The 82nd Waterford Fair is Fast Approaching!
Fall is just around the corner, and we can’t wait to welcome you back for another spectacular weekend! As we put the finishing touches on this year’s festivities, here is everything you need to know about tickets, events, and getting involved.
Member & Village Resident Tickets
Good news: As always, Foundation members and village residents receive complimentary admission to the Fair! Your complimentary pass(es) grants full access all weekend long.
Sharing Your Tickets: Feel free to pass your complimentary e-tickets along to family or friends if you can’t use them! Please note that once an e-ticket is scanned at the gate and exchanged for an official “hanging tag” Fair pass, that physical pass is individual to the wearer for the weekend.
We are continuing with the same digital ticket delivery system we introduced last year:
- Direct Email Delivery: No discount codes needed! Your tickets will arrive via email during the third week of September at the primary email address associated with your membership or household.
- Easy Redemption: Simply print your e-ticket or show the QR code on your phone at the Information Tent or any Ticket Gate during Fair weekend to receive your official “hanging tag” pass.
- Missing Your Email? If you haven’t received your tickets by Wednesday, September 23, please contact us at 540-882-3018 x 0 or [email protected].
Save the Dates: Fair Events & Gatherings
Mark your calendars! Join us for these special events as we celebrate, prepare, and kick off Fair season together:
- Fair Kick-Off Party | Friday, August 21, 2026 | 6:00 PM
Location: The Old School (40222 Fairfax St.) Join us for nibbles & libations! Learn what’s new at this year’s Fair, connect with fellow supporters, and discover opportunities to get involved. - Varnishing Night Preview & Sale | Thursday, October 1, 2026 | 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM Location: Old Mill Shop, Dried Flower Barn, & Art at the Red Barn
Beat the crowds! Members, residents, and volunteers get exclusive early access to view and shop artwork and crafts before the Fair opens to the public. - 6th Annual Welcome Dinner | Friday, October 2, 2026 | 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: Talbott’s Tavern on the Old School Lawn (40222 Fairfax St.)
Enjoy a wonderful meal, catch up with friends and neighbors, share how the day went, and unwind! Space is limited, so reserve early! Click here for dinner details and ticket reservations.
Help Spread the Word: Fair Ticket Update
When sharing the Fair with friends, family, and neighbors, let them know about our exciting new simplified pricing structure!
NEW FOR 2026: One Ticket. Three Days. Endless Memories!
We’ve streamlined general admission to offer maximum value and flexibility. Every general admission ticket purchased this year is an All-Weekend Pass!
For just $20 in advance ($25 at the gate; processing fees apply), a single pass unlocks a full weekend of fine craft artisans, music, historic home tours, and family activities. Enjoy seamless, unlimited entry whenever you visit all weekend long! Discounted $20 passes are available for Seniors, Military, and Students (13–21) both in advance and at the gate, and kids 12 and under attend free with an adult.
General Admission Includes:
- Historic properties, open gardens, and exhibit buildings
- Live music, entertainment, tent talks, and living history demonstrations
- Hands-on craft activities for kids of all ages
- Free parking!
Send your friends and family to waterfordfairva.org to view the full schedule and buy advance tickets!
Note: Food, beverages, specialized workshops, and artisan wares are purchased separately. Select free events (like Tent Talks) require an advance reservation due to space.
NEW! Pre-Order Your Official Fair Merch
Don’t risk missing out on this year’s official Waterford Fair gear! Fair t-shirts have completely sold out for the past two years, so we’re excited to offer online merch pre-orders for 2026. Secure your commemorative t-shirts, mugs, and more in advance, and conveniently pick them up during Fair weekend at the Merch Tent (located right next to Information).
Oh, the Many Ways to Get Involved!
- Become a Sponsor or Donor: Support the Fair as a booklet page donor or business sponsor. Every contribution helps make this community tradition possible!
- Volunteer: Over 400 shifts are available—from guiding visitors to assisting artisans. Click here to explore shifts and sign up.
- Host an Artisan: Open your home to a visiting artisan for the weekend—a unique and cherished Fair tradition! Fill out our quick host form to get started.
- Renew or Support: Ensure your membership is up-to-date to retain your complimentary Fair tickets and special event invites, or consider making a gift to our Endowment Fund.
We can’t wait to celebrate with you this October!
