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Jim’s Camping & Storage

Town guide: Charleston

From mouth-watering local fare to a rich arts scene, there’s never a dull moment in West Virginia’s hip, historic capital

Cold Spot

Town guide: Huntington

Huntington may be home to Marshall University, but there’s a whole lot more to see and do. When visiting Huntington,

2017 Symphony Sunday: Be Our Guest!

The West Virginia Symphony Orchestra returns with Charleston’s favorite Symphony event of the year, 2017 Symphony Sunday “Be Our Guest.” For its 35th year, this free outdoor festival features some of the community’s most beloved music, food, games and artisans ending with a WV Symphony concert and fireworks finale looking over the West Virginia State Capitol from the University of Charleston lawn. Sunday activities take place on the beautiful lawn at the University of Charleston, and end with a spectacular fireworks display. MAIN STAGE LINE-UP 1-1:45 p.m. Kanawha Valley Community Band 1:55-2:40 p.m. Arts in Action - Urban Stage Dance Groups 2:50-3:35 p.m. Brass Band of the Tri-State 3:45-4:30 p.m. Kanawha Kordsmen 4:40-5:50 p.m. WV Youth Symphony Groups 6-6:45 p.m. Charleston Metro Band 6:50-7:30 p.m. Kanawha Valley Pipes and Drums 8:00 p.m. WV Symphony Orchestra CHILDREN’S COSTUME LAWN PARADE (starts at 3 p.m. at the Main Stage) ARTISAN TENT (2 – 7 p.m.) 2:00 – 2:45 p.m. Drum Circle 3:00 -- 3:45 p.m. THE Brass 5 Quintet 3:50 -- 4:30 p.m. Japanese Culture presentation “Country Roads” 4:45—5:30 p.m. Lady D 5:45 -- 6:30 p.m. Celtic Jam Session BOOK NOOK (1 – 6 p.m.) FOOD VENDORS (1 – 9:30 p.m.) Billy Bob’s Funnel Cakes - Funnel cakes, fried Oreos, and fried pickles Bridge Road Bistro Carver Career Center Ellen’s Homemade Ice Cream Gino’s Pizza MaryRose’s Spicy Bowl – Indian cuisine Nona’s Wood Fired Pizza Philippine cuisine St. George’s Orthodox Church – Greek cuisine West Virginia Symphony League: Popcorn, hot dogs, roasted corn

VEX Robotics Academy Skill Builder Week 1

VEX Robotics Academy students can take all three weeks of camp or just one week without missing any of the action! Students will work in pairs to construct and program a different robot each week. Each week will culminate in robots that can complete certain tasks or a mission. Ages 9-14. Additional Weeks Offered: July 3, 5 – 7, Week 2 I $150 family plus & premium members; $175 non-members July 10-14, Week 3 I $175 family plus & premium members; $200 non-members

Art After Dark

Recurring after-party following the City of Charleston's ArtWalk.

Art After Dark

Recurring after-party following the City of Charleston's ArtWalk.

Art After Dark

Recurring after-party following the City of Charleston's ArtWalk.

Art After Dark

Recurring after-party after the City of Charleston's ArtWalk.

VEX Robotics Academy – Tournament Week 2

Tournament Weeks: July 17-21, Week 4 I $175 family plus & premium members; $200 non-members July 24-28, Week 5 I $175 family plus & premium members; $200 non-members Want to put your robotics building and programming to the test? Students who participated in weeks 1,2 or 3 of Skill Builders weeks are encouraged to register for a Tournament Week! Students will work in pairs to construct a VEX robot of their choice and team it up against other robots to see who comes out on top! Each week will culminate in an elimination round tournament where a winner will be determined. Students must participate in at least one Skill Builder Week to register for a Tournament Week. Register for all 3 Skill Builder Weeks and 1 Tournament Week to receive a special discount!

Summer Camps – Performing Arts Camp with Alban Arts

Performing Arts Camp 1 with Alban Arts Ages 6-11 $150 family plus and premium members; $175 non-members Performing Arts Camp 2 with Alban Arts Ages 12-17 $150 family plus and premium members; $175 non-members The Clay Center and The Alban Arts Center have teamed up again to offer an exciting, performance based performing arts camp! Campers ages 6-11 and 12-17 will perfect their acting, singing, dance and technical skills with the local, professional artists from The Alban. The final day of camp we will produce scenes, monologues and song and dance numbers on the Clay Center’s beautiful Maier stage!

Art After Dark

Recurring after-party following the City of Charleston's ArtWalk.

