Fluvanna County’s bakers, gardeners, artists and crafters have a chance to put their talents on display at this year’s State Fair of Virginia.
The fair’s competitions are open to Virginia residents of all ages and skill levels. You do not have to win at a county fair—or even have competed before—to participate.
Categories include paintings, photography, pottery, woodworking, jewelry, quilts and needlework, along with baked goods, preserves, fruits, vegetables, flowers, honey and field crops.
Less traditional entries include fairy gardens, terrariums and exceptionally large pumpkins, melons and squash.
New competitions this year include a creative arts category marking the nation’s 250th anniversary. Entries may feature American history, traditions or patriotic themes.
Young cooks also can compete for scholarships through culinary contests involving recipes, photography and short-form videos.
Some categories offer cash prizes or scholarships, but entrants also compete for ribbons, recognition and the chance to have their work seen by thousands of fair visitors.
The State Fair of Virginia runs Sept. 25 through Oct. 4 at The Meadow Event Park in Doswell.
Competition categories have different entry and delivery deadlines, so prospective entrants should consult the competition guides at statefairva.org/p/competitions before getting to work—or figuring out how you’re going to get that monster pumpkin onto a flatbed.
