Virginia’s Oldest Juried Crafts Fair Returns for 81st Year

Experience history, art, and community at the Waterford Fair.

WATERFORD, VA — The historic village of Waterford is set to host the 81st Annual Waterford Fair from October 3 – 5, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. As Virginia’s oldest juried crafts fair, this landmark event offers a unique opportunity to step back in time, featuring fine crafts, original art, traditional music, historic home and garden tours, and family activities.

Since 1943, the Waterford Fair, organized by the Waterford Foundation, has drawn visitors to experience one of the country’s most distinctive fall arts and crafts events. This year’s fair features 86 of the finest American artisans, many nationally recognized, demonstrating and selling their beautiful handmade pieces alongside the works of 110 additional artists and craftspeople showcased in two vintage barns and the historic Old Mill. Guests can also enjoy:

Village-wide Historic Homes Tour: Explore 15 restored historic homes, buildings, and gardens (four to five sites are open daily), including the Civil War and Quaker cemeteries. A special reenactment of an 1880s classroom will take place in the Second Street School on Friday.
Lively Entertainment: Enjoy performances by acclaimed traditional musicians, including the Kate MacLeod & Paul Hammerton Duo, Furnace Mountain Trio, and the energetic fiddle and banjo duo George Jackson and Brad Kolodner. The enthralling Chatham Rabbit Duo will also perform their heartfelt Americana music. All performances are included with admission.
Immersive History: Engage with new historical interpreters such as a master horner, lace makers, a Colonial-era pewter smith, and members of the Sons of the American Revolution. The popular “Tent Talk Series” returns with eight engaging discussions on Colonial history and crafts.

Culinary Delights & Local Libations: Savor a variety of fine and fair foods from gourmet trucks and local stands, and enjoy homemade baked goods. The fair also features a farmers market and, for the second year, the 81st Annual Waterford Fair beer from Wheatland Spring Brewery, alongside wines from six Loudoun County wineries.
Children’s Activities: Kids can earn a Waterford Explorers badge, try their hand at a potter’s wheel, help make a penny rug, play in a jug band, and interact with old-world clowns. Kids 12 and under attend for free with the purchase of an adult ticket.

“The Waterford Fair is more than just an event; it’s a living celebration of history, craftsmanship, and community,” said Tracy Kirkman, public programming director of the Waterford Foundation. “We’re excited to welcome visitors to experience the enduring charm of Waterford and support the artisans and traditions that make our fair truly unique.”

Tickets for the Waterford Fair are available at waterfordfairva.org. Advance purchase can save up to 35%. Gate prices are $25 for adults or $20 for seniors, military, and students. Admission is free for Waterford Foundation members and children 12 and under. Early bird tickets for Friday, October 3, at 9 a.m. and three-day passes are also available.

Photos by Jennifer Jule Studios.

Posted on: August 7, 2025