BECKLEY, W.Va. — The City of Beckley and its community partners will celebrate the 33rd Annual Kids Classic Festival from September 7–12, offering a full week of family‑friendly activities, contests, entertainment, and special events across the city.
The festival begins Labor Day evening with a Home Run Derby at Beckley Little League. Children ages 8 and up can participate for a $5 entry fee, with registration at 5:30 p.m. and the derby starting at 6 p.m. A rain date is set for Sunday, Sept. 8 at 4 p.m.
Throughout the week, Leisure Lanes will offer bowling specials, including one free game and shoe rental for children accompanied by a paying adult. Families are encouraged to call ahead for lane availability.
On Tuesday, Sept. 8, the Raleigh County Library will host a free Lego Building Contest for ages 6–12, themed “Under the Big Top,” from 4–6 p.m.
The Salvation Army will hold an Open House on Wednesday, Sept. 9, featuring basketball, pickleball, a bounce house, games, and tours of the Red Shield Youth Club from 5–6:30 p.m.
On Thursday, Sept. 10, The Pottery Place will host a $10 canvas painting party at 5 p.m. Pre‑registration is required.
Friday’s events include an evening at the Youth Museum and Exhibition Mine from 6–8 p.m., featuring a free magic show by Funnybones, balloon animals, discounted $5 admission to the museum and mine tour, and a new Touch‑A‑Truck Exhibit with emergency and utility vehicles.
The festival concludes Saturday, Sept. 12, with the annual Street Fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., filling downtown sidewalks with booths, games, vendors, and family activities. Highlights include the Beckley Fire Department’s Junior Firefighters Challenge, the Cincinnati Circus show, inflatables at the United Showcase, and the PAR‑TEE mini‑golf course in Shoemaker Square.
The Kids Fest Parade steps off at 11 a.m. and is seeking entries including mascots, classic vehicles, youth groups, bands, dance teams, and costumed characters. Trophies will be awarded for Founder’s Choice, People’s Choice, Most Exciting, and Most Creative entries.
As the Street Fair winds down, the Raleigh Playhouse and Theatre will show Super Mario Galaxy at 1:30 p.m. for $5.
Festival organizers thanked event hosts, volunteers, and participants, and acknowledged support from the West Virginia Division of Culture, Arts & History’s Fairs and Festivals grant. More information is available through Beckley Events at 304‑256‑1776 or on the Beckley.Events community calendar.
