By Arianna Whitehair
Every season in West Virginia has something special to offer, and summer is no exception. Whether it’s catching fireflies in mason jars, drinking lemonade on the front porch, pitching a tent beneath the stars or picking wildflowers on the side of winding country roads, most of us would agree that summertime in the Mountain State is almost heaven.
Longer daylight hours and warmer temperatures bring a desire to be outside, and West Virginia is home to a variety of fun-filled outdoor activities. One thing the state is known for is a full calendar of unique fairs and festivals. With live music, arts and crafts, creative exhibits and delicious food, there is something for everyone—from the die-hard Appalachian native to the out-of-state visitor—to enjoy.
Mountain Music Festival
Oak Hill – June 1-3, 2023
mountainmusicfestwv.com
As one of the state’s most anticipated summer events, the Mountain Music Festival at ACE Adventure Resort combines two of the best elements of the season—outdoor recreation activities and live music. Featuring more than 30 local Appalachian bands, workshops and activities such as whitewater rafting, rock climbing, zip lining and water games, this festival offers something for the whole family. To make this adventure-filled weekend getaway even more spectacular, the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is located just steps away from the event site.
West Virginia State Folk Festival
Glenville – June 15-18, 2023
wvstatefolkfestival.com
With quilt shows, Appalachian arts and crafts, banjo and fiddle contests, oral traditions and local dishes, this festival takes visitors back in time to when life was slow and simple. It also features a parade, an antique car show and a square dance to really get you in the country spirit.
West Virginia Bigfoot Festival
Sutton – June 24-25, 2023
wvbigfootmuseum.com
Skeptics and believers alike are welcome at this festival. Learn all about this elusive, larger-than-life legend by checking out the West Virginia Bigfoot Museum and listening to expert speakers. With live music, food vendors and art, this event is family-friendly and sure to leave you watching your back next time you find yourself traversing the woods of Appalachia.
Charleston Sternwheel Regatta
Charleston – June 30-July 4, 2023
charlestonregatta.com
Making its grand debut in 1971 and then taking a nearly 14-year hiatus in 2008 before returning again in 2022, the Charleston Sternwheel Regatta is one of the Capital City’s most highly anticipated summertime events—and for good reason. With dozens of vendors, ample live entertainment, music concerts, carnival rides and floats, a family movie night, car show and fireworks to conclude, this five-day celebration is one you certainly won’t want to miss.
Ripley 4th of July Celebration
Ripley – July 4, 2023
ripleyfourthofjuly.com
Celebrate the birthday of the greatest country in the world by donning red, white and blue in the streets of Ripley, home to the nation’s oldest Fourth of July parade. Aptly known as America’s Largest Small Town Independence Day Celebration, this event features live music, carnival rides, food vendors and, of course, fireworks. In true land-of-the-free-fashion, this event is also free of charge.
4848 Festival
Snowshoe – July 13-15, 2023
4848festival.com
We hope you’re not scared of heights. Named 4848 for its elevation, this mountaintop celebration is located at the second highest point in the entire state. Though Snowshoe Mountain Resort is typically associated with winter sports and activities, the resort knows how to keep people coming back even in the mid-July heat. With a swimming pool, rock climbing wall, 18 live music groups, lift rides, microbrews and unbeatable food options, this is an event you won’t want to miss.
West Virginia Hotdog Festival
Huntington – July 29, 2023
wvhotdogfestival.com
Celebrate an entire day’s worth of festivities centered around one of America’s favorite foods. Whether you like yours West Virginia-style with a lot of chili and slaw or prefer something more traditional, you’re sure to find something to your liking here, including a hot dog eating contest. If hot dogs aren’t your thing, no worries, as this event also features an annual Bun Run 5k charity walk, a family bike tour around the city, a wiener dog and all-breed dog race, a pooch parade, a car show, live entertainment and a root beer chugging contest.
State Fair of West Virginia
Lewisburg – August 10-19, 2023
statefairofwv.com
Arguably the most popular summertime event in the Mountain State, the State Fair of West Virginia showcases live entertainment, concerts, agricultural exhibitions, carnival rides, a horse track and more over the course of 10 fun-packed days. Visitors can also enjoy classic fair foods like elephant ears, corn dogs and funnel cakes, not to mention some unique twists on traditional fair food.
Blissful Yoga Festival
Fairmont – August 13, 2023
wvyogagirl.com
Release your inner yogi and say goodbye to the stresses of everyday life at this unique, one-day festival. Whether an experienced devotee or simply looking to try something new, this event has options for kids, beginners, experts and everyone in between. Grab your yoga mat and don’t miss out on this day full of bliss.
Appalachian Heritage Days
Logan – September 14-15, 2023
hatfieldmccoycvb.com
Located in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, this festival celebrates the very best of Appalachian history and culture over the span of two days. With old-time musicians, authors, speakers and historic house tours, this is an event every West Virginian should look to attend at least once.
