The Mountain State Art & Craft Fair was introduced as part of West Virginia's Centennial Celebration. It was intended to be a one-time event in 1963 to provide a marketplace for the state’s talented artisans. That remains the goal more than a half-century later.

Artisans who exhibit at the fair are selected by a jury of experts. Their products represent some form of traditional or contemporary Appalachian arts and crafts.

West Virginia's Art & Craft Guild has been affiliated with the Fair since its inception. Tamarack: The Best of West Virginia, also has a working agreement with the Fair.