Winter Archives

Hit the history trail: 4 West Virginia road trips with heart

Planning your summer road trip? These fascinating trails might pique your interest in West Virginia’s rich culture and history. Download

The ultimate West Virginia beer road trip

Venture your way through the Mountain State and have some incredible brews along the way! From IPAs to stouts, each

Road Trip: Sweetest small towns & main streets

From strolling down the streets of the state’s vibrant capital city to discovering the charming storefronts of a small mountain

5 farm workshops to learn traditional trades

If you’re a farm kid at heart but never had the opportunity to learn the traditional arts and skills associated

33 Things To Do On Route 33

Take a drive through scenic, rolling hills on Route 33 in Upshur, Lewis and Randolph counties to experience 33 unique

A little bit of Branson in the heart of West Virginia

Why travel all the way to Branson, Missouri, when you can enjoy award-winning dinner theater right here in West Virginia?

Mountain views & a show: The best amphitheaters in West Virginia

From waterfront views to dramatic views of the New River Gorge, each amphitheater in West Virginia is different, yet equally

Destination fun: golf & gaming in Charles Town

Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life in Charles Town. Just one hour away from both DC and Baltimore,

A Handmade Christmas in Shepherdstown

You're invited to a free 100% handmade arts and crafts show in historic Shepherdstown, WV inside Town Run Tap House, featuring 17 local vendors. Shop for handmade gifts from soaps, lotion, jewelry, paintings, purses, knit items, and much more. The Tap House will have food, drink, and even a children's play area to entertain the kids while parents browse work from local artists. Door prizes! For our 3rd year, we are excited to expand this event to 2 weekends, with different amazing artists at each one: Saturday, Nov. 24th (Small Business Saturday) and Saturday, Dec. 15th from 10am to 4pm.

You must try these 8 giant burgers in West Virginia

What makes a hamburger special to you? Is it the chargrilled, juicy beef? Is it the way you dress a

These 27 places know EVERYTHING about West Virginia

Have you consulted a local convention and visitor’s bureau when planning your trip? These organizations are staffed by friendly and

12 months, 12 festivals & events in West Virginia

Throughout the year, the Mountain State is home to some of the most unique and fun festivals and events. From

You must try these 11 AMAZING pies in West Virginia

The pepperoni roll may well be West Virginia’s state food, but we also have some desserts that have reached

What’s a “panhandle”? Explore West Virginia’s most northern and eastern arms

Out of all 50 states, West Virginia has the most distinct shape, with two panhandles extending to the north and

5 mom and pop shops in West Virginia you must visit

You’ll never believe what you can find at some of the state’s oldest and most unique “mom and pop shops.”

Last Winter Market of the Season, Bridgeport Farmers Market

Shop local farmers, producers and artisans. Brunch served daily. Local musicians every week. The last Winter Market will be held April 8th inside Bridgeport Conference Center, 11am - 2pm. Exit 124 off I-79.

10 iconic overlooks in West Virginia that will WOW you

What makes a view scenic? Is it the layers of purple mountains blending into the horizon? Acres of rolling green

Christmas Fantasy Light Show

Drive-thru around Krodel Park and view the unique, animated light displays. New additions each year.

There’s a 400-million-year-old ocean beneath West Virginia

Did you know there’s a 400-million-year-old ocean beneath West Virginia? It’s called the Iapetus Ocean, and it lies underneath the

Gandy Dancer Theatre – Dinner & Mountain Memories Christmas Show

After a fabulous plated dinner of Italian marinated chicken breast, hamburger steak, slaw, green beans, baked potato, dessert and beverage, sit back and celebrate the “Reason for the Season” at the Gandy Dancer Theatre! This incredible cast includes talented singers, beautiful costumed dancers, and the finest musicians around. Join us and make your own mountain memories !!! Arrive at 5:30pm ~ Dinner at 6:00pm ~ Show at 7:00pm Reservations required.

Country Music @ Sagebrush Round-Up

The Sagebrush Round-Up is the host of a weekly country music show featuring local and regional talent. They also house the Country Music Hall of Fame for West Virginia. Come early and try a home cooked dinner.

