Blacksmith Workshop
Blacksmithing is a popular workshop offered at Cedar Lakes Conference Center. Workshops in the blacksmith shop are offered on February
These Almost Heaven restaurants are serving new approaches to Appalachian cuisine
Across West Virginia, we are seeing chefs highlighting the importance of authentic dishes. Appalachian food is popular across much of
Looking for a winter getaway? Here are 5 Spots even Better with Snow
Experience the best of the Mountain State this winter by taking a beautiful getaway. From luxurious retreats to adventurous getaways,
These unique places to stay can only be found in Almost Heaven
Everyone needs a change in their normal routine from time to time. When planning your next vacation to West Virginia,
Gardner Winter Music Festival
Traditional Appalachian music with onstage performances, workshops, informal jam sessions, & socializing.
These West Virginia activities are perfect for your New Year’s resolutions
We’ve all said it – “New year, new me.” Each new year brings the opportunity for change. Outdoor activities are
West Virginia Cities by Day & Night
The Mountain State is home to a mix of vibrant, eclectic, unique and historic cities that are perfect for wandering
Did you know about this unique music trail in Almost Heaven?
Throughout much of eastern West Virginia, you can follow a special trail of unique, historic venues that make up what
Have you tried these unique West Virginia winter experiences?
Winter in the Mountain Sate is the perfect time to venture out and experience new things! From incredible light displays
ENTERTAINMENT EXPLORER: 19 Ways to Explore Winter in Randolph County
Taira Landavere, Entertainment Explorer Winter is here! The first snowflakes have fallen from the sky, and there’s no better place
These 3 state parks are the best to visit in winter
Exploring West Virginia is always an exciting adventure, and it can be even more fun in the winter. In fact,
Experience a real-life Winter Wonderland at The Greenbrier
Experiencing wintertime at The Greenbrier is an experience like no other. One day you may be sipping a delicious winter
Your Guide to Snowshoe Mountain Resort
This winter, experience both a luxurious and adventurous getaway at Snowshoe Mountain Resort. At Snowshoe, there is always something exciting
3 WV ski Getaways with Après-Ski Activities
When the snow begins to fall in West Virginia and the temperature gets lower, the fun and excitement are just
Unique ways to bring in the New Year in Almost Heaven
You don’t have to make the journey to New York City to get your fill of New Years fun! Be
3 luxurious WV getaways perfect for winter
Relaxation and adventure both last all year in the Mountain State. Whether you’re in the mountains of the New River/Greenbrier
West Virginia seasonal foods & drinks that will warm your spirit this holiday season
As the temperatures drop and the holiday season arrives, seasonal food and drink begins appearing throughout the Mountain State. These
These 5 Winter Mountain Resorts are Real-Life Wonderlands
West Virginia is an outdoor playground with winter mountain resorts around the state that are just waiting to be explored.
Experience winter sports, exotic animals & a world-renowned holiday light show at this unique park
Since 1985, the Oglebay Winter Festival of Lights has been a staple of the holiday season in West Virginia. The
5 spots to choose and cut Christmas trees in the Mountain State
The holiday season is here, and many of you are probably looking for that perfect Christmas tree for your living
How to shop local in Almost Heaven
Across West Virginia, there are small, locally owned businesses with products perfect for anyone. Whether you’re shopping for a loved
This unique WV event is one you probably haven’t heard of
One of the Mountain State’s most unique festivals during the holiday season is the Feast of the Seven Fishes Festival
The best places to purchase art in West Virginia
While West Virginia is well-known for its incredible landscapes and jaw-dropping views, it is also home to incredible and talented
These 11 Winter Events Are Must-Sees in West Virginia
The winter season in the Mountain State is an amazing time of year when you can experience new and exciting
The best places for ice skating in Almost Heaven
Whether you’re a child or just a child at heart, ice skating is something that you can enjoy. You may
Enjoy an Old Tyme Christmas in Harpers Ferry
