Admiring his handiwork is Adrian Larry, one of the fabricators of the statue and co-owner of Bixby Studios of Morgantown. Larry and his partner Chad Sine were commissioned to fabricate the 6-foot-9 statue for Philippi and unveiled it at the first Lurch Fest in 2021.
Above is pictured a familiar looking couple who showed up at last year’s Lurch Fest. Philippi’s own costumed Lurch and Cousin Itt and others are invited to participate in this year’s costume contest showcasing The Adams Family and any original idea a costumer has.
The Barbour County Fair is home to a wide variety of rides, including this venerable one that’s a staple of just about any Midway anywhere.
Staff file photo
Youngsters have been showing their livestock at the Barbour County Fair since the very beginning.
Staff file photo
The fair rides are a big part of the action at the Barbour County Fair.
Staff file phot
Above: Civil War re-enactors skirmish near the Philippi Covered Bridge Saturday during the 2017 Blue & Gray Reunion in Philippi.
Staff file photo
This year’s Blue & Gray Reunion will
be held June 1-4.
Submitted photo
A “wounded” re-enactor falls after taking a shot from the opposing army at last
year’s Blue and Gray Reunion.
Staff file photo
Admiring his handiwork is Adrian Larry, one of the fabricators of the statue and co-owner of Bixby Studios of Morgantown. Larry and his partner Chad Sine were commissioned to fabricate the 6-foot-9 statue for Philippi and unveiled it at the first Lurch Fest in 2021.
Submitted photo
Above is pictured a familiar looking couple who showed up at last year’s Lurch Fest. Philippi’s own costumed Lurch and Cousin Itt and others are invited to participate in this year’s costume contest showcasing The Adams Family and any original idea a costumer has.
Submitted photo
The second annual Lurch Fest was underway Saturday in Philippi.
PHILIPPI, W.Va. — Barbour County, West Virginia, bursts into life during the spring and summer months, marking the season with an array of fairs and festivals that celebrate the region’s rich heritage, culture, and community spirit. These events, set against the backdrop of the county’s stunning natural beauty, offer something for everyone, from traditional country fairs to unique local festivals that draw visitors from near and far.
One of the highlights of Barbour County’s festive calendar is the Annual Barbour County Fair, held in late August 24-31 this year. This cherished event, steeped in tradition, features a week of activities that encapsulate the heart of rural American life. Livestock exhibitions, craft displays, and agricultural contests sit alongside thrilling carnival rides, live music performances, and delicious local cuisine, offering a comprehensive family-friendly experience. The fair’s crowning glory is the Queen’s Pageant, which selects a local representative to embody the spirit and values of the community throughout the following year.
The Blue & Gray Reunion, taking place in early June, is a unique festival that commemorates Barbour County’s significant role in the Civil War. This event brings history to life through reenactments, period music, and storytelling, providing a deep dive into the past. Visitors and locals alike are transported back in time, offering a poignant reminder of the area’s heritage and the enduring legacy of the Civil War in West Virginia.
Summertime in Barbour County also sees the celebration of Independence Day with spectacular flair. The Belington Fireworks Show and July 4th Celebration is a testament to the community’s patriotic spirit. Featuring a parade, live music, games, and, of course, a breathtaking fireworks display, this event is a highlight of the summer, drawing families together in celebration of national pride.
Philippi is also home to Lurch Fest, which honors the lovable Addams Family character who was portrayed by Philippi native Ted Cassidy. Lurch Fest features plenty of vendors, Addams Family fans and good times. In 2023, Cassidy’s son, Sean, paid a visit. This year’s event is set for Aug. 3
Each of these events, from the Barbour County Fair to the Blue & Gray Reunion, contributes to the rich tapestry of life in Barbour County. They provide a window into the soul of the community, celebrating its history, culture, and the unbreakable bonds that tie its people together. As spring blossoms into summer, Barbour County’s fairs and festivals stand as beacons of joy, unity, and tradition.
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