Mannington District Fair Midway, 1999 Photo: Robert Thorne

Mannington District Fair

Attracting 60,000 visitors each year, the Mannington District Fair is the second largest fair in West Virginia, after the state fair. The first Mannington fair was organized in 1932 by a group of local citizens and held in "Traders Alley," a place in the middle of town were farmers brought livestock and products to trade or sell. During the three-day fair, livestock was exhibited in stables or barns, and arts, crafts and other items were exhibited in the Bartlett building. In 1947, more land was acquired for the fair, which had drown to six days long. The fair has long served as a "super" homecoming event where old friends meet and new friends are made, and as a place to compete, demonstrate, and display arts and crafts.

The grand parade is among the fair's most popular events, typically held on opening day. Just as entertainment has expanded over the years, so has seating, which can accommodate 1,800 spectators in the covered bleachers. Among the fair's many activities are pony and horse pulls, horse shows, a demolition derby, a kiddy day, a queen pageant, professional wrestling, a pet show, lumberjack competition, kiddie tractor pull, a sheep rodeo, and both animal and food judging.

Documentation includes a 32 page-report, and 18 photographs.

Originally submitted by: Allan B. Mollohan, Representative (1st District).

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