Poster for the Mountaineers Days 4th of July celebration in Thomas, West Virginia, on July 4, 2026, featuring images of a parade, fireworks, and a scenic river view, with events like a 5K/2K run, parade, food and crafts, music, and the 69th annual fireworks.
Seal that reads 'American 250' with red, white, and blue colors and stars.

What to Expect

Mountaineer Days is a laid-back, small-town Fourth of July celebration in Thomas that blends live music, local art, food, and family-friendly activities into one vibrant weekend. With events happening throughout the day—from races and parades to vendors, performances, and fireworks—there’s always something to see, do, and enjoy.

Come for a few hours or stay all day—everything is free and open to the community.

  • Start your day with a scenic run (or walk) through Thomas. Open to all ages and fitness levels, this community race is a great way to kick off the weekend.

    To learn more or to register, click here.

  • Stroll the Railroad Grade as it comes to life with local art and craft vendors, food offerings, and family-friendly fun. Kids can enjoy inflatables while you browse, shop, and soak in the festival atmosphere.

  • Let creativity roll! Kids are invited to decorate their bikes with festive flair and show them off in this fun, family-friendly contest.

  • Celebrate Independence Day with a hometown parade through Thomas. Enjoy festive floats, community groups, and classic small-town charm as the streets come alive with patriotic spirit.

    Lineup begins at 10:30 a.m. at Kidwell’s Auto Parts. Fire trucks and large trucks should report to the DOH staging area. To participate in the parade, please contact Jake with the Thomas Volunteer Fire Department at 304-614-4044.

  • Join in a classic festival favorite! Walk for a chance to win homemade treats while supporting a great local cause.

  • Known for their signature blend of rock, roots, bluegrass, and soul, Big Daddy Love has built a devoted following throughout Appalachia and beyond with a sound they proudly call "Appalachian Rock."

  • As a local artist with deep ties to Thomas, West Virginia, Heather represents the talent, creativity, and community spirit that make our mountain town so special. We're excited to showcase a hometown favorite as part of our Fourth of July celebration.

  • Bringing high energy, crowd-favorite hits, and a sound built for a great summer night, Max Alan is ready to take the stage and keep the celebration going.

  • With heartfelt lyrics, soulful vocals, and an authentic sound that connects instantly with audiences, Noah James is bringing an unforgettable performance to the mountains. We can’t wait for everyone to experience this live.

  • Known for blending Appalachian roots with modern energy, Philip Bowen brings a sound that feels right at home in the mountains of West Virginia. From electrifying fiddle performances to unforgettable live shows, this is one performance you won’t want to miss.

    Get ready for an incredible night of music, community, and mountain spirit.

  • End the day with a spectacular fireworks show lighting up the mountain sky—a Mountaineer Days tradition you won’t want to miss.

Fireworks display lighting up the night sky over a city street with buildings, trees, and parked cars.
A stage with musical performers, decorated with red, white, and blue bunting, in front of a brick wall with the name 'The Barney Gedwills Mt. Top Senior Center.' An audience of people is seated watching the performance, with some standing. The setting appears to be an outdoor community event or festival.
A large outdoor gathering with people sitting and standing, attending an event near a brick building with a digital clock showing 8:20. There are tents, flags, and a backdrop of green trees under a partly cloudy sky.
A parade featuring a red fire truck decorated with American flags and red, white, and blue bunting, with people riding on top waving flags, on a sunny day in a small town.
A live music band performs on an outdoor stage decorated with red, white, and blue patriotic bunting and flowers, with a sign that says "Welcome to Thomas West Virginia".

Where Music Brings Us Together

Live bands set the tone for a weekend where creativity takes center stage. As you explore art vendors, local shops, and food offerings, enjoy free performances that bring people together
and make Mountaineer Days unforgettable.

BIG DADDY LOVE TRIO
2:30 p.m.

HEATHER HANNAH
3:45 p.m.

MAX ALAN
5 p.m.

NOAH JAMES
6 p.m.

PHILIP BOWEN
7:30 p.m.

Mountaineer Days has a long tradition of bringing great music to Thomas. Over the years, the stage has featured everything from bluegrass and Americana to rock, folk, and crowd-favorite covers—showcasing a mix of talented local artists and regional bands. Past entertainers have included Charles Wesley Godwin, Winchester 49, Waylon Wyatt, The Crowe Boys, Cole Chaney, Austin Snell, The Jack Wharff Band, Jake Kohn, Jakob’s Ferry Stragglers, Sundance Head, Wilson Springs Hotel, Heather Hannah + Co., Moonlight Drive, Trevor Revor Reichman, Jason Good Blues Band, Alyssa Hankey, Rebecca Wudarski, Nat Fredrick,
Kelsie Jeffries and many more!

Thank You to Our Generous Supporters

Nuway Cleaners & Restoration — State Farm Insurance, Agent Bob Gutshall — Still Hollow Distillery
Preston Taylor Health Services — Canaan Valley Spa and Wellness Center — Scarlet Gray
Mountain Valley Bank — Miller Contracting and Design — Stumptown Ales — East West Printing
Davis Shop ‘n Save — The Adventure Guild — Tucker Community Foundation — Ranger Jane McClumsy — Bright Bear Yoga — Best of Canaan

Thank you to the Thomas Volunteer Fire Department, creating an amazing firework shows since 1958!