Community comes together for opening weekend of 2025 State Fair of Virginia
VENN
CAROLINE COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- Despite some rainy weather this weekend, the community gathered for opening weekend of a fall staple: the State Fair of Virginia.
After opening its gates for the upcoming season on Friday, Sept. 26, the event's second day continued with plenty of entertainment, animals, food and new rides.
David Lee Wells of Mechanicsville has been growing watermelons for the fair's "Giant Vegetable Weigh-Off," which he said is home to the world record.
The State Fair of Virginia is reportedly a certified weigh site for The Great Pumpkin Commonwealth (GPC), with Wells completing in the Giant Pumpkin & Veggie Weigh-Off on noon on Saturday, Sept. 27.
Wells told 8News that he previously finished in second place several years ago and also won one year with an 841 pound watermelon.
In 2024, Wells was a champion in the weigh off, with his giant watermelon that weigh 246 pounds.
"It's like taking care of a baby," he said.
State Fair of Virginia on Sept. 27. (Photo: William Berksteiner, 8News)
State Fair of Virginia on Sept. 27. (Photo: William Berksteiner, 8News)
State Fair of Virginia on Sept. 27. (Photo: William Berksteiner, 8News)
State Fair of Virginia on Sept. 27. (Photo: William Berksteiner, 8News)
State Fair of Virginia on Sept. 27. (Photo: William Berksteiner, 8News)
State Fair of Virginia on Sept. 27. (Photo: William Berksteiner, 8News)
State Fair of Virginia on Sept. 27. (Photo: William Berksteiner, 8News)
State Fair of Virginia on Sept. 27. (Photo: William Berksteiner, 8News)
State Fair of Virginia on Sept. 27. (Photo: William Berksteiner, 8News)
State Fair of Virginia on Sept. 27. (Photo: William Berksteiner, 8News)
State Fair of Virginia on Sept. 27. (Photo: William Berksteiner, 8News)
Admission to the fair is $12.50 for kids and $13.50 for adults. Additional packages are needed to ride attractions and play games, including a $31 unlimited ride wristband.
This year, the fair is offering a new fast lane option for bypassing regular lines for rides. Purchasing a $15 Fast Lane lanyard allows riders to skip the line and move to the front.
For more information about the fair and to purchase tickets, visit its website.
