A Foodie’s Guide to Ramp Season in West Virginia

Spring in West Virginia means one thing: Ramps! Also known as wild leeks, Ramps are native to the state of West Virginia where they are considered a true delicacy. This species of wild onion belongs to the lily family and was historically used as a remedy for colds, croup, earaches and insect bites. Ever since, visitors and locals alike have looked forward to the fresh greens after a long winter.

The taste is often compared to a mix between onion and garlic. Wild ramps are usually found in patches of hundreds or even thousands and take advantage of the early spring sunlight, growing before the trees leaf out. The foliage remains green for approximately six weeks, turns yellow and then disappears. During the short “ramp season,” there are many festivals and community dinners held throughout the Mountain State to celebrate this prized ingredient.

Ramp Products

Wild Ramp BBQ Sauce

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These Wild Ramp BBQ Sauces are the perfect blend of bold spice and dynamic flavor that will take any grilling experience to the next level. Made with Appalachian Wild Ramp Bulbs, this bundle is both savory and sweet, perfect for tastebuds of all kinds.

    J.Q. Dickinson Ramp Salt

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    Hand-harvested fro the ancient sea salt deposits beneath the Kanawha Valley and infused with locally foraged ramps, this finishing salt is known for elevating grilled meats, roasted vegetables, crackers, cheeses, and more!

      Loving West Virginia Sticker

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      Proudly display your unique Appalachian culture and heritage with this locally made, weather-resistant ramp sticker.

        Base Camp Printing Co. Poster

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        A tribute to the wild grown ramp, this hand-printed poster uses hand-carved linoleum and oil based ink. Perfect for house frames and office walls, this 11×17 print makes a great conversation starter.

          Ramp Festivals

          The beloved ramp season is celebrated across West Virginia with one-of-a-kind festivals and unique events!

          • Ramp It Up Festival (April 18, 2026) — Celebrate the flavors of Appalachia at ACE Adventure Resort with an all-you-can-eat Ramp buffet featuring pizza, chowder, pasta, icecream and more. Tickets also include an evening of live music!
          • Feast of the Ramson (April 18, 2026) — Choose between indoor and outdoor seating to enjoy your ramp-inspired meal, browse the arts and craft show, and meet local experts.
          • Ramps and Rails Festival (April 25, 2026) — Held every year in Elkins, visitors can try out different ramp-themed foods like ramp spring rolls, ramp pizza and even ramp donuts, listen to live music, enjoy local vendors, and take part a one-hour scenic train excursion.

          Restaurants Serving Up Ramps

          Many local eateries across the Mountain State add exciting limited-availability ramp dishes to their menu & products. Check out a few examples below and share others with us on our social media. Be sure to check each restaurant’s page as this coveted ingredient is only available for a short time each year!

          Share your ramp photos using #AlmostHeaven

          This post was last updated on March 11, 2026

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