FAIRLEA, (WVDN) – Only two years away from a century of fun, the 98th annual State Fair of West Virginia is upon us. With an outstanding concert lineup, thrilling rides, livestock displays, food and craft competitions, delectable fair food, and so much more, this event promises an exciting experience.
Every year, the highly anticipated event brings back fan favorites and works to add to/improve the offerings. State Fair of West Virginia CEO Kelly Collins recently spoke about what fairgoers can expect at the 2023 fair. One thing she noted is the return of the State Fair Brochure. She said, “Back by popular demand is the State Fair’s Brochure! After 2020, we had to take a break from getting it printed, but we quickly realized it is an important piece for the fairgoers!” Additionally, Collins stated, “We have a lot of the same traditions we always do this year, but we always like to give things a refresh. Of course, we are continuing with our ‘Best New Fair Food Contest’, and we cannot wait to announce the participants this year.”
The concert series is one of the most anticipated announcements of the year. Collins said, “We ended up with a great concert lineup this year, with two shows that are completely sold out. To celebrate, we are going to host pre-show parties each night before the concerts. This will be a separately ticketed event, but will include a drink ticket, pre-show events and skipping the line to get into the concerts.”
According to Collins, one of the fair’s most frequently asked questions is related to concert tickets. Specifically, people often ask whether or not concert tickets also grant the holder entry to the fair itself. In response to this question she said, “The answer is yes, if you purchased concert tickets, they include your admission into the fair. We always recommend that fairgoers read up on all the know-before-you-go information, as well as ticket specials.”
In addition to the mainstage concert series, the State Fair of West Virginia offers a wide array of free entertainment on the fairgrounds. Collins discussed some of the lineups saying, “We are very excited for this year’s free entertainment lineup! From getting a change to meet kangaroos, wallabies, walleroos and other native Australian wildlife to a thrilling high dive act, frisbee-catching-high-flying-dogs, and a magic show, these entertainment pieces help to make the fairgoer experience even better. The best part – these experiences are included with your gate admission.”
For any first-time fairgoers, Collins recommends downloading the helpful State Fair Mobile App.
“First of all, download the State Fair’s Mobile app. Our app allows you to personalize your fair schedule to maximize your experience and fun. Second, there are a lot of fun activities, but I hope that first-time fairgoers experience the educational and livestock portion of our event.”
Before becoming CEO, Collins grew up attending the fair’s many events. Now, she shares the experience with her children. When asked about her favorite activities, she said, “I am a fair kid! I grew up showing livestock here at the State Fair, so I always enjoy watching livestock shows and the pride the exhibitors have in their projects. My own kids are getting closer to the age they can show, so I make sure to take them to a couple of shows!”
The thrills, fun, and food aside, I hope that people will come to enjoy the experience of the State Fair. We all tend to rush through life, and I hope this event provides an opportunity for folks to slow down, enjoy time with loved ones, and create lasting memories.
Finally, while talking about the most important things for those attending the 98th annual State Fair of West Virginia to know, Collins states, “The thrills, fun, and food aside, I hope that people will come to enjoy the experience of the State Fair. We all tend to rush through life, and I hope this event provides an opportunity for folks to slow down, enjoy time with loved ones, and create lasting memories.”
The fair kicks off on Aug. 10. Head out and enjoy some of the activities, music, food and fun that awaits at the State Faire of West Virginia!
