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Gordonsville, Virginia, is famous for its delicious fried chicken. In the late 19th century and the early 20th century, local women carried platters of this heavenly food on their heads. They served it to passengers on trains that stopped in Gordonsville. They also served their guests pies and coffee.
Gordonsville was nationally known at the time for its fried chicken. The town’s nickname was the “chicken leg center of the universe.”
Their local history is celebrated annually at their famous Fried Chicken Festival. This year it will be held on Saturday, October 5, 2024, from 11 am to 5 pm. The festivities will be happening at the Gordonsville Volunteer Fire Company fairgrounds.
Fried Chicken Festival Admission
Admission to the festival is free but there is a $5 fee to enter the Wine Garden. Only those who are 21+ with a valid photo ID can enter.
Fried Chicken Festival Contests
Join in the fun at the Fried Chicken Festival and become a cook off contestant. You’ve bragged about your family’s chicken recipe. Now it’s the time to showcase it.
Fried Chicken Contest Prizes
- 1st Place – $100
- 2nd Place – $75
- 3rd Place – $50
There will also be a Pie Contest with three categories:
- Fruit Pies
- Cream Pies
- Custard Pies
You can show off your grandmother’s recipe and get bragging rights for the next year! There will be a First Prize winner in each category and the prize is $75.
There will be artisan and craft vendors showcasing their unique creations. This should make for a great shopping experience.
If you’d like to go to the festival and look the part you can find some very clever outfits here.
Where to Stay in Gordonsville
If you’d like to visit Gordonsville for the Fried Chicken Festival, here is a selection of homes, condos, apartments and other vacation rental units. Take a look at these rental options.
Many people like to go to festivals in an RV, It has its advantages. You don’t have an RV? Then rent one and Green Vacation Deals recommends RVShare.
Gordonsville, Virginia, is within 57 miles of Laurel, Charlottesville, Fredericksburg, Staunton, Glen Allen, Mechanicsville and Front Royal. Gordonsville is 81 miles from Fairfax, 82 miles from Washington, D.C. and 117 miles from Baltimore