~ Provided by Virginia Farm Bureau Federation
DOSWELL, June 9—The latest farm technology, crop research and hands-on demonstrations will take center stage as the Virginia AG EXPO returns to Caroline County this summer.
The 2026 VA AG EXPO will be hosted at The Meadow Event Park in Doswell in partnership with Engel Family Farms on Thursday, July 30 from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Known as Virginia’s ‘largest agricultural field day,’ the trade show travels throughout the commonwealth, drawing around 1,000 farmers, researchers, agribusiness professionals and students. This year’s event features about 100 exhibitors highlighting agricultural technology, machinery, crops, products and services.
“The EXPO showcases what we do in agriculture,” said Virginia Farm Bureau President Scott Sink. “It’s a way for people to see how crops are doing, learn about nutrients, and a way for everyone to network and share their knowledge with each other.”
Celebrating the state’s agricultural diversity, the EXPO also partners with a different working farm each year. The Engel family cultivates land surrounding The Meadow, where visitors can learn about the family’s multi-generational agricultural legacy and explore production practices for corn, soybeans, wheat, barley, sorghum and rapeseed.
During the event, both large and small-scale farmers “will have the opportunity to explore precision agriculture tools, variable-rate fertility management, drone technology, weed identification displays and current crop research,” said event organizer Jeff Whitaker.
Expo highlights include the Advanced Agronomy Education Area hosted by the Virginia Cooperative Extension Service and the Natural Resources Conservation Service — offering hands-on learning opportunities from Virginia agronomy and natural resource experts.
Among the many educational exhibitions are the Virginia Soil Health Coalition’s demonstrations with rainfall simulations, soil slake tests and root box displays. Visitors also can learn from interactive exhibits featuring soybean processing, cover crops, plant diagnostics, insect management and farmer-led conservation practices.
Additionally, crop test plots and variety trials were planted with research involving corn, soybeans, cotton, small grains and biochar. Guests can speak directly with specialists about methodology, findings and ongoing research designed to improve agricultural productivity, profitability and environmental stewardship, Whitaker said.
Unlike previous years, most of this year’s exhibits and programming will be held indoors at The Meadow’s Farm Bureau Center, providing more networking opportunities for exhibitors and attendees, Sink said. He added that guests can learn about Farm Bureau’s programs and services, upcoming events and opportunities to support Virginia agriculture.
Food vendors will serve breakfast and lunch during the event, and a kid’s area hosted by the Children’s Museum of Richmond will keep younger visitors entertained and engaged.
“They always provide a fun environment for our future farmers,” Whitaker said.
The annual event is sponsored by the Virginia Grain Producers Association and the Virginia Soybean Association, in cooperation with Extension and support from Virginia’s corn, soybean and small grain checkoff boards.
The EXPO is free and open to the public, and parking also is free.
For updates, exhibitor information and event resources,
visit vaagexpo.com.
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