Country Music @ Sagebrush Round-Up

Kenny G

The Grammy award winning artist, Kenny G is bringing his saxophone stylings to the Clay Center on March 22 at 7:30 pm. With over 75 million records sold, he is the best-selling instrumental musician of the modern era. Using the soprano, alto and tenor saxophones to create a unique sound all his own, Kenny G shot to commercial stardom in 1986 with his Duotones album. With hits like “Songbird”, “Don’t Make Me Wait for Love”, “Forever in Love” and “That Moment”, he has cemented his place as one of the best-selling artists of all time.

St. Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl

Join us from 6 PM to 2 AM on Saturday, March 17 for our 7th Annual East End St. Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl! Crawl between five East End pubs near the intersection of Washington St., East and Elizabeth St. from 6 PM - 11 PM, and three more great pubs at the corner of Leon Sullivan Way and Lee St. from 10 PM - 2 AM. Enjoy food and drink specials, live Celtic music from FOOTMAD, the Shamrock Challenge with a bunch of great prizes, a Pub Crawl T-shirt and drink koozie, and more! Once again, we've worked with the State of WV and the City of Charleston to fully shut down Washington Street, East from Sydney Ave. to Maxwell Street to ensure a safe and fun crawler experience for everyone!

CTOC presents Disney’s The Lion King, Jr.

Disney’s The Lion King has captivated the imagination of audiences around the world. The African savannah comes to life on stage with Simba, Rafiki and an unforgettable cast of characters as they journey from Pride Rock to the jungle… and back again, in this inspiring, coming-of-age tale. Performances: March 16-18, 2018. All performances are at the Civic Center Little Theater. Contact Children's Theater of Charleston for more information.

Marshall University Baseball

Collegiate baseball comes to Charleston when the Marshall University Thundering Herd takes on UAB at Appalachian Power Park. March 16,17, and 18.

These 13 signature West Virginia wines hit all the right notes

Whether you prefer a dry red or a sweet dessert wine, you’re sure to find the perfect glass at

Country Music @ Sagebrush Round-Up

The Sagebrush Round-Up is the host of a weekly country music show that features local and regional talent. It also houses the Country Music Hall of Fame for West Virginia. Come early and try a home cooked dinner.

Native American Exhibit

This exhibition celebrates the presence, diversity, cultural richness, and lifeways of the Native Americans who lived in what is now West Virginia. The exhibition will be on display through April 2018

2018 Maple Days

The West Virginia Maple Syrup Producers Association (WVMSPA) has announced two Maple Days to celebrate the 2018 maple season. On

Nativities From Around the World

This is a self-guided exhibit which showcases hundreds of nativity scenes from over 100 nations, and the cost is FREE!

West Virginia’s unique connection to our first president

Berkeley Springs State Park is renowned for its soothing mineral waters and spa treatments. It’s the site of the annual

Fossil Day

B. Mitchel Blake, Jr., State Geologist and Director of the West Virginia Geological and Economical Survey, will identify your fossils. There will also be hands-on activities for the whole family, a museum hunt, and a special display of fossils by members of the West Virginia Fossil Club.

Celebrate Mardi Gras in West Virginia

You don’t need to travel to New Orleans to toss festive beads and feast on king cake. Celebrate Mardi

2018 National Hometown Heroes Boxing Championships

See amateur boxing at its best, on the grassroots level. Approximately 125 athletes are expected to compete in the 2018 National Hometown Heroes Boxing Championships Feb. 16 – 18 at the Beni Kedem Shriners Center in Charleston. The program works with athletes from the age of 8 up to develop individual integrity, character, physical and mental fitness, and personal objectives through the competitive sport of boxing. This competition is a USA Boxing-sanctioned event, and participants are matched based on age, weight, and experience. Gold, silver, and bronze medals are awarded, as are team trophies and special awards. Enjoy the thrill of the fight and high-caliber sportsmanship while supporting youth boxing at its finest. February 16-18, 2018

8 Unique Sandwiches in West Virginia

Not all gourmet meals require a knife and fork. You can eat these West Virginia-made sandwiches on the go, but

Country Music @ Sagebrush Round-Up

The Sagebrush Round-Up is the host of a family-friendly weekly country music show and houses the Country Music Hall of Fame for West Virginia. Come early and try a home cooked dinner.

Valentine’s Date Night

Bring your significant other in for a creative evening at the WOW! Enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres on us while choosing from one of our many project options: paint pottery, design mosaics, glass fuse or clay hand build! Pay only for the project of your choice, no other sitting fee or extra charge incurred. Reservations required. Check out our website for details and registration. Call the studio at 304-599-2969 to register.