VEX Robotics Academy – Tournament Week 1

Tournament Weeks: July 17-21, Week 4 I $175 family plus & premium members; $200 non-members July 24-28, Week 5 I $175 family plus & premium members; $200 non-members Want to put your robotics building and programming to the test? Students who participated in weeks 1,2 or 3 of Skill Builders weeks are encouraged to register for a Tournament Week! Students will work in pairs to construct a VEX robot of their choice and team it up against other robots to see who comes out on top! Each week will culminate in an elimination round tournament where a winner will be determined. Students must participate in at least one Skill Builder Week to register for a Tournament Week. Register for all 3 Skill Builder Weeks and 1 Tournament Week to receive a special discount!

Summer Camps – Girl’s Science

Little lady scientists will explore the scientific method, perform experiments and explore the wild world of science with PBS SciGirls curriculum! Ages 8-12. Family Plus and Premium members: $150/Non-members: $175

VEX Robotics Academy Skill Builder Week 3

VEX Robotics Academy students can take all three weeks of camp or just one week without missing any of the action! Students will work in pairs to construct and program a different robot each week. Each week will culminate in robots that can complete certain tasks or a mission. The Clay Center is honored to partner with NASA and West Virginia University in the production and execution of the VEX Robotics Academy. Family Plus and Premium members: $175/Non-members: $200 Additional Weeks Offered: June 26-30, Week 1 I $175 family plus & premium members; $200 non-members July 3, 5 – 7, Week 2 I $150 family plus & premium members; $175 non-members

Summer Camps – PBS Odd Squad

Campers will solve mysteries using math and science concepts with the crazy characters of PBS’s Odd Squad! Partnership and lesson planning with WVPB and PBS Kids. Family Plus and Premium members: $150/Non-members: $175

Fresh? How ‘bout straight from the vine! 6 you-pick farms

Whether you like your berries in pie, cobbler, or just straight out of the bucket – West Virginia is the

Italiano! Italian Festival

A celebration of West Virginia's Italian-American heritage, the festival will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Aug. 19 on 4th Avenue between 8th and 10th streets.We will honor this rich heritage and the many Italian Americans that contribute to our local community to this day. Our celebration will focus on all things Italian—food, music, colors, FUN Returning to downtown Huntington in a flurry of red, white and green, the festival will be punctuated by the tastes of the area's Italian cuisine, live music, street performers and children's activities. For more information. please call (304) 523-6029.

Graffiti in the Park

Tri-State Street Rods presents Graffiti In The Park June 4th from 8am to 5pm. Huntington WV's scenic Ritter Park is the setting for the largest car show in the Tri-State area. With over 350 classic and custom cars, bikes, and trucks nestled among the trees, it is a great way for the whole family to spend the day. As you stroll through the park enjoying the vehicles, your senses will be stimulated by various food vendors, great Oldies Music, dance competitions, arts and crafts vendors, and the sights and sounds of children participating in the activities provided for them. There will be 16 classes of Trophies awarded for cars, along with door prizes every half hour, and a 50/50 drawing. Bring your classic car, bike, or truck and spend the day with us. For more information please call 304-617-1608 or 304-416-0205 or visit www.tristatestreetrods.com

Family Day Camps

Enjoy the week of July 4th with the whole family! Tackle a new topic each day to explore the worlds of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math. General Admission for adults and children: $5

VEX Robotics Academy Skill Builder Week 2

VEX Robotics Academy students can take all three weeks of camp or just one week without missing any of the action! Students will work in pairs to construct and program a different robot each week. Each week will culminate in robots that can complete certain tasks or a mission. The Clay Center is honored to partner with NASA and West Virginia University in the production and execution of the VEX Robotics Academy. Ages 9-14. Family Plus and Premium members: $150/Non-members: $175 Additional Weeks Offered: June 26-30, Week 1 I $175 family plus & premium members; $200 non-members July 10-14, Week 3 I $175 family plus & premium members; $200 non-members

VEX Robotics Academy Skill Builder Week 1

VEX Robotics Academy students can take all three weeks of camp or just one week without missing any of the action! Students will work in pairs to construct and program a different robot each week. Each week will culminate in robots that can complete certain tasks or a mission. Ages 9-14. Family Plus and Premium members: $175/Non-members: $200 Additional Weeks Offered: July 3, 5 – 7, Week 2 I $150 family plus & premium members; $175 non-members July 10-14, Week 3 I $175 family plus & premium members; $200 non-members

Summer Camps – Art Explorers Camp

Learn techniques for painting, drawing and creating a masterpiece and explore a variety of mediums that span throughout art history. Ages 5-8. Family Plus and Premium members: $150/Non-members: $175

The Mayor’s Concert featuring Robert Randolph and the Family Band

Take part in the Mayor’s Concert in this live musical event co-presented with FestivAll. General Admission for adults and children: $48.50. Prices are subject to variation.