This winter celebrate Christmas in an extra special way at the Harpers Ferry Old Tyme Christmas Festival. The festival kicks
These are some of the best shops for Almost Heaven goods
It is always fun to give and receive gifts. But it’s even better to support local, hand-crafted items sold by
Explore these 5 Nordic Trails & Touring Centers in West Virginia
Explore the Mountain State’s beautiful landscape during the winter by cross-country skiing the state’s incredible trails. From perfectly groomed trails
This local market features handcrafted goods from Almost Heaven
Have you been looking for a place to find handcrafted treasures that you can’t find anywhere else? The Handcrafted Cooperative
A Foodie’s Long Weekend Road Trip in West Virginia
If a colorful plate full of Almost Heaven flavor is on your list this season, get ready to hit the
This Group is Approaching 60 Years of Tradition at Oglebay Resort
For 90 years now, beautiful Oglebay Resort in Wheeling has been welcoming guests with generous hospitality. Thanks to the resorts
Fasnacht
Fasnacht is the pre-lenten burning of Old Man Winter. It occurs on the Saturday before Ash Wednesday and is likened
The Ultimate Winter Day in West Virginia
When its wintertime in the Mountain State, there’s never a dull moment. Whether you’re simply sipping hot cocoa in front
Holly Day
Welcome to the North Pole! The Clay Center is excited to help you kick off the holiday season with the
This is how you ski for free in Almost Heaven
West Virginia is known for being an outdoor playground — especially in the winter, when it becomes a beautiful wonderland.
CRAFT DRINK EXPLORER: How to Be a West Virginia Craft Beer Enthusiast in 5 Easy Steps
Aaron Rote, Craft Drink Explorer First off, let me be the first to congratulate you on your decision to become
Insider’s Guide to Real-World WV Locations in Fallout 76
Looking to explore the real-life Mountain State locations in Fallout® 76? You’ve come to the right place. Through an exclusive partnership
These West Virginia-made gifts are perfect for the holidays
This holiday season purchase your friends and family something special and unique that was made right here in Almost Heaven.
Have you experienced a Small Business Saturday in Almost Heaven?
The weekend after Thanksgiving is traditionally one of the busiest weekends of the year for shopping. Black Friday draws millions
You can find some of West Virginia’s best art at these 5 spots
Throughout the state, incredibly talented artisans and artisan groups are creating amazing pieces and showcasing them for the world to
Shop til you drop at these 6 West Virginia boutique districts
It’s always a good time for a shopping trip — and we all deserve it every once in a while!
You won’t find a more remote getaway than this West Virginia spot
Have you ever dreamed of heading to a secluded yet beautiful wilderness? Then a trip aboard the Castaway Caboose at
Night Christmas Parade
Light up the Night Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony. The City of Dunbar celebrates the holidays with a night
These 3 West Virginia locations are some of the spookiest in America
Everyone loves a good ghost story. Something about us loves the terrifying idea of the supernatural, no matter how often
Where to Unplug in Almost Heaven
West Virginia is known for its scenic and peaceful landscape. From sleeping in a tree house to spending a day
This West Virginia cryptid has its own iconic trail
On a dark September night in 1952, several residents of Flatwoods, West Virginia experienced something they will never forget. Edward and
5 signs that you definitely belong in West Virginia
West Virginia pride is a real thing. We wear it proudly on our sleeve and aren’t afraid to let anyone
Wintertime Weekends at The Greenbrier
Experience the warmth of the season that only one place can provide as Wintertime comes to life at America’s Resort, The
New Year’s Eve at The Greenbrier
Ring in 2019 at America’s Resort! The Greenbrier is synonymous with elegant and lavish parties and guests have been “toasting” the
Christmas at The Greenbrier
Christmas at The Greenbrier is a truly remarkable season at America’s Resort. Families reunite in the merriment of the holidays
7 Kid-Approved Activities Adults Will Also Love
West Virginia is the perfect place to have a family adventure. From wild adventures like ziplining and caving to mild
LOCAL WARES & FARES EXPLORER: No, Salt Isn’t Just Salt!