Join in on this majestic creature’s comeback story

Bald eagles have been nesting in northern parts of the state since 1981, but it wasn’t until spring 2010 that

Cabin Fever Craft Beer Festival

Cabin Fever Craft Beer Festival is North Central WV’s annual indoor winter event featuring brews from around the Mountain State. It takes place every February in Morgantown at Mylan Park. Cabin Fever exclusively offers only beer brewed in WV and is a great way to sample the best offerings from the newest small batch breweries from all over the state. The unique fest also hosts local food and merchant vendors with a distinct focus on Appalachian culture.

Valentine’s Love & Marriage Dinner Game Show

The Gandy Dancer features the finest in live entertainment and outstanding cuisine in a beautiful 11,000 square foot dinner theatre. Patrons receive a full dinner, dessert, and enjoy a high energy, state of the art live music show. Shows at the Gandy Dancer are family friendly, featuring a variety of music and comedy from the 50's to the 90's, country, Motown, Gospel, patriotic and legends performers. Our Valentine's Love & Marriage Dinner Game Show features a plated dinner which includes: sliced sirloin, Italian marinated chicken breast, green beans, side salad, baked potato, dinner roll, dessert & beverage. The dinner/dessert begins at 6 p.m., with music & dancing til 7:30 p.m., then couples questions (game show style) with a prize at the end!

Film – “The Real George Washington”

Celebrate George Washington’s Birthday (February 22, 1732) with this National Geographic film that reveals the man behind the myth. Join an excavation team at Washington’s childhood home, and see how a team of forensic scientists and artists recreate a realistic image of Washington’s face. (50 min).

Film – “Prince Among Slaves”

“Prince Among Slaves” is the remarkable true story of Abdul Rahman Ibrahima Sori, an African prince enslaved in the American South who endured the humiliation of slavery without ever losing his dignity or hope for freedom. A PBS production. (60 min).

Film Series at the Grave Creek Mound Archaeological Complex

Film- "The Real George Washington"(50 min): Celebrate George Washington's birthday on February 22, 1732, with this film that reveals the man behind the myth. Join an excavation team at Washington's childhood home, and see how a team of forensic scientists and artists recreate a realistic image of Washington's face. A National Geographic production.

Valentine’s Concert at the Strand Theatre

The two hour vocal presentation will feature beautiful love songs from the 50's through today and from all genres; pop, country, oldies, and gospel by the Ron Retzer Trio. Time: 7 p.m. - 10 p.m. Tickets: $10.00 each and are available at the Moundsville Pharmacy and at Frame and Fortunes in Moundsville.

10 cozy WV cabins and cottages for winter escapes

When a heavy snow blankets the ground and night falls early, there’s nothing like huddling around a crackling fire and

FOOTMAD presents Téada from Dublin, Ireland

As part of the 3rd annual Celtic Calling festival, Téada brings the authentic music of Ireland to Charleston's downtown art scene. Téada, now firmly established as one of Irish music's leading exponents on the international world music stage, continues to be driven by a fascination with the timeless, expressive force of traditional tunes inherited from previous generations of musicians. Since 2001, Téada, has evolved to frequent headline performances at major music festivals throughout the US, Canada, Europe, Israel and Australia. Admission: $20 general, $15 seniors, $10 students, children under 13 and Americorps/VISTA free

WV Symphony Orchestra presents A Night of “Great” Music

A Night of "Great" Music features: Mendelssohn: Midsummer Night’s Dream Overture Haydn: Concerto in D Major with Christine Lamprea, cello and Astral Artist Schubert: Symphony No. 9, “The Great”

Mountain East Conference Men’s & Women’s Basketball Tournament

MEC basketball returns to Charleston Feb 28 as the Men's and Women's teams battle to be #1. Member institutions include Concord University, Fairmont State University, Glenville State University, Shepherd University, University of Charleston, West Liberty University, West Virginia State University, Wheeling Jesuit University, West Virginia Wesleyan College, Notre Dame College, Urbana University, and University of Virginia's College at Wise. February 28 - Mar. 4

