Summertime fairs and festivals are often nostalgic events, primarily about fun, food, family and friends.
But they are also a vital thread in the fabric of a community; a place to come together and connect. For non-locals, these events are a snapshot of the area and what makes it unique: its people, culture and traditions. There’s no better time than summer to get out and explore the many diverse communities in Virginia by attending one — or more — of these cherished local events!
RASSAWEK SPRING JUBILEE — Goochland County, Va. — June 1 & 2
Celebrate the 12th anniversary of the Rassawek Spring Jubilee on June 1 and 2 — a celebration of the handmade and the homegrown. Rassawek’s annual Wine Tasting Festival offers an experience unlike any other with live artisan demonstrations, including wood turning, glassblowing and blacksmithing. Experience batteau boat and steamboat rides. Enjoy tastings from over 10 local wineries and cideries, live music from various artists, Chesapeake Dock Dogs competitions, and a variety of food vendors and activities for the kids. There is something for everyone. For more information and to get your advance-price tickets now, visit rassawek.com.
MADISON COUNTY FAIR — Madison County, Va. — July 17-20
The Madison County Fair promises to be a good time, with something for everyone to enjoy! Fairgoers will be able to enjoy musical performances by Dark Hollow Band, Freedom Worship, Southern Sky, Hurt Hollow Bluegrass Band and Keith Bryant. There will also be performing dogs, livestock shows, exhibits, a bull-riding rodeo, a demolition derby and more! For additional information and to view the fair schedule, visit madisoncountyfairva.com.
CHINCOTEAGUE ISLAND BLUEBERRY FESTIVAL — Chincoteague Island, Va. — July 18-20
The 36th Annual Chincoteague Island Blueberry Festival, the opening act for the world-famous Pony Swim, will happen on July 18-20 at the beautiful Chincoteague Center. Amazing food, nonstop live music, awesome artists and crafters, and blueberries in their many forms. For more information, visit chincoteagueblueberryfestival.com.
SHENANDOAH VALLEY MUSIC FESTIVAL — Orkney Springs, Va. — July 19–20, July 26-27, Aug. 16-17, 30-31, and Sept. 1
Escape to the foothills of Great North Mountain and enjoy great music under the stars in beautiful Orkney Springs, Va. Concerts feature Marty Stuart, Dionne Warwick, Mavis Staples, Atlanta Rhythm Section & Orleans, The Oak Ridge Boys, Steve Earle and more! Package deals offer discounts on tickets and lodging at historic Shrine Mont. Tickets and more information at musicfest.org.
VIRGINIA LAKE FESTIVAL — Clarksville, Va. — July 19-20
The 47th annual Virginia Lake Festival will include a multitude of events open to the public at no charge. Activities for all ages (including helicopter rides) and live bands all weekend! There will be music by Justin Cody Fox band on Friday and Earls of Kent on Saturday. At nightfall, boats gather on the lake and festivalgoers gather at the shoreline to see the extravaganza fireworks show. Visit clarksvilleva.com for all the details.
FIELD DAY OF THE PAST — Amelia, Va. — Sept. 20-22
Field Day of the Past is held in Amelia County at Redfield Farm, 11404 Circle Drive. This is where you go for all the power pulling action — tractor pulls and truck pulls. And, of course, live music, gold panning, carnival rides, heritage exhibits, animal exhibits, mechanical bull rides, educational exhibits, arts and crafts, and all the food and fun one can handle. For tickets and more information, visit fielddayofthepast.net.