Students in a crowd at a concert

Rock the Roost 2027

A West Virginia Battle of the Bands

June 12, 2027 — Fairmont State University

Fairmont State University is turning up the volume with Rock the Roost 2027, a full-day music festival and battle of the bands celebrating the sounds, stories, and talent of West Virginia.  This first-of-its-kind event will bring together bands from across the Mountain State for a day of live music, food, vendors, community, and competition on Fairmont State’s campus.

Band Submissions Open July 1 – October 30, 2026

Logo with text "Rock the Roost Battle of the Bands" over an outline of West Virginia, featuring a guitar with wings

A New Stage for West Virginia Music

Rock the Roost 2027 is more than a battle of the bands. It is a celebration of West Virginia creativity, culture, and community.

Hosted by Fairmont State University, this full-day event will feature live performances from West Virginia bands, local and regional vendors, food, prizes, and opportunities for fans to vote for their favorites. 

From rock and country to bluegrass, indie, folk, alternative, hip-hop, and everything in between, Rock the Roost is designed to showcase the wide range of music being created right here in West Virginia. 

A Festival Built for this Region

Rock the Roost reflects Fairmont State University’s commitment to serving as a cultural and community hub for North Central West Virginia and beyond.

By bringing musicians, fans, vendors, students, alumni, and community partners together on campus, Fairmont State is creating a new opportunity to celebrate the creative energy of the Mountain State and build an event that can grow for years to come. 

A student in the crowd looking up at the stage
A closeup of a guitar during a concert

Calling all West Virginia Bands

Think your band has what it takes to Rock the Roost?  Fairmont State University is looking for original bands from across West Virginia to enter Rock the Roost 2027.

Submissions open July 1 – October 30, 2026

  • To be eligible, bands must: 
  • Have members from West Virginia 
  • Perform original music 
  • Have at least four original songs 
  • Be available to perform on June 12, 2027 
  • No cover bands

Selected bands will compete for cash prizes, including an Audience Choice Award. 


Sponsorships

Help bring the sound of West Virginia to the stage

Fairmont State University will be seeking sponsors and community partners to help launch Rock the Roost 2027.

Sponsorship opportunities will support live music, student and community engagement, vendor experiences, prizes, event production, and promotion of West Virginia artists. This will be an opportunity to be part of a new signature event for the region — one that celebrates creativity, community, and the next generation of West Virginia talent.