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(Illustration/MetroCreative)
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(Illustration/MetroCreative)
(Illustration/MetroCreative)
RIPLEY — The 2024 Mountain State Arts and Crafts Fair showcases juried artisans from across West Virginia and Appalachia, live music, heritage displays and food.
MSACF will be held Thursday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily at the Cedar Lake Convention Center near Ripley. Tickets are $7 per day, $5 for seniors 55+ and children ages 3-11. There are acres of free parking.
The opening ceremony will be held on Thursday, July 4 at 1 p.m., with special guests including Jessica Lynch, a U.S. Army veteran who is currently the director of the West Virginia Women Veterans Program.
“MS. Lynch very much represents the best that we – Appalachia – have to offer. Determined, determined, hard-working and dedicated to preserving our culture while looking to improve our country Way forward. said MSACF President Jean Smith. “We are honored to have her join us.”
In addition to artisans, the show also hosts fan-favorite events such as the Quilt Show, sponsored by the Fabric and Gift Shop. This year’s event will also include a pie baking competition, glass blowing, tinsmithing, cooking and gardening demonstrations. The Kids Fishing Derby offers young people a chance to cast a rod and catch a big fish.
(Illustration/MetroCreative)
“What makes us unique is that we showcase the best of West Virginia and Appalachian culture through art.” Smith said. “All of our craftsmen are judged and some learn their craft from their parents and grandparents, or through apprenticeships, preserving the craft for future generations.”
Many craftsmen actually create at the show, giving visitors the opportunity to see work in progress and purchase finished products. This year’s fair will feature a wide range of art including paintings, textiles, pottery, woodworking or mixed media such as steampunk art.
“Do it – take it” A number of arts and crafts projects will be taught and there will be exciting hands-on activities for children and adults.
Live music is another major attraction, featuring some of the finest bluegrass musicians and pickers, and storytellers preserve oral traditions, reminding visitors that the art form of communication has been replaced by technology.
Traditional foods such as stone-ground cornmeal and applesauce cooked over an open fire will be on sale. A variety of food vendors will offer more modern cuisine.
The grounds are flat, with plenty of shade trees and places to sit, and leashed pets are welcome, so plan to bring the whole family, Smith said.
“We encourage visitors to use this as a holiday destination, that’s why we tell people to come back, go home, come visit because so many people have attended the show over the years. Families and groups plan reunions around the event itself, if you haven’t been , you’ll have a wonderful experience. Enjoy the market during the day, watch the Ripley’s Fireworks show on Fourth of July night, visit the Great Bend Museum in Ravenswood, and go fishing or kayaking on Mill Creek for all ages. For everyone, this is a wonderful time. Smith said.
For more information, visit www.msacf.com, call 304-372-FAIR (3247) or email msacf@outlook.com. The Mountain State Arts and Crafts Fair can also be found on numerous social media outlets.