Nancy Bruns, Local Wares & Fares Explorer A friend came over the other day to help me prepare a meal
These Kid-Friendly Restaurants in West Virginia are perfect for the whole family
Looking for new restaurants your kids will love? These spots in West Virginia are perfect for the whole family. From
These West Virginia-Made Bits & Bites make for perfect gifts
Looking for some unique West Virginia flavors and products? These places have everything to satisfy your Mountain State cravings and
Uphill and Downhill: The top ways to do both in West Virginia
No matter the season, there is adventure to be found in the Mountain State. Rain or shine, day or night,
These 6 Restaurants in West Virginia Serve Cheeseburgers that will Blow Your Mind
There’s nothing quite as good as finding the perfect burger spot. Here’s a list of Almost Heaven places with cheeseburgers
These 5 Places Have the Most OVER THE TOP Milkshakes in West Virginia
Crazy, over-the-top milkshakes are one of the most popular trends across the country right now, and West Virginia has some
The most unique places to stay in West Virginia will amaze you
Located throughout West Virginia you can find unique, beautiful and special locally owned motels and inns with incredible customer service
Do you want to explore Almost Heaven? This is where to start
So, you want to explore West Virginia but you don’t know where to begin? Don’t worry – you aren’t alone.
MUSIC EXPLORER: 10 Reasons to Attend a Mountain Stage Show
Larry Groce, Music Explorer Before I get to the ten reasons to join us for a live Mountain Stage show,
HISTORY & HERITAGE EXPLORER: Check Out These Only-In-West-Virginia Monuments You Have to See To Believe
Jeanne Mozier, History & Heritage Explorer In West Virginia, monuments are quirky and occasionally dedicated to fictional figures – maybe.
LUXURY EXPLORER: Experience America’s Resort, A Four-Season Travel Destination
Cam Huffman, Luxury Travel Explorer It’s a question that’s posed almost as often as When was “The Greenbrier built?” (1913)
LUXURY EXPLORER: Proximity – The Real Luxury of the Eastern Panhandle
Stephanie Mathias, Luxury Explorer As a native of West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle, having close proximity to Washington, D.C. meant I
ENTERTAINMENT EXPLORER: Hidden Gems in Hip, Historic Charleston, West Virginia
Alisa Bailey, Entertainment Explorer With unique food, art, recreation and music, a visit to Charleston, West Virginia, is the Mountain
Fill Your Heart with Fall: Fests for the Season
This fall immerse yourself in all things West Virginia by attending some of the states most exciting and unique festivals.
Discover the Perfect Scenic Drives in West Virginia
“Country roads, take me home, to the place I belong.” We all know this song by heart. In fact, you’re
Relax amongst the adventure at these 6 incredible places
It’s a known fact that West Virginia is home to incredible adventure, but the Mountain State is also full of
The 10 Best Spots for Trail Running in West Virginia
From flat, peaceful runs through the West Virginia countryside to runs that will take you up to see some of
These fun and easy day-trips prove you’re never far from Almost Heaven fun
West Virginia is conveniently located within a few hours of many of our country’s major cities. Richmond, Virginia; Lexington, Kentucky; Pittsburgh,
Stay in these 14 cabins for relaxing getaways
From rustic cabins perched upon a mountain to secluded hideaways, these cabins will provide the relaxing getaway you’ve been looking
6 Iconic West Virginia Views & The Top Ways to Experience Them
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing, scenic Sunday afternoon drive through the mountains or an adventure-filled hike to an iconic
Wing connoisseur? Visit these 5 places
Do you consider yourself a wing expert? If so, visit these places for unique wing experiences. These are the perfect
This tiny West Virginia town packs a ton of history
Holding the title of “smallest town in West Virginia,” according to Country Living, Thurmond’s official population is 5. Although today
Find your perfect West Virginia spa getaway today
In need of a spa getaway but not sure where to go? Relax, we’ve got you covered. With locations all
Ready to get out of your comfort zone? Try this!
