4 must-try, but blink-and-you-missed-it seasonal eats
One of the great things about local dining in West Virginia is that food is seasonal. Of course, that means
Offbeat ideas for solo travelers in the mountains
Looking for solo travel ideas that aren’t run-of-the-mill? Just change your approach! Traveling by yourself can be liberating. And it
Happy birthday, WV! 11 ways to celebrate (here & afar)
Happy birthday, West Virginia! Our great state turns 153 this year on June 20. Here are 11 ways for mountain
6 wildest WV fair traditions
You haven’t seen wild till you’ve been to a fair in the Wild, Wonderful West Virginia. Our old-fashioned fairs in
North Bend State Park – June 20 – WV DAY!
9:30am – 11:30am – The Nature Center is Open – Come inside to enjoy arts and crafts and a chance to meet some of our wildlife friends. Take a look around and marvel at the mysteries of nature. 12:00pm – Wild About Wild Turkeys – Come talk turkey with the park naturalist and learn about these amazing and sometimes misunderstood birds of our forests. Great for all ages. We will meet at the Nature center. 2:00pm – Hibbs Cemetery Trail Hike – Learn some West Virginia flora and fauna as you hike the trail to the ancient Hibbs Cemetery. The trail has a constant grade and great views. Meet at the River Run Campground check in station. (Lasts about one hour. 3:30pm – Soda Pop Bottle Fish – Reuse items to create works of art. This craft uses old soda pop bottles, turning them into beautiful fish. Materials provided. Meet at the Nature Center. Craft time lasts about one hour. Find more daily activities on the link below. Visit North Bend - Take away memories.
North Bend State Park – June 18 – SOUTHERN RAILROAD TRAIL HIKE
Southern Railroad Trail Hike follows the old Southern Railroad Grade that now connects the River Run Campground at North Bend State Park to the dam. The hike is flat and easy to walk on. Meet at the River Run campground check in station. Hike will last about one hour. Find more activities during the week and weekend for families, friends, and youth on the web page below.
North Bend State Park – June 12 – WILD ABOUT TURKEYS
Come talk turkey with Park Naturalist, Ken Zebo and learn about these amazing and sometimes misunderstood birds of our forests. Great for all ages. Meet at the Nature center. Fee free. Find daily more activities throughout the weeks at the webpage link below.
6 places to get really, really off the grid
Ditch the laptop and cell phone at home and recharge YOUR batteries instead at one of these off-the-grid places in
North Bend State Park – June 4 – KAYAK BASICS
Outdoor Weekend - Kayak Basics is a 2 hour excursion designed to introduce and improve basic flat water skills and enjoying the natural environment North Bend State Park has to offer from a different perspective. This quest includes safety information, balance and basic paddle strokes and all the required equipment. The program is at 6:00 p.m. The cost is $30 and includes all equipment and instruction. Meet at the Cokeley Campground Bathhouse. Registration in advance at the lodge front desk in person or by phone for this class/activity/program. Registration is open until June 5. North Bend State Park Rangers and Guides provide instruction on some of today's more popular outdoor recreation pursuits. During these weekends we are offering these lessons in an affordable group lesson format. Along with skill development we will also be offering environmental appreciation/education sessions. This is an Outdoors in Parks recommended activity. A Mountain Biking Basics is also available.
Blennerhassett Island State Park – June 5 – PICKIN’ ON THE ISLAND
The first and third Sunday through October, from 1:00 - 4:00p are special times on the island in 2016! It's pickin' at the park and better yet, pickin' on the island. Whether you are a beginner or professional bring your acoustic instrument and head to the island today for Pickin' in the Park. Pickers ride the Island Belle Sternwheeler for free. Tickets must be picked up at the Blennerhassett Museum. Boats depart on the hour beginning at noon. Pickers will be playing at the tented area near the island gift shop. If you don't pick, you can stop by and listen and enjoy! The Blennerhassett Museum is located at 137 Juliana Street in downtown Parkersburg, WV. First boat departs Point Park at noon.
