August · Lewisburg
State Fair of West Virginia
Ten days of rides, concerts, farm exhibits, harness racing and classic fair food on the fairgrounds near Lewisburg. It's the largest event of its kind in the state.
Seasonal Guide
West Virginia Summer Festivals
County fairs, river regattas, folk gatherings and state traditions fill the Mountain State's warm-weather calendar from May through Labor Day.
The Season of Fairs and Gatherings
Summer is when West Virginia gathers. Mountain towns host folk festivals and craft fairs, cities stage riverfront concerts and regattas, and the state fairgrounds come alive with rides, livestock shows and demolition derbies.
Many traditions here date back more than half a century. Dates vary each year, so verify with each festival's official page before you travel, and book lodging early for the biggest weekends.
The Can't-Miss Summer Events
Memorial Day · Charleston
Vandalia Gathering
A free celebration of Appalachian folk life at the state Capitol, with fiddling, flatfoot dancing, storytelling, quilting and traditional crafts competitions.
Early July · Charleston
Sternwheel Regatta
The Kanawha River waterfront fills with sternwheel boats, live music, food vendors and fireworks for a multi-day Independence Day tradition in the capital city.
July · Ripley
Mountain State Art & Craft Fair
Held at Cedar Lakes, this long-running fair showcases juried West Virginia artisans, live demonstrations, music and food in a shaded lakeside setting.
Fairs, Festivals & Fireworks
Nearly every county holds a fair or festival in summer. Strawberry festivals welcome June, Italian and Greek heritage festivals bring food and music to Clarksburg and Charleston, and July 4th fireworks light up river towns and mountain lakes alike.
Music lovers will find bluegrass, old-time, gospel and country festivals scattered through the hills, often with camping on site. Water lovers gravitate to river regattas, kayak races and lake festivals like those around Summersville.
Pair Festivals With Summer Adventure
Festivals are just the start. Summer is prime time for whitewater rafting on the New River, lake swimming at Summersville, hiking in the high country and scenic drives along the Highland Scenic Highway.
Build a weekend around a fair and add a day of outdoor fun — many festivals sit within an hour of a national or state park.
A Summer Weekend Itinerary
Start Saturday morning at a farmers market or craft fair, spend the afternoon on the water or a trail, then catch an evening concert or fireworks. Sunday, tour a historic small town and grab a local meal before heading home.
Because many events are outdoors, keep a rain plan and check the forecast. Mountain weather can shift quickly, but a little flexibility usually pays off with a memorable weekend.
Summer Favorites at a Glance
State Fair
Fairgrounds near Lewisburg.
August
Vandalia Gathering
Folk music at the Capitol.
May
Sternwheel Regatta
Riverfront July 4th fun.
July
Craft Fair
Mountain State Art & Craft.
July
County Fairs
Rides, livestock and fair food.
Jun–Aug
Lake Festivals
Water sports and concerts.
Summer
River Events
Races and paddling festivals.
Summer
Music Festivals
Bluegrass and old-time weekends.
Summer
Festivals on the Map
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the biggest summer festival in WV?
The State Fair of West Virginia in August is the largest, running about ten days with concerts, rides and agricultural exhibits near Lewisburg.
Are summer festivals in WV free?
Many folk and heritage festivals, including the Vandalia Gathering, are free. Fairs and concerts usually charge admission, and some offer discounted advance or family tickets.
Where can I see July 4th fireworks in WV?
Almost every city and larger town stages a display. Charleston's Sternwheel Regatta and riverfront cities like Huntington and Wheeling are popular spots.
How early should I book for summer events?
For the State Fair and holiday weekends, book lodging several weeks ahead. Campsites at popular parks fill even earlier.
About Discover WV Today
Discover WV Today is an independent guide to West Virginia travel, covering festivals, fairs, small towns, parks and outdoor adventures across the Mountain State. Learn more about us.