Have you been feeling the need to shake things up recently? Perfect! The Mountain State offers some of the best
5 best places to pick up West Virginia-made goods
Throughout the Mountain State, you can find incredible artisan-made goods that have been inspired by the state’s iconic beauty. Whether
Your guide to campsites with a side of luxury in West Virginia
Are you a fan of the outdoors but not ready to commit to sleeping in a tent? We’ve got you
Stop by these amazing must-see areas for true West Virginia experiences
It’s no secret that West Virginia has some of the best and most unique experiences to offer. From whitewater rafting and
How many West Virginia creatures can you spot?
West Virginia is home to over 500 different species of wildlife ranging from birds to amphibians and everything in between.
These 5 dishes are nacho average snack
Sometimes nothing hits the spot quite like a towering pile of nachos. All around the Mountain State, you can feast
Have you been to the secret bunker at the Greenbrier? The ‘Today’ Show has!
Did you know that carved deep into the mountainside of West Virginia is an emergency Cold War fallout shelter? Housed under
WV Symphony presents: NINE!
Program: Special commission piece by American composer Gary Fry written especially for the WVSO and the Appalachian Children’s Chorus. Camille Saint-Saëns: Cello Concerto No. 1 Ludwig van Beethoven: Symphony No. 9 with area choruses Lawrence Loh, conductor Gabriel Cabezas, cello The Oregonian once described Gabriel Cabezas as “an intense player who connects to music naturally, without artifice, and brings a singing line to the cello.” Cabezas combines a superb technique, intellectual curiosity and a pioneering musical spirit to his work and has appeared as a soloist with some of America’s finest orchestras, including those of Chicago, Cleveland, Detroit, Houston, Los Angeles, Nashville, New York, Philadelphia, and Pittsburgh. Cabezas’ appearance is made possible by a partnership with Astral Artists. Gary Fry, composer GARY FRY, COMPOSER Gary Fry is an Emmy-winning Chicago-based composer with a passion for working with young people, particularly in choral music. The WVSO commissioned Fry to write a special arrangement featuring the WVSO and the Appalachian Children’s Chorus.
WV Symphony presents: My Harp Will Go On
Program: Gioachino Rossini: Italian in Algiers Overture Alberto Ginastera: Harp Concerto Felix Mendelssohn: Symphony No. 4 Lawrence Loh, conductor Emily Levin, harp Emily Levin, Astral Artist, is the Principal Harpist with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra and Bronze Medal Winner of the 9th USA International Harp Competition. The Jerusalem Post praised her playing for its “communicative, emotionally intense expression” while the Herald Times commended her “technical wizardry and artistic intuition.”
WV Symphony presents: Tony DeSare, Sinatra & Beyond
Called "two parts Frank Sinatra and one part Billy Joel," crooner and pianist Tony DeSare takes on the legend of Ol' Blue Eyes. Headlining with the WVSO, Tony DeSare will deliver a fresh take on old-school classics in a critically-acclaimed tribute to Frank Sinatra that includes song like Fly Me to the Moon, One for My Baby, The Summer Wind, Luck Be a Lady, Witchcraft, and My Way.
WV Symphony presents: Something Old, Something Blue
Program: Jennifer Higdon: blue cathedral Jean Sibelius: Violin Concerto in D minor Brahms: Symphony No. 2 in D Major Lawrence Loh, conductor Nikki Chooi, violin The Calgary Herald described Violinist Nikki Chooi as “richly expressive and technically assured.” The New York Times said he is “vigorous and colorful.” This 28-year-old has performed with symphonies across the globe. Jennifer Higdon, composer JENNIFER HIGDON, COMPOSER Jennifer Higdon is one of America’s most acclaimed composers and a Grammy Award winner who was once hailed by the Washington Post as having “a keen ear, an innate sense of form and a generous dash of pure esprit.” Higdon’s orchestral work, blue cathedral, which the WVSO will perform in January 2019, is one of the most performed contemporary orchestral compositions by a living American.
WV Symphony presents: Sounds of the Season
Join us for an evening of holiday music and fellowship as the WVSO celebrates the Sounds of the Season under the direction of Guest Conductor Michelle Merrill. This concert includes a visit from you know who as Santa brings back one of our recent guest conductors for this WVSO favorite.
