Your Guide to the 2022 State Fair of West Virginia

Fairs and festivals are part of what make the summer season in Almost Heaven so memorable and one of the state’s most iconic events is just around the corner!

Back for yet another year, The State Fair of West Virginia kicks off on Thursday, August 11th and runs through Saturday, August 20th, featuring more excitement than ever before. This annual celebration marks the end of summer in the Mountain State and is the perfect way to add in some last minute fun before school begins.

Whether you’re a first-time fairgoer or a seasoned pro, you won’t want to miss all that’s in store for the state fair this year.

Let the Music Move You

Concerts

With a star-studded lineup, this year’s state fair is the place to be for music lovers. Special guests gracing the grandstand this August include Cody Johnson, Foreigner, Clay Walker with Tracy Byrd, Restless Road, Kathy Mattea, Chris Tomlin, Zach Bryan, Flo Rida, and Walker Hayes with Tigirlily.

With concerts happening all throughout the fair run, checking out the full schedule is a must before planning your trip. Don’t forget to buy tickets in advance to your favorite performer’s show before they sell out!

A Foodie’s Paradise

Fair Food

The State Fair of West Virginia is the place to be if you have an appetite in tow. Each year visitors flock to the fair for the rows of food trucks and countless stands, serving up some of the best food you can find. Have your pick between traditional fair favorites and creative, new inventions.

Some of the featured vendors include Ben Ellen Donuts, Demitri’s Fine Greek Foods, Hog Wild Bar-B-Que, the Mountaineer Diner and Miller’s Ice Cream factory.

For a complete list of food options, click here.

Enjoy the Ride

Carnival Rides

It just wouldn’t be the state fair without rows of carnival rides, boasting options perfect for both adventure seekers and family fun.

Check out the Bumble Bee, Circus Train or Wacky Worm for the little ones in your crew. For fearless teens, catch a ride on the Tornado, Zipper and Ring of Fire. Be sure to participate in all the classics like the Fun Slide and Ferris wheel.

Get Down to Earth

Agricultural Events

A trip to the State Fair of West Virginia wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the fairground’s barns and arenas. Hosting everything from livestock competitions to equine shows, students from all across the Mountain State gather to compete.

In addition to livestock shows, take a peek into the West Virginia building where everything from homemade jam to fine needlework is put to the test in the Home, Arts & Garden Competitions.

One-of-a-kind Shows

Free Entertainment

Experience shows of a lifetime with no cost, at all. From racing pigs and pulling horses to acrobats and wheel of steel bike shows, there are ways to entertain every person in your group.

For more information on times and locations, click here.

As you stroll through the fair, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the West Virginia Tourism Airstream, where you can grab a copy of the special edition 2022 Vacation Guides!

This post was last updated on August 8, 2022