It’s that time of year when long, sunlit afternoons and twilight-filled evenings come alive as family and friends gather to make memories while experiencing all the sights, sounds and tastes the commonwealth has to offer. Across Virginia, these fairs, festivals and travel destinations are putting out the welcome mat … and you’re invited!
SALEM FAIR — Salem, Va. — July 2-13
Come experience the fun and excitement of the Salem Fair, which takes place in the heart of the Roanoke Valley on the grounds of the Salem Civic Center Complex. There will be rides, music, competitions, food and games. Fees apply for rides, food and games.
For more information, visit SalemFair.com.
MADISON COUNTY FAIR — Madison County, Va. — July 16-19
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, Melissa Quinn Fox, Austin Boggs, Hurt Hollow Bluegrass Band and James Tamelcoff. There will also be axe throwing, a hypnotist, wrestling, livestock shows, exhibits, a bull-riding rodeo, a demolition derby and more.
For more information, visit madisoncountyfairva.com.
VIRGINIA LAKE FESTIVAL — Clarksville, Va. — July 18-19
Explore Clarksville, Va., on the largest lake in Virginia at the 48th annual Virginia Lake Festival. The festival includes 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 the Fastlane Band. At nightfall, boats gather on the lake and festivalgoers gather at the shoreline to see the extravaganza fireworks show.
For more information, visit clarksvilleva.com.
SHENANDOAH VALLEY MUSIC FESTIVAL — Orkney Springs, Va. — July 18–19, July 25–26, Aug. 15–16, Aug. 30–31
Escape to the foothills of Great North Mountain and enjoy great music under the stars. Coming this summer: Grand Funk Railroad, The Bacon Brothers, Shenandoah, Gaelic Storm, Big Damn Band and more! Package deals include discounts on tickets and lodging at historic Shrine Mont.
For more information, visit musicfest.org.
DISCOVER HOPEWELL, VIRGINIA
Visit Hopewell, Va., located just 20 minutes south of Richmond at the convergence of the James and Appomattox rivers. Come take in a show at the historic Beacon Theater. Explore the water on foot or kayak at the Hopewell Riverwalk. Browse the shops in historic downtown, then break for coffee or lunch at one of our cafés or restaurants. Visit historic Weston Manor and Appomattox Manor to walk in the footprints of the nation’s founders. Enjoy drinks and dinner at the Boathouse at City Point overlooking the James River.
For more information, visit hopewellva.gov.
CHINCOTEAGUE BLUEBERRY FESTIVAL — Chincoteague Island, Va. — July 24-26
The 37th annual Chincoteague Island Blueberry Festival, the opening act for the world-famous Pony Swim, will happen on July 24-26 at the beautiful Chincoteague Center. There will be delicious food, nonstop live music, talented artists and crafters, and blueberries in their many forms.
For more information, visit chincoteagueblueberryfestival.com.
DINOSAUR KINGDOM II — Weekends through October
Check out the wild and wacky roadside attraction that the Washington Post called, “Amazing! Brilliant! Hilarious!” Dinosaur Kingdom II will transport visitors to an alternate reality filled with lifelike fiberglass dinosaurs along a wooded, walking adventure. Young visitors can discover dinosaur bones, experience a triceratops bullfight or mine for fossils.
Buy tickets online at dinosaurkingdomii.com or on site at the ticket booth.
HAUNTING TALES — Weekends through October
Walk through dark streets and alleyways and in the very footsteps of Stonewall Jackson, Robert E. Lee and his beloved horse, Traveler, as you listen to entertaining, enlightening and eerie tales told to you by professional tour guides. Experience the nightly phenomena in the heart of the famous Stonewall Jackson Memorial Cemetery.
For more information, visit ghosttourlexingtonva.com.