Summer Camp – Sensational Summer Plants and Animals

Learn all about summer birds, insects and animals! Learn what they eat, how to spot them and the habitats they enjoy. We’ll also explore summer flowers and foliage and take a daily nature walk to identify plants and animals in our own neighborhood. Each day ends with a fun and creative activity or craft that brings the beauty of summer indoors for friends and family to enjoy. Ages 6-10. Family Plus and Premium members: $150/Non-members: $175

Art After Dark

Recurring after-party following Charleston's ArtWalk.

Purple Rain: A Legend’s Birthday Celebration

Party like it's 1999 in honor of Prince's birthday! General admission tickets for adults and children: $10 Celebrate the legendary Prince in the Caperton Planetarium and Theater by watching the iconic and Academy Award winning film, Purple Rain. The fun begins at 6:30 in the Juliet Art Museum with a special musical tribute to Prince by DJ Anthony Lewis! A full cash bar will be available with a featured “purple rain cocktail” in honor of the celebration!

Live from Space: The Bowie Songbook

Join local musicians Mark Scarpelli and Ryan Hardiman for an homage to the legendary David Bowie. General Admission tickets for adults and children: $20

Toyota USA Foundation Family Fun Day!

A variety of hands on demonstrations as well as a Pixar: CARS showing in the Caperton Planetarium at 11:00am or 2:00pm! Tickets for the movie showing are $3 for members and $4 for non-members.

Art: The Truly Experimental Science (A Workshop with Patte Loper)

This workshop invites participants of all ages to use a mix of art materials and found objects – along with imagination and courage to make ‘experimental science’ by constructing science-fiction based sculptural objects. General Admission for adults and children: $5

Choose Your Own Adventure Family Fun Day!

Explore a world of art and science! A variety of demonstrations including: lycopodium fireball demonstrations, large bubbles, viscosity painting, sidewalk chalk art, artist and scientist hat designs, and so much more! Adult tickets: $9 Children tickets: $7.50 Members: FREE

Laser Pink FLoyd (Dark Side of the Moon and the Wall)

General Admission for adult and children: $10

Laser Lights in the Caperton Planetarium – Laser POP!

Pop and Top 40 sensations with brand new laser light features! General Admission for adults and children: $10

Bow down to these giant biscuits with a fanatical WV fandom

With its warm, from-scratch specialties and Mountain State roots, Tudor’s Biscuit World is a sentimental West Virginian favorite. A winning

The Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences

Mountain murals: 5 stops for a DIY public art tour

The Mountain State is full of funky art galleries and sophisticated art museums. But during the warmer months, get your

Barboursville Buckle Series

H&H Ranch and Rodeo is bringing the show on the road for the first rodeo since 1999 to be held at the Barboursville Park. This is a 5 month Buckle Series on the national circuit where riders will compete for cash and the buckle. The Barboursville Buckle Series is sponsored by Cabell Huntington Hospital and events included will be bull riding, team roping, steer riding, barrel racing, calf roping, steer wrestling, cowgirl break away, and mutton busting. A pig roast will be set up and food available for purchasing at each event as well as beverages of all sorts. Admission is free for children 5 and under. $5 for ages 6-16 and $10 for adults. This event will happen rain or shine and you are going to want to come early to get a great spot! Parking will be available at the soccer field and tractor rides available for getting to the ring. Hope to see everyone there for this exciting event!

7 WV authors you should be reading

  The Mountain State has produced hundreds of talented writers, including the Nobel Prize-winning Pearl Buck, whose childhood home in

Discover Forks of Coal Day!

Join us for a FUN family friendly outside event at the beautiful Forks of Coal State Natural Area! We hope you will spend your time out with us learning about what makes West Virginia’s Forks of the Coal State Natural Area wild and wonderful!

Barboursville Buckle Series

This is final rodeo in the buckle series of 2017 and the award ceremony for the best riders of the summer.

Barboursville Buckle Series

This is the fourth of five rodeos at the Barboursville Park. Children 5 and up are free; Ages 6-16 are $5; and adults are $10.

Barboursville Buckle Series

This is the second of five rodeos at the Barboursville Park. Children 5 and up are free; Ages 6-16 are $5; and adults are $10.

Barboursville Buckle Series

This is the second of five rodeos at the Barboursville Park. Children 5 and under are free; Ages 6-16 are $5; and adults are $10.

Go ahead, mix business and play with blissful mountain ‘bleisure’ travel

Welcome to wild, wonderful Wi-Fi. Restore your spirit and keep tabs on the office while you travel. It’s possible to

WV Symphony presents The Nutcracker

Tchaikovsky's classic ballet. Details TBA.

WV Symphony presents The Nutcracker

Tchaikovsky's classic ballet. Details TBA.

