RIPLEY, W.Va. – The 53rd annual Mountain State Art & Craft Fair is scheduled for Sept. 16-18 at the Cedar Lakes Conference Center near Ripley.
The beloved West Virginia tradition has become an autumn celebration of the state’s rich and diverse heritage.
“We’re calling it ‘An Appalachian Experience,’ because the Fair represents the best of Appalachian culture,” said Karen Facemyer, the event’s president. “The art, food and music you find in West Virginia is distinctive and exceptional. We’re showcasing these amazing talents.”
The Fair will explore West Virginia’s varied traditions with areas highlighting Celtic, German, Italian, Swiss and American influences. It also includes interactive artisan booths allowing guests to learn about stained glass, basket weaving, broom making and much more.
The villages will feature culinary offerings that match each theme, along with craft beer and wine samplings. Musical acts representing the wide range of cultures will provide live soundtracks for the village experiences, while acts such as Johnny Staats & The Delivery Boys and the Lilly Mountaineers take the main stage.
Historical actors playing Chief Cornstalk, Harriet Tubman and other figures central to Appalachia’s story are among the special Student Day visitors on Sept. 16. Third and fourth graders will experience tailored entertainment and educational presentations from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. that day.
“The Fair is taking advantage of the region’s most beautiful season,” Facemyer said. “Temperatures are a bit cooler, and school is in session, allowing us the chance to involve hundreds of students and expose the next generation to Appalachian traditions.
“So many throughout the state and region treasure the Fair,” Facemyer said. “It’s an invaluable tradition, and now it’s been reenergized. We’re excited to present a rejuvenated and wonderful event that will be a West Virginia staple for decades to come.”
Artisans who exhibit at the Fair come from the Appalachian region and are selected by a jury of craft experts.
“All the art represents some form of traditional or contemporary Appalachian expression, and the products are as authentic as the people,” Facemyer said.
The annual Quilt Show is open throughout the Fair. Ribbons are awarded for three categories of bed quilts, along with co-op quilts, wall quilts and “people’s choice.”
Fair hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.
Fair Admission is $7 for adults and $3 for students. For information, including a schedule of events, visit www.msacf.com or call (304) 372-3247.
