By Chelsea Blair
The State Fair of West Virginia opened its gates on Thursday, Aug. 8 and will continue providing enjoyment for those near and far until Saturday, Aug. 17. Opening at 8 a.m. and closing at 11 p.m. every day, the State Fair offers carnival rides, food, games, free entertainment shows, live concerts, educational programs, livestock shows, and much more.
Each day from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. visitors can enjoy the Live Shark Encounter display as well as Live Shark Encounter shows at 11 a.m., 2 p.m., and 5 p.m., the Paul Bunyan Lumberjack show at 11:30 a.m., 2:30 p.m., and 6:30 p.m., and the Butterfly Kingdom, open all day. Grandstand Shows will take place daily with many well-known artists such as Turnpike Troubadours, Lil Jon, Charles Wesley Godwin, Seether, Anne Wilson, Jimmy Fortune, Bailey Zimmerman, Oliver Anthony and Travis Tritt. Also included in the Grandstand shows will be the Buckin’ B Bull Ride on August 10 at 7 p.m. and a Draft Horse Pull on August 16 at 9 a.m. Do not forget to check out the livestock shows!
The fair specials are on the following dates:
- Monday, Aug. 12: Tools for School Supply Drive – Bring in three school supply items or two personal hygiene products and receive $8 gate admission or $25 for rides and gate admission.
- Tuesday, Aug. 13: Senior Citizen’s Day – 55 and Older $7 (sales tax included)
- Tuesday, Aug. 13: All Day Ride Special – $20.00 + 6% WV Sales Tax (all ages)
- Wednesday, Aug. 14: Dollar Day Special – $1 Gate Admission before 4 p.m. only for those age 11 and over.
- Thursday, Aug. 15: Military Day – $7 (sales tax included) with Valid Military or Veterans ID
- Aug. 13, 14, and 15: Afternoon Special – $7 after 4 p.m. through closing for those age 11 and over.
For more information on the WV State fair schedule visit www.statefairofwv.com or www.mountainmessenger.com to view our annual Fair Guide.