WV Symphony presents Home for the Holidays

West Virginia Symphony Orchestra presents their annual "Home for the Holidays" concert at the Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences.

FestivALT

Nationally touring bands The David Mayfield Parade, Seratones and a special guest will rock out the Schoenbaum Stage. The David Mayfield Parade headlines the evening with his impressive display of pickin' and singing as he combines his rugged Americana tunes with a touch of vaudeville flair, and the Seratones will light up the stage with their feisty southern rock tunes unfluenced by their Louisiana home. Join us at Haddad Riverfront Park for a night of FREE live music.Enjoy this FestivALL experience from the water or land as you watch the Levee become a work of art! Expect to see FestivALL characters dancing throughout the crowd and additional artful activities on the levee and boulevard. Local food vendors & trucks will line the Kanawha Boulevard and beverages will be available for purchase. Info at :http://festivallcharleston.com/events/preview-weekend-festivalt

Live on the Levee

Moses Auto Group Live on the Levee will kick-off summer festivities in #CWV during FestivALL's Preview Weekend. The M.F.B. out of Huntington, W.V. and DeRobert & The Half Truths will groove you into summer with their funktastic tunes at the first event of FestivALL's Preview Weekend, which is also Live on the Levee's first concert of the season. This FREE friday night concert series welcomes ALL to enjoy local, regional and national acts at Haddad River Front Park. The Schoenbaum Stage will come to life with live music that can be seen & heard from land or water. Food & Beverage vendors will also line the Kanawha Boulevard, featuring many local restaurants. 6:30pm- THE M.F.B. 7:30pm- DeRobert & the Half Truths The Moses Auto Group Live on the Levee takes place every Friday from May 26 – September 1, 2017. For more info, please visit festivallcharleston.com/events or http://liveontheleveecharleston.com/

Recovery Sports Grill

Kanawha State Forest Irish Road Bowling

May 13 Kanawha State Forest, Charleston, WV Saturday 1:30 pm. (Team Registration, 12:30 p.m.) Located just seven miles south of Charleston, West Virginia, Kanawha State Forest is in close proximity to the heavily populated Kanawha Valley and is a recreational haven. The 9,300-acre forest is noted among naturalists for its diverse wildflower and bird populations. Rich cove forest sites provide nesting habitat for 19 species of wood warblers, a feature which draws birders from as far away as Canada. The forest offers some of West Virginia’s best special hikes in winter, spring and fall. Kanawha State Forest | (304) 558-3500 | kanawhasf@wv.gov  Road Master Stephen Wallington (304) 638-3224 for the WVIRBA, two-time WV state champion.

West Virginia Food Truck Festival

A one-of-a-kind event with a select group of WV food trucks and some of WV's most entertaining musicians. Get ready to chow down, rock out, relax, and have fun.

Once Upon A Time Princess Tea Party

For children ages infant to 12. Come visit with the princesses for a morning. Refreshments, pictures, activities, and more. Call 304-562-0518 ext 103 for more information.

Could you solve the challenges to escape these 6 puzzle rooms?

Immerse yourself in a live-action mystery! West Virginia’s intense “escape rooms” test your ability to solve puzzles under pressure. Beat

4 places you don’t have to be a high roller to play big

Play big without going broke in West Virginia. Here’s where to get the high-roller experience without having to break out

ArtWalk

With exciting and unique offerings around every corner, Downtown Charleston ArtWalk celebrates the arts on the third Thursday each month

ArtWalk

The Charleston Area Alliance’s Downtown Charleston programs and events are setting the stage for this year’s holiday season – starting

ArtWalk

Typically held the third Thursday of each month, participating shops and organizations extend their hours for browsing, shopping and mingling. Attendees can stroll along at their own pace, dip in and out of stores and stop off along the way for a bite to eat at a downtown restaurant. This well-loved family-friendly event takes place from 5 to 8 p.m. and attracts art aficionados as well as folks who just want to get out and try something new. For more information, visit www.artwalkcwv.com.

ArtWalk

Typically held the third Thursday of each month, participating shops and organizations extend their hours for browsing, shopping and mingling. Attendees can stroll along at their own pace, dip in and out of stores and stop off along the way for a bite to eat at a downtown restaurant. This well-loved family-friendly event takes place from 5 to 8 p.m. and attracts art aficionados as well as folks who just want to get out and try something new. For more information, visit www.artwalkcwv.com.