Blennerhassett Island – June 4 – ALL ABOUT BIRDS
Nature Walk - "All About Birds" in a great for getting outside and exploring the island. At least 14 species of birds adapted to life along the river. Learn bird characteristics through scavenger-like clues including the food that birds eat; descriptions of feet, beaks, and overall bird shapes is part of the fun. Walk begins at 2:00pm and concludes around 3:15pm. There is no fee to participate in "All About Birds". Its National Trails Day - what better way to enjoy the outdoors than a walk on the island and some birdwatching. Please ride the 1:00 boat to the island to make sure you get to this great nature walk. Boat tickets are sold at the Blennerhassett Museum which is located at 137 Juliana Street in downtown Parkersburg, WV.
North Bend State Park – June 3-5 – FAMILY TRAILS DAYS
Celebrate National Trails Day by hiking on one of the many unique trails in North Bend State Park. Guided hikes will be provided or you could make your own route. A weekend devoted to the outdoors! Click the link below for a full schedule of hiking and outdoor activities this weekend.
Blennerhassett Island – June 12 – 1860s BASE BALL
Come to the island to watch an exhibition baseball game played by 1860s gaming rules. The Ohio Village Muffins will play against Blennerhassett Island Belles in period correct attire. Game time is 2:30p. The WV Chief of Parks will be playing. First boat departs Point Park at Noon. Purchase boat tickets at the Museum of Regional History
Fall Quilt Camp
The camp offers classes for quilters from beginners to advanced. Both machine and handwork classes are available in piecing, applique and quilting techniques.
River Museum’s Annual Tennis Tournament
Tournament consists of singles, doubles and mixed doubles for both men and women. Divisions are under age 20, age 20 to 49, age 50 and over and an open class. Cost is $15.00 per event with a max of 2 events per player. Participants will receive a t-shirt when they check in to play. All entries must be received by 5:00 pm Tuesday, July 25. Call River Museum for application.
River Museum’s Annual Bell of Cincinnati Dinner Cruise
Cruise is reminiscent of the days of the early excursion boats. A delicious buffet-style meal will be served as it travels on the beautiful Ohio River. Entertainment provided by Joey Wilcoxen for dancing or listening. Cruise is 2 1/2 hours long. Boat leaves the dock at Riverfront Park at 7:00 so people need to board by 6:30. Boat has 4 decks, 2 accessible by elevator and one is walk-on. Handicap accessible. Tickets---$50.00 adults, $25.00 children ages 4-12. Call River Museum for tickets.
7 best free family activities in WV
Adventure abounds in the hills of West Virginia— and lots of it is free! In West Virginia, families can enjoy
Unique, home-grown finds from WV’s farmers markets
Stop in any farmers market in West Virginia, and you’ll find a beautiful variety of fresh fruits, vegetables and other
Best multi-day camp-and-trek trail trips
Trace some of the nation’s most atmospheric and historic camp-and-trek trails. In West Virginia, picturesque footpaths take you past historic
Best of May in WV
It’s finally May, and the Mountain State is celebrating in style with a whole bunch of outdoor events. The sun
2nd Annual MiniCon
Whether you are into Superman or zombies, this event is for you. Comics, gaming, contests, crafts and special guests are planned.
Ripley’s On Sale … Believe It or Not!
One hundred vendors are anticipated for this annual community yard sale on the lawn of the Jackson County Courthouse. An added Friday attraction will be Garden Faire with the Jackson County Master Gardeners.
Ripley 4th of July Celebration
America's Largest Small Town Independence Day Celebration features concerts, gospel sing, carnival, 2-mile race, grand parade and fireworks,
4 Unexpected Finds Along WV’s Country Roads
We all know the song that leads our Almost Heaven dreaming, a familiar tune celebrating 50 years of success in
Try-A-Tri
The 2nd annual event includes a run, bike ride and kayaking for students in grades 3-7 at Cedar Lakes Conference Center, near Ripley. Kids receive a participation medal and lunch will be provided. The entire event should be over by noon so you will have the rest of the day for other events! But don’t miss this opportunity for elementary and middle schoolers to experience a mini-Triathlon. Bring your helmets and tennis shoes are required. Kayaks will be provided but child may use their own. Participants must have their own bikes. First 50 kids to register receives a free Tee! Registration: http://www.millcreekwatertrail.com/try-registration/
Float to the Farm
Explore the Mill Creek Water Trail by kayak during this event. The suggested put-in site is adjacent to Rollins Lake at Evans. Dinner and a shuttle back to the vehicles will be available to those who reach the Jackson County Fairgrounds by 6 p.m. May 29 is the rain date.