The Struggle for Freedom: The Life of Dr. King

Bright Star Touring Theatre, a national professional touring theatre company based in Asheville, NC is visiting the area with their heralded production of Struggle for Freedom: The Life of Dr. King. Struggle for Freedom is a 45-minute production that seeks to honor the American Civil Rights Movement. The life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. provides the backdrop to scenes that recreate the Montgomery bus boycott, the March on Washington, the Woolworth Sit-ins and much more. It is best appreciated by grades 2nd through adult and offers this study guide: http://www.brightstartheatre.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Struggle-for-Freedom-study-guide.pdf. Adult, Teens, Elementary. Additional dates and times: Feb. 26, 10:30 a.m. Riverside Public Library Feb. 26, 6:00 p.m. Elk Valley Public Library

TAO: Drum Heart

TAO’s modern, high-energy performances showcasing the ancient art of Japanese drumming have transfixed audiences worldwide. The performers of TAO: Drum Heart creates an energetic and unforgettable production by combining highly physical, large-scale drumming with contemporary costumes, precise choreography, and innovative visuals. The group performed at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics, and they have toured the world, performing to a global audience of more than seven million. The performers who take the stage for TAO are both highly trained athletes and highly-expressive artists. Melodies of various genres and traditional instruments result in an enchanting scene that only TAO can present, using world-class techniques and specialized knowledge. From 2012, global fashion designer Junko Koshino has collaborated with TAO to unite fashion and entertainment, making an even more sublime performing art.

Roots and Boots Tour

Spend an acoustic evening with Sammy Kershaw, Aaron Tippin & Collin Raye as they go back to their roots and perform their best-known songs. SAMMY KERSHAW In the course of breaking into the ranks of stardom in country music, Sammy Kershaw has made contributions to more than just the charts. His platinum albums were propelled into the records books by hits such as “She Don’t Know She’s Beautiful,” “I Can’t Reach Her Anymore,” “National Working Woman’s Holiday,” “Love Of My Life,” “Cadillac Style,” “Don’t Go Near The Water,” “Haunted Heart,”…and many other milestones. AARON TIPPIN Tippin has crusaded for the working man and woman since he ripped country music wide open with his uncompromising single “You’ve Got To Stand For Something.” His voice continued to ring loud and clear with such hits as “I Wouldn’t Have It Any Other Way”, “There Ain’t Nothin’ Wrong With The Radio”, That’s As Close As I’ll Get To Loving You,” “My Blue Angel” and “Kiss This”. Five of his albums are certified “Gold” and a sixth CD—Read Between The Lines—stands at the “Platinum” level. Tippin’s honest lyrics and direct, impassioned vocals have built a large and devoted audience. COLLIN RAYE Collin Raye is nothing if not passionate. His soulful delivery has set country standards in such searing ballads as “Love, Me,” “In This Life,” “Not That Different” and “If I were you”. Always an energizing showman, he has also blazed through such vivid rockers as “My Kind of Girl,” “That’s My Story,” “I Can Still Feel You” and “I Want You Bad.” With 24 top ten records, 16 #1 hits, and having been a 10 time male vocalist of the year nominee (5 CMA and 5 ACM), this truly electrifying performer of his era remains one of the great voices of our time.

Into the Heart of the Dungeon at the Former WV Penitentiary

Into the Heart of the Dungeon is hosted by the Former WV Penitentiary. This extreme Valentine's Day event is not for the faint of heart! All attendees must be 18 years of age or older! No exceptions will be made. Begin your evening with a romantic dinner for two. You must be on time for your dinner settings. The reservation time that you book is the time you are expected to check-in. You will not be seated early. Dinner will be served inside the Moundsville Center, located off of 8th Street, through the North Wagon Gate. Come prepared for an immersive night of horror! Please wear comfortable clothing and shoes (no heels!). Wear warm clothing and items that you are not afraid to get dirty, stained, and possibly ruined. We are not responsible for your articles of clothing. You must be able to run, crawl, and survive in small, dark spaces for prolonged periods of time. There is a possibility that you could be separated from your partner. We are not required to keep you and your partner together for the duration of the event. During the event, you will encounter uneven surfaces, low ceilings, stairs, and total disorientation. You WILL be touched, bound, tied, dragged, forced, shocked, blindfolded, humiliated, and locked up! Those with heart conditions and medical/physical impairments should not attend this event. This event is not wheelchair accessible! Please expect to leave with bruises, scrapes, and other bodily injuries. A safe word will be given in case the experience is more than you can endure. Cost: $100 per Couple (plus taxes and fees) Reservation Times: 5:30pm 6:30pm 7:30pm 8:30pm

Family Program at the Grave Creek Mound Archaeological Complex

Green up your winter blues! Beat the winter blues with some garden-related activities! Help us shell beans and shuck corn for the museums Interpretive Garden, make a cornhusk doll, propogate a baby plant, and get garden advice from a Master Gardener.

