The Mountain State Art & Craft Fair, the annual West Virginia staple, is moving from the middle of summer to Sept. 16-18 at the Cedar Lakes Conference Center near Ripley.
“This year, we’re looking to expand and reimagine a beloved West Virginia tradition,” said Karen Facemyer, the event’s president. “We saw an opportunity to take advantage of the region’s most beautiful season. Temperatures are cooler, and school is in session, allowing us the chance to involve hundreds of students and expose the next generation to Appalachian traditions.”
The 53rd annual Fair is dubbed “An Appalachian Experience” and is an autumn celebration of art, food, music and culture. The Fair will explore West Virginia’s rich heritage with areas highlighting Celtic, German, Italian, Swiss and early American influences. It also includes interactive artisan booths allowing guests to learn about stained glass, basket weaving, broom making and more.
“The Fair has a long history of highlighting high-quality craftsmanship in West Virginia,” said Mike Ruben, director of the Ripley Convention & Visitors Bureau. “It’s a treasured celebration for the region and state, and the Fair has been energized. Folks will find the best entertainment and artisans Appalachia has to offer, along with wonderful food and cultural spotlights that illustrate our proud heritage.”
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.
Admission is $7 for adults and $3 for students. For more information, visit www.msacf.com or call (304) 372-3247.