Ripley’s On Sale … Believe It Or Not!
There are yard sales and then there's Ripley's On Sale ... Believe It Or Not! This annual community sale features dozens of vendors selling everything from antiques to primitives. A Friday attraction will be Garden Faire, sponsored by the Jackson County Master Gardeners. The annual event is presented in conjunction with area businesses, non-profit groups and clubs, and individuals. The sale will again be held on the lawn of the Jackson County Courthouse. Over eighty spaces will be located on the Jackson County Courthouse lawn. Individuals or groups may reserve 10’ x 10’ spaces for $20. The fee will be $5 more if electricity is required. Additional spaces, after the first, will be at a rate of $10 each. Individuals and neighborhoods are also invited to participate by having yard sales in their own locales. Ripley merchants will be offering special sales on Saturday. Main Street Ripley invites all interested vendors to call 304-372-1637 for details and to reserve their space and join the giant sale or to be listed on the free map.
MiniCon II
This 2nd annual event features gaming, crafts, a costume contest, writing contest and more. Whether you are into Batman, Superman, Star Wars, Star Trek, anime or zombies; you won't want to miss our 2nd annual Mini-Con. Join us and have fun with everything geeky: comics, gaming, contests, special guests, crafts, and our costume contest!
Meet the Roaming Gnome here in the mountains!
Travelocity’s Roaming Gnome is touring West Virginia! Have you seen a tiny bearded fellow in town? From late April to
Brewing up in 2016: 10 new breweries & events to try
West Virginia’s craft beer business is booming! Here are 7 new breweries and 3 new events to watch for this
6 surreal abandoned places you have to see to believe
Have you ever spied a crumbling old structure and wondered at the history behind it? These abandoned places in West
Remember these?
When it comes to antique and vintage treasures, West Virginia is an East Coast motherlode. Visit any town in the
How would you have fared on the wild frontier?
Every so often, whether you’re camping out in the woods, suddenly without cell reception, or even if there’s a cable
This ol’ barn: I do’s with mountain magic
Looking for a truly magical venue for your big day? One where you can see the stars and feel the
SpencerTrails
WCBA Honeybee Products Show
The West Central Beekeepers Association and the City of Spencer present the WCBA Honeybee Products Show. There will be seminars, vendors, and honey based foods available to discover. Come enjoy the time honored tradition of bee keeping and learn more.
Heritage Days
Heritage Days is a two day event celebrating the rich central West Virginia culture and history. The event features a Civil War Reenactment in the City of Spencer, encampments at Spencer Civil War Park, square dancing, old-time music, seminars on old time traditional cooking, quilting, presentations by General Stonewall Jackson, museums, and much more.
2017 Tour de Lake Mountain Bike Race
The 20th riding of the Tour de Lake is the opening race event for the WV Mountain Bike Assoc points series and the USA Cycling West Virginia Mountain Bike State Championship and qualifier for the USAC Mountain Bike Nationals located in 2017 at Snowshoe Mountain Resort. Located at one of the premier trail destinations in West Virginia, the Tour de Lake at Charles Fork Lake has a rich history of mountain biking dating back to the early 1990's. On Saturday, March 25th, the event begins with a USAC Short Track Race at the Ben's Run Trails at Chestnut Ridge Winery. On March 26th, the premier event of the Cross Country (XC) race begins at noon.
Here’s where to find the springiest wines
As West Virginia blooms, local wineries squeeze nature’s goodness into big glass bottles! Get a taste of spring with these
Your inner foodie will flip for these 9 dine-around events
Attention foodies: the Mountain State is full of flavor, and ready for you to take a bite! These festivals, cook-offs
7 amazing mountain hikes even the kids will love
Share wonder with your kids on a jaw-dropping mountain hike. Even these rolling Mountain State trails can be smooth enough
Stone Road Vineyard
Family owned and operated. Makers of hand-crafted red and white varietal and blended wines. Winery at 1100’ ASL. Informal farm
40th Annual Jackson County Quilt Show
This year marks the 40th anniversary of the Jackson County Quilt Show. It is scheduled April 8-9 at Epworth United Methodist Church on North Church Street in downtown Ripley. The event is sponsored by the Jackson County CEOS. Call 304-372-8199 for information.
