Archives

The 51st Annual Pioneer Days

YES! Pioneers is back with new activities and events. Great homecoming style festival celebrating 51 wonderful years as the premiere festival in the region. Featuring bluegrass music, a fireman's parade, a grand parade, food concessions, old-fashioned games, and demonstrations.

GNCC Motorcycle & ATV Racing Series

The toughest, most spectacular and most unique race on the whole GNCC tour, the race is set in the upscale ski village at Snowshoe, West Virginia’s largest ski resort. The soil of Snowshoe is a black loamy dirt that is absolutely incredible in the dry spots, then sticky and nasty when it's wet. Couple that with the rocks, roots, and everything else and it's no wonder why Snowshoe is so tough. In the tradition of the old Blackwater, which was known as “America's Toughest Race,” the Snowshoe GNCC is the ultimate test for a cross-country racer. Luckily, the course also features a few miles of open ski slopes which offer a much-needed rest. The surroundings are not only several steps above the typical GNCC course, they’re also plusher than many luxury resorts. The array of hotels, shops and restaurants provide plenty of entertainment off the race track, and the facility also hosts an amazing golf course and some of the best mountain bike trails in the country. But once the riders are on the course, everything beautiful disappears. A few miles of the course make up simply the roughest, toughest section of GNCC track you’ll see all year. Deep mud bogs, massive tree roots and hills going both up, and down, are enough to stop almost everyone, and if not for the help of the ever determined Howard's Hole “mud fleas” (GNCC fans) some sections may not be passable at all.

June Star Party – Capon Springs

Join Greg Redfern, NASA Solar system ambassador, for Tuesday evenings' exploring the cosmos with a presentation and sky viewing. Tuesday, June 12th “James Webb Space Telescope” (Timed to be dark skies with a new moon)

May Star Party – Capon Springs!

Join Greg Redfern, NASA Solar system ambassador, on Tuesday evenings' exploring the cosmos with a presentation and sky viewing. Tuesday Night, May 23, under a new moon! JWST-NASA’s Successor to Hubble Space Telescope (HST) “The 2018 space telescope successor to HST seen up close and personal with latest pics and info direct from NASA.”

Little Levels Heritage Fair

The Little Levels Heritage Fair honors the achievements of members of the Little Levels community and celebrates the birthday of Pearl S. Buck. The event showcases local musicians, artisans, and local vendors. Living History ~ Traditional Music Arts & Crafts ~ Grand Parade Old Fashioned Pig Roast Pearl S. Buck Birthday Celebration

The Allegheny Echoes Summer Workshops

Allegheny Echoes is the concept of a group of West Virginia musicians and writers who wish to promote, support, preserve, and teach their own art without distracting influences. Their goal is to provide an accurate representation of West Virginia art that is not packaged and altered to appeal to a specific market. There is a strong emphasis placed on West Virginia tradition with an overall look toward the embracing Appalachian culture. The Summer Workshops offer a chance for students of all ages and abilities to come together to learn, appreciate, and enjoy our West Virginia ways.

CCC Reunion and History

A day to pay tribute to the incredible work and legacy left by the Civilian Conservation Corp. Call for details.

WANDERLUST Yoga Festival

Embark on an adventure of mind, body and soul. Wanderlust brings together the world’s leading yoga teachers, top musical acts, renowned speakers, exquisite chefs and thrilling performances weaving together an experience that surprises and delights. This is your opportunity to unplug from the ordinary and discover the extraordinary.

Space Race Rumpus

It's a festival. It's a race. It's group rides. It's a clinic. It's a tradition. The Space Race Rumpus takes place every June in Pocahontas County, WV, which has some of the most scenic roads and trails in the mid-Atlantic. The rides and races explore both the National Radio Astronomy Observatory's unique property and the surrounding area.

Ladies for Liberty

The Ladies for Liberty revive the great music of the 1940's and Word War II era in the style of the Andrews Sisters. Through their own rendition of vocals, costumes, hairstyles and the spirit of patriotism reminiscent of the 1940's, that period is remembered and celebrated by the Ladies of Liberty as “When America was at its finest.” The Ladies have performed for a number of national and international air shows, World War II reunions, dinner theaters, variety shows, hangar parties, aircraft museums military functions and Ceremonies, parades, television appearances, radio broadcasts, and any other events having a patriotic flavor. The Ladies for Liberty are very popular for their precision-timed, acappella rendition of the National Anthem that has become their trademark at open-air shows across the country.

