AUG 13 - AUG 22, 2026
The State Fair of West Virginia's roots date back to 1854, only 78 years after the nation’s founding. Originally known as the Greenbrier Valley Fair, it was officially renamed the State Fair of West Virginia in 1941.
It’s a celebration for everyone and this year is unique all its own, as the State Fair of West Virginia is celebrating its 100th year. Don’t miss out!
The State Fair of West Virginia is the biggest showcase of the hard work, creativity and fun of the Mountain State and its people. It’s one of the state’s must-attend events, and this year, it’s the 101st anniversary. There are so many things to do, from arts and crafts, free entertainment, new foods to try, and grandstand performers, all while showcasing the best of West Virginia’s rich agricultural industry. Each year offers something new, making the fair not only a must-attend but also a must-return.
The fair is a 10-day annual event that's on August 13th -22nd, 2026.
The WV state fairgrounds is an easy drive south on Route 219 from Interstate 64. Take exit 169 and turn south. It’s 3.6 miles to the entrance. Within a few minutes, you’ll be at the intersection of Route 219 and Route 60 in the heart of historic downtown Lewisburg. Staying on Route 219 South for another mile, you’ll see the State Fair marquee with a giant Ferris wheel on the horizon. Stay to the right—signs will direct you to the free parking area across from the fairgrounds.
The address is 947 Maplewood Ave., Lewisburg, WV.
There are a variety of ticket packages for families attending the events and Fair Week specials to make the event accessible for everyone. Gate admission for ages 11 and older is $10 in advance and $15 on the day of attendance. Mega Passes offer unlimited carnival rides. It’s $30+tax in advance and $35+tax at the gate.
The first recorded fair was held in Greenbrier Valley, VA, in 1854, only 78 years after the Declaration of Independence was signed. In 1863, it became the Greenbrier Valley West Virginia Fair. In 1941, the WV State Legislature passed an act officially changing the name of the popular Greenbrier Valley Fair to the State Fair of West Virginia.
From the sweet smell of fresh hay to the lights of the midway to the sounds of concertgoers in the grandstand, the fair is met with anticipation year after year. Throughout the 10-day festivities, there are all kinds of things to do at the fair, from livestock shows and horse races to carnival rides and musical acts. For families looking for more kid-friendly activities in the area, check out this guide to the Greenbrier Valley, which offers additional fun and engaging options for all ages.
The State Fair of West Virginia events run the gamut, but the two most popular nights are Saturday, August 15th and 22nd this year. At 10:00 p.m., the Zambelli Fireworks show lights up the sky. For years, the WV state fairgrounds held smaller fireworks displays each night of the 10-day event. In recent decades, it switched to a much bigger, better and brighter show, highlighting a few special nights with a bang!
The custom of entering livestock, home arts and agricultural produce for judging is what the State Fair of West Virginia is built on. There is an eclectic array of competing exhibits from one end of the grounds to the other. Intricate handmade quilts, Afghans, needlepoint, art and photography, garden vegetables, and delicious baked goods. Why not break out a family-treasured recipe or hobby craft and enter it for your chance at winning the coveted WV State Fair blue ribbon?
The State Fair of West Virginia events go big each night, with the grandstand hosting well-known musical acts such as Lil’ Jon and Anne Wilson. The stadium seats approximately 6,000, so watch for the 2026 line-up announcements and ticket sales!
Zembelli Fireworks light up the sky with some of the most innovative pyrotechnics in the world.
Forget traditional dining options—come hungry and ready to satisfy your every culinary craving, from Belt’s Pizza and a Pronto Pup (the best corndog east of the Mississippi) to Ben Ellen Donuts, giant cinnamon rolls and homemade ice cream. There’s even the State Fair’s version of farm-to-table with a Cattleman Steak Sandwich, fresh roasted ear of corn and various offerings at the local high school’s FFA (Future Farmers of America) Ham Stand.
Local agriculture teachers/FFA advisors organized the FFA Ham Stand in the late 1950s. It was operated by the State FFA Association with different chapters from around the state working the stand for one day each during the fair. In 1969, the Greenbrier East High School chapter took ownership and has operated it ever since. Initially, all the food was raised and cured by the students, but as popularity grew, the amount of meat needed became more than they could produce.
