GENERAL PARK RULES
Can I bring my pet?
During the 10 days of the State Fair of Virginia pets are not allowed on the Fairgrounds, with the exception of service animals as defined in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or animals approved as part of an exhibition. Service animals are those that have been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for a person with a disability. Service animals are working animals, not pets. The work or task an animal has been trained to provide must be directly related to the person’s disability. Animals whose sole function is to provide comfort or emotional support do not qualify as service animals under the ADA.
Can I bring my knife or gun to the State Fair?
The State Fair prohibits weapons of any kind from entering the property, including pocket knives. We ask that guests leave those items in their vehicles before purchasing their tickets. This policy also applies to any events held at The Meadow Event Park.
FIREARMS: There is a NO OPEN CARRY provision on the property except for On-Duty Law Enforcement Officers.
CONCEALED CARRY: Off duty officers from Caroline County, Virginia State Police or Federal Agents are permitted to conceal/carry. If on property, they must have the appropriate identifying arm band. (Available at PSOC or RMC Supervisor at gate)
What is your policy on alcohol, tobacco use and marijuana use?
Alcohol is NOT permitted to be brought onto the property. Beer and wine will be for sale and may be consumed inside the fair, except in the Midway and Kidway areas. Alcohol is not allowed in the parking areas. Smoking is permitted on the property; however, it is prohibited in tents and buildings, ride and ticket lines and the entire Kidway area. This includes the use of electronic smoking devices. Marijuana is prohibited on Meadow Event Park property.
Is photography allowed inside the fair?
Fairgoers are welcome to photograph their fair adventures with family and friends. We ask that you be respectful of other fairgoers. The State Fair of Virginia reserves the right to terminate any photography or videotaping on the property that it deems inappropriate or intrusive. PLEASE NOTE: The use of selfie sticks is prohibited throughout the fair. Portrait photographers working for a client while inside the fair may work in any public area but must do so in a way that does not interfere with or obstruct foot traffic or the normal operation of any performance, ride or exhibit. You may use a tripod, but lights and related equipment are prohibited, as is blocking off any public portion of the grounds for a photo, or posing a subject inside any restricted area. When working in areas with animals, please follow all posted rules. We strongly encourage you to schedule professional shoots on a weekday.
Notice to Ticket Holders
Prices, policies, programs, schedules, entertainment and concerts subject to change or cancellation without notice. No weapons, guns or knives allowed at the event. Not responsible for lost, stolen, misplaced tickets and/or tickets obtained through sources not approved by the State Fair of Virginia. Ticket holder assumes responsibility for him/her self as well as for each minor in the care of ticket holder. You further consent to the use of your likeness in any displays, transmissions, or reproduction for marketing of this or any future event. No rain checks. No refunds. The Meadow Event Park and the State Fair of Virginia reserve the right to refuse admission.
GENERAL INFORMATION - STATE FAIR OF VA
How do I get to The Meadow Event Park?
From I-95, take Exit 98 (Doswell) and travel 1½ miles east on state Route 30. If traffic is heavy, consider taking U.S. Route 301 to state Route 30; travel about 3 miles west on Route 30. You also can take U.S. Route 1 to state Route 30; travel about 2 miles east on Route 30.
Where can my Uber or Lyft driver drop me off at the fair?
If traveling from I-95, please instruct your driver to stay in the far right lane on Route 30. Once the Lyft/Uber vehicle approaches a trooper or parking attendant, share with them that they are dropping off and you will then be directed to Gate 6. Guests will be dropped in the handicap parking lot and can enter the fair through the Main Ticket Plaza.
When are the Midway and Kidway open?
The Midway and Kidway both open at 11 a.m. daily. Midway area rides will continue to operate for a minimum of one hour after the ticket windows close, or longer at the discretion of fair management. Kidway area rides close when the Ticket Plaza closes.
How do you ensure the safety of your rides?
Our midway rides undergo a thorough inspection – by midway contractor Deggeller Attractions upon setup; by Caroline County before opening day; and then daily before operation by an independent, professional state-certified inspector.
Please Note: the use of selfie sticks is prohibited on rides and throughout the fair.
How old do my children need to be to ride the rides?
Requirements for individual rides and attractions include height, weight and whether a child must be accompanied by an adult. These requirements are displayed at each ride and attraction, as well as at the Midway and Kidway Customer Service booths. For our youngest guests, those not tall enough to ride the Midway and Kidway rides, we offer a collection of colorful coin-operated rides in the Kidway area.
Who is the 2024 Virginia Association of Fairs Queen?
Sydney Spencer, representing the Prince William County Fair, was crowned Miss Virginia Association of Fairs 2024 during the 106th conference of the Virginia Association Fairs at the historic Williamsburg Lodge in January 2024.
What if I need to go to my car and come back?
Visitors who buy a ticket and then want to leave and return to the fair on the same day have that option. Be sure to get your hand stamped before exiting if you plan to return that same day. No re-entry after 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays.
