FAIRLEA, W.Va. (WVDN) — With the West Virginia State Fairgrounds still mostly quiet, preparations are already underway to ensure safety at one of the state’s most cherished events.
As the West Virginia State Fair marks its 100th anniversary, members of the West Virginia State Fire Marshal’s Office are on-site in Fairlea, working behind the scenes to ensure a safe and successful celebration.
The Fire Marshals Association of West Virginia announced that the Fire Marshal’s Office is conducting pre-event walkthroughs, safety briefings, and strategy sessions ahead of the fair’s opening. Once the event begins, fire marshals will remain on-site to provide ongoing public safety support.
“Safety doesn’t happen by chance. It starts with planning, presence, and professionalism,” the association said in a statement.
The fair, which draws thousands of attendees each year, is a major event in the state and presents significant logistical and safety challenges. Fire marshals play a critical role in emergency preparedness and response coordination throughout the duration of the event.
The Fire Marshals Association applauded the ongoing efforts of its partners in the State Fire Marshal’s Office for their “tireless work and commitment to life safety — before and after the gates open.”
The 2025 West Virginia State Fair is set to open in August, featuring concerts, livestock shows, carnival rides, and traditional fair food, all under the watchful eye of public safety officials.