Alan Jackson Honky Tonk Highway Tour w/ special guest Lee Ann Womack

Country superstar Alan Jackson brings his 2017 tour to the Civic Center in Charleston, WV on Friday, September 22. Multi-platinum singer Lee Ann Womack will be the special guest. Tickets went on sale Friday, March 24 at 10 a.m. EST. Tickets and information are available at Charleston Civic Center ticket office, Ticketmaster.com, by phone at 800-745-3000 and by visiting www.alanjackson.com, where you can find information about Alan, his tour schedule, music and more. VIP tickets and packages are also available. Alan Jackson’s concerts find the country icon performing hits that have gained him legions of longtime fans, songs that continue to draw new crowds as a younger generation discover his music. Jackson’s repertoire withstands the test of time; it has impacted a field of artists who cite Jackson as an influence. Fans will hear the songs they love from the man who wrote them and made them famous, including his debut hit, “Here in The Real World”…signature songs such as “Chattahoochee,” “Drive” and “Gone Country”…party anthems “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere” and “Good Time”…and many, many more. Special guest Lee Ann Womack joins Jackson for his West Virginia show.

ArtWalk

Typically held the third Thursday of each month, participating shops and organizations extend their hours for browsing, shopping and mingling. Attendees can stroll along at their own pace, dip in and out of stores and stop off along the way for a bite to eat at a downtown restaurant. This well-loved family-friendly event takes place from 5 to 8 p.m. and attracts art aficionados as well as folks who just want to get out and try something new. For more information, visit www.artwalkcwv.com.

Downtown Streetfest

Head down to Capitol Street for the Downtown Streetfest block party Saturday, Aug. 26. Meet up with friends and family between 4:30 and 9 p.m. for live music, food and drinks, kid's activities, pop-up shops and much more. Grab a bite to eat at your favorite downtown establishments and listen to some live music. The event coincides with the Kanawha River Navy annual Funeral Parade. The parade will kickoff at 5 p.m. on the corner of Kanawha Boulevard and Capitol Street and parade through to Downtown Streetfest. Downtown Streetfest is sponsored by City National Bank, along with sponsorship support from the Charleston Convention & Visitors Bureau, the Kanawha County Public Library and Tony the Tailor. Downtown Streetfest block parties are also scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 26 and Saturday, Sept. 23.

ArtWalk

Typically held the third Thursday of each month, participating shops and organizations extend their hours for browsing, shopping and mingling. Attendees can stroll along at their own pace, dip in and out of stores and stop off along the way for a bite to eat at a downtown restaurant. This well-loved family-friendly event takes place from 5 to 8 p.m. and attracts art aficionados as well as folks who just want to get out and try something new. For more information, visit www.artwalkcwv.com.

Downtown Street Fest

Head down to Capitol Street for Downtown Streetfest block party Saturday, July 22. Meet up with friends and family between 4:30 and 9 p.m. for live music, food and drinks, kid's activities, pop-up shops and much more. Grab a bite to eat at your favorite downtown establishments and listen to some live music. This event coincides with the Glow Run 5K, an all-age run that will light up the downtown street. The race starts at 9 p.m. during Downtown Streetfest, with runners and walkers decked out in glow sticks and neon. Downtown Streetfest is sponsored by City National Bank, along with sponsorship support from the Charleston Convention & Visitors Bureau, the Kanawha County Public Library and Tony the Tailor. Downtown Streetfest block parties are also scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 26 and Saturday, Sept. 23.

ArtWalk

Typically held the third Thursday of each month, participating shops and organizations extend their hours for browsing, shopping and mingling. Attendees can stroll along at their own pace, dip in and out of stores and stop off along the way for a bite to eat at a downtown restaurant. This well-loved family-friendly event takes place from 5 to 8 p.m. and attracts art aficionados as well as folks who just want to get out and try something new. For more information, visit www.artwalkcwv.com.

Go to Hale Block Party

The Charleston Area Alliance will present Go to Hale, a FestivALL event, 10 a.m to 6 p.m. Saturday, June 24, 2017 along Hale Street, between Virginia and Quarrier Streets and between Quarrier and Lee Streets. Complimenting the already popular Capitol Street Art Fair, Children's Art Fair and Kanawha County Public Library Street Fair, Go to Hale is a block party with live music, drinks and pop-up shops. Go to Hale is sponsored by Brewer Fire. Go to Hale will serve as the kick-off for the Downtown Open pop-up putt-putt golf course located on sidewalks and green spaces throughout downtown. Each of the course holes is sponsored by local businesses who have worked to finish and personalize the miniature golf platforms with décor and obstacles prior to the event.

ArtWalk

Typically held the third Thursday of each month, participating shops and organizations extend their hours for browsing, shopping and mingling. Attendees can stroll along at their own pace, dip in and out of stores and stop off along the way for a bite to eat at a downtown restaurant. This well-loved family-friendly event takes place from 5 to 8 p.m. and attracts art aficionados as well as folks who just want to get out and try something new. For more information, visit www.artwalkcwv.com.

