DOSWELL—Fairgoers can indulge in style while supporting youth education during the State Fair of Virginia’s Sunsets & Scholarships event.
The new fundraising initiative benefits fair scholarships and youth programming. Ticketed guests receive exclusive evening access to Meadow Hall, where they can enjoy light hors d’oeuvres, a private cash bar, private indoor restrooms, with parking and gate admission included.
Blending history with hospitality while raising money for a good cause, visitors have the unique opportunity to explore a historic building otherwise unavailable to the public. Guests can relax on Meadow Hall’s porch with sunset views, listen to Main Stage concerts, and overlook the colorful glow of the fairgrounds at night—with the Ferris wheel as the centerpiece.
The mansion’s elegant lounge and expansive veranda provide comfortable seating for date nights, client outings or simply visiting with friends and family while enjoying cocktails and delicious food. Local artist, John Price, will enhance the evening experience with live painting on Oct. 2 and Oct. 3.
“We’re excited to offer Sunsets & Scholarships to our guests as a unique opportunity to unwind and catch their breath while appreciating the iconic sunset over the midway,” said Sarah Jane Thompson, the State Fair of Virginia’s manager of agriculture education & strategic partnerships programming. “Guests are invited to explore the beautiful Meadow Hall, enjoy a drink with friends and colleagues and listen to music—all while helping benefit youth education.”
Tickets are $150 per pair, which includes fair admission for two, access to Meadow Hall from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., light hors d’oeuvres and two drink tickets per guest. Guests receive evening credentials with come-and-go access. Tickets are available for purchase.
Since 2013, The State Fair of Virginia Scholarship Program has awarded 2,609 scholarships and over $1 million to support youth education. The fair offers youth more than $100,000 each year in scholarship funds through 4-H, FFA and vocational competitions and specific equine, fine arts and horticulture competitions. Winners may use their scholarship earnings to attend any accredited post-secondary educational institution.
The State Fair runs through Oct. 5 at its permanent home at The Meadow Event Park in Caroline County and attracts 250,000 fairgoers. In 2024, the fair was among 150 diverse events that drew more than 545,235 visitors to The Meadow. The venue had an overall regional economic impact of $41.5 million.
Media: Contact Kathy Dixon, Virginia Farm Bureau Federation communications, at 804-370-3055.