All Aboard!
Railroad history is the afternoon's theme for this event at the historic Alpine Theatre co-sponsored by the Jackson County Historical Society and the Ripley CVB. Historian Dan Robie will have a 2 p.m. presentation about the old Ripley & Mill Creek Valley and Ravenswood, Spencer & Glenville lines. Entertainer Mick Souter will follow with a 4 p.m. performance of "All Aboard the Iron Horse" with songs and stories.
North Bend State Park – (5/13-14) – 22nd annual BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL
For over 20 years, the Bluegrass Festival at North Bend State Park is a fun filled weekend of pickin’, grinin’, pluckin’, and singin’ with and by great bluegrass bands from the wild, wonderful state of West Virginia and from the surrounding region. During the festival, shop the displays of local WV artisans and find a special souvenir to take home. Visit other attractions and businesses while you're in the area. Performing bands will have merchandise for sale. Take home a CD of your favorite band! Throughout the festival enjoy snacks, grilled hot dogs and hamburgers, pulled pork sandwiches, and drinks from the North Bend Outdoor Grill. Lodge, cabin and camping packages include bluegrass festival admission. Bands include: Friday-May 13, 2016–Remington Ryde (6p), Idletymes (7p), The Hillbilly Gypsies (8p), Johnny Staats and the Delivery Boys (9p) Saturday– May 14, 2016– Glenville State College Bluegrass Band (1p), The Moron Brothers (2p), Buck and Company (3p), – Idletymes (4p), The Sheppard Brothers (5p), Remington Ryde (6p), The Moron Brothers (7p), Johnny Staats and the Delivery Boys (8p), The Hillbilly Gypsies (9p) Master of Ceremonies: Butch Sheppard; sound by GBS Productions. Day of fee for festival music is $10 per person for Friday; $25 per person for Saturday. Advanced weekend tickets (Friday and Saturday shows) before May 6, $30 - call for for advanced tickets at this reduced rate.
Stein and Dine at Blennerhassett Hotel
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with us! Join us for Irish inspired dishes with a savory Spats flair. We are featuring handcrafted brews from Greenbrier Valley Brewery, Maxwelton, WV. Overnight packages are available by calling 304.422.3131 or by visiting our website, www.theblennerhassett.com.
Best of March in WV
Wondering what to do in the Mountain State in March? Here are 7 best bets: 1. Last Hurrah Snowshoe Mountain
Sleep under the stars! The East Coast’s finest stargazing
West Virginia has some of the clearest night skies east of the Mississippi and has been named the most under-the-radar
9 grandest old arts centers in West Virginia
So many theaters in the Mountain State still shine with their original 20th century grandeur. Take in a performance at
Discover your inner artist at these 7 WV art studios
Take home a piece of your own handiwork next time you go gallery hopping. Arts centers around the Mountain State
ANDY FRASCO & THE U.N. Opener: Farnsworth
Step out of your seat and onto the Clay Center stage to mix, mingle and share a toast at this concert series. Catch the latest in new music from rising stars specially-plucked from local and national stages.
Best WV wines & spirits for every palate
Let your personal palate lead you to the best WV wines & spirits for your tastes. Most wineries make a
7 country trends for your mountain “I do’s”
Trace the roots of the rustic country wedding trend back to its inspiration: the Mountain State. Of course couples are
Hikers: can you complete the Chief’s Challenge?
In 2016, West Virginia State Parks Chief Sam England challenges you to hike or walk 100 miles in the state
The treasonous secret of this elegant island
Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park is certainly one of West Virginia’s most… interesting stops. It is a stately island in
Steel Knife Making
Learn the art of making nickel Damascus blades from instructor Herb Derr.
History Alive’s Benjamin Franklin
An American founding father, inventor and diplomat will help kick off the Independence Day celebration at the historic Alpine Theatre in Ripley. The presentation is through the WV Humanities Council.
