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ARIANNA WHITEHAIR
Summertime Fairs & Festivals
in Almost Heaven
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 .
122 WEST VIRGINIA EXECUTIVE