The scent of fried dough and fresh-cut hay will fill the air once again as families stroll through rows of food vendors, games and agricultural exhibits. The State Fair of Virginia, a tradition dating back more than 165 years, is back at The Meadow Event Park from Sept. 27 to Oct. 6 with the theme, “Where Home Grown Happens.”

Visitors to the fair can expect a blend of the old and new, with Virginia-grown food, local crafts and agriculture on display. This year, new attractions include lawnmower racing, chainsaw carving, and Doc Belmont’s Magnificent Magical Medicine Show. Fair favorites like Rosaire’s Royal Racers, the Triple Crown Circus and the Ultimate Stunt Show return.

“We’re excited to bring the theme ‘Where Home Grown Happens’ to life,” said Marlene Jolliffe, the fair’s executive director. “Our goal is to maintain long-held traditions, but also add new programming each year.”

Music will play a large part in the festivities, with performances on the Main Stage each evening at 7:30 p.m. Acts include a Taylor Swift tribute band on Sept. 27, country artist Cooper Alan on Sept. 28 and Motown hits from the Brencore Allstars Band Sept. 29. Other notable performers include rock band Hinder on Oct. 2 and rock and roll icon Chubby Checker on Oct. 3.

In addition to entertainment, agriculture remains central to the fair. Guests can watch milking demonstrations, visit Young MacDonald’s Farm, and see giant fruits and vegetables at the Giant Veggie Weigh-Off on Sept. 28. Alpaca Days, a new feature on Sept. 28 and 29, will showcase different alpaca breeds and offer fleece demonstrations.

This year’s fair includes a 4,700-square-foot restroom facility at the main gate, part of several improvements aimed at enhancing guest comfort.

Tickets for the State Fair of Virginia are available online, and all Main Stage concerts are included with admission. For more information, visit StateFairVa.org.