History Alive’s Stonewall Jackson
General Thomas "Stonewall" Jackson will be the special guest on Father's Day and just prior to West Virginia Day at the historic Alpine Theatre in Ripley. The presentation is through the WV Humanities Council and the Jackson County Historical Society.
Craft Workshop Weekend
Three workshops at Cedar Lakes Conference Center will focus on acrylic painting, blacksmithing and calligraphy.
Three 4-Day Quilt Workshops
Quilt lovers will perfect story quilts, landscape quilts and a enjoy a discussion of "Downton Abbey."
The Shamrock Shore
Limerick, Ireland native Mick Moloney leads a presentation of Irish culture and history at home and abroad.
Potluck Concert
This celebration of women, wisdom and home cooking serves up a performance of songs and stories.
History Alive’s Julia Child
America's "first lady of food" is portrayed by actress Karen Vuranch in this program presented by the WV Humanities Council.
Cedar Lakes Craft Week
Learn the techniques of making stained glass, painting watercolors, creative writing and fly-fishing.
Cedar Lakes Craft Week
Seven workshops including stained glass, basketry, woodcarving and salt risin' bread will be offered.
Old-Time Fiddle Week
Master fiddler Dave Bing is the instructor for this week-long session at Cedar Lakes Conference Center. It is designed for
The Story of the Celts
A native of Limerick, Ireland, Mick Moloney will explore the epic journey of the Celts and their input on global culture.
February Wine & Dine
Take a culinary trip to Spain at our February Wine & Dine event! Join us on February 18th to experience the finest Spanish wines from Kysela Pete et Fils, paired with our exceptional cuisine from Spats Restaurant. Visit our website for overnight package pricing and make an evening of it!
West Virginia Chocolate Festival
The West Virginia Chocolate Festival celebrates all that is chocolate in West Virginia. It is the premier event to highlight the chocolate industry in the state. Chocolate vendors from around the state bring their confections to sell, while there are children's activities and local entertainment for all to enjoy. The festival is from 10 am to 4 pm at Ripley Elementary School on Second Avenue. The parade begins at 11:00 downtown and ends at the festival site. This is a free event with plenty of free parking as well as FREE CHOCOLATE SAMPLES. From chocolate suckers to fudge to chocolate pop corn to chocolate molded candy. We have it all! Bring the family and enjoy a day of fun and delicious chocolate.
Cedar Run Farm
Say “I love you” with the sweetest of the sweets
Switch it up this year and impress your sweetie with goodies whipped up in Wild, Wonderful West Virginia. These local
12th Annual Heritage Quilt Show
The 12th annual Mid Ohio Valley Heritage quilt Show will be held March 12th thru March 20th and will feature quilts from various quilters from the surrounding area. The theme of this year’s show is “Scrap Happy Quilts”. The show will also feature the West Virginia 2013 Sesquicentennial Quilt that represents quilt blocks from each county in the state made by various quilters. As part of the exhibit opening day, we will have a special program on “Bed Turnings” which features a talk on a number of antique quilts that are part of the museum’s collection. The hours of the museum are Tuesday thru Saturday 11:00am until 5:00pm and Sunday 1:00 until 5pm. The museum is closed on Monday. The cost of admission is $4.00 for adults and $2.00 for children 3 thru 12. For more information please contact the Blennerhassett Museum at 304-420-4800.
Women’s Weekend
You’re invited to join us for our fourth annual Women's Weekend at The Blennerhassett Hotel. We are excited to provide an energizing and entertaining weekend that will leave you renewed, inspired and refreshed. So grab a friend, mom, daughter or sister and make it a “girls-only” weekend. .
Blennerhassett Island State Park – 2/7 – WINTER LECTURE SERIES
Winter Lecture Series: "Grave Creek Mound". The 2016 Winter Lecture series is every Sunday in February. Andrea Keller and Heater Cline are February 7th guest speakers. These history presentations are educational programs featuring speakers and first-person interpreters on a variety of Ohio Valley / W.Va. topics. The four-week series consists of Sunday afternoon programs beginning at 2:00 p.m. the Blennerhassett Museum. Parking is free. Seating is limited and reservations are required for the lecture series. There is a small cost to the attend the lectures: the cost to attend the lecture series is $5.00 per lecture for non-Friends of Blennerhassett Members and $4.00 per lecture for Friends of Blennerhassett members. Please make reservations for the individual lectures you would like to attend or you can sign up for all four. To reserve your seat for history, call 304-420-4800. Find Lecture Series events and more special programs at Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park on the weblink below.
