CHARLESTON, W.Va – Charleston city officials are in the final stages of preparations for the 2026 Charleston Sternwheel Regatta as thousands are expected downtown in the capital city for the celebration of the United States’ 250th birthday.
2026 marks the fifth edition of Regatta since its return under the administration of Mayor Amy Shuler Goodwin. The mayor’s office is working feverishly to make this Independence Day weekend one to remember.
“We have been stretching for a really long time preparing for this event. It is the largest four-day festival not only in the state of West Virginia, but this tri-state area, so what we really, really try to do is attention to detail,” Goodwin said.
Beginning on Thursday, live music, sternwheel boats, food vendors, car shows, and more take over the riverfront in downtown Charleston with something for just about any visitor to enjoy. Goodwin takes pride in the growth the event has enjoyed under her watch.
“It is something that I knew that I wanted to do when I became mayor. I’m so excited that we have seen not only an increase in participation and increase in revenues, but that spirit that comes with it,” she said.
The city is focused on bringing a wide range of festivities for visitors and residents alike, with the music lineup spanning country, rock and roll, hip-hop, and R&B. With the variety of activities in mind, Goodwin wants one group to take away memories in particular.
“This regatta should be about our kids. Yes, it’s about the food and, yes, it’s about the great shows and, yes, it’s about the carnival rides and games, but I want it to be for kids. I want them to remember something very, very special,” she said.
The mayor hopes that the experience at Regatta goes beyond just listening to music or finding something good to eat. She looks at the festival as an opportunity for the city to grow together.
“The regatta isn’t just about one event or one food vendor that you love or one act. It’s about connecting—connecting in the capital city and making memories in the capital city—so we’re going to continue focusing on that,” she said.
The full schedule of events for the 2026 Charleston Sternwheel Regatta is available at charlestonregatta.com.