June’s most popular festivals

Summer vacation never fades away — it just moves to the weekend for us working folks! Get ready for Southern West Virginia’s rock concerts and outdoor parties.

Cultural charms

The June 15-18 Hometown Mountain Heritage Festival in Ansted brings Appalachian traditions to the forefront, with diversions like coal shoveling and corn hole. It also has a carnival atmosphere with rides, fortune telling, cake walks, and crafts.

Summersville’s Music in the Mountains Bluegrass Festival has a lineup so long, it needs 3 days’ worth of entertainment. Look forward to the likes of Sons of the South, the Tennessee Mafia Jug Band, The Hillbilly Gypsies, and much more from June 21-24! Each day starts with open-stage performances as well. It really is a one-stop bluegrass shop, so get those tickets early!

Sunshine, wine, and steins

Despite its name, the whole family is invited to Daniel Vineyards’ Annual Spring Wine Festival on June 17. Just bring camp chairs! You’ll find everything you need beneath those tidy white tents: vintners, artisans, food vendors, and musicians. There’s no need to bring a glass, either; you’ll get one with your admission ticket. Samples, too!

Red, White & Brew on June 17 uncorks adult splurges into one place: the Pipestem Spa and Event Center. Tasting glass in hand, sample anything from wine to craft beer and moonshine. Other highlights include live rock music, hearty German fare, and a cash bar. Bottoms up!

An Independence Day extravaganza

The Alderson 4th of July Celebration starts early and ends with a big bang. Hailed by many as West Virginia’s best Independence Day festival, it boasts canoe and bike races, ice-cream socials, horse shows, enormous parades, and field games galore. Hang around for fireworks, too. You won’t believe how many the Alderson Fire Department can light! This special festival lasts from June 24-July 5.

What’s your favorite Southern West Virginia festival?