Fort Warwick Archaeology Days

The Fort Warwick Archaeology Days project will involve a hands-on archaeological experience, interpretive exhibits, and site tours for students and adult participants at the site of William Warwick’s Fort in Green Bank, Pocahontas County, West Virginia on May 27, 2017. This fort was constructed in 1774 and became an important point of local defense during the Revolutionary War. The site also has a significant prehistoric Native American component. Archaeological excavations supervised by Drs. Stephen and Kim McBride have been ongoing at this site for over a decade and this is your opportunity to assist us in better understanding this site and expanding knowledge of West Virginia’s early history. Bob Sheets- 304-456-4815, fortwarwick@gmail.com Steve McBride- 859-421-4220, stephenmcbride@twc.com

Boy Scout Merit Badge Weekend

Select weekends are set aside for boy scout troops to visit the Green Bank Observatory and complete activities to earn their astronomy merit badge. Scouts and Chaperones stay in our affordable bunkhouse ($10/person/night, $200/night minimum). Camping is also available in a designated area on the campus ($5/person/night, $150/night minimum). Meals are available in our cafeteria. See: Most designated weekends are devoted to the Astronomy Merit badge. There is no charge for the Astronomy program. In 2017, we will host one Electronics Merit badge weekend. As we will be soldering electronic kits as part of the program, there is a $5.00/scout charge to cover the cost of the materials. Our Electronics Badge weekend will be September 15-17, 2017 We begin activities promptly at 10:30 AM on the Saturday, but offer the bunkhouse on Friday night for groups who have a far distance to travel. Space is limited.

Full Moon Hike

Full Moon hikes at Cass Scenic Railroad are led hikes designed to encourage visitors to enjoy being outdoors in wintry and spring weather. Meet at the Visitor's Center at Cass, WV at 9:00p.m. There is no charge to participate. Hike guidelines include: • Fee free activity, but limited to 30 participants. • Preregistration is required. Use email link below or call. • Registration will be confirmed by hike leader. • Meet At The Visitor Center • Hike is approximately 3 miles total. • Walk begins from the Visitor Center to MM 79 On The Greenbrier River Trail and back. • Trail is crushed gravel and minimal grade change. • Dress for the weather. Boots or closed toes footwear, socks, layered outerwear is recommended. Oh! headwear and gloves could be handy. • Pack a water or snack. • Photography is permitted, but flash photography is not. We'll need to retain our night vision. • NO FLASHLIGHTS OR HEADLAMPS. Shining a bright flashlight will diminish your night vision for up to 30 minutes, limiting your view of the night sky and wildlife. You can bring a flashlight for the 'just in case' but refrain from shining – we'll let the moon and stars do that! • Participants should be believe they can complete three miles. You can do it! The Full Moon Hike group will remain together for the duration of the walk/hike. Safety first. • Children must be with a parent or guardian at all times. • Well behaved dogs are allowed. Dogs will rely on their human to keep them on leash and under control. • Due to limited participation (30), large groups (10 or more people) desiring to participate should contact the leader, email below. • Use Full Moon Hike miles as some of the miles hiking if you are enrolled in the WV State Park Hiking Program.

Boy Scout Badge Weekend

Select weekends are set aside for boy scout troops to visit the Green Bank Observatory and complete activities to earn their astronomy merit badge. Scouts and Chaperones stay in our affordable bunkhouse ($10/person/night, $200/night minimum). Camping is also available in a designated area on the campus ($5/person/night, $150/night minimum). Meals are available in our cafeteria. See: Most designated weekends are devoted to the Astronomy Merit badge. There is no charge for the Astronomy program. In 2017, we will host one Electronics Merit badge weekend. As we will be soldering electronic kits as part of the program, there is a $5.00/scout charge to cover the cost of the materials. Our Electronics Badge weekend will be September 15-17, 2017 We begin activities promptly at 10:30 a.m. on the Saturday, but offer the bunkhouse on Friday night for groups who have a far distance to travel. Space is limited.

Steel Away

Steel Away is the main full band performance group from CB Studios in Morgantown, WV. The all-female group was formed in 2007 as a class learning how to play steel drums. The group is currently made up of 10 women, ranging in age from 25 to 70, directed by Chanler Bailey. It includes three leads, two double seconds, two guitar/cello, one tenor bass, and two bass. Steel Away performs various musical styles including traditional Island, classic and pop rock, Latin, jazz and classical musics

