West Virginia University and WVU Extension have a long history at the State Fair of West Virginia. Throughout the 100 years of the Fair, 4-H’ers have showcased their hard work, beginning with projects centered around livestock, agriculture, and home economics, and growing to include diverse offerings, such as robotics, career exploration, West Virginia studies, kitchen chemistry, wood working, and much more.
WVU’s overall presence also has expanded throughout the century-long event. In addition to WVU Extension’s work with youth livestock and 4-H exhibits, the University began showcasing its work by engaging with visitors on the grounds under a canopy tent on the fairgrounds. In 2007, the University further solidified its presence with the opening of the WVU Building, which now houses academic displays, engaging activities, and educational opportunities for visitors.
WVU once again will bring the gold, blue and 4-H clovers to Fairlea for the 10-day event (August 7-16). The WVU Building (adjacent to the livestock area) showcases rotating exhibits throughout the Fair, including a giant inflatable brain where people can learn about the different parts of this vital organ, STEM activities, food demonstrations, interactive arts and media activities, wildlife exhibits, and other fun displays. Visitors can pick up WVU football schedule cards and posters, as well as other commemorative giveaways. The Mountaineer Mascot, Cade Kincaid, also will be on hand to greet visitors August 9 and 10, with a return visit planned on August 14 with WVU President Michael Benson. The WVU Building is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily with WVU-themed prize drawings at noon and 5 p.m.
WVU Extension agents and other volunteers also coordinate the Fair’s youth livestock events, which showcase the hard work of hundreds of 4-H’ers and FFA members, many who will use the money raised to continue post-secondary education and training. A full schedule of livestock events can be found on the Fair’s website. Visitors can check out a variety of 4-H exhibits on display at the Cecil H. Underwood Youth Center daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Fairgoers can enjoy the beautiful display of flowers, fruits and vegetables in the Master Gardener demonstration garden, which is created and cared for by local WVU Extension Master Gardener volunteers. Additionally, visitors can celebrate the many varieties of fruits and vegetables enjoyed by West Virginians throughout the last century in the high tunnel, which is located adjacent to the WVU Building.
“We are proud of our century-long partnership and participation in the State Fair of West Virginia,” said Jennifer Ours Williams, associate dean, 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.”
Keep up with WVU Extension programs and activities by visiting extension.wvu.edu or following @WVUExtension on Facebook and Instagram.
304-293-7996; tara.curtis@mail.wvu.edu