The smell of fried dough and freshly cut hay will once again fill the air as families stroll through rows of food vendors, games and agricultural displays. The State Fair of Virginia, a tradition that dates back more than 165 years, returns to The Meadow Event Park from September 27 to October 6 with the theme “Where Home Grown Happens.”

Visitors to the fair can expect a mix of old and new, with Virginia-grown foods, local crafts and agriculture. New attractions this year include lawnmower racing, chainsaw carving and Doc Belmont’s Magnificent Magical Medicine Show. Fair favorites like Rosaires Royal Racers, the Triple Crown Circus and the Ultimate Stunt Show return.

“We are excited to bring the theme ‘Where Home Grown Happens’ to life,” said Marlene Jolliffe, executive director of the show. “Our goal is to maintain old traditions but add new programs each year.”

Music will play a large part in the celebrations, with performances on the main stage each evening at 7:30 p.m. Acts include a Taylor Swift tribute band on September 27th, country artist Cooper Alan on September 28th and Motown hits from the Brencore Allstars Band on September 29th. Other notable artists include rock band Hinder on October 2nd and rock and roll icon Chubby Checker on October 3rd.

In addition to entertainment, agriculture remains the focus of the fair. Guests can watch milking demonstrations, visit Young MacDonald’s Farm and marvel at giant fruits and vegetables at the Giant Veggie Weigh-Off on September 28th. Alpaca Days, a new event on September 28th and 29th, will feature various alpaca breeds and offer fleece demonstrations.

This year’s fair includes a 4,700-square-foot restroom facility at the main gate, part of several improvements designed to increase guest comfort.

Tickets for the State Fair of Virginia are available online and all main stage concerts are included in admission. For more information, visit StateFairVa.org.