When Virginia’s summer reaches its golden peak, there’s nothing quite like stepping into a field of sunflowers in full bloom. This July and August, families can experience that magic at the Virginia Sunflower Festival, hosted at the beautiful Chiswell Farm & Winery in Greenwood—just a short, scenic drive from Charlottesville.
From July 24 through August 17, 2025, the hillsides surrounding Chiswell will transform into a sea of sunshine-yellow blossoms. Whether you’re searching for a memorable day trip, a stunning backdrop for family photos, or a reason to enjoy the outdoors together, this festival offers it all. Find even more flower fun in our guide to U-Pick Flower Farms in Central Virginia and Virginia Flower Festivals. or explore Charlottesville’s family-friendly wineries.
What to Expect at the Virginia Sunflower Festival
Pick-Your-Own Sunflowers
Admission is $15 per person and includes five sunflower stems. Clippers and a basket are provided to make gathering your blooms easy and fun. Additional stems are available for $2 each.
Family-Friendly Fun
While Chiswell is normally a 21-and-over venue, the Virginia Sunflower Festival is an exception—welcoming all ages. Families will find a shaded play area where little ones can rest, play, and even cruise around in a classic Cozy Coupe.
Tasty Refreshments & Comforts
You’re welcome to bring your own water bottles, and snacks are offered on-site. There are shaded seating areas perfect for taking a break between exploring the fields.
Blue Ridge Beauty
With its historic farmhouse, wide-open skies, and rolling vineyard views, Chiswell offers one of the most photogenic festival backdrops in the region.
Festival Details at a Glance
- Dates: July 24 – August 17, 2025
- Hours: Thursday–Saturday, 11 AM–8 PM; Sunday, 11 AM–6 PM
- Location: Chiswell Farm & Winery, 430 Greenwood Road, Greenwood, VA
- Admission: $15 per person (includes 5 stems); children under 2 and adults over 90 free
- Extras: Additional blooms $2 each
- Tickets: Purchase in advance for best availability
Sunflower Science: Fun Facts for Curious Kids
- Sunflowers Track the Sun – Young sunflowers exhibit heliotropism, meaning they turn their heads to follow the sun’s movement from east to west each day.
- They’re Mini Ecosystems – A single sunflower head can attract hundreds of pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting biodiversity.
- Seeds Come in Stripes or Black – The striped seeds are the kind you snack on, while the solid black ones are often used to make sunflower oil.
- They Can Grow Really Tall – While most reach 5–10 feet, the tallest sunflower ever recorded was over 30 feet tall—about the height of a three-story building!
- They’re Math in Bloom – The spirals of seeds inside a sunflower follow a pattern called the Fibonacci sequence, a natural example of mathematics in plants.
Tips for Visiting with Kids
- Go Early or Late for cooler temperatures and softer light for photos.
- Wear Closed-Toe Shoes for walking the field paths.
- Bring a Hat & Sunscreen for extra sun protection.
- Plan for Downtime in the shaded play area so little ones can recharge before heading back out into the field.
Make It a Day in Nelson County
The festival’s location near Nelson 151 means you can pair your sunflower adventure with a stop at local favorites like Blue Ridge Tunnel, nearby orchards, or farm markets. You might also explore family-friendly hiking trails before or after your visit.
FAQ
The winery is 21 and up—can kids come to the festival?
Yes! While Chiswell Farm & Winery typically welcomes guests ages 21 and older, the Virginia Sunflower Festival is a family-friendly event and open to all ages.
Do I need to bring my own scissors for sunflower picking?
No. Clippers and a basket will be provided for you to use.
What is there for kids to do at the Virginia Sunflower Festival?
Snacks and places to run & play. Small shaded area with a cozy coupe. Special events include princess visits and butterfly releases.
Can I bring my dog?
Leashed dogs are welcome in outdoor areas, but please keep pets out of the sunflower fields.
Is outside food allowed?
Outside food is not permitted, but you may bring water bottles. Food trucks will be available on-site.
Plan Your Visit: Virginia Sunflower Fest at Chiswell Farm & Winery
Virginia Sunflower Festival Scavenger Hunt for Kids
Bring this checklist with you to the Virginia Sunflower Festival at Chiswell Farm & Winery for a fun, hands-on way to explore the fields and enjoy the day with your kids. Check off each item as you find it!
Scavenger Hunt Items
☐ A sunflower taller than you
☐ A sunflower just starting to bloom
☐ A bee or butterfly visiting a flower
☐ A striped sunflower seed head
☐ A sunflower with more than 30 petals
☐ A spiral pattern inside a sunflower head
☐ The Cozy Coupe in the kids’ play area
☐ Someone carrying a basket of sunflowers
☐ A mountain view behind the flowers
☐ Your family’s biggest smile in the sunflower field
Bonus Challenge: Take a creative family photo with your bouquet and share it with #CharlottesvilleFamily for a chance to be featured!
Related Reads:
- Charlottesville Area Apple Picking Guide
- Where to Take Animal-Loving Kids in Central Virginia
- Best Family Hikes Near Charlottesville
- Charlottesville’s Best Fall Festivals