Full Moon Hike

Full Moon hikes at Cass Scenic Railroad are led hikes designed to encourage visitors to enjoy being outdoors in wintry and spring weather. Meet at the Visitor's Center at Cass, WV at 8:30p.m. There is no charge to participate. Hike guidelines include: • Fee free activity, but limited to 30 participants. • Preregistration is required. Use email link below or call. • Registration will be confirmed by hike leader. • Meet At The Visitor Center • Hike is approximately 3 miles total. • Walk begins from the Visitor Center to MM 79 On The Greenbrier River Trail and back. • Trail is crushed gravel and minimal grade change. • Dress for the weather. Boots or closed toes footwear, socks, layered outerwear is recommended. Oh! headwear and gloves could be handy. • Pack a water or snack. • Photography is permitted, but flash photography is not. We'll need to retain our night vision. • NO FLASHLIGHTS OR HEADLAMPS. Shining a bright flashlight will diminish your night vision for up to 30 minutes, limiting your view of the night sky and wildlife. You can bring a flashlight for the 'just in case' but refrain from shining – we'll let the moon and stars do that! • Participants should be believe they can complete three miles. You can do it! The Full Moon Hike group will remain together for the duration of the walk/hike. Safety first. • Children must be with a parent or guardian at all times. • Well behaved dogs are allowed. Dogs will rely on their human to keep them on leash and under control. • Due to limited participation (30), large groups (10 or more people) desiring to participate should contact the leader, email below. • Use Full Moon Hike miles as some of the miles hiking if you are enrolled in the WV State Park Hiking Program. Contact: 304-456-4300

Red Tail Ring

Red Tail Ring is the musical brainchild of two old-time-minded Michiganders – Michael Beauchamp and Laurel Premo. The collaboration blends the loving attention of revivalist fervor with the playful creativity of starting from scratch. Whether rendering a traditional tune or one of their many original compositions, the duo infuses each song with musical imagination, haunting harmonies and instrumental artistry. “We love pushing the boundaries of what a traditional song can be,” says Beauchamp. “It informs how we write our original songs. There’s a real energy exchange between the old and the new.”

The Bing Brothers featuring Jack Krack

For over 40 years, The Bing Brothers have played their hard-driving brand of string band music from Canada to Florida – from Spain to England, and from Australia, to Ireland and Scotland. Their sound has been formed in the West Virginia mountains, and they remain true to their roots. Yet The Bing Brothers are highly versatile, playing selections in old time and bluegrass, as well as traditional Irish songs and ragtime.

Augusta Dance

The Mountain Dance Trail, a heritage tourism project of the Augusta Heritage Center of Davis & Elkins College, will host its monthly square dance on Friday, February 10, in Myles Center for the Arts Pit Dance Studio on the College campus. The event will feature music by Gerry Milnes and friends, with Mary Alice Milnes calling square dances. A beginners’ workshop is set for 7:45 p.m. and the dance starts at 8 p.m. All dances are beginner and family friendly and participants don’t need to come with a dance partner. Admission is $6 for general public, $4 for students and AmeriCorps members, and free to Davis & Elkins College students, faculty and staff. Those attending should bring an extra pair of shoes for dancing. For additional information, visit www.augustaheritagecenter.org, email brittany@augustaheritagecenter.org or call 304-637-1209.

Flintknapping Demonstration

A flintknapping demonstration, led by archaeologist Richie Rosencrance, will take place at 1 p.m. Saturday, February 11 in The Stirrup Gallery in Myles Center for the Arts on the campus of Davis & Elkins College. Flintknapping is the production of stone tools most commonly known as arrowheads. The demonstration will include a discussion on raw materials, knapping tools and techniques, types of stone tools and prehistoric lifeways. Anyone who has artifacts they would like to learn more about is encouraged to bring the items to the session for Rosencrance to examine. There is no fee to attend. For additional information, call 304-637-1980 or visit www.dewv.edu/arts-entertainment/stirrup-gallery.

Boy Scout Badge Weekend

Select weekends are set aside for boy scout troops to visit the Green Bank Observatory and complete activities to earn their astronomy merit badge. Scouts and Chaperones stay in our affordable bunkhouse ($10/person/night, $200/night minimum). Camping is also available in a designated area on the campus ($5/person/night, $150/night minimum). Meals are available in our cafeteria. visit our website for more information.

West Virginia Ski Free Day

We're giving out free lift tickets to all residents of West Virginia! Yes, you heard it right. Just bring your proof of West Virginia residency and get a ticket to ski and ride free.

Snowshoe Pond Skim

Welcome spring snow enthusiasts, skimmers new and old. Let’s make the most of what’s left of the snow in this hilariously challenging, just-for-fun, slush-spraying competition!

West Virginia Open

Our annual slopestyle competition is back! Join us on our premier terrain park, Mountaineer, as the region’s best talent competes for cash prizes, gear and more.

