Charleston Sternwheel Regatta Returns This Summer with Four Days of Music, Fireworks, and Riverfront Fun
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — One of West Virginia’s signature summer events is set to return to the capital city as the Charleston Sternwheel Regatta brings four days of entertainment, live music, family activities, and riverfront traditions back to downtown Charleston.
The 2026 Charleston Sternwheel Regatta is scheduled for July 2 through July 5 along the Kanawha River and continues to build on its recent revival as one of the state’s largest free summer festivals.
This year’s event will feature multiple nights of live entertainment at Haddad Riverfront Park with nationally recognized artists taking the stage throughout the weekend.
Scheduled performances include:
Thursday, July 2
Melissa Etheridge
Wynonna Judd
Friday, July 3
Bobby Brown
Bow Wow
Montell Jordan
Saturday, July 4
Bret Michaels
Lita Ford
Fireworks Extravaganza
Sunday, July 5
Vertical Horizon
Drone Show presented by WVU Medicine Thomas Hospitals
Beyond the concerts, visitors can expect a full schedule of activities including sternwheel boat experiences, carnival rides, food vendors, family attractions, races, exhibits, and entertainment spread throughout the downtown riverfront.
The annual event continues to draw visitors from across West Virginia and beyond and remains one of the state’s largest free community celebrations.
Those planning to attend can explore the complete entertainment lineup, schedule details, and event information at:
