A parent’s guide to Virginia summer camp fairs — where to go, what to ask, and how to make the most of these one-stop camp expos.

Each year, as winter thaws and spring approaches, families begin hunting for summer camp opportunities. One of the smartest moves you can make is to attend a camp fair — a one-stop event where dozens of camps exhibit, answer questions, and hand out brochures. It’s a chance to see your options in person, talk with directors, and get a sense of camp culture before you commit.

Virginia offers several high-quality camp fairs (some local, some regional), and even if you can’t attend, knowing what to expect and when to look for them can give you an advantage in planning. Below is what to expect, current fairs to watch, and strategies to make the most of them.

What to Expect at a Camp Fair

• Direct access to camp directors and staff. You can ask tough, specific questions about safety, staffing, counselor training, and overnight logistics.
• Comparisons in one place. You might meet ten or more camps in a few hours—much more efficient than chasing down individual programs.
• Brochures, swag, discounts. Many camps bring promotional items and sometimes offer registration incentives at the fair.
• Kids’ activities and demos. You’ll often see booths with hands-on STEM projects, arts displays, or mini performances to engage children.
• Networking with other parents. Hearing firsthand from other families about experiences (good and bad) can be illuminating.

Why Attend a Camp Fair in Virginia?

• Save time and energy. Instead of juggling dozens of emails and web pages, you get face-to-face clarity in one place.
• See camp “personality.” Meeting counselors and staff can help you sense camper culture and feel whether your child might flourish there.
• Early access. Some camps reveal new programs or seats at fairs before they’re widely advertised online.
• Motivation & excitement. For many kids, seeing demos and talking to camps in person helps them get excited — and invested — in their summer.

When & Where Are Virginia Camp Fairs Held? (2025–2026 Examples)

Below is a list of upcoming or recent camp fairs in Virginia (or nearby) you should bookmark. Always verify dates as they’re subject to change.

ℹ️ Note: The American Camp Association periodically lists camp fairs on its events calendar, which is a useful resource to find new fairs or virtual “fun fairs.” American Camp Association

You’ll want to check local community calendars (cities like Richmond, Roanoke, Tidewater) and school/PTA announcements in January–March each year for additional fairs.

Tips for Making the Most of a Camp Fair

1. Prepare in advance.
   
   • Print or bring a short list of your child’s must-haves (activity interests, distance limits, overnight comfort).
   • Carry a notebook or use your phone to jot down impressions, camp names, and follow-up questions.
2. Bring the child (if possible).
   
   • Let them see booths, touch equipment, and ask questions. Their excitement or hesitation can be real indicators.
3. Ask pointed questions.
   
   • “What is your counselor training like?”
   • “How do you manage homesickness or medical needs?”
   • “Which weeks fill first? Do you offer sibling discounts or financial aid?”
4. Grab all literature.
   
   • Collect brochures, schedules, contact information, and promotional offers. Some camps give discounts to fair attendees.
5. Follow up quickly.
   
   • Right after the fair, review your notes, revisit camp websites, and reach out with any remaining questions.
   • Use your Virginia Summer Camp Directory to cross-check camps you liked but missed at the fair.
6. Missed the fair? Use the directory.
   
   • Many camps listed at fairs are also in your directory. Use it to continue exploring, register, and compare.

Next Steps for Virginia Families

Attending a camp fair is a powerful tool in your summer planning toolkit. It reduces guesswork, gives clarity, and can push your registration timeline forward. If you’re in the Charlottesville area, I highly recommend the KidFest & Camp Expo on March 1, 2026 — it’s a flagship event connecting dozens of camps across Virginia. 

Meanwhile, be sure to browse the Virginia Summer Camp Directory to explore camps beyond those at expos. Whether you prefer a day camp close to home or a transformative overnight experience, the directory is your companion year-round.