Opry Night

Come out and enjoy music by Sugar Run and Stony Bottom Bluegrass

President’s Weekend

George Washington never got to ski the Western Territory, but you can! Take advantage of the long weekend and peak conditions.

Cupp Run Challenge

This is one of Snowshoe’s oldest traditions. Conquer the steeps of the legendary Western Territory in this giant slalom race. Multiple classes for ski and snowboard.

Beats on the Basin: Dangermuffin

You loved these guys so much in summer, we decided to bring them back! Dangermuffin is the perfect combination of Appalachian influence mixed with the salty vibes of Carolina’s coast. Their latest album plays like a sacred scroll of sage wisdom set to the laid-back roots-based sounds they’ve built their national following upon. You have to hear this one for yourself.

Gandy Dancer Dinner Theatre – Mountain Memories Christmas Show

Enjoy West Virginia's ONLY Branson-style dinner shows. Our featured two hours Premier Show offers a high energy, state of the art show with music from the 50's to today including Country, Gospel, Pop, Rock and Patriotic presentations all performed by top musicians and performers. Enjoy a plated meal of fried chicken, meatloaf, coleslaw, green beans, roasted potatoes, rolls, beverage and desserts served right to your table, then sit back and be entertained by the area’s finest musicians, dancers and performers.

Romney’s Annual Christmas Parade

Parade Route: Birch Lane from WVSDB to School St. Line up: 11:00 am at WV Schools for the Deaf and the Blind an hour before starting time. Contacts: Sallie 301-707-6369 or G.T. 304-671-8558 Sponsored by the Hampshire Review and the Romney Volunteer Fire Dept.

4th Annual Christmas Festival Of Lights

Annual Christmas Festival of Lights - Opening Ceremony Sat, Nov 26th at 5 pm. We will serve coffee, hot chocolate, and cookies free of charge to all who attend the Lighting Ceremony, and Santa will be there to greet the kids of all ages. The Christmas Festival of Lights will run Nov. 26, 2016 - Jan. 1, 2017 daily from 6 p.m. - 10 p.m. And the best part is that you can enjoy the lights from the warmth and comfort of your own vehicle free of charge!

Cass Scenic Railroad SP – FIRST DAY HIKE

First day hikes are led hikes designed to encourage visitors to enjoy state parks year round and to promote good health and exercise. Meet at the Visitor's Center at Cass, WV at 1:00 p.m. Monica Fleming First Day Hike leader. Walk on the Greenbrier River Trail from the Terminus at mile mark 80.8 (end of Front Street) South to first trail side camping area at 78.5 then back again. Mileage: approx. 4 miles round trip approximate time to complete this First Day Hike is around 2+ hours. Trail is crushed gravel flat downhill in south direction uphill north direction no more than a 2% grade. Join us outdoors for your First Day in 2017.

Blackwater Falls State Park – FIRST DAY HIKE

Take your first step into the New Year with a hike at Blackwater Falls State Park. Meet park naturalist, Paulita Cousin at the Sled Run parking area to embrace the new year with this brisk wintry walk along Forest Road 18 and Lindy Point Trail to one of West Virginia's most spectacular views. Cathedral State Park Ranger, Ben Leedom will be assisting. Blackwater Falls has a healthy attendance and welcome past participants or new hikers for this 1st Day event. This hike is approximately 3 miles round-trip. Sturdy shoes required. Dress appropriately for weather conditions. Please, carry water and a snack. Get Outdoors! Explore! Individual participating in First Day Hikes, when completing an attendance card, receive a First Day Patch via mail. Hikers do not have to be enrolled in the WV State Park Hiking Program to attend the First Day Hike.

South Side Depot – Fall Train Rides

Petersburg Fall Foliage Specials in Grant County, WV: These 1.5-hour round-trips depart the South Side Depot in Petersburg and go north to south Moorefield. A great express trip to see the fall foliage! October 2016: Saturdays: 7,14,21 10 a.m., 12:30 p.m., and 3 p.m. Sundays: 8,15,22 12:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. Tickets: Adult – $20 Senior (60+) – $15 Child (4-12) – $10 To purchase tickets, please contact the South Side Depot (Grant County CVB) at (304) 257-9264.

Snowflake Express Train Rides with Santa

Christmas Cookies and hot cocoa, Santa and all his helpers from the North Pole and a train ride to see

Old Time Christmas at Welton Park- FREE

A beautiful setting of enchanting lights, horse drawn carriages, Dickens carolers, story time, hot cocoa and cookies- all Free at Welton Park- come celebrate the Christmas Season with us! Call the chamber office for more details or see our website! And don't forget the Snowflake Express Train Ride with Santa and Christmas Parade the same weekend- come enjoy the weekend with us!

