MINERAL WELLS, 2025-06-18 12:15:00
west Virginia Fair Kicks Off
the 52nd annual West Virginia Interstate Fair adn Exposition opened Tuesday, promising a week of fun, food, and festivities for all ages.
- The fair runs through Saturday.
- Opening day featured the Junior Royalty Pageant and Rafter M Rodeo.
- Admission is $10 for those over 3 years old.
The West Virginia Interstate Fair and Exposition in Mineral wells is now underway, offering a vibrant mix of events for the community, from rodeos to pageants and everything in between. The fair officially started on Tuesday at the fairgrounds on Butcher Bend Road, and will continue through Saturday.
Tuesday was filled with action, starting with the Junior Royalty Pageant and followed by the Rafter M Rodeo.The fair also designated tuesday as senior day, offering free admission to the first 100 seniors.
“It’s happening rain or shine,” said Fair Board member Ponnie Sampson. “Today is the first day of the pageant, it’ll run Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, different age groups will be different days.”
Admission to the fair is $10 for those aged 3 and up, with an additional $10 registration fee for the pageant.
The fair has a petting zoo,food vendors,carnival rides,and tractor displays. Sampson mentioned that the event will proceed as scheduled, with weather-related decisions made as needed, including utilizing indoor spaces if storms arise.
did you know?-The West Virginia Interstate Fair and Exposition has been a community staple for over half a century, offering a variety of entertainment for all ages.
2025 West Virginia Interstate Queens Madison Jones, left, and Elizabeth McDonald, right, made an appearance at the West virginia Interstate Fair and Exposition on Tuesday night.
“Hopefully the weather holds off and is good to us at least from 4 to 10 p.m.,” said Sampson. “We just want to make sure that things get done and hopefully people can enjoy a full week of events.”
The 2025 West Virginia Interstate Fair Queens, Elizabeth McDonald and Madison Jones, were also present at Tuesday’s pageant.
“I am super excited for this week,” said McDonald. “It’s gonna be a long week that’s for sure, but I am most excited for the rodeo tonight.”
McDonald, from Moundsville, was selected as the 2025 West Virginia Interstate Fair Queen.
“I’ve competed in pageants for a really long time and I love being able to get out there and meet different people from different areas,” said McDonald.
As the community gathered at the fairgrounds, food vendors and carnival rides sprang to life. Offerings like fried Oreos, popcorn, hotdogs, and cotton candy were available.
“I think it’s going to be a good week,” said board member Angie zoller. “there are just so many good events coming up.”
Zoller anticipates a decent turnout this year.
“I’m hoping that most of the heat waves will hold out until we get through the week.”
According to Zoller, opening day typically sees a lower attendance, with momentum building as the week continues.
Pro tip:-Check the fair’s schedule online or at the gate for daily event times. This helps you plan your day and not miss out on your favorite activities.
There were lots of food and drink options at the west Virginia Interstate fair and Exposition on opening day. The carnival rides were set up and ready to go Tuesday.
What’s on the agenda for the remainder of the week?
Here is the remaining fair schedule:
TODAY, Kids Day
4 p.m.: Ticket gates open; Livestock learning stations open (livestock area); Today’s highlight-rabbits Phil’s Future Farmers (livestock area) open 4-8 p.m.; Pretty baby registration (13-36 months) (open shelter); Kid’s Day activities begin (ages 12 and under). Games, bounce house. Sponsored by Thomas Family Entertainment
5 p.m.: Carnival opens; Horse Show (livestock area-horse arena); Pretty Baby contest (13-36 months) (open shelter)
Reader question:-What’s your favorite part about going to the fair? Share your memories and what you’re looking forward to this year!
6 p.m.: Cowboy Church (horse arena)
7 p.m.: Horse show continues; Premium Karaoke (main stage)
10 p.m.: Carnival closes
11 p.m.: Fairgrounds close
THURSDAY, Armed Forces Day.
Active military personnel admitted free Thursday only with active duty or active reserve duty military ID.
4 p.m.: Ticket gates open; Pretty Baby registration (0-12 months); Mud Bog registration; Livestock Learning Station (livestock area); Today’s highlight-goats & sheep. Phil’s Future Farmers (livestock area) 4-8 p.m.
5 p.m.: Pretty Baby Contest (0-12 months); Carnival opens
6 p.m.: Diaper Derby registration (open shelter); Diaper Derby (ages 0-12 months); (Instantly following Pretty Baby contest)
7 p.m.: Clint Carsey and the Track Layers (main stage); Mud Bog (track area) Speed Pit-Consistency Class Showdown, Truck Class (stock to blown rails), UTV (stock to wild). Sponsored by Bosley Rental & Supply
10 p.m.: Carnival closes
11 p.m.: Fairgrounds close
FRIDAY
4 p.m.: Ticket gates open; Carnival opens; Livestock learning stations open (livestock area); Today’s highlight-hogs.Phil’s Future Farmers (livestock area) 4-8 p.m.
