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

Newsletter Post

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!

Insider Tips: How to Master Your Juried Show Application

By: Tracy Kirkman, Public Programming Director

With the Waterford Foundation’s application season for Demonstrating Artisans just around the corner, I’ve been reflecting on what makes a truly standout submission. We know that the jury process can feel like a “black box” for many talented folks, and our goal is to help you pull back the curtain on that process.

I recently had the pleasure of contributing a deep-dive article for Sunshine Artist Magazine, where I shared the specific strategies we look for when reviewing applications.

What Jurors Are Really Looking For

While every show is unique, three things remain constant in a winning application:

  • Professional Imagery: Your photos are the only “handshake” you have with the jury. They must be crisp, well-lit, and consistent.
  • A Clear Narrative: Your artist statement shouldn’t just describe the “what”—it needs to explain the “how” and the “why.”
  • Booth Cohesion: A great booth shot proves to the jury that you are ready for the professional stage and that your work looks as good in person as it does in your portfolio.
Fiber Artisan Carolyn Hazelton with Fair Attendee.

Read the Full Article

I’ve expanded on these points in the full story over at Sunshine Artist. Whether you are a seasoned professional or a first-time applicant, I hope these insights help you feel more confident as you prepare your materials.
Read the full article at Sunshine Artist

Are you ready to showcase your fine heritage or contemporary craft at the Fair?
View our Application Guidelines and Apply as a Demonstrating Artisan Now!

Fine furniture maker Justin Kauffman
demonstrates his craft while Waterford’s
Tracy Kirkman speaks with FOX5 DC.

TENT TALKS at the 81st Fair!

Tent Talks are included in your Fair ticket but are ticketed separately due to limited seating. See the full talk descriptions when you get your ticket(s).

Note: Foundation members and Waterford village residents, since your tickets are distributed electronically, please let staff know which talk(s) you would like to attend and we will reserve your spot(s). Call 540-882-3018 x 0 or email us at [email protected].