official entertainment schedule closer to opening day for any added acts.

Agricultural Exhibits and Livestock

At its core, the State Fair of Virginia celebrates the state’s farming heritage. Livestock barns showcase cattle, pigs, sheep, goats, and poultry, many of which are entered into judged competitions. Visitors can walk through the barns, watch judging events, and talk with 4-H and FFA members who raised the animals.

Exhibit halls also display crafts, baked goods, canned preserves, quilts, and photography submitted by Virginia residents. These friendly competitions highlight local talent and give the fair a distinctly homegrown feel. For visitors interested in where their food comes from, this section of the fair offers an educational and hands-on experience.

Food and Vendors

No fair visit is complete without trying the food. Expect classic fair fare such as funnel cakes, corn dogs, kettle corn, and fried specialties, alongside barbecue, fresh produce stands, and Southern comfort dishes. Food trucks and permanent vendor booths line the fairgrounds, offering both sit-down meals and quick snacks.

Because menus can vary by vendor and by year, it helps to check the official food and vendor page shortly before your visit if you have specific dietary needs or favorite dishes in mind.

Family Friendly Activities

The fair is designed with families in mind. Beyond the midway, visitors can explore petting zoos, pony rides, and interactive farm displays that let kids get close to animals in a safe setting. Educational booths often teach children about farming, conservation, and where everyday products originate.

Additionally, there are usually contests and hands-on activities such as pie-eating contests, pumpkin decorating, or craft stations. These activities rotate throughout the ten days, so checking the daily schedule board can help you catch a specific event you don’t want to miss.

Tips for Visiting

A little preparation goes a long way at a large event like this. Consider the following tips before you go.

• Arrive early on weekends to avoid long parking and ticket lines.
• Wear closed-toe shoes, especially if you plan to visit the livestock barns.
• Bring sunscreen, hats, and a refillable water bottle for warm afternoons.
• Check the official schedule board or app once inside, since times can shift slightly.
• Decide in advance whether a ride wristband or individual tickets make more financial sense for your group.
• Bring some cash, since a few smaller vendors may not accept cards.

These small steps can make the difference between a stressful day and a relaxing one.

Accessibility and Parking

The Meadow Event Park typically offers accessible parking, wheelchair-friendly pathways, and rental options for guests who need mobility assistance. Service animals are generally welcome throughout the grounds. However, policies can be updated from year to year, so it is best to review the official accessibility page before arrival if you or someone in your group has specific needs.

Parking is usually available on-site for a separate fee, with attendants directing traffic during busier periods. Weekend mornings tend to fill lots faster than weekday visits, so planning your arrival time can help avoid delays.

Weather and What to Expect in Late September and Early October

Late September and early October in central Virginia typically bring mild, pleasant weather, with warm afternoons and cooler evenings. However, conditions can vary from year to year, so checking the forecast a day or two before your visit is a smart habit. Light layers usually work well, since mornings can feel cool while afternoons warm up considerably.

Conclusion

The State Fair of Virginia 2026 runs from September 25 through October 4 at The Meadow Event Park in Doswell. Visitors can expect ten days packed with carnival rides, live concerts, livestock shows, and classic fair food. Gates typically open at 10 a.m. and close at 9 p.m., with the midway opening an hour later each morning.

Ticket prices vary by age group, with discounts for seniors and children, and free admission for kids four and under. The 2026 concert lineup features a mix of classic and contemporary performers, while the midway offers something for thrill seekers and younger children alike. Agricultural exhibits, food vendors, and family activities round out the experience, making this fair a true celebration of Virginia culture.

Whether you are drawn by the rides, the music, the food, or the animals, planning ahead with the schedule and tips above will help you make the most of your visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the official dates for the State Fair of Virginia in 2026?

The fair runs from September 25 through October 4, 2026, at The Meadow Event Park in Doswell, Virginia.

What time does the fair open and close each day?

Gates generally open at 10 a.m. and close at 9 p.m., with rides opening around 11 a.m. daily.

How much do tickets cost?

Pricing varies by age, with discounted rates for seniors and children ages 5 to 12, and free entry for children four and under. Ride tickets are typically sold separately from general admission.

Who is performing at the fair in 2026?

The announced lineup includes Herman’s Hermits featuring Peter Noone, Yacht Rock Schooner, Tyler Braden, Chapel Hart, Junior Sisk, and Drew Baldridge, along with additional stage entertainment throughout the fair.

Is the fair suitable for young children?

Yes, the fair includes kiddie rides, petting zoos, pony rides, and family-friendly exhibits, making it accessible for toddlers through teenagers.

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