West Virginia University and WVU Extension will participate in the 100th State Fair of West Virginia, continuing a tradition that began a century ago. Over the years, the University’s involvement has grown from early 4-H projects in livestock, agriculture, and home economics to include activities such as robotics, career exploration, kitchen chemistry, woodworking, and more.
The University’s presence at the fair expanded with its own building in 2007. The WVU Building now features academic displays and interactive exhibits for visitors. This year’s fair will run from August 7 to August 16 in Fairlea. The WVU Building will offer rotating exhibits including a giant inflatable brain for educational demonstrations about brain function, STEM activities, food demonstrations, arts and media displays, wildlife exhibits, and other hands-on experiences. Visitors can also collect WVU football schedule cards and posters along with commemorative giveaways.
Cade Kincaid, the Mountaineer Mascot, is scheduled to greet visitors on August 9 and 10. He will return on August 14 accompanied by WVU President Michael Benson. The building will be open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with prize drawings held at noon and 5 p.m.
WVU Extension agents and volunteers are responsible for coordinating youth livestock events at the fair. These events feature hundreds of young participants from both 4-H and FFA programs; many use proceeds earned at the fair to support their continued education or training. Additional exhibits by local 4-H members can be viewed daily at the Cecil H. Underwood Youth Center from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
The Master Gardener demonstration garden—maintained by local WVU Extension Master Gardener volunteers—will display flowers, fruits, and vegetables cultivated throughout West Virginia’s history. A high tunnel near the WVU Building highlights produce varieties enjoyed by state residents over the past century.
“We are proud of our century-long partnership and participation in the State Fair of West Virginia,” said Jennifer Ours Williams, associate dean at WVU Extension. “As the state’s largest land-grant institution, we value the opportunity to highlight our 4-H youth who work tirelessly on their projects, while also showcasing the important work of WVU and WVU Extension to the state. Our faculty, staff, and volunteers look forward to celebrating this historic event with our fair families, alumni, youth and other visitors.”
More information about ongoing programs is available at extension.wvu.edu or via @WVUExtension on Facebook and Instagram.
