Tickets on sale August 1st | Kids 12 and under FREE!        October 2-4, 2026 | 10am-5pm | Waterford, Virginia

Waterford Fair

81st American Crafts & Historic Homes Tour

News

What’s New at the 82nd Annual Waterford Fair!

Fall is right around the corner, and the Waterford Foundation is getting ready to welcome everyone back to the historic village of Waterford for Virginia’s oldest juried crafts fair from October 2–4, 2026. This year’s festival brings exciting updates, a streamlined ticket process, and plenty of autumn magic across all three days.

New Ticket Policy: One Pass, Three Days

To give you the best value and flexibility, we’ve updated our general admission for 2026: every general admission ticket now acts as a 3-Day Pass! For just $20 in advance ($25 at the gate), a single pass gets you unlimited entry all weekend long. Discounted $20 tickets are available for seniors, military, and students (ages 13–21), and kids 12 and under get in free. Grab your tickets early on the Waterford Fair Tickets page.

Unforgettable Highlights & Living History

We have some incredible historic features lined up this year, starting with The Maranda Project, a special homecoming story. Come see the original 1860 friendship journal belonging to Waterford resident Maranda Stewart Hough, which was recently discovered in a California thrift store for just $1.99 and returned home! It will be on display at the Waterford Craft School Tent, alongside a dedicated Tent Talk on Saturday.

We’re also proud to celebrate the 75th Anniversary of the Gun Shop Exhibit, marking three-quarters of a century of live gunsmithing demonstrations and early American craftsmanship. You can read more about this favorite tradition here.

Around the village, you can check out:

  • 225+ Master Artisans & Fine Artists: Watch skilled craftspeople, fine art painters, and contemporary artisans demonstrate their work in historic buildings, vintage barns, and open-air tents.
  • Historic Homes Tour: Stroll scenic village streets and step inside historic homes and gardens, where friendly docents will be inside to share local history.
  • Main Stage Entertainment: Enjoy traditional American music and lively regional bands curated in partnership with River & Roots Production.
  • Featured Fair Raffle: Stop by the Fair Store Tent (right next to Information) to buy tickets for this year’s raffle item by artisan Dennis Ray. It’s a stunning, one-of-a-kind pin made from a real oak leaf collected right here on the Waterford grounds, captured in copper with a bronze patina, and worn on an 18”–20” wine-colored raw silk necklace.

Community Celebrations, Dining & Volunteering

Don’t miss out on special gatherings, including the 6th Annual Welcome Dinner on Friday, October 2 from 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM at Talbott’s Tavern on the Old School Lawn. Space fills up fast, so get your tickets before 5 pm on September 23rd!

Want to go behind the scenes? It takes a big team to bring this festival to life, and we’d love to have you join us! Learn more and sign up on the Waterford Fair Volunteer page.

Whether you’re coming for a few hours or spending the whole weekend with us, find details on parking, daily schedules, and logistics at the Fair FAQs. Check out everything happening this year and start planning your weekend at the Fair today!

Waterford and the Revolution: Looking Back 250 Years

Imagine yourself 250 years ago as the North American colonies hovered on the brink of revolution. Does your mind jump to Massachusetts with Paul Revere and the Minutemen? Or closer to home in Williamsburg, hearing Patrick Henry proclaim, “Give me liberty, or give me death!”

While no major Revolutionary battles were fought directly in Waterford, Loudoun County residents were deeply tied to the movement. Throughout the eight-year War for Independence and its aftermath, the people of this region felt the daily impact of a changing nation.

Janney’s Mill: The Village Before Waterford

The community that heard the news of Patrick Henry’s speech looked quite different from the village we walk today. In fact, if you had asked a local for directions to “Waterford” in 1776, they would have been confused—the name didn’t gain widespread use until later in the century. To locals, this area was known as Janney’s Mill.

Many modern landmarks—including the John Wesley Community Church, the Corner Store, and the Chair Factory—were still decades away from construction. The settlement consisted of roughly 150 people. The majority were Quakers migrating from Pennsylvania and New Jersey, including prominent families like the Hagues, Houghs, and Janneys. Scots-Irish immigrants, merchants, and skilled craftsmen made up much of the rest of the growing population.

Breadbasket of the Revolution

As the name suggests, Janney’s Mill was famous for grain. Mahlon Janney—son of founding settler Amos Janney—had built a gristmill along Catoctin Creek about twelve years prior, damming the water to power his operation near where the historic Waterford Mill stands today. (He later built a second mill before selling it to the Schooley family.) Along with fellow locals Francis Hague and John Hough—who served as two of Loudoun County’s first flour inspectors—Janney helped turn the region into a vital breadbasket for the colonies.

Surrounding the mill were tenant farms operating under the English leasing system. Early farmers cultivated cash crops like wheat and tobacco alongside livestock and family gardens.