The stand is famous for its country ham sandwich, which is simple in its construction: fried cured ham, lettuce and mayo. But this legendary menu item is so delicious that it draws many fairgoers back every year to enjoy it.
Ben Ellen Donuts is a staple on the WV state fairgrounds. The stand offers mouth-watering cinnamon-sugar cider donuts made on-site and served warm. The sweet, spicy aroma of these donuts fills the air, drawing in crowds who can’t resist the nostalgic treat.
Insider’s tip: Want to have this all-time favorite fair food any time of year? Take a dozen home to freeze. Thirty seconds in the microwave works wonders. Some like to pop them in an air fryer for a few minutes or drop them in a skillet with a bit of butter. If you’re feeling adventurous, toast your Ben Ellen donut and top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Give it a try!
Trudy’s Dairy World is famous for its homemade ice cream. This creamy and refreshing treat is perfect for cooling down during the fair. With a variety of flavors available, it’s a go-to spot for both kids and adults.
Cowboy Daniel’s Corn Stand offers deliciously roasted corn on the cob, flavored with a generous basting of butter and seasoned to your liking. It’s a simple yet delicious snack that highlights the fresh, local produce of West Virginia.
CS Funnel Cakes & Elephant Ears offers classic fair treats that are both indulgent and satisfying. The funnel cakes are golden, crispy bites of dough topped with powdered sugar, while elephant ears are a chewy cinnamon-sugar delight. They are the perfect finger-food desserts while perusing the fairgrounds. And even better, these deep-fried desserts are large enough to share and a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy traditional fair food.
Son’s-Sational Cinnamon Rolls are a sweet treat you can smell far and wide, thanks to their rich, buttery ingredients. These oversized rolls are covered in a velvety layer of icing, making them an irresistible option for those with a sweet tooth.
Zul’s Midway Cafe is known for a West Virginia savory snack, the pepperoni roll. Pair it with a tangy frozen lemonade for a refreshing combo that hits the spot on a hot day. It was originally prepared as an easy, on-the-go food for coal miners in North Central West Virginia. The pepperoni is sometimes paired with cheese and a dipping sauce such as marinara. Zul’s tasty take on the West Virginia staple features shredded pepperoni rolled with either mozzarella or pepper jack (for an extra spicy kick) cheese.
West Virginia's famous pepperoni roll works as a snack or a meal.
If you’re planning to attend the West Virginia State Fair, there are a variety of places to stay and ways to get there. From area hotels and motels to private vacation rentals, enjoying the fair for several days is easy.
The fair offers a large free parking area for all attendees directly across from the fairgrounds with shuttles to the entrance. Be sure to follow the signs. Many businesses and residents around the fairgrounds offer convenient parking but at a cost. Handicap-accessible parking is located near the entrance of the fairgrounds for those with additional needs.
Insider’s tip: Take a photo of your row number so you can find your car again.
There are various ways to extend your stay at the State Fair of West Virginia. Several chain hotels offer something familiar. But if you’re looking to make your visit to the Greenbrier Valley a little different, check out local hotels such as the Historic General Lewis Inn or The Escape, The Schoolhouse Hotel or Howard’s Creek Inn. But be sure to plan ahead as hotels and other lodging fill up fast for dates during fair week.
The State Fair has a large campground area for camping and RV options.
The WV State Fair is a must-attend event for those wanting to see the best of the Mountain State.
The fair is for thrill seekers with lots of fast-paced, topsy-turvy rides to enjoy. It’s for foodies looking for classic favorites to new and unusual concoctions for the more adventurous. The fair is for competitors. With all the Midway games, you can test your wits or physical prowess. It’s for decorators and craft enthusiasts with buildings full of works by West Virginia crafters and artisans. And it’s for music enthusiasts because there’s no better way to close out summer than with an outdoor concert. Whether you're here to catch rising stars or sing along with legendary performers, the West Virginia State Fair delivers unforgettable live music experiences.
It’s an end of the summer celebration that is anticipated year-after-year by families who cherish the tradition of “a trip to the fair.
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