Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to the Virginia Fantasy Festival! We’ve put together this FAQ to help you plan your visit and make the most of your day. Whether you’re curious about getting here, passes and tickets, family accommodations, or festival entertainment, you’ll find answers to the most common questions right here. Please review these guidelines before your visit to ensure a safe, enjoyable, and magical experience for all.

If you don’t see your question answered, our Guest Services team is always happy to help. Feel free to reach out via email or phone, and we’ll make sure you have all the information you need for an unforgettable festival experience.

Getting Here

Where are you located?
The Virginia Fantasy Festival is held at the Madison Hills Event Grounds in Madison, Virginia – a scenic venue perfect for a day of fantasy fun.

What is the street address for a GPS?
Please enter: 2599 Oak Park Rd, Madison, VA 22727 – This will direct you straight to our main entrance.

What time is the parking lot open/close?
The parking lot opens 1 hour before gates open and closes 1 hour after gates close each day.

What time do the gates open/close?
Gates open at 10:00 AM. Last entry into the festival at 8:00 PM. Gates close at 10:00 PM.  

Is there public transport to the faire grounds?
Currently, there is no direct public transportation to the grounds. Personal vehicles, rideshares, or shuttles are recommended.

Can we arrive via Uber/Lyft?
Yes! Designated rideshare drop-off and pick-up zones are available for your convenience.

Passes, Dates, Hours

How do morning/evening passes work?
All morning and evening passes have automatically been converted to All Day Passes. All Day Passes provide access for the entire operating day.

How do the parking passes work?
Parking passes are required for on-site parking. Simply purchase online or at the gate. Once purchased, display your pass in your vehicle.

Can I get passes at the gate?
Yes! Passes are available at the gate, but we recommend purchasing online in advance to guarantee availability. Popular days and special experiences are selling out fast!

Do I have to purchase passes for a specific date?
Yes, all passes are date-specific due to limited attendance capacity.

What classes/experiences need extra passes?
Certain premium hands-on workshops or special interactive activities may require an additional pass. Details for each activity are listed online.

Do I need to purchase those in advance?
We highly recommend purchasing these passes in advance, as availability is limited.

Can I transfer my tickets to someone else?
Yes, tickets may be transferred to another person, but they must be used on the same date as originally purchased.

What if it rains?
The festival is a rain-or-shine event. Some outdoor activities may be modified, but most attractions continue as scheduled.

Do any ages grant free entry?
Yes! Senior citizens and young children are welcome – free! Free passes are available in our online store and must be “purchased”. Due to capacity limitations, all attendees must have a pass, including free passes.

Do you offer any special promotions for First Responders?
Yes! Firefighters, EMS, Nurses, Doctors, and Teachers can visit our Guest Services and Information Tent to receive a free gift courtesy of the Virginia Fantasy Festival.

General Questions

I am over 21. How do I purchase alcohol beverages?
Please visit the Guest Service and Information Tent to receive your 21+ wrist band. 

Does the faire have ATMs?
Yes, several ATM locations are available on-site.

Do you accept credit cards?
Yes, most vendors accept credit cards; however, carrying some cash is recommended for smaller purchases.

Can I smoke or vape at the faire?
Smoking and vaping are restricted to designated areas only.

Do you allow backpacks?
Yes, backpacks are permitted, but all bags are subject to inspection at the entrance.

If I leave the fair, can I come back on the same day?
Yes, re-entry is allowed with a valid pass and stamp from the gate staff.

May I bring my pet?
Dogs are welcome with a puppy/dog pass ($5/day per animal). All dogs must be fully vaccinated, and owners should be prepared to show proof. Service animals are welcome free of charge. Other pets require prior approval.

Do you have a lost-and-found?
Yes, visit the Guest Services booth for assistance with lost and found items.

Do you host weddings or private parties?
Yes, we offer private event rentals. Please contact us at info@madisonhillsevents.com for details.

Are there hotels near the faire?
In Madison, VA, there are over 400 private-stay style accommodations like Airbnb or VRBO. Hotels and Inns can be found in nearby Culpepper or Charlottesville, a short 20-minute drive from the festival grounds.

Are your restrooms all porta-potties?
We offer a mix of traditional restroom trailers and high-quality porta-potties throughout the grounds.

How can I get involved with the faire?
Volunteering, employment, performing, or vendor opportunities are available. Check our website for application details.

Entertainment

Are all the shows included in the Pass Price?
Yes, general shows are included with your pass. Some premium hands-on experiences may require an additional pass.

Are there shows suitable for children?
Yes, many performances are family-friendly and designed to delight all ages.

Should we tip performers?
Tipping is not required but always appreciated, especially for roaming performers and interactive shows.

Children and Families

Can I bring a stroller for my children?
Strollers are permitted throughout the festival grounds. Please note that the terrain may be uneven due to weather conditions and natural ground coverings such as grass, mulch, and gravel. For ease of navigation, we recommend using a jogging stroller or one equipped with all-terrain wheels.

Are diaper-changing facilities available?
Yes, family-friendly changing areas are located in the restroom trailers near the blacksmith.

Can I bring in my own baby food/formula?
Yes, small amounts of baby food and formula are allowed for infants.

Are chairs and blankets allowed?
Yes, visitors may bring chairs and blankets for seated shows or picnic areas.

Special Needs

Is the fair wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the festival grounds are wheelchair accessible, with designated accessible parking and pathways available. Please note that the event is held in an agricultural setting, and the terrain includes grass, mulch, and gravel surfaces.

Do you have any quieter spots at the faire for breaks?
Yes, shaded rest areas and quieter sections are available for visitors needing a break from crowds.

I am on a restricted diet. What can I do about food?
Vendors offer vegetarian, vegan, and allergy-friendly options. Please contact Guest Services for assistance.

Do you have medical staff in case of emergencies?
Yes, certified medical personnel are on-site throughout festival hours.

Food and Drink

What kinds of food are available?
A wide variety of festival fare is available, including vegetarian, vegan, and kid-friendly options.

What form of ID do I need to purchase alcohol?
A government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport, or military ID) is required.

Can I bring my own food or drink to the faire?
One sealed bottle of water is permitted per patron. All other outside food or drink is not permitted, except for baby food/formula.

Are coolers allowed?
No, personal coolers are not allowed on festival grounds.

Do you offer gluten free food options?
Yes, we do!

Costumes and Outfits

Do you have a dress code?
No formal dress code is required, but costumes and fantasy attire are highly encouraged!

Can we wear costumes?
Absolutely! Costumes add to the fun and atmosphere.

Are weapons allowed?
All weapons must be prop or foam-only. Real or metal weapons are strictly prohibited.

How revealing can attire be?
All guests are expected to dress in a manner appropriate for a family-friendly environment. Attire that could be considered indecent or excessively revealing is not permitted. The festival maintains a zero-tolerance policy for indecent exposure.