Mid-to-late-summer in Virginia means one thing — fair season. The Fredericksburg Agricultural Fair is back for yet another year — from July 25 through August 3 — with contests, animals, theme nights, and more.
A Brief History of the Fredericksburg Fair
The Fredericksburg Agricultural Fair is nearly 300 years old. It was first established in 1738. The Virginia House of Burgess authorized and directed that fairs should be held in Fredericksburg twice a year for the sale of cattle, provisions, and goods. Back in the 1700s, entertainment included comedians from the new Theatre of Williamsburg and horse racing.
By the late 1940s, the fair had moved to its present site on Routes 2 and 17. In the 1960s, a then-unknown Tammy Wynette performed. In 2009, The Homemaker’s Building was dedicated to former fair manager Richard Limerick.
Fair Theme Nights
This year, The Fredericksburg Agricultural Fair has multiple theme nights. Themes include a “College Night” on July 28. Any person with a valid college ID will get one complimentary daily admission ticket. July 30 is “Military, Law Enforcement, & First Responders Appreciation Night.” July 31 is “Lucky 7’s Night,” where all general admission tickets will be $7.
Contest Highlights
Contests — including a cake pop contest — will be happening throughout the fair. The contests will include both youth and adults. Entries will be judges on creativity and taste (no refrigerated items will be accepted).
There will also be a chocolate contest and a Lego creation contest (entries for that contest will be accepted July 24 only). Plus a charcuterie board competition.
Entertainment Schedule
Entertainment will include No Joe & Toot’s Clown Circus and comedic hypnotist Brad Matchett. Don’t miss a petting zoo from Rockin’ A Ranch in North Carolina, pony and camel rides, flowers, crafts, chainsaw art, and model railroads, too.
Fair Pageants & Programs
On Friday, July 25, beginning at 7 p.m., guests can enjoy the Miss and Teen Miss Pageants. The Miss Fredericksburg Fair Pageant was established in 1953. It highlights the community service and academic success of teens and young women ages 13 to 22 in the Fredericksburg area. Contestants can win college scholarships and cash prizes through evening gown, personality wear, and interview competitions.
Feature image courtesy Rockin’ A Ranch Petting Zoo/Facebook