Early Crafts & Crossroads

During the Revolutionary era, local trades began to flourish around the mills. Craftsmen specializing in tanning, blacksmithing, and carpentry took on young apprentices—teenagers bound by multi-year contracts to learn a trade. Many of these apprentices eventually established their own businesses in the village.

Much like modern Waterford, the area was also a hub for travel. Roads were built to connect local farms and mills to major trade routes. Vestal’s Gap Road, which ran through the center of the village to connect Alexandria and Winchester, allowed local craftsmen and farmers to easily ship their goods across the region.

Commemorating 250 Years in Loudoun County

As our nation marks the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution (1776–2026), communities across the country are honoring the founding era.

Loudoun’s 250th Commemoration Committee—formed in 2022—brings together historical societies, museums, libraries, public schools, Visit Loudoun, and local towns. Together, the committee works to foster a deeper understanding of Loudoun’s past and ensure everyone can see how the ideas of the Revolution continue to shape our community today.

Waterford’s story is central to this history. From its early Quaker millers and tenant farmers to Civil War-era figures like Samuel C. Means and the Loudoun Independent Rangers, through to the John Wesley Community Church congregation and the modern Colonial Revival preservation movement, Waterford residents have continually wrestled with what those founding principles mean.

Celebrate at the Waterford Fair!

The Waterford Foundation is proud to collaborate with preservation groups across Loudoun County to mark this historic milestone. The 250th anniversary committee has sponsored events countywide—including historical marker dedications, guided walking tours, open houses, lectures, and youth programming.

Special Semiquincentennial activities and living history demonstrations have been built directly into this year’s Waterford Fair!

To explore the full schedule of events and learn more about this year’s festival, visit the Fair website.

2026 Fair Updates…

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 and libations as we toast to the upcoming Fair season! Learn what’s new for 2026, connect with fellow supporters, and discover fun ways 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 village history, art, and vibrant local culture. Enjoy 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 and open gardens with docents on site (new locations daily!), plus exhibit buildings
  • Fine craft artisans, traditional music on the main stage, strolling performers, and living history demonstrations
  • Tent Talks and 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: It takes a village to make the magic happen! Whether you’re greeting visitors, helping artisans, or working behind the scenes, there’s a fun role for every interest and schedule. Plus, receive a complimentary Fair pass for every 4-hour shift you work! Click here to learn more.
  • 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!

A New Note for the Main Stage

As the Waterford Fair continues its 80-plus year tradition of celebrating heritage and community, the Foundation is pleased to share some significant updates regarding our Main Stage for 2026.

For the past 20 years, the Fair’s musical programming was expertly guided by Roy Chaudet. Roy’s commitment to our event has been invaluable; following his receipt of a service award this past April, he has officially retired from his volunteer role to focus on other interests. While we will certainly miss Roy’s presence at the stage, we are deeply grateful for the strong foundation he built over two decades of dedicated service.

Building on that legacy, we are excited to announce a new professional partnership with River & Roots Productions to showcase the 2026 Main Stage.

Based in the Shenandoah Valley, River & Roots is led by David Van Deventer and Morgan Morrison. As the founders of the Furnace Mountain Band, David and Morgan bring a unique dual perspective to the Fair. They are not only seasoned event promoters but also accomplished touring musicians who have spent many an afternoon entertaining our fairgoers over the years. Their expertise ensures that Waterford will continue to host the high-caliber, Americana and old-time performances that resonate so perfectly with our historic setting.

We are already looking forward to the diverse range of talent they are bringing to the village this October. Our confirmed 2026 lineup ( currently includes:

  • The Plate Scrapers
  • Hot Club of Baltimore
  • Tessa McCoy and the State Birds
  • Collins & Vocke with special guest Zach Lester
  • The Furnace Mountain Band
  • One Street Over
  • Old Dominion Quartet

This collaboration represents a thoughtful next step for the Fair. By combining River & Roots’ professional network with the local traditions Roy helped establish, we are ensuring that the Main Stage continues to grow as a premier destination for Americana and roots music.

Get a head start on the music! We’ve curated a 2026 Waterford Fair Preview Playlist on YouTube so you can experience the incredible talent joining us this year.

Watch & Listen to the 2026 Lineup Here

We look forward to seeing you at the stage from October 2nd through 4th!

Colleen Regan’s “Walking Up to the Waterford Schoolhouse” Named 82nd Waterford Fair Cover Art

Image of artist Colleen Regan standing in the foreground with three of her paintings on easels behind her. Location is an outdoor art show.

We are pleased to announce that Colleen Regan has been selected as the winner of the 2026 Waterford Fair Cover Art Competition. Her exceptional watercolor, “Walking Up to the Waterford Schoolhouse,” was chosen to grace the cover of this year’s Fair booklet and will be featured throughout our digital materials.

