GENERAL PARK RULES
Notice to Ticket Holders
Prices, policies, programs, schedules, entertainment and concerts subject to change or cancellation without notice. 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/herself as well as for each minor in the care of ticket holder. No rain checks. No refunds. The Meadow Event Park and the State Fair of Virginia reserve the right to refuse admission.
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 guests. 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.
-MARKETING & PROMOTION: When you attend events at the Meadow Event Park you consent to the use of your likeness in any displays, transmissions, or reproduction for marketing.
Can I bring my knife or gun to the State Fair?
The State Fair prohibits weapons of any kind from entering the property, including pocketknives. 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)
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.
GENERAL INFORMATION - STATE FAIR OF VA
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.
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.
What if I'm a Farm Bureau Member?
Farm Bureau Members can obtain exclusive discounts at the fair through their Member Deals Plus account. Click the banner at the top of the page to be taken to the State Fair of VA Admissions where you will be able to purchase your ticket.
Who is the 2025 Virginia Association of Fairs Queen?
Natalie White, representing the Russell County Fair, was crowned Miss Virginia Association of Fairs 2025 during the 107th conference of the Virginia Association Fairs at the historic Williamsburg Lodge in January 2025.
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 26 through October 5, 2025. All items not claimed by October 5th, 2025, 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
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 available first come first serve outside the main gate in the Ticket Plaza.
Pricing:
Motorized Scooter - $65 + sales tax
Wheelchairs - $25 + sales tax
Stroller and Wagon - $25 + sales tax
Cash, Zelle, or Cash App is accepted.
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?
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. 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?
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.