6 of the Best Places for Dinner & a Natural Show
Have you been craving those amazing one-of-a-kind summer nights enjoying delicious food and incredible views with your friends and family?
Eastern Panhandle 101
History Just a short distance from DC, the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia is a mecca for history, scenery and
Celebration of Lights
Local individuals, families and businesses have sponsored over 420 lighted holiday displays for your viewing enjoyment. These displays decorate the road around Morris Park located on Pleasant Valley Road in Fairmont. Many people and groups volunteer their time to help with the set up and daily operation of Celebration of Lights event. Each year, over 1,000 hours of volunteer time is dedicated to producing this event for the public. Please come enjoy the displays! The event is sponsored by the Rotary Club of South Fairmont.
These 4 places serve West Virginia’s best moonshine
West Virginia is said to be one of the birthplaces of moonshine. Also referred to as mountain dew or white
The Ultimate West Virginia Distillery Road Trip
Moonshine, whiskey, bourbon… oh my! If you have a taste for the wild side, we have the perfect road trip
These 6 Magnificent mansions in West Virginia are stunning
Scattered throughout the Mountain State are some of the most beautiful mansions dripping with opulence and begging for their history
A Day at the Races: The Full Experience
You don’t have to wait until Kentucky Derby day to hit the races. Experience the excitement of race day right
Everything old is new again: New turns for old places
West Virginia’s rich history is captured in lovingly restored churches, train stations, schools and homes that have been converted to
Flying into DC? Take a quick trip to the Eastern Panhandle in West Virginia
So, you’ve just flown into DC and are looking for something amazing to do. Well, look no further than the
Russian National Ballet Theater presents: Romeo & Juliet/Carmen Suite
The Russian National Ballet Theater will return to the CMC stage to present two classic one-act ballets. Romeo & Juliet takes place in 14th century Italy and follows the story of two star-crossed lovers, caught at the center of conflict between their families. After intermission, the audience is whisked away to a new location and time, to 1820 Spain and the story of Carmen, the Spanish gypsy with two men vying for her heart.
The Texas Tenors LIVE at The Chuck Mathena Center
Since their whirlwind debut eight years ago on NBC’s America’s Got Talent, The Texas Tenors have accumulated a long list of awards, accolades and an enthusiastic fan base, including three Emmy Awards for the PBS special You Should Dream. They have performed more than 1000 concerts around the world including a 24-city tour of the United Kingdom and China, and collaborations with some of the most prestigious symphonies in the United States including the Cleveland Pops, Houston Symphony and the Pittsburgh Symphony to name a few. People are clearly enjoying their talent as they were recently named the #10 Classical Artist in the world according to Billboard magazine.
Carol of the King: The Irish Dance Christmas Spectacular
Carol of the King, The Irish Dance Christmas Spectacular is led by former lead dancer from Michael Flatley’s Lord of the Dance and founder of Two Step Productions, Justin Boros. Two Step Productions also created the smash hit and fastest growing Irish dance show in the U.S., Rhythm in the Night, The Irish Dance Spectacular, which continues to tour every Spring and set records across the country. Two Step Productions is now bringing Irish dance and Christmas together for the first time to turn an age-old tradition into an exciting Irish dance Christmas spectacular the entire family will enjoy! Tickets go on sale 10/15.
The McKameys LIVE with special opening guests The Furrows
Organized as a trio of sisters in 1954, the group “The McKameys” is in its sixth decade of spreading God’s message of love and hope through their music. There have been a few changes throughout the years with one sister continuing with her family. The McKameys play about 145 days a year, traveling throughout North America. To date, they have had 30 number one songs. And yet, this family group is devoted to their Lord, first of all, to their church, and to their call to spread God’s Word to others through their music. The Furrow Family has been known for their ministry through the Word and song for over 100 years. Greg, Paul, and Sarah make up the latest rendition of a legacy that has impacted many lives. This family group brings the best of classic southern gospel with a unbeatable family harmony dynamic. Tickets go on sale 9/17
You’re flying into West Virginia—now where to go?
The Mountain State is served by several primary airports offering commercial services. Is this your first time flying into West