About the Artist

Colleen’s current work focuses on watercolor, a medium she prizes for its spontaneity and portability, allowing her to capture the “enchantment” of her surroundings in almost any weather. Her creative inspiration is often drawn from her favorite walks throughout Northern Virginia or her travels to new destinations, both near and far.

Her impressive artistic background includes studies in Evanston, Illinois; Rome, Italy; Toulouse, France; and Palos Verdes, California, as well as locally in Great Falls, Virginia. Colleen is an active member of several prestigious organizations, including the McLean Art Society Juried Gallery, the Virginia Watercolor Society, the Baltimore Watercolor Society, and the Loudoun Sketch Club.

About the Winning Piece

The winning 12”x16” watercolor captures one of the village’s most iconic landmarks from a unique perspective. Colleen describes the building as an “important beacon” in Waterford.

“It’s amazing to think about all the students over decades making the hike up for the privilege of education,” Colleen says, “and then about all the happy guests taking the same route more recently as the Schoolhouse transformed into a place of celebration.”

For collectors wishing to own a piece of Fair history, the original winning painting is available for purchase. If you are interested in acquiring this piece, please contact the Fair office at [email protected], and we will be happy to connect you with the artist.

  • Price: $350
  • Details: 12”x16” watercolor on paper.
  • Condition: Sold matted but unframed, allowing the collector to choose their own custom décor.
  • Delivery: Available for immediate shipping or local delivery to the collector.

Please join us in congratulating Colleen Regan on this well-deserved honor. We look forward to seeing her work represent the spirit of the 2026 Waterford Fair!


Image of painting of the Waterford Old School. Perspective is from walking up the hill.

JOIN THE TRADITION

All Applications Now Open for the 82nd Waterford Fair!

It’s that time of year again. Even as the winter chill lingers, our thoughts are already turning toward October—to the sound of laughter as families enjoy the Landmark, the vibrant colors in the Fine Art barn, old-time music on the main stage, and the incredible talent that fills every corner of our historic village during the Fair.

The 82nd Annual Waterford Fair is officially beginning its application process for all of the Fair venues, and we are looking for the makers, bakers, speakers, living historians, artists, chefs, and more, who make this event the quintessential Loudoun County fall festival.

Whether you’ve been with us for decades or you’re a new artisan looking for your first home in the village, we want to see what you’re creating. The Fair isn’t just about selling; it’s about the preservation of craft and the community that grows around it.

Because the Fair is such a diverse tapestry, our application process is handled specifically by venue. Please note that application deadlines vary depending on where you fit within the Fair.

To find the specific deadline and requirements for your area, please visit our Exhibitor Information Page.

Each year, we are humbled by the incredible quality of what is shared here, from masterfully crafted heritage goods and fine art to the local harvests and culinary treats that define our region. It is your collective talent and hard work that allow the Waterford Foundation to continue its mission of preservation and education. We can’t wait to see what the 82nd year brings to our tables, tents, and barns!

Call for Artists: Show Us Your “Waterford Scene”

The heart of the Waterford Fair is captured in its imagery. Each year, we look for a signature “Waterford Scene”—a work of art that anchors our visual identity and inspires every visitor who joins us. We are now officially searching for the piece that will define the 2026 Waterford Fair.

Whether it’s a quiet corner of a stone cottage, a sweeping view of the hills, or the energy of Fair day, we want to see your vision of our historic village.

What We’re Looking For

The selected artwork (or a featured portion) will serve as the face of the 2026 Fair, showcased on the booklet cover and across all our promotional materials, from print ads to social media.

The Details:

  • Media: We are looking for traditional media—paintings, drawings, and mixed media. Please note: we are not accepting digital work for the cover, and color images are preferred.
  • Eligibility: To keep our imagery fresh, entries must have been produced after August 2024.
  • Quantity: You can submit up to four (4) pieces for consideration.
  • Format: Low-resolution images are fine for the initial application. If your work is selected, we’ll need a hi-res image. If you don’t have one, we can take it. We would just need the piece brought to Waterford so we can take it.

Why Submit?

Beyond having your work seen by tens of thousands of Fair fans, the selected artist receives full credit across all platforms. We also feature the winner in a press release and a social media spotlight to share your artistic background with our community.

Important Dates & Info

  • Deadline: March 31, 2026
  • Selection Notice: April 10, 2026
  • Quick Tip for the App: When you’re filling out the form, if you don’t have a registered business name, just enter “N/A” in the Business field.

APPLY HERE

Example of how the image may be use:

Vicki Garrison’s sumission
2025 booklet cover

Questions?

We’re happy to help! Reach out to the office at [email protected] or give us a call at 540-882-3018 x 7.