As fair season approaches, it’s a great time to make memories at county fairs across NoVA. From pig races and tractor demos to live music and pageants, there’s something for friends and family alike to get excited about. The State Fair of Virginia also boasts a plethora of entertainment and carnival fun. Throughout the next few months, visit these fairs for unforgettable experiences.
Fauquier County Fair
July 17–20
Enjoy live entertainment featuring bluegrass band Shannon Bielski & Moonlight Drive or a little funk with the Eclectic Company Band. Catch carnival rides and games, food vendors, mechanical bull rides, a petting zoo, and a comedy hypnotist show all four days. Truck, rodeo, and shooting demonstrations are on the schedule. Conclude your fair experience with the Miss Fauquier County Fair Pageant for Teen and Miss titles on July 20 on the main stage. Fauquier County Fair Grounds: 6209 Old Auburn Rd., Warrenton, $5–$10, rides extra
Loudoun County Fair
July 23–27
This five-day event has countless activities for all ages, every hour. Bring family and friends to watch the pig scramble, power wheels derby, and the Agricadabra farm and magic show. The Blue Ribbon Showcase recognizes the creative contributions of Loudoun County in 27 divisions, such as gardening, backed goods, and fine arts; register online by July 16 to participate. There will be a wide selection of food and artisan vendors, and entertainment includes Spencer Hatcher, Mountain Highway, Michael Christopher, and more. Before the fair, see the Miss Loudoun County Fair Pageant on July 14. Loudoun County Fairgrounds: 17558 Dry Mill Rd., Leesburg, $15 for 13 and older ($20 after 5 p.m.); $5 for 6–12, free for 5 and under, parking, $5, rides extra
Fairfax County 4-H Fair and Carnival
August 1–4
Experience carnival games and rides, 4-H exhibits and shows, tractor demos, farm animals, and more. Try fair food, watch live entertainment, and make sure you are there for Big Truck Night on August 2. Carnival ride tickets can be purchased online. Frying Pan Farm Park: 2709 West Ox Rd., Herndon, $10 parking fee
Prince William County Fair
August 9–17
From tractor and monster truck shows to a Taylor Swift Tribute Act, the Prince William County Fair offers a lot of options. Check out Food Vendor Alley and the craft and antique vendors. Every day, there are wine tastings, dog shows, and camel and pony rides. From August 9–11, the PWC Fair Pageant will showcase the young ladies and babies of Prince William County. Prince William County FairGrounds: 10624 Dumfries Rd., Manassas, $12–$20 online, $$15–$25 at the gate, free under 4, free 65+ on August 12
Arlington County Fair
August 14–18
From the traditional candy apple to the pie-eating contests, this fair is family-friendly fun. Food Truck Alley will be back, as will the Kids Court and the amusement rides. Pictrola performs traditional and progressive bluegrass on the main stage on August 15. Sensory friendly hours are available August 17–18. Thomas Jefferson Community Center: 3501 Second St. S, Arlington, free, rides extra
State Fair of Virginia
September 27–October 6
This year’s extensive concert lineup features Cooper Alan, Brencore, Kadencia, Chubby Checker, Lonestar, and more. Visit Heritage Village to see how technology and vehicles have changed since the early 1900s. See hand-milking demonstrations, baby sheep, and 300 breeds of pigeons and doves. With numerous food, drink, and shopping vendors, along with, of course, amusement rides, this is an experience you don’t want to miss. The Meadow Event Park: 13191 Dawn Blvd., Doswell, $12–$16.50, free under 4, parking, $20, rides extra
Stafford County Agricultural & Homemaking Fair
October 17–20
Explore a wide range of food, craft, and home goods vendors. Kids events include the power wheels Derby, pedal tractor pull, and antique tractor show. There will be carnival rides, pony rides, a petting zoo, and demonstrations by the canine team and SWAT team from the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office. Listen to live music. The Miss Stafford County Pageant takes place on October 17 inside the Library Theater. University of Mary Washington: 121 University Blvd., Fredericksburg, free
Feature image courtesy Virginia State Fair
For more stories like this, subscribe to Northern Virginia Magazine’s Things to Do newsletter.
