Events & Festivals
Ripley's calendar is anchored by the oldest and largest Fourth of July celebration in West Virginia — and it doesn't stop there. Chocolate in the spring, quilts in the fall, and a Veterans Day parade the whole county turns out for.
Signature events
Late June – July 4, annually
Known as “America’s Largest Small-Town Independence Celebration,” Ripley’s Fourth of July is the oldest and largest in West Virginia. The town rolls out the red, white and blue carpet for several days each summer with free concerts, a carnival, a 2-mile race, a 200-unit parade and fireworks. The event attracted a U.S. President in 2002 and received national exposure on “The Today Show” in 1965.
RipleyFourthOfJuly.com
Summer, at the Cottageville fairgrounds
Another summertime favorite. Located at the fairgrounds in Cottageville, this event features Nashville entertainment, motor sports, a carnival, horse shows and several agricultural-related activities.
JacksonCountyJrFair.org
Spring, downtown Ripley
Activities include a parade followed by an indoor event with free entertainment and dozens of chocolate-related vendors.
November 11, downtown Ripley
In the autumn, Ripley again showcases its patriotism on Veterans Day. The unique parade features hundreds of photo posters of veterans and current military personnel. The parade leads to a ceremony on the lawn of the Jackson County Courthouse.
September 17–19, 2026
The West Virginia Quilt Festival brings quilters and collectors together for three days of exhibits, vendors and workshops.
WVQuilters.org
Summer, Cedar Lakes Conference Center
A long-running celebration of Appalachian artisans, music and food hosted just south of Ripley at Cedar Lakes.
On stage
The restored 1936 Alpine Theatre keeps a year-round schedule of live music, comedy, movies and Jackson County Players productions in its 100-seat downtown auditorium.
Download the playbill (PDF)Answers
