CharlottesvilleFamily to Host 2026 KidFest & Camp Expo on March 1, 2026

As families across Central Virginia begin planning for summer, CharlottesvilleFamily is inviting parents and caregivers to explore camp options in person at the 2026 KidFest & Camp Expo, taking place March 1, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Piedmont Family YMCA in Charlottesville.

The annual event brings together summer camps from Charlottesville, Albemarle, and across the Mid-Atlantic, offering families a hands-on way to discover programs that fit their children’s interests, ages, and needs.

“Families are planning earlier and asking more thoughtful questions about how their kids spend the summer,” said Jennifer Bryerton, M.A.Ed., publisher of CharlottesvilleFamily. “The Camp Expo gives parents a chance to meet camp directors face to face, explore options side by side, and feel confident about their summer choices.”

A One-Stop Resource for Summer Camp Planning

At the KidFest & Camp Expo, families can explore a wide range of day camps, overnight camps, and specialty programs while accessing practical tools to help with decision-making. Camp listings include photos, videos, and direct contact information so parents can continue the conversation beyond the event.

In addition to meeting camp representatives, families can enjoy interactive activities throughout the Expo, including obstacle courses, hands-on robotics coding with Blue Ridge Boost, and family-friendly games led by local organizations.

Prize drawings throughout the day will include tickets to Massanutten Resort, Ben & Jerry’s ice cream punch cards, a free week of full-day summer camp with SOCA, SuperFun Attractions rentals, and adventure passes for Clip & Climb in Harrisonburg.

New in 2026: The Idea Lab for Parents

New this year, the Expo introduces The Idea Lab, a dedicated space offering short, engaging talks and live demonstrations designed specifically for parents and caregivers.

Sessions will feature insights from local educators, business owners, and family-focused organizations, covering topics such as learning support, enrichment opportunities, and long-term planning. The relaxed format allows parents to drop in, listen, ask questions, and gather ideas without committing to a long session.

Throughout the day, families will also enjoy student showcases and performances highlighting youth involvement in STEM, dance, music, and theater.

The Energy Zone: Move, Play, Repeat

For kids who need to move, the Energy Zone offers high-energy, age-appropriate activities led by CharlottesvilleFamily partner organizations. Obstacle courses, dance-offs, and movement challenges give kids a chance to burn energy while parents explore the Expo knowing their children are actively engaged.

Event Details and Planning Ahead

The KidFest & Camp Expo will be held at the Piedmont Family YMCA. Overflow parking will be available at Charlottesville High School and the CHS baseball field, with a short, paved walking trail leading to the YMCA. Families are encouraged to carpool, as attendance is expected to be strong.

Vendor setup will take place from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. Additional program details and participating camps will be announced closer to the event.

Families and camp providers can find more information about attending, vending, or joining the online camp fair through CharlottesvilleFamily.

About CharlottesvilleFamily

CharlottesvilleFamily magazine is an award-winning regional parenting publication dedicated to making parenting easier and growing up fun. For more than 20 years, the magazine has served Central Virginia families through expert-backed articles, relocation guides, event listings, and community connections that help families thrive.

CharlottesvilleFamily is also part of a growing family of Virginia resources, including VirginiaSummerCamp.com, the statewide camp directory for Virginia families, and TheBiblioParent.com, an emerging online bookstore and literary community for parents and educators.

Media Contact 

Jennifer Bryerton, Ma Ed.  

Publisher & Editor-in-Chief

CharlottesvilleFamily Magazine and VirginiaSummerCamp.com

Zinnia Communications, LLC

4301 Ivy Road #48  |  Ivy, Va 22945  |  434.984.4713

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