Iconic quilt patterns and where to find them
West Virginia honors its long-shared quilting tradition with distinct Appalachian style. Quilting roots In days gone by, quilts played a
The art on these barns is unique, but that’s not all you’ll see
If you want to explore the Mountain State’s most scenic landscapes, just trace the trails of one of Appalachia’s most
Culinary Class – Sushi 101
The Culinary School at The Blennerhassett Hotel offers hand-on culinary experiences for all skill levels. Learn basic techniques along with tips and tools of the trade from our Executive Chef. Our first class of the year is Sushi 101. Students will learn how to create the perfect sushi roll start to finish - along with knowledge of pairing your sushi with champagne. Visit our website for class listings and more information.
4 big businesses with small roots in WV
Starting small doesn’t mean you can’t go big— as some of West Virginia’s staple businesses know. The Mountain State certainly
North Bend State Park – 1/10 – WVU MOUNTAINEER, Michael Garcia
The WVU Mountaineer, Michael Garcia will be at North Bend State Park on Sunday, January 10, 2016 from 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Garcia, a West Virginia University political science major from Fairmont. W.Va. is the 63rd Mountaineer Mascot. "It's a great opportunity to meet an outstanding young man that has represented WVU and the state well" says Steve Jones, Park Superintendent. Garcia will be at the park's lodge. The park employees encourage youth and families to visit and meet The Mountaineer and to remember to bring a camera or mobile device for a photo opportunity. Meeting The Mountaineer is open to the public and without charge.
Blennerhassett Island State Park – 2/28 – WINTER LECTURE SERIES: “Mark Twain”
The 2016 Winter Lecture series has been every Sunday in February at the Blennerhassett Museum of Regional History in Parkersburg, W.Va. Doug Riley is presenting a first person interpretation of Mark Twain. Mark Twain is celebrated as one of America's great authors and humorists. The four-week series, Sunday afternoon programs, begins at 2:00 p.m. the Blennerhassett Museum. Parking is free. Seating is limited and reservations are required for the lecture series. There is a small cost to the attend the lectures. As available, please call to make reservations for this final lecture.
Blennerhassett Island State Park – 2/21 – WINTER LECTURE SERIES: “Stephen Foster”
The 2016 Winter Lecture series is every Sunday in February. Steve and Lisa Ball will present the music of Stephen Foster along with the history behind each piece of music. These history presentations are educational programs featuring speakers and first-person interpreters on a variety of Ohio Valley / W.Va. topics. The four-week series consists of Sunday afternoon programs beginning at 2:00 p.m. the Blennerhassett Museum. Parking is free. Seating is limited and reservations are required for the lecture series. There is a small cost to the attend the lectures. Please make reservations for lectures, as available, you would like to attend.
Blennerhassett Island State Park – 2/14 – WINTER LECTURE SERIES: “Behind the Camera Lens”
The 2016 Winter Lecture series is every Sunday in February. Paul Borrelli is the February 14 guest speaker featuring photographic history of Parkersburg, W.Va. These history presentations are educational programs featuring speakers and first-person interpreters on a variety of Ohio Valley / W.Va. topics. The four-week series consists of Sunday afternoon programs beginning at 2:00 p.m. the Blennerhassett Museum. Parking is free. Seating is limited and reservations are required for the lecture series. There is a small cost to the attend the lectures. Please call in advance for reservations, as available, for the individual lectures or you to sign up for all four.
Blennerhassett Island State Park – 2/7 – WINTER LECTURE SERIES: “Grave Creek Mound”
The 2016 Winter Lecture series is every Sunday in February at the Blennerhassett Museum of Regional History. Andrea Keller and Heater Cline are guest speakers on February 7. These history presentations are educational programs featuring speakers and first-person interpreters on a variety of Ohio Valley / W.Va. topics. The four-week series consists of Sunday afternoon programs beginning at 2:00 p.m. Parking is free. Seating is limited and reservations are required for lecture series attendance. There is a small cost to the attend the lectures: $5.00 per lecture for non-Friends of Blennerhassett Members and $4.00 per lecture for Friends of Blennerhassett members. Please call in advance for reservations, as available.
