Where to go “Fourth” for Independence Day

Southern West Virginia has days of patriotic celebrations. Pick from small-town festivals to family resort gatherings. Big or small, there’s a red, white, and blue party for you and the gang.

Alderson 4th of July Celebration
Now through July 5

The little town of Alderson has Independence Day down pat. After all, it has 56 years of experience.

And what a show! Alderson’s enormous parade and fireworks display defy belief. As for entertainment, look forward to a whitewater canoe race, field games, ice cream social, banquet, and much, much more.

So pack up the SUV and bring the kids; there’s nothing quite like West Virginia’s biggest July 4 festival.

The Resort at Glade Springs
June 30-July 1

If you don’t have any vacation time, no sweat. The Resort at Glade Springs in Daniels has a weekend party instead!

The “All-American July 4 Package” lives up to its name with old-fashioned summer rituals.
Daily activities feature:

Friday: craft brews and live music on the deck, plus a movie and golf cart decorating for kids
Saturday: recreational games, music by the pool, fireworks, and American buffet with classics like BBQ, hot dogs, and sundaes
Sunday (optional extension with fee): picnic buffet (reservation required), concert, and fireworks

Lodging on Saturday and Sunday includes a breakfast buffet.

July 4 (on the 2nd) Family Festival
July 2

There’s no need to miss Fayetteville’s Fourth of July party. In fact, Adventures on the Gorge (AOTG) in Lansing starts early so you can try everything.

The July 4th (on the 2nd) Family Festival crams in all of your summer favorites. From 4-8 p.m., get free resort admission to goodies like bounce houses, games, live music, and the pool. Prizes are up for grabs, too. Sprint in relay races, spit seeds, and more!

There will be lots of grill action as well. (What’s a Fourth of July party without some BBQ?) Meals aren’t free, though, so bring your wallet.

Gorge-ous fireworks
July 2

Adventures on the Gorge continues the drama at night. From 8-10 p.m., watch fireworks boom and glow over the canyon. It’s a July 4 celebration unlike anything else! No admission fee, either.

 

AOTG will have shuttles going to and from Mountain State Campground. Locals also like to sit by the south rim.

Fayetteville Lions Club 4th of July Celebration
July 3-4

With its big-hearted pep, the little town of Fayetteville always does justice to Independence Day. The celebration starts July 3 with music and vendors arriving at 5 p.m. Browse the downtown area, then grab some dinner at a nearby restaurant!

It gets even better July 4. Vendors set up shop at 9 a.m., then festivities quickly follow: a parade, classic car show, and more bands. Kids and families can also try their luck with field games. A water balloon toss, sack race, and turtle race— just to name a few— start in the afternoon.

Then head to the town park by 9 p.m. for fireworks and music.

Fayette County Park Independence Day
July 4

Slow things down a notch with an old-fashioned summer picnic. With its shady lawns, rec room, and swimming pool, Fayette County Park in Fayetteville provides the ideal setting.

What’s more, picnic shelters on July 4 will be 25 percent off the normal price. Reserve your Independence Day hangout before they’re gone! Each one has a grill, ice cooler, and trash cans.

Finish things off with a leisurely hike or swim. Pool passes are just $5 for folks aged 16-54, or $4 for seniors and kids aged 4-15. Babies 3 years old or younger are welcome for free.

A grand slam Fourth of July
July 4

How’s this for different: baseball on Independence Day. With its old-fashioned ambience and fireworks, the Linda K. Epling Stadium in Beckley is a real hit with kids, too. Start the celebration early July 3 or arrive July 4 … or both!

No matter which you choose, The Miners will clash with Ohio’s Chillicothe Paints right at 7 p.m., so settle in early. Fireworks start after the game (approximately 10 p.m.) with an impressive display of fire power planned for the 3rd. And if you’re a military serviceman or veteran, bring your ID for free admission on July 4.

And speaking of Beckley, the city will have a fireworks show at the Beckley-Raleigh County Convention Center at 9:30 p.m. on July 4! Decisions, decisions …