Schedule & Change-Over Explanation:
Promoting agriculture and livestock is at the heart of the American fair, and here at the State Fair of Virginia our customers list it as the #1 attraction. During the 11 days of State Fair, over 3,000 animals including cattle, sheep, goats, hogs, horses, alpacas, rabbits and poultry are part of various shows. Because of animal housing limitations, and exhibitor and show schedules, the type and number of animals here vary throughout the Fair.

4-Hers, FFA members, horsemen, and farmers primarily bring their animals here to be judged (they are also here to share their lifestyle and educate folks about their animals, so feel free to ask questions while walking through the pavilions). After judging, animals go home, barns are cleaned, and new animals arrive to take part in the next show. This process is called change-over.

Livestock pavilions and the horse barn change-over on different days, because shows vary in length. During a change-over period, the barns may appear empty. Check the schedule here and in the Daily Guide to learn where the animals are at different times.

For those attending the Fair during a change-over time, be sure to visit Young MacDonald’s Farm off Livestock Loop in the Agriculture Area. There one can find various cattle breeds, gamboling goats, rabbits of all shapes and sizes, guinea pigs, new-born piglets, unique breeds of sheep and miniature animals, colorful poultry, and the Cattle Birthing Center where one might witness a calving first-hand!

Secretariat’s great-grandson Rainaway also visits Young MacDonald’s Farm throughout the Fair. More horses can be found in the Horse Complex near the main Ticket Plaza (check the Equine Area Schedule & Daily Guide for more horse-related events).