Potomac Eagle – All-Day Trip to Petersburg

Your journey begins at Wappocomo Station, situated next to a charming homestead and a sprawling view of the mountains. Enjoy the sounds of vintage diesels as they lead you through beautiful pastures and farms dating back to the 1700s. As you wind along the South Branch of the Potomac River, you’ll enter a visually-striking gorge known as The Trough. One of the most scenic spots along the South Branch, The Trough is home to American bald eagles.

Potomac Eagle – All-Day Trip to Petersburg

Your journey begins at Wappocomo Station, situated next to a charming homestead and a sprawling view of the mountains. Enjoy the sounds of vintage diesels as they lead you through beautiful pastures and farms dating back to the 1700s. As you wind along the South Branch of the Potomac River, you’ll enter a visually-striking gorge known as The Trough. One of the most scenic spots along the South Branch, The Trough is home to American bald eagles.

Potomac Eagle – All-Day Trip to Petersburg

Your journey begins at Wappocomo Station, situated next to a charming homestead and a sprawling view of the mountains. Enjoy the sounds of vintage diesels as they lead you through beautiful pastures and farms dating back to the 1700s. As you wind along the South Branch of the Potomac River, you’ll enter a visually-striking gorge known as The Trough. One of the most scenic spots along the South Branch, The Trough is home to American bald eagles.

Potomac Eagle – All-Day Trip to Petersburg

Your journey begins at Wappocomo Station, situated next to a charming homestead and a sprawling view of the mountains. Enjoy the sounds of vintage diesels as they lead you through beautiful pastures and farms dating back to the 1700s. As you wind along the South Branch of the Potomac River, you’ll enter a visually-striking gorge known as The Trough. One of the most scenic spots along the South Branch, The Trough is home to American bald eagles.

2017 Kindred Spirits Fest

Look for local fine artists, and new music groups showing their works and performances with a lineup of entertainment from blue grass to southern rock.

49th Annual Treasure Mountain Festival

This is the 49th annual Treasure Mountain Festival. Pendleton County is a hidden treasure and you are sure to find many hidden treasures during this family friendly event. Come bring your family and friends and enjoy this wonderful mountain community.

Beverly Heritage Days / Battle of Rich Mountain Reenactment

Living history from Pioneer Days, Civil War and World War II; Craft demonstrations, Music, Food, and more. Historic periods dance. All-weekend event culminates in the Battle of Rich Mountain reenactment on Sunday. Experience centuries of history in historic Beverly. Small town. . .big history!

2nd Annual WV Maple Day Festival

Come to Grant County, WV to enjoy the 2nd annual WV Maple Festival.   The South Side Depot in Petersburg, WV houses the Grant County Tourist Information Center, CVB and Chamber office and is the "hub" for Grant, Hardy and Pendleton counties during the WV Maple Festival.   Stop by for a map to participating sugar camps, enjoy a WV Food tasting, maple products, WV made crafts and of course Maple Donuts! On Saturday enjoy a Buckwheat Pancake and Sausage Meal with Maple Syrup at Landes Ruritan Building just a few miles south of Petersburg on Rt. 220 and entertainment at the South Side Depot from 12 p.m. - 2 p.m.!   *Stop by the South Side Depot to get a map to visit a participating maple camp! Location of South Side Depot- 126 South Main St. Petersburg, WV 26847. Across the bridge and on the left just after the railroad tracks! Phone: 304-257-9264 or 304-257-9226. * Maple Camps • Food Samples • Maple Products *Maple Donuts • Locally Made Products * Presentation about Maple Syrup • Special Entertainment *Maple Pancake Meal @ Landes Ruritan Center: 4 p.m. - 6 p.m. * Call for Details (304)257-9266 and (304)257-9264

4th of July in Petersburg

"A Tribute to Elvis" by William Stiles at the Landes Arts Center. Sponsored by the City of Petersburg. Tickets available at: City of Petersburg Office Judy's Drug Store Grant County Parks and Recreation Office Tickets: $12.00 Tuesday, Jul 4, 2017 Where: Petersburg City Park and Tri-County Fairgrounds Tuesday at City Park enjoy a car show, flag ceremony, Inflatables for kids, Pony Rides, Horseshoe Contest and Free Swim starting at 1pm at the City Pool. See our website for a full lineup of activities and entertainment for the 4th of July! www.visitgrantcounty.com