3rd Annual Kanawha Valley Regional Disc Golf

Current PDGA membership is required to register for this tournament. Must have minimum of 4 per division in order to establish division. Players pack sponsored by Innova Disc Golf, which includes your pick of 4 discs (1 DX,1 Pro, 1 Star, and 1 Champion). Also includes dry-fit shirt (Monogram plus), mini, and additional Gateway disc. Lunch provided on Saturday at church for all players. Host hotel is Holiday Inn Express Group Block: Kanawha Valley PDGA Regional Group Code PDG Group Rate: $99.00 -- Includes hot-buffet breakfast, ground-level parking, and high-speed Internet. Book By: June 1 – to receive the special group rate and while rooms are available. Call: 855-729-5133.

Sips & Sweets

Two ticket options are available for attendees. 300 General Admission tickets are available for $30 per ticket, which includes a branded wine glass, wine samples, wine tickets, and unlimited sweets samples while they last. Non-drinker tickets are purchasable, limited quantity of 100, for $20 and are only available online. Non-drinker tickets include access to live music and unlimited sweets while they last. Purchase tickets here or at the Kanawha City and West Side Drug Emporium locations.

Arti Gras presents Main Street Masquerade

Arti Gras is the showcase of our fair city’s thriving and incredibly vibrant art scene. Brought to you by The Albans Arts Center, local galleries, the business community, local artists, and art lovers as well. Arti Gras presents Main Street Masquerade: Art Auction, Music, Hors d’oeuvres, Wine & More. Cost: $35 each, $60 a couple.

ArtWalk

Typically held the third Thursday of each month, participating shops and organizations extend their hours for browsing, shopping and mingling. Attendees can stroll along at their own pace, dip in and out of stores and stop off along the way for a bite to eat at a downtown restaurant. This well-loved family-friendly event takes place from 5 to 8 p.m. and attracts art aficionados as well as folks who just want to get out and try something new. For more information, visit www.artwalkcwv.com.

East End Yard Sale

Find new-to-you treasures as you stroll through the beautiful, historic East End neighborhood.

Osbra Eye Memorial Wildflower Walks

Hit the trails at Kanawha State Forest for the annual Osbra Eye Memorial Wildflower Walks. One of WV's premiere spring wildflower walks! Multiple hike and leaders. See wildflowers and trees in bloom and learn about the general ecology, insects, and herpetology of the forest. Event includes a Variety of Walks, including Wildflowers, Medicinal/Edible Plants, Trees, Beginning and Advanced Birding. (Be sure to bring a camera & binoculars!). There is also the option of a driving tour. Register at 8:30 a.m. at the swimming pool area. Adults $5; Students under 16, $2. Hot dogs, soft drinks, and cookies for sale. Door prizes, raffle. Walks 9:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

National Kids to Parks Day

Getting ready to spend the summer outside? Come spend a day at Wine Cellar Park as the City of Dunbar celebrates it's eighth annual Kids Day to the Parks, along with open fishing day. This year a few of the activities planned from 10am to 2pm for kids will include: a fishing competition for the first fish, scavenger hunt, disc golf, archery, BB gun safety, and making s'mores and hotdogs. Adults can enjoy free fishing at Lake Anderson on June 10th and the 11th. Plan on spending your time this summer at our beautiful parks.

The Annual Stand Against Racism Day Program Featuring: The Project on Racism Essay Contest

The MLK Commission, in conjunction with the YWCA Wheeling hosts annually, The Project on Racism Essay Contest that honors the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., while encouraging grades K-12 students’ creativity through essay writing. This year, first, second and third place winners will be recognized and the first place winners will read their essays. The celebration will be held on Friday, April 28, 2017 at 3:30 PM in the Lower Rotunda of the State Capitol. Join Us and Take a Stand!

Tower Hill Challenge

This is the first obstacle course style race ever to be held at the park and guaranteed to be a lot of fun. You are most definitely going to want to be a part of this! Sign up on tristateracer.com and hosted by the Huntington Board of Realtors. Benefits the Barboursville community outreach and the Barboursville Wellness Council

7 wildly quirky finds for urban explorers

Sometimes, surprises hide in plain sight. It’s always fun to turn a corner and discover an intriguing passageway or artwork.

Vandalia Gathering

Enjoy traditional Appalachian music concerts and competitions, dancing, arts and crafts, foods and liars contest at this popular Memorial Day weekend event. Youth activities focus on culture and heritage; impromptu jam sessions dot the capitol grounds. The annual West Virginia Quilt Exhibition opens this weekend in the Great Hall of the Culture Center.

