Morrisey: W.Va.’s America250 Celebration Runs From ‘Weirton to War’

Published June 29, 2026 - 4:37 pm

A white-haired man stands at a navy blue podium in front of a scrawling red, white and blue 250. Behind him is a large, partially constructed Ferris wheel.

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Gov. Patrick Morrisey was unable to pick a favorite part of the America250 lineup Monday. The giant Ferris wheel? The musical acts? The laser light show?

Maybe all of the above.

Gov. Patrick Morrisey addressed the media Monday in front of the partially constructed America 250 Wheel. When it’s completed, the world’s largest portable Ferris wheel will hold 45 gondolas able to carry up to six passengers each. *Courtesy: West Virginia Governor’s Office*

“I’ll tell you what, that’s like choosing a favorite son or daughter at an event. It’s very, very hard,” Morrisey said.

But he wanted to be clear – the festivities are statewide.

“I want people all across West Virginia, from Martinsburg to Maitland, from Weirton to War, to be able to know there is an event nearby for you that you can take advantage of,” Morrisey said.

Charleston’s annual Sternwheel Regatta, happening roughly a mile away at the same time, will complement the state celebration, he added.

He also addressed concerns that the $2 million price tag is too steep in the face of significant cuts.

“The one thing I would say is this: this is an incredible and unmatched opportunity for people to come out and experience West Virginia and see all the amazing sites that we have. That’s priceless,” Morrisey said.

Festivities kick off at 5 p.m. Thursday, July 2 and run through Sunday, July 5. Visit WV250.com for a complete list of events.