Get Ready For The
FAIR Midway Rides Return To Annual Event
Midway rides are back.
The Rockbridge Regional Fair & Expo returns to the Virginia Horse Center this week with rides, live music, livestock shows, and all the favorite community traditions. The fair starts tomorrow, Thursday, and runs through Saturday.
This year’s theme, “Rooted in Tradition, Growing with Fun!,” celebrates the fair’s agricultural roots while highlighting its growth as a beloved community event, creating new memories for families throughout Rockbridge County.
Fair Board President Jon McDonald said, “We’re excited to be back again at the Virginia Horse Center and to bring rides back to the fairgrounds. Rides are a big part of the fair experience, and having them back makes it even more fun for families and visitors of all ages.”
Rides, Midway Fun and Food
The midway, provided by Fun Time Family Amusements, will be in full swing each evening, with bounce houses, traditional fair food, and a full carnival ride lineup.
A Special Bonus Preview Night (soft fair opening) today, Wednesday, Sept. 10, starting at 4 p.m., offers a $20 armband special for unlimited rides. On all other nights of the fair, ride armbands will be $25, making it an affordable way for families and thrill-seekers alike to enjoy the midway, said McDonald.
A diverse lineup of food vendors will be on hand, serving delicious options to keep everyone fueled throughout the fair.
Music, Theme Nights, and the Beer Garden The fair will host three themed nights of live entertainment, complete with a ‘50s nostalgia- inspired beer garden that will only be available during these featured events.
Thursday is College Night, highlighted by a high-energy mechanical bull competition. “College Night is the perfect excuse to break out your school colors — whether you’re cheering for your alma mater or representing one of our local colleges,” said McDonald. “Show your pride, bring your friends, and root for your favorites as competitors take on the mechanical bull.” The event features guest judges, a surprise emcee, and DJ music from Quest Entertainment. Spectators can enjoy the action, or riders ages 18 and over can register to compete for bragging rights, banners, and shiny belt buckles. On Friday, the spotlight shines on Country Night as Richmond-based band Gone Country RVA takes the stage at 7 p.m. Known for their authentic honky-tonk energy, the band blends the timeless sound of Brooks & Dunn and Alan Jackson with a modern edge. With fiddle, piano, and rich live instrumentation, their high-energy performance is perfect for line dancing, two-stepping, or simply singing along to the classics, said McDonald. On Saturday, Bluegrass Night brings a hometown favorite to the fairgrounds. Gary Ruley & Mule Train, based right here in Lexington and Rockbridge County, will deliver one of their rare but unforgettable performances starting at 8 p.m. Their sets blend traditional bluegrass with Americana, and New Grass, showcasing Rockbridge County’s deepest musical roots. Seating is limited, so guests are welcome to bring their lawn chairs to enjoy these events comfortably.
Livestock Shows and Agricultural Traditions
Rockbridge 4H/FFA members will once again showcase their hard work during livestock shows throughout the fair. Visitors can also experience cow milking and sheep shearing demonstrations, giving a hands-on look at farm life.
The Rockbridge 4H/FFA Market Animal Sale is set for Friday at 6:30 p.m., giving the community an opportunity to support local youth.
Saturday also features the Redneck/ Barnyard Olympics, organized by the Rockbridge County Farm Bureau Women’s Leadership Committee, where fairgoers of all ages can compete in a series of playful, farm-themed challenges. This event, alongside the much-loved Critter Scramble, is another way for visitors to get hands-on and enjoy the fun-filled traditions of the fair.
Quilt Show and Expo Exhibits
The “Quilts in the Country” show, taking place in the Appomattox Mezzanine, runs Thursday through Saturday with extended hours Friday and Saturday. Presented by the Rockbridge Pieceworkers Quilt Guild, the show will feature beautiful handcrafted quilts, and quilting instruction sessions.
The expo exhibits, proudly showcased by the Rockbridge County Homesteaders, will be featured in the Reel Arena/ East Complex, highlighting locally grown produce, homemade crafts, baked goods, horticulture, and fine arts from throughout the county.
On select evenings, from 5:30 to 8:30, the Rockbridge County FFA will host bingo, offering guests a chance to enjoy a classic fair pastime while helping fund the chapter’s efforts. On Saturday, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., visit the Rockbridge County FFA Farm Toy and Vendor Show, with proceeds supporting their fundraising initiatives. Both events combine fun with purpose, giving fairgoers the opportunity to enjoy themselves while investing in the future of local agriculture.
“There’s something for everyone at the fair this year —rides, live music, great food, and friendly faces. We’re looking forward to seeing folks come out and enjoy it all,” said Colby Sheets, fair board vice president.
Admission to the Rockbridge Regional Fair & Expo is free, with parking and many activities included at no charge.
