Discover Wakefield
The Peanut Capital of Virginia — steeped in history, rich in character, and open for business.
All Things Peanut
Wakefield is the Peanut Capital of Virginia — and the aroma of roasting peanuts floating down Route 460 is one of the town's most beloved signatures. Agriculture has defined this community for over a century, and peanuts remain at the heart of it.
Whether you're passing through or staying a while, a stop for fresh-roasted Virginia peanuts is a Wakefield tradition. The Virginia Diner — a landmark along Route 460 since 1929 — is nationally known for its legendary peanuts and Southern cooking.
Explore Wakefield
Everything you need — right here in Wakefield and Sussex County
Farming & Agriculture
Agriculture is the backbone of Sussex County. Peanuts, soybeans, cotton, and timber define the landscape and economy of the region surrounding Wakefield.
Essentials
Grocery stores, banks, pharmacies, and everyday services are all accessible in and around Wakefield — everything residents and visitors need without the drive to a larger city.
Local Dining
From the legendary Virginia Diner to local favorites along Route 460, Wakefield offers genuine Southern cooking and small-town hospitality that keeps visitors coming back.
Airport
Wakefield Municipal Airport (KAKQ) serves general aviation pilots from across the region. Open 24 hours with self-service 100LL fuel at $6.25/gallon. The Virginia Diner offers pickup for fly-in guests.
Home of NOAA Wakefield
Wakefield is home to the National Weather Service Forecast Office for the Mid-Atlantic region — one of 122 NWS offices operated by NOAA across the United States. The Wakefield office serves a population of over 7 million people across eastern Virginia, northeastern North Carolina, and the Chesapeake Bay region.
The office issues forecasts, warnings, and advisories for severe weather, tropical systems, and coastal flooding — playing a critical role in public safety across the region. Its presence in Wakefield brings national institutional significance to the town and has put Wakefield on the map for millions of Mid-Atlantic residents.
NOAA / National Weather Service
Wakefield, VA Forecast Office — WFO AKQ
- Serves 7+ million people across VA, NC & the Chesapeake region
- Issues forecasts, severe weather & coastal flood warnings
- One of 122 NWS offices operated by NOAA nationwide
- Puts Wakefield on the map for millions of Mid-Atlantic residents
We Own Our Power
The Town of Wakefield owns and operates its own municipal electric utility — a rare distinction that gives residents and businesses a direct stake in their power supply. Unlike most communities that depend on large regional utility companies, Wakefield controls its own infrastructure.
Municipal ownership means more responsive service, stable rates, and a utility that answers directly to the community it serves — not to shareholders. It's a meaningful advantage for households and businesses alike.
Plan Your Visit to Wakefield
Stroll our tree-lined streets. Sip sweet tea on a front porch swing. Catch the aroma of roasting peanuts floating in the breeze. This is Wakefield. #wakefieldlife