If your kids have enough “stuff,” here’s a gift idea.
Technology is wonderful. But the truth is we all need time to unplug— especially kids. With access to their favorite
11 things everyone who grew up in WV will remember fondly
Growing up in the Mountain State forged lifelong characteristics within me. Independence, a sense of adventure and wonderment, and a
Parks with a past: History’s most notable mountain landscapes
Of the prestigious U.S. National Parks, there are “scenic” parks, and there are “historic” parks. They could not be more
How many of these 45 authentic WV experiences have you had?
West Virginia has never been one to follow the trends— I mean, we exist because we created our own state
Mountain State Art & Craft Fair: An Appalachian Experience
An Autumn Celebration of Art, Food, Music & Culture
24 resolutions to add to your bucket list this year
There are so many things to see and do in Wild, Wonderful West Virginia that it can be a bit
8 quaint country mountain inns
Cozy into a mountain escape in quaint, one-of-a-kind inns throughout West Virginia. Here are just a few of the charming,
The WV-made holiday shopping guide
If West Virginians are known for one thing, it’s our enormous state pride. This holiday season, spread the Christmas cheer
10 nostalgic country toys from your childhood: then & now
The old-time country toys of yesteryear are every bit as enchanting as they were when you were young. In the
Blennerhassett Island Mansion by Candlelight
Return to the era of the Blennerhassetts and enjoy an enchanted evening on Blennerhassett Island. After an authentic sternwheeler cruise to the Island, experience a harvest dinner, horse-drawn wagon rides and music, games and dancing of the period. Reservations required.
Volcano Days
Go back in time and experience the history of where it all began. The festival features an antique steam and gas engine show, model railroad display, kiddie tractor pulls, corn meal grinding, apple butter making, historic wagon rides, crafts and flea market, food vendors and entertainment.
Downtown Throwdown and PaddleFest
Paddlefest is a weekend water festival that features a unique opportunity to paddle your kayak or cano from Parkersburg to historic Blennerhassett Island duringa five hour window when the Ohio River is closed to commercial and motorized craft. Downtown Throwdown BBQ & Brewfest is held every September and features various BBQ favorites and craft beers from around the state.
Harvest Moon Arts & Crafts Festival
Annual juried craft show with over 200 crafters, craft demonstrations, quality food and live entertainment. Saturday 10 AM - 6 PM; Sunday 10 AM - 5 PM
West Virginia State Honey Festival
The festival promotes the honey industry's sweetness and importance. See a live bee beard and enjoy great entertainment, crafts, baking contest, and children's heritage activities. Saturday 9 AM - 6 PM; Sunday 10 AM - 5 PM
Parkersburg Homecoming Festival
Competitions, events for all ages, parade, half-marathon, top Nashville entertainment, fireworks, arts and crafts, food concessions and sternwheelers.
West Virginia Interstate Fair & Exposition
Features 4-H exhibits, contests, professional entertainment, track events, livestock exhibits, carnival and more.
Mid-Ohio Valley Multi-Cultural Festival
The Mid-Ohio Valley Multi-Cultural Festival (MOVMCF) is a free annual festival which encourages the appreciation and recognition of community diversity through entertainment, cuisine, education, and artistic expression of all cultures. It celebrates diversity with a smorgasbord of artists and performers. The goal of the MOVMCF is to highlight a variety of cultural and ethnic groups, showcasing artistic performances of traditional music and dance. This year’s three-day event is June 15-17th, 2018, at Parkersburg (WV) City Park. The audience sits in the open air to watch the performers on a covered outdoor main stage. The event features traditional and contemporary music and dance performances of varying artistic, cultural, and ethnic traditions, all featured on a main stage. In addition to live performances, the festival features strolling artists, a variety of ethnic food vendors, traditional crafters and demonstrations, and a special Children’s Activity Center.