Important dates, early voting information, and how to cast your ballot
Virginia voters will head to the polls this spring for a statewide special election. If you live in Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Stafford, or surrounding communities, here’s what you need to know about the upcoming election and how to participate.
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When Is the Special Election?
The statewide special election will take place on Tuesday, April 21, 2026. Polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Election Day.
During this election, voters across Virginia will vote on one proposed constitutional amendment related to congressional redistricting. Voters will simply choose “Yes” or “No” on the ballot question.
Important Dates to Remember
If you plan to vote, keep these key deadlines in mind:
• March 6 – Early voting begins
• April 10 – Deadline to request a mail-in ballot
• April 11 & April 18 – Saturday early voting opportunities
• April 14 – Deadline to register or update your voter registration
• April 18 – Last day for in-person early voting
• April 21 – Election Day (polls open 6 a.m.–7 p.m.)
🏫 Reminder: Schools used as voting locations are closed to students on April 21, 2026.
Early Voting
If you prefer to vote before Election Day, early in-person voting is available from March 6 through April 18 at the voter registration office.
For Fredericksburg voters, early voting takes place at:
Fredericksburg City Hall – FXBG City Center
601 Caroline Street (5th Floor)
Typical hours are 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., with additional Saturday voting available on April 11 and April 18 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Spotsylvania voters can vote early at the county’s elections office.
Location:
Spotsylvania County Office of Elections
4708 Southpoint Parkway, Fredericksburg
Typical Early Voting Hours:
• Monday–Friday: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
• Saturday voting offered the two Saturdays before the election (April 11 & April 18)
Stafford voters can vote early at the Stafford County Voter Registration and Elections Office.
Location:
124 Old Potomac Church Road
Stafford, VA
Typical Early Voting Hours:
• Monday–Friday: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
• Saturday voting: April 11 & April 18
(Exact hours may vary slightly, so checking with the county elections office before visiting is recommended.)
Voting by Mail
If you would rather vote from home, you can request an absentee ballot by mail.
• The deadline to request a mailed ballot is April 10.
• Completed ballots must be postmarked by April 21 and received by election officials shortly after.
Some locations also offer secure ballot drop boxes where completed ballots can be returned before Election Day.
Voting on Election Day
If you choose to vote on April 21, you will vote at your regular local polling place. Polls will be open from 6 a.m. until 7 p.m., and curbside voting is available for voters who may need assistance.
If you are unsure where your polling location is, you can look it up through the Virginia Department of Elections or your local voter registration office.
Make Your Plan to Vote
Whether you vote early, by mail, or on Election Day, planning ahead can make the process quick and easy. Taking a few minutes to confirm your registration, polling location, or voting method ensures you’re ready when it’s time to cast your ballot.
Local election offices are also available to answer questions and help voters navigate the process.