Do you offer shuttle service in the parking lots or inside the fair?
Parking lot trams can help you get to and from your vehicle in parking Lots A and C. Look for “Tram Stops” designated with small tents and flags. Once inside the fair you can use guest service carts to travel easily between designated stops on the north side of state Route 30.
What if I lose something while I’m at the fair?
Lost & Found is located in the Derby House in Kidway. If the item is found after you have left the fair then please enter through Gate 6 to access the Bold Ruler house. Paid fair admission is not needed to gain access to the Bold Ruler House. Lost & Found is open during regular operating hours each day of the fair, September 27 through October 6, 2024. All items not claimed by October 6th, 2024, will be turned over to The Meadow Event Park. For more information call 804-994-2800 during our general office hours of 9:00am to 5:00pm.
What opportunities exist for School Groups?
We offer our Educational Expo for all school groups with tons of educational stops and interactive lessons. The Ed Expo and student ticket rates are good for school groups coming Monday-Friday during the school day. Learn more, check out the guide and purchase tickets under the Ed Expo link which can be found under Education.
SECURITY
Can I bring my knife or gun to the State Fair?
The State Fair prohibits weapons of any kind from entering the property, including pocket knives. We ask that guests leave those items in their vehicles before purchasing their tickets. This policy also applies to any events held at The Meadow Event Park.
FIREARMS: There is a NO OPEN CARRY provision on the property except for On-Duty Law Enforcement Officers.
CONCEALED CARRY: For some sanctioned events, off duty officers from Caroline County, Virginia State Police or Federal Agents are permitted to conceal/carry. If on property, they must have the appropriate identifying arm band. (Available at PSOC or RMC Supervisor at gate)
What safety and security policies does the State Fair of Virginia have in place?
The safety of our guests, exhibitors and employees is our No. 1 priority. The fair is staffed by licensed security professionals and state and local law enforcement.
We have the right to conduct personal and bag checks at the ticket gates, this includes metal detection.
Please Note: the use of selfie sticks is prohibited throughout the fair.
GUEST ACCESSIBILITY
Do you have handicap parking?
The Meadow Event Park has ample handicap parking for authorized users. Handicap parking locations are: Lots B and D. Please display your decal so that parking attendants can direct you to the correct location.
Can I bring my own wheelchair or motorized scooter?
You are welcome to bring your own wheelchair or motorized scooter. Wheelchairs and motorized scooters also are available for rent outside the main gate in the Ticket Plaza.
Reservations can be made the day before by calling Mobility Concepts at (919) 548-0488
Pricing:
Motorized Scooter - $60
Wheelchairs - $20
Stroller and Wagon - $20
Are the concerts handicap accessible?
All main stage concerts are general admission. There is ample flat space for accessible seating. Patrons are also welcome to purchase premium parking which is located behind the Farm Bureau Center and accessible by entering Gate 2.
Can I bring my pet or support animal to the fair?
During the 10 days of the State Fair of Virginia pets are not allowed on the Fairgrounds, with the exception of service animals as defined in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or animals approved as part of an exhibition. Service animals are those that have been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for a person with a disability. Service animals are working animals, not pets. The work or task an animal has been trained to provide must be directly related to the person’s disability. Animals whose sole function is to provide comfort or emotional support do not qualify as service animals under the ADA.
TICKETING INFORMATION
Is a military discount offered?
During the fair, at the gate the following is offered: $3 off the regular $16.50 admission (final price $13.50). Military discount is available to all military members. This includes active-duty service members, National Guard, Reserve, retired military and retirees with a current military ID, and Veterans. VA DMV veteran’s credentialed license or ID card is also accepted. See a valid list of ids at the bottom of this page. The discount applies to the service member plus one guest. Available at the gate ONLY.
NOTICE TO TICKET HOLDERS
Prices, policies, programs, schedules, entertainment and concerts subject to change or cancellation without notice. No weapons, guns or knives allowed at the event. Not responsible for lost, stolen, misplaced tickets and/or tickets obtained through sources not approved by the State Fair of Virginia. Ticket holder assumes responsibility for him/her self as well as for each minor in the care of ticket holder. You further consent to the use of your likeness in any displays, transmissions, or reproduction for marketing of this or any future event. No rain checks. No refunds. The Meadow Event Park and the State Fair of Virginia reserve the right to refuse admission.
DIRECTIONS AND PARKING
Is parking free? Do you have VIP parking?
General parking is free.
Premium parking is close to the action via Gate 2 behind the Farm Bureau Center. Buy in advance, online, to park in an asphalt lot to save time getting to your favorite fair attractions. These tickets can be purchased online.
Admission is not included, but must be purchased in advance; all vehicle occupants must purchase admission tickets in advance. Valid only for specific day purchased; limited quantity available. Tickets sales for the following day end at 8 a.m.