Fall is almost here, and that means one thing for families across the Commonwealth: fair season. This year, the event returns to Doswell with rides, food, music, and animals for everyone to enjoy. Below, you will find the exact dates, ticket details, daily hours, and a full breakdown of what to expect during the ten-day run.
When Is the Event in 2026?
The fair runs from September 25 through October 4, 2026. That gives visitors ten full days to explore the fairgrounds, catch a concert, and try the food vendors. Weekends tend to draw the biggest crowds, so weekday visits are a smart choice for anyone who wants shorter lines.
| Detail | Information |
| Start Date | Friday, September 25, 2026 |
| End Date | Sunday, October 4, 2026 |
| Total Days | 10 days |
| Location | The Meadow Event Park, Doswell, Virginia |
| Daily Hours | 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. |
Where the Fair Takes Place
The fairgrounds sit at The Meadow Event Park, located at 13191 Dawn Boulevard in Doswell, Virginia. This site once served as the birthplace of Secretariat, the famous racehorse, and it now hosts one of the largest fall gatherings in the region. The park sits close to Interstate 95, so drivers from Richmond, Fredericksburg, and beyond can reach it easily. General parking is free, and premium parking passes can also be purchased for those who want to park closer to the gate.
Daily Hours and Gate Rules
Gates open at 10 a.m. and close at 10 p.m. every day of the run. Amusement rides start at 11 a.m., and the midway usually stays open for at least an hour after the ticket plaza closes. Buildings and exhibit halls close a bit earlier, around 9 p.m., so plan your visit accordingly. No gate tickets are sold after 8 p.m., therefore late arrivals should plan to enter before that cutoff.
A few simple rules apply to every guest. Weapons, guns, and knives are not permitted anywhere on the property. Alcohol and marijuana are also banned. Pets cannot enter the grounds, except for trained service animals. Selfie sticks and drones are not allowed either, since they can create safety hazards in crowded areas.
Ticket Options and Pricing
Tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the gate on the day of your visit. Advance tickets usually cost less, so buying early is worth considering. Several ticket types are available to fit different needs, from a single day out to a full ten-day pass.
| Ticket Type | Best For |
| Single-Day Gate Admission | One visit, any day of the run |
| Family Four Pack | Four gate admissions, usable on any day |
| Fair Fan Season Pass | Unlimited gate entry for every day of the fair |
| Midway Ride Wristband | Unlimited rides for one day, purchased separately |
| Midway Ride Credits | Pay-per-ride option for guests who skip the rides |
| Premium Parking Pass | Parking closer to the entrance, must be bought by 5 p.m. the day before |
Because pricing and promotions can shift closer to opening day, it is best to check the official ticket page before your visit. Weekday discounts and early-bird deals often appear in the weeks leading up to the event, so keep an eye out for those offers if you want to save money.
A Look at the Daily Schedule
Every day at the fair follows a similar rhythm, though special events and competitions vary. Mornings are quieter and better suited for families with young kids. Afternoons bring larger crowds, live shows, and animal exhibits. Evenings close out with concerts on the Main Stage and the midway lit up in full swing.
| Time of Day | Typical Activities |
| 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. | Gates open, exhibit halls and shopping areas active |
| 11 a.m. onward | Amusement rides begin operating |
| Midday | Livestock judging, cooking demos, and youth competitions |
| Afternoon | Free stage entertainment and family activities |
| 7:30 p.m. | Main Stage concerts, included with gate admission |
| 9 p.m. | Exhibit buildings close |
| 10 p.m. | Gates close, midway continues briefly after |
Since the schedule can change without notice, checking the official fair app or website each morning is a good habit. This way, you will not miss a favorite act or a limited-time event.
Rides, Games, and the Midway
The midway is one of the biggest draws for kids and teens. Classic rides sit alongside thrilling drops and spinning attractions, and there is usually something for every age group. Height requirements apply to several rides, so parents with small children should check the posted limits before waiting in line. Guests can choose between an unlimited wristband for the day or individual ride credits, depending on how many rides they plan to enjoy. Carnival games line the midway as well, offering prizes for guests who want to test their skills between rides.
Live Entertainment and Music
Each evening, the Main Stage hosts a concert included with regular gate admission. Past lineups have featured country singers, classic rock acts, and tribute bands, so the genre often changes from night to night. Additionally, free entertainment pops up throughout the grounds during the day, including chainsaw carving demonstrations, comedy acts, and stunt shows. Because these performances are free with your ticket, they offer great value for families on a budget. It is worth checking the entertainment schedule ahead of time, since popular shows can fill seating areas quickly.
Food, Shopping, and Local Vendors
No fair visit feels complete without trying the food. Vendors serve everything from classic funnel cakes to more inventive fried treats, and many stands highlight local Virginia ingredients. Guests with dietary restrictions can bring their own food if needed, along with water bottles in non-glass containers. Beyond the food, an artisan market and several shopping areas let visitors browse handmade goods, farm products, and fair merchandise. These vendor areas support small businesses from across the state, so shopping there also helps the local economy.
Animals, Livestock, and Competitions
Agriculture remains at the heart of the event. Livestock judging takes place throughout the run, with beef, goat, lamb, and market hog competitions drawing serious attention from 4-H and FFA participants. The Natural Resources Area and Heritage Village give younger visitors a hands-on look at farming and rural life in Virginia. Additionally, horticulture and culinary competitions showcase the state’s best produce, baked goods, and preserves. These contests carry on a tradition that stretches back to the fair’s founding in 1854, connecting today’s visitors with generations of Virginia farmers.
Tips for Planning Your Visit
A little planning goes a long way at a large event like this one. Consider the following tips before heading out:
- Buy tickets online in advance to save time and often money.
- Visit on a weekday if you want smaller crowds and shorter lines.
- Wear comfortable shoes, since the grounds cover a large area.
- Check the weather forecast, since the event runs rain or shine with no rain checks.
- Arrive early if you want a good spot for the evening concert.
- Bring cash for smaller vendors, though many stands also accept cards.
- Download the fair map ahead of time to plan your route through the grounds.
Getting There and Parking
Doswell sits just off Interstate 95, roughly halfway between Richmond and Fredericksburg. This central location makes the drive manageable for guests from across the state and neighboring areas. General parking is free for all guests, while premium parking offers a shorter walk to the gate for an added fee. Traffic can build up during peak evening hours, so arriving earlier in the day often means an easier drive in and out.
Conclusion
The 2026 event runs from September 25 through October 4 at The Meadow Event Park in Doswell, offering ten days of rides, food, music, and agricultural tradition. Gates open at 10 a.m. and close at 10 p.m. daily, with several ticket options available, from single-day passes to a full season pass. Visitors can expect nightly concerts, daytime shows, livestock competitions, and a busy midway full of rides and games. Whether you plan a quick weekday visit or a full weekend outing, checking ticket prices and the daily schedule ahead of time will help you make the most of your trip. With something for every age group, this fall tradition continues to bring Virginia families together for another year of fun.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the fair open and close in 2026?
The event runs from September 25 through October 4, 2026, with gates open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Where is the event held?
It takes place at The Meadow Event Park, located at 13191 Dawn Boulevard in Doswell, Virginia.
Is parking free?
General parking is free for all guests. Premium parking passes are available for a fee and must be purchased by 5 p.m. the day before your visit.
Are pets allowed on the grounds?
Pets are not permitted, except for trained service animals. Comfort or emotional support animals do not qualify under this rule.
Do concerts cost extra?
No. Main Stage concerts are included with regular gate admission, so no separate ticket is needed to attend the evening shows.
