The State Fair of Virginia is back this fall, running from Sept. 24 through Oct. 3 at The Meadow Event Park in Caroline County, Va.
Online ticket sales will begin Sept. 1. Ticket information and other details are available at StateFairVa.org.
“This event holds a special place in so many hearts across the commonwealth,” said Marlene Jolliffe, the fair’s executive director. “From those planning how to win a blue ribbon for their baking, to our youth working hard to get animals ready for competition and our vendors sharing their wonderful products, the fair is a celebration of tradition and communities.”
Guests can expect several fan favorites this year, including midway rides, racing pigs and chainsaw artist Ben Risney. New attractions include Scott’s Crazy Comedy Magic Show, a mix of magic, illusions and comedy, and the gravity-defying stunts of the Flying Cortes Trapeze Show.
Music lovers can expect to hear a variety of hip-hop, bluegrass, Christian rock, country, and alternative-rock artists as part of this year’s state fair live concert series. All shows begin at 7:30 p.m. and are included in the cost of fair admission.
The fair will also host the Revenge Roughstock Rodeo, which will feature two nights of professional bull riding, bronc riding, and barrel racing on Sept. 27 and 28.
For those seeking iconic fair food, everything from funnel cakes to cotton candy and turkey legs will be available.
The event showcases the best of Virginia, and hobbyists can show off their creations in artistic, culinary and horticulture competitions. Updates on competition rules and guidelines also can be found online.
The fair’s many competitions provide valuable opportunities for youth involved in agriculture and allow them to benefit from the State Fair Youth Scholarship Program. Since 2013 the fair’s scholarship program has awarded nearly 1,500 scholarships and has given over $570,000 to support youth education in agriculture.
The fair offers more than $80,000 each year in scholarship funds through 4-H, FFA, and vocational competitions as well as specific equine, fine arts, and horticulture competitions.
“The state fair, along with county and regional fairs, remains committed to giving back and supporting Virginia’s youth,” Jolliffe said. “Many young competitors often begin in livestock competitions at local fairs across Virginia, whose volunteers work hard to host events and create a positive impact in their communities.”
The fair will operate with safety guidelines in place, including a more spread-out footprint to allow some social distancing for a fun and safe experience.