A. James Manchin Memorial Marble Tournament

Join us for the 2017 A. James Manchin Marble Tournament in the Great Hall of the Culture Center. This tournament is open to all children ages 7 to 14 and is free to enter. Registration begins the day of the tournament at 11:30 a.m. Practice along with playing tips start at 12:30 p.m. and the tournament kicks off at 1:30 p.m. This event is presented in association with the West Virginia Marble Shooters Association.

Easter Carnival at the Capitol

Governor Jim Justice and First Lady Cathy Justice invite you to the annual Easter Carnival on the North Plaza of the State Capitol. There will be games, face painting, food vendors, door prizes at noon and photos with the Easter Bunny. It's free and open to the public.

“The Murderer Who Came to Dinner”- a Murder Mystery Masquerade

Test your detective skills during an evening of murder and mystery at The Murderer Who Came to Dinner'- a Murder Mystery Masquerade Saturday, April 8 from 7-10 p.m. at Marshall University's Don Morris Room, with entertainment by Murder and Merriment. Your ticket includes an elegant dinner catered by Sodexo America LLS and a chance to guess "Who done it?" during the interactive murder mystery for a grand prize trip for two aboard the Valley Gem Sternwheeler! Guests will also have the opportunity to bid on silent auction items from local businesses including ACE adventure, Cass Scenic Railroad, Marshall Artists Series, and many more! Purchase your tickets today at Eventbrite.com. Single admission tickets are $45, couple admission $75, and group admission for a table of 8 for $225. For more information, contact Mikaela Keener at beherdcommunications@gmail.com.

This will definitely convince you to take a family spring break in the mountains

Are you hoping to take the family on a spring break trip this year but want to keep it safe?

SportsFEST Glow Run 5K

ADMISSION:$15/$20/$25 based on registration date. The night race course starts on Capitol Street and runs along Kanawha Boulevard and back. Entry Fees: March 4 - May 1, 2017 $15.00 May 2 - July 9, 2017 $20.00 Day of race and can not guarantee t-shirt $25.00 Kids 7-12 years of age $12.00 6 and under (no T-shirt) Free

Peppa Pig’s Live Surprise

Surprise! Peppa Pig, George and their friends are back in a brand new live stage show, Peppa Pig's Surprise and it’s coming to the Charleston Municipal Auditorium on Thursday, October 26th! It's a lovely day and Peppa is playing outside with her friends. Mummy Pig and Daddy Pig have got a surprise for her and George - they can't guess what it is, can you? Enjoy fun, loads of songs and of course, surprises in this charming, colourful new show. Peppa Pig's Surprise promises to be the perfect theatre show for all pre-schoolers! TICKET INFORMATION: Reserved tickets are $39.50, $49.50, $59.50 Tickets are available at the Charleston Municipal Auditorium Box Office and on-line at Ticketmaster.com.

WV Fit Expo

Attendees have the chance to discover new health and wellness products and services, supplements, healthy food services, equipment, apparel, witness live fitness competitions, and much more. This unprecedented event in WV will feature: International Powerlifting, League-Junior Cup, Intense Strongman, Corp-National Championship Brazilian Jiu Jitsu tournament, 5K Run More to come!!!

EVP Rocks the River

See elite athletes compete on the sand for top honors and have the chance to interact with the pros. The EVP® Beach Volleyball Tour’s primary aim is to support beach volleyball events that engage families, fans, athletes, students, communities and sponsors in a great day at the beach.

Pro Watercross National Championship / SportsFEST

The Pro Watercross Tour is the featured national circuit for personal watercraft racing. The Tour brings together the best professional and amateur athletes in the sport, on the most beautiful beaches and venues in the U.S.A., and offering the most challenging and technical race courses in the world. Pro Watercross creates the biggest, best watercross racing show in the world. ​​​​​​​ FRIDAY: Registration / Check-In: 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. | on site Friday Night Pre Pit Party: 8:00 p.m. | TBA SATURDAY: Late Registration/Check-in: 6:45 a.m. - 8:00 a.m. | on site Pre-tech inspection: 7:00 a.m. - 8:30 a.m. | entrance to the beach Rider's Meeting Role Call: 8:15 a.m. - 8:30 a.m. | at the announcing tower Rider's Meeting: 8:30 a.m. Practice: 9:15 a.m. Racing: Following practice Pro Show: 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. (moto 1) Post Pro Show: Amateur racing continues (motos 1&2) Saturday Night Pit Party: 8:00 p.m. | Hidden Trails Motorsports at 702 Morris St, Charleston, WV. Make sure you have your wristband on for entry into the "Saturday Night Pit Party" SUNDAY: Rider's Meeting Role Call: 8:15 a.m. - 8:30 a.m. | at the announcing tower Rider's Meeting: 8:30 a.m. Amateur Racing: 9:15 a.m. (moto 3) Pro Show: 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. (motos 1&2) Post Racing: Awards NOTE: Pole positions is determined randomly by the computer program.