5 p.m.: Mud Bog registration; Hay bale throw, skillet toss registration (fair office); ATV drag racing registration (ATV track area); Carnival opens
5:30 p.m.: Hay bale throw,skillet toss
6 p.m.: Watermelon eating, bubble gum blowing registration (fair office)
6:30 p.m.: Watermelon eating contest
7 p.m.: Mud Bog (track area); ATV Drag Racing (ATV track area)
8 p.m.: Ridgeline (Main Stage)
10:30 p.m.: Carnival closes
11 p.m.: Fairgrounds Close
SATURDAY
8 a.m. Antique tractor pulls (pulling track); Garden tractor tug pull (ATV drag track)
Noon: ticket gates open; Kids pedal tractor pull registration (fair office)
1 p.m.: Garden tractor speed pull (ATV drag track); Truck and tractor pulls (track area)
2 p.m.: Kids pedal tractor pull (fair office)
3 p.m.: Spitting contest registration; Carnival Opens
3:30 p.m.: Spitting contest sponsored by PAIS
4 p.m.: Stone throw registration (fair office); Livestock Learning stations (livestock area) open; Today’s highlight-beef. Phil’s Future Farmers (livestock area) 4-8 p.m.
4:30 p.m.: Stone throw
8 p.m.: 5 Spot (main stage)
10:30 p.m.: Carnival closes
* 11 p.m.: Fairgrounds close
Fair Highlights: Beyond Opening Day
The West virginia Interstate Fair and Exposition offers a full week of entertainment,extending the fun far beyond opening day’s festivities. From lively competitions to captivating performances, each day brings new experiences for fairgoers. With a diverse schedule packed with events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The fair continues to be an integral part of the Mineral Wells community, offering a blend of tradition and contemporary entertainment.
Hear’s a closer look at the upcoming events, ensuring you don’t miss a moment of the excitement:
Wednesday: Kid’s Day and Horsepower
Wednesday is dedicated to families, with a focus on the younger generation. The day kicks off with Kid’s Day activities, including games and a bounce house, sponsored by Thomas Family Entertainment. Livestock learning stations, including rabbit exhibits from Phil’s Future Farmers, provide educational opportunities throughout the day. The carnival opens at 5 p.m., offering thrilling rides for those seeking adrenaline-pumping fun. The horse show begins at 5 p.m.,and those seeking spiritual refreshment can attend Cowboy Church at 6 p.m.
Thursday: Armed Forces Day and Mud Bog mayhem
Thursday honors the military with free admission for active-duty and active-reserve personnel. The day’s livestock focus shifts to goats and sheep through the livestock learning stations and “Phil’s future Farmers” display.The Pretty Baby contest returns,and the mud Bog event promises high-octane action,featuring a Speed Pit Showdown and various truck and UTV classes.
Friday: High-Flying Fun and Musical Performances
Friday offers a mix of customary fair activities and thrilling competitions. The carnival is open, and registration begins for the Hay Bale Throw, Skillet toss, Watermelon Eating, and Bubble Gum Blowing contests. The ATV drag racing adds to the adrenaline rush. The evening concludes with a live performance by Ridgeline on the main stage.Friday’s events provide a perfect blend of competition, excitement, and entertainment.
Saturday: tractor Pulls and Community Showdown
the final day of the fair includes antique tractor pulls and garden tractor tug pulls, offering a nostalgic look at farming heritage. The fun continues with a Truck and Tractor Pulls, and the carnival remains open for last-minute rides and games. To round out the day, a spitting contest promises some friendly competition and laughter before 5 Spot takes the main stage to close out the week.
Benefits & Practical Tips
- Plan Ahead: Review the daily schedule to prioritize events.
- Arrive Early: Secure good viewing spots for popular events and avoid long lines.
- Embrace the Variety: Explore different areas of the fair, from livestock exhibits to carnival rides.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially during outdoor activities.
- Check for Specials: Look for discounts and promotions throughout the week.
FAQs
What is the admission cost?
Entry to the fair is $10 for individuals aged 3 and above.Costs for special events like the pageant and mud bog might potentially be different.
Are there any discounts available?
Yes,active military personnel are admitted free on Thursday. Check for other potential discounts or promotions throughout the week.
What time does the carnival open each day?
The carnival opens at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, and 3 p.m. on Saturday.
Where can I find the full schedule of events?
The complete schedule can be found at the fair entrance or online.
Are there food vendors available?
Yes, there are numerous food vendors available. They offer a variety of treats like fried Oreos, popcorn, hotdogs, and cotton candy.
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