The State Fair of Virginia is right around the corner, whetting visitor appetites for the food, fun and culture they’ve looked forward to all year long. Whether your preferences lean toward rides, animals, competitions, concerts or other attractions, the fair’s extensive 2023 lineup of entertainment offers something for everyone to enjoy.
“When you look at the fact that the State Fair of Virginia offers more than 380 total hours of entertainment with gate admission, it’s a really great value,” said Marlene Pierson-Jolliffe, the State Fair of Virginia’s executive director and vice president of operations for Meadow Event Park.
Adventurous teens and adults gravitate toward the midway for thrill rides like the Tilt-A-Whirl, Zero Gravity, a new storm ride and an Italian wave swinger. Lower-intensity options accommodate those feeling a little less brave, while younger children have lots of safe, just-their-size rides to explore in the dedicated “Kidway” zone along the lines of a monkey ride, spinning teacups, flying elephants and the Orient Express dragon coaster.
For many families, no trip to the fair is complete without a spin on the Giant Wheel, particularly scenic at sunset if you can time your ride just right.
Unlimited ride wristbands cost $30 plus a $2 activation fee if purchased on-site, with single tickets also available. For the best value, buy one online in advance for $25, or online during the fair to skip the $2 activation fee.
Live concerts on the Farm Bureau Main Stage are another popular fair feature. As in years past, the 2023 roster of performances covers a variety of styles and genres, and access to the shows is always included with paid gate admission.
“Our main strategy is to focus on providing a variety of entertainment options that appeal to our core fairgoers,” Pierson-Jolliffe said.
Scheduled performances this year include Americana cover songs by the Bart Chucker Band, the BRENCORE Allstars Band’s tribute to Motown, the musical stylings of singer-songwriter Megan Moroney, and an appearance by nationally renowned 1970s-1980s band Pablo Cruise. Attendees can also look forward to performances Wilson Fairchild, The Travelin’ McCourys, Chase Payne, George Birge and John Anderson.
The State Fair of Virginia also hosts a number of crowd-pleasing shows and attractions, as well as a mix of strolling performers who interact with visitors throughout the fairgrounds.
“The aerial artists of the Triple Crown Circus were such a big hit last year, we’re bringing them back again for three shows a day,” Pierson-Jolliffe said.
Joining the Fire Guy and master chainsaw carver Ben Risney this year are Dan-Dan the Farmer Man and the Cast in Bronze carillon bell, the largest and heaviest musical instrument in the world. Another new addition, the Ultimate Stunt Show wows crowds three times daily with a 40-foot motorcycle jump, BMX aerial acts and the “Globe of Death.” Fairgoers can also look forward to The Crooked Road Tour, an acoustic musical performance that takes audiences on a journey to a different time in Virginia history.
Baby animals on display in the livestock barns, Young MacDonald’s Farm, Rosaire’s Racing Pigs presented by Virginia Lottery, the Rockin A Ranch Petting Zoo, Otter Adventure and “Bulls, Barrels and Broncs” produced by Revenge Roughstock Rodeo Company round out the fair’s animal attractions.
“We continue to expand our grounds, attractions and entertainment options so guests can build their fair adventure the way they want,” Pierson-Jolliffe said.
The 2023 State Fair of Virginia runs from Sept. 22 to Oct. 1 at the Meadow Event Park in Doswell. For a complete schedule of shows, events and additional information, visit statefairva.org.
