250th Independence Week Celebration Guide, July 2-5.

Parsons, WV; America’s 250th Main Street Celebration

The Independence Week festivities begin in Parsons on July 2 with a special celebration honoring America’s upcoming 250th birthday.

As part of a statewide initiative, the State of West Virginia awarded grant funding for the creation of a commemorative mural in each county to recognize our nation’s 250th anniversary. The City of Parsons is proud to unveil and dedicate its mural during a special ceremony at 10:00 a.m. on July 2.

Following the dedication, visitors and residents are invited to enjoy a day filled with community activities, including:

• Main Street block party festivities
• Historical tours highlighting Parsons’ rich heritage
• Opportunities to learn about local history and culture
• Family-friendly activities throughout the day

This celebration offers a unique opportunity to reflect on our nation’s history while honoring the people, places, and stories that have shaped our community.

Join us as we kick off Independence Week in downtown Parsons and celebrate both our local heritage and America’s 250th anniversary.

Mountain Side Music Series and Uncle Sams Dinner

The Canaan Resort Mountainside Music Series on July 3 features a free summer concert series held every Friday evening from late May through early September at Canaan Valley Resort State Park. Concerts take place at Quenchers Plaza near the ski area and feature local and regional musicians performing in a beautiful mountain setting.

Guests can enjoy food and drinks from Quenchers Pub, take a scenic sunset chairlift ride, and relax while listening to live music. Visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, and if bad weather occurs, the concert moves indoors to Bearpaw Lodge.

Celebrate Independence Day weekend at Uncle Sam’s Birthday Party July 3! A favorite annual fundraiser hosted by the Tucker Community Foundation. Held at Bear Paw Lodge in Canaan Valley Resort, the evening features a delicious dinner, drinks, prizes, and an exciting elimination-style raffle where one lucky ticket holder takes home the grand cash prize. With great food, entertainment, and plenty of suspense throughout the night, it’s a fun and memorable way to support local community programs.

Mountaineer Days

The highlight of Independence Week arrives on July 4 as the community gathers for Mountaineer Days, the largest celebration of the year and a special tribute to America’s 250th birthday.

The day begins early with the annual Half Marathon Fundraiser, bringing runners and supporters together for a morning of fitness, community spirit, and charitable giving.

Throughout the day, downtown comes alive with activities for all ages. Visitors can enjoy:

• The annual Half Marathon Fundraiser
• Live music on the Main Stage throughout the day
• Food vendors and community activities
• Family-friendly entertainment
• The popular afternoon Fire Truck Parade

As evening falls, excitement builds for the grand finale—a spectacular fireworks display that promises to be the largest in the event’s history. Designed to commemorate America’s 250th birthday, the show will light up the night sky in a dazzling celebration of freedom, patriotism, and community pride.

Whether you’re a lifelong resident or visiting for the holiday weekend, Mountaineer Days offers an unforgettable opportunity to celebrate our nation’s heritage and the spirit that brings our community together.

Join us on July 4 for a day filled with tradition, entertainment, and one of the most memorable fireworks displays ever presented in our region.

Celebration of the Arts with Wheeling Symphony Orchestra

Cap off Tucker County’s unforgettable America 250th celebration with one of the region’s most treasured summer traditions. On Sunday, July 5, the Celebration of the Arts returns to beautiful Canaan Valley Resort State Park, where the Wheeling Symphony Orchestra will once again perform amid the breathtaking mountain scenery.

For decades, this annual concert has been a highlight of the July 4th holiday weekend, bringing together residents and visitors from across West Virginia, the Mid-Atlantic, and the Washington, D.C. metro area. Guests gather on the hillside with blankets, lawn chairs, and picnic baskets to enjoy an afternoon of exceptional music in one of the state’s most scenic settings. Special guest performers add even more excitement to the event.