Town Guide: Point Pleasant

Situated at the confluence of the Kanawha and Ohio rivers, Point Pleasant has long been an important transportation hub, dating

DAWG Dazzle

93.7 the DAWG presents an evening of live music and a fireworks extravaganza at Harris Riverfront Park. Gates open at 5 p.m. Visit www.937thedawg.com for more information.

West Virginia’s greatest sports legends

  When it comes to sports, the Mountain State leads the pack. Take a look: our athletes and coaches are

Cabell County Fair

Enjoying the Cabell County Fair each year has been a family tradition since 1983. Residents of the county may show their prize garden produce, livestock, and arts & crafts. The prime emphasis of the fair is to provide 4-H and FFA members the opportunity to exhibit their projects. Concerts, horse shows, carnival, pageants and much more guarantees fun for everyone!

Blenko Festival of Glass

A selection of classes are offered for all ages within the factory. During this event, visitors will have the rare opportunity to view our skilled artisans at work as well as be able to participate in a variety of classes related to the glass making process. From hot glass to crafts with wood, glass and glue for youngsters, special prices, tours, signing event and family activities. Family fun. Classes fill quickly. Complimentary annual commemorative medallions will be given to attendees. For a full schedule of events please visit www.blenko.com or to register please call 877-425-3656.

13th Annual West Virginia Hot Dog Festival

A full day of live entertainment, music, amusements, and contests for you, the family and the family dog! Our Tri-State area is home to an unusually large number of hot dog businesses, many decades-old, family-owned businesses that shine as beloved, true traditions! We invite you to come to Downtown Huntington as we collect a dozen of the area's top hot dog businesses, and put them in one location. We welcome you, your family, and the family dog to come to our annual WV Hot Dog Festival to enjoy contests and competitions, live music and entertainment all day, displays, prizes, demonstrations, crafts, shopping, car and truck shows, and to sample all of these wonderfully delicious hot dogs (as much as you can eat!) in one location for the entire day at Pullman Square! Come treat yourself (and your little dog too!) to our annual WV Hot Dog Festival! This year is the 13th Anniversary! For more information and a complete schedule of events, check out their website at www.wvhotdogfestival.com!

Jewel City JAMboree

JCJAM3 is a multi-genre music festival held at David Harris Riverfront Park along the beautiful Ohio River. Music, food, friendship and a celebration of our local heritage will take place May 26-27, 2017. From Bluegrass and Old Time to Americana, the Blues, Rock and Western Cowboy Swing with a little of all in between, makes this one of the most unique festivals of the season. JCJAM3 is a 100% not for profit show staffed entirely by volunteers. For a full lineup, tickets, and more information please visit www.jcjam3.com.

Art in the Park

Forty artists exhibit and sell artwork including oil, acrylic, pastels, and watercolor paintings; woodcarving, pottery, photography, and other fine art. Chat with the artists and have pieces commissioned. Bring your favorite person, pet, or photo and match it with your favorite artist. For more information, please visit www.tristatearts.webs.com.

Stink Fest

Come celebrate Ramp season! Feast on this iconic spring plant that is the market's namesake! Food vendors featuring ramp dish specialties, music, artisans, and activities for the kids. Meet "Stinky" our Wild Ramp mascot too! Don't miss out on your chance to celebrate the stink! The Wild Ramp's premiere annual ramp festival, Stink Fest, will take place at its Old Central City location on Saturday April 22th from 10 am - 4 pm. This festival is family friendly, free, and open to the public

The 45th Annual Dogwood Arts & Crafts Festival

The Dogwood Arts & Crafts festival is one of the largest arts and crafts show in the Tri-state area featuring over 90 vendors with hand-crafted items such as jewelry, food products, woodwork, art, soaps and lotions, yard art, pottery and much more.

Art After Dark

Don't Miss the Official Art Walk After Party! When the gallery lights go down, the party lights come up for Art After Dark! The museum will transform monthly into a FREE hot spot of activity and entertainment after the downtown Charleston ArtWalk. Make plans now to enjoy live entertainment from the incredibly talented Sean Richardson, activities, a cash bar, and after-hours access to current exhibits in the Juliet Art Museum! Make an evening out of Art Walk! Enjoy FREE parking at the Clay Center! Start and end your celebration with us!

Nitro Circus

Featuring 30 of the world's best extreme athletes in freestyle motocross, BMX and anything you can imagine with wheels! Plus a host of ridiculous contraptions being launched 50 ft. into the air, by the crazy Nitro daredevils.