CHARLESTON, W.Va. — West Virginians will mark the state’s 163rd birthday, West Virginia Day, on Saturday, June 20, with festivals, heritage celebrations, outdoor events, and community gatherings stretching from the Eastern Panhandle to the coalfields of southern West Virginia.
West Virginia entered the Union on June 20, 1863, becoming the nation’s 35th state during the Civil War. Each year, communities celebrate the occasion with events highlighting the state’s history, culture, music, arts, outdoor recreation, and Appalachian traditions.
This year, residents and visitors will find plenty of opportunities to celebrate West Virginia Day throughout the weekend.
State Capitol hosts official West Virginia Day celebration
The state’s official West Virginia Day celebration is expected to draw visitors to the Capitol Complex in Charleston, where exhibits, educational programs, historical presentations, and family activities are planned.
The event traditionally includes birthday cake, performances, and opportunities to learn more about the state’s founding and development.
The celebration also provides visitors access to the West Virginia State Museum, which traces the state’s story from prehistoric times through the present day.
Folk Festival continues Appalachian traditions
The West Virginia State Folk Festival, among the state’s longest-running cultural celebrations, showcases traditional Appalachian music, crafts, storytelling, and heritage demonstrations.
The festival has long served as a gathering place for musicians, artisans, and residents interested in preserving the customs and traditions that helped shape life in the Mountain State.
Historic Cass celebrates railroad heritage
At Cass, visitors can immerse themselves in the history of one of West Virginia’s most famous company towns. Cass Days highlights the community’s railroad heritage, featuring activities tied to the logging industry and mountain railroading that once fueled economic development across the highlands.
The historic town at Cass Scenic Railroad State Park remains one of the state’s most visited heritage tourism destinations.
Mountain heritage takes center stage in Ansted
The Ansted Hometown Mountain Heritage Festival celebrates Appalachian culture through music, local foods, crafts, and community activities.
Located near the New River Gorge, Ansted’s festival offers visitors a chance to experience the traditions and hospitality that have long defined life in southern West Virginia.
River recreation celebrated at Yak Fest
Outdoor recreation enthusiasts are expected to gather at Saint Albans for Yak Fest, an event focused on paddling, river culture, and water-based recreation.
The festival highlights the growing importance of outdoor tourism in West Virginia and the Coal River’s reputation as a destination for kayaking, rafting, fishing, and other river adventures.
Cacapon Riverfest spotlights natural resources
The annual Cacapon Riverfest at Capon Bridge celebrates one of eastern West Virginia’s most treasured waterways, the Great Cacapon River.
Activities typically focus on environmental stewardship, recreation, and appreciation of the river’s role in supporting local communities and tourism.
Covered bridge festival honors historic landmark
The Barrackville Covered Bridge Festival at Barrackville, near Fairmont, celebrates one of West Virginia’s best-known historic bridges.
Visitors can enjoy food vendors, entertainment, crafts, and activities centered around the preservation of the iconic structure, which has become a symbol of the state’s transportation history.
Tamarack showcases West Virginia artisans
Tamarack Marketplace, on I-77 at Beckley, is expected to host special Summerfest 2026 activities during the holiday weekend, providing visitors opportunities to explore West Virginia-made art, crafts, foods, and cultural exhibits.
The facility serves as one of the state’s premier showcases for artisans and creative entrepreneurs.
Celtic traditions celebrated in the mountains
The W.Va. Wild and Wonderful Celtic Festival and Highland Games brings Scottish and Celtic traditions to the Mountain State at Beverly, near Elkins, through athletic competitions, music, dancing, and cultural demonstrations.
The event attracts participants and spectators interested in exploring the heritage shared by many Appalachian families.
Southern West Virginia festival combines community and tourism
The Kimball Phoenix Festival and activities associated with the Head of the Dragon scenic motorcycle route are expected to draw visitors to Kimball in McDowell County, in the southernmost part of West Virginia.
The event combines local entertainment with tourism opportunities tied to one of the region’s emerging recreation attractions.
Celebrating a remarkable state
West Virginia remains the only state formed by seceding from a Confederate state during the Civil War, giving its founding a unique place in American history.
More than 160 years later, West Virginia Day continues to celebrate statehood and the communities, landscapes, traditions, and people that define the Mountain State.
Whether attending a festival, exploring a historic site, paddling a river, or simply spending time with family, residents across West Virginia will have many opportunities this weekend to celebrate the state’s birthday and reflect on its enduring heritage.
Why West Virginia Day is unique
West Virginia Day commemorates one of the most unusual chapters in American history. When West Virginia entered the Union on June 20, 1863, it became the only state formed by seceding from a Confederate state during the Civil War. After Virginia seceded from the United States in 1861, delegates from many northwestern counties opposed the move and organized a pro-Union government.
Their efforts ultimately led to the creation of a new state, and President Abraham Lincoln signed the legislation admitting West Virginia as the nation’s 35th state. More than 160 years later, the holiday remains a reminder of the political divisions, wartime challenges, and determination that shaped the Mountain State’s founding.
Five facts about West Virginia on its 163rd birthday
- Statehood date: June 20, 1863
- 35th state admitted to the Union
- Population estimate: ~1,765,000
- Number of counties: 55
- Highest point: Spruce Knob (4,863 ft.)
- Largest city: Charleston (pop. 47,421)