Super Blue Moon Star Watch With The Smart Centre

Wednesday January, 31: 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. See the Super Blue Moon with amateur astronomers at Grand Vue Park's Aerial Adventure Park! Weather permitting, see winter stars and deep space objects!

Crafty Cabin Fever Weekend

A informative weekend getaway is planned at Cedar Lakes Conference Center in Ripley. Learn basketry, wood turning, stained glass, wool felting and psaltery playing from professional instructors. Call 304-372-7860 for information.

Live Music Saturday featuring Zoo of Trees

Local musicians Shawn Benfield (Guitar/Vocals) and Chris Huddle (Guitar/Backing Vocals) come together to perform all your acoustic favorites.

Dunbar Critter Dinner

If you are looking for an exhilarating meal, join us for the annual Critter Dinner. Some look toward the groundhog to tell whether spring is coming, the City of Dunbar has been holding it's Critter Dinner since 1974 to let everyone know the weather is breaking. The cooks for the dinner have a reputation of serving anything that walks on four legs, crawls or swims. If it can be boiled, sautéed, smoked or fried, you will find it on the buffet, along with vegetables, breads and drinks. The cost for such a grandiose meal is only 5 items (canned, dry goods, cleaning supplies) or a cash donation.

These 5 West Virginia ‘cupcakeries’ will satisfy your sweet tooth

Cupcakes. Cupcakes are everywhere! This latest foodie trend was born out of convenience — unlike a cake, you don’t have

8 WV Coffee Roasts to add to your online cart

Each winter season we are faced with cold mornings and busy days. The best way to beat the chill and

West Virginia is Home to the Longest Sled Run on the East Coast

If flying down a snowy hill at 25 mph is your idea of fun, there’s no better place to be

5 Ways to Warm up this Winter in WV

When the weather outside is frigid and freezing, there are plenty of ways to cozy up in Almost Heaven. Whether

Charleston Restaurant Week returns for the fifth year

Make your reservations now for the fifth annual Charleston Restaurant Week, from Jan. 29 through Feb. 3. For only $30

THIS is the best time to learn to ski & snowboard in West Virginia

If you’ve ever wanted to try your hand at skiing or snowboarding, West Virginia is the perfect place to begin.

Winter Blues Farmers’ Market

The West Virginia Department of Agriculture in cooperation with the WVU Extension Service Small Farm Center is excited to bring the Winter Blues Farmers Market to the Charleston Civic Center. This premier event gives all of us the opportunity to showcase the bounty of West Virginia. We are proud of this event and want to economically demonstrate that small farmers mean big business. This event is FREE and open to the public.

Celtic Calling Gathering

The 4th Annual Celtic Calling takes place in Charleston, WV on March, 1st-3rd, 2019. Scottish group Heron Valley are confirmed

Disney on Ice

Show times: Thursday, Feb. 21 at 7 p.m., Friday, Feb. 22 at 7 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 23 at 11 a.m., 3 p.m.

The Road Show

An all-star lineup of some of Christian music’s biggest names will take the stage when THE ROADSHOW embarks on its ninth year in February 2018. Grammy-winning duo for KING & COUNTRY, along with Grammy nominees Matthew West, Natalie Grant and Zach Williams are just some of the chart-topping artists slated to perform this year. As a special treat, popular Dove Award-winning worship ministry Bethel Music will kick off each event, and Miami hip-hop duo Social Club Misfits round out the stylistically diverse mix of music that will appeal to the entire family.

Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit with Special Guest James McMurtry

Two-time Grammy Award winner Jason Isbell and his mighty band The 400 Unit have announced 2018 tour dates bringing them through the Midwest and Eastern U.S. in January and February. Their new album The Nashville Sound (Southeastern Records) was released in June and debuted at #1 on the Rock, Folk, Country and Independent charts, while reaching #4 overall on the Billboard Top 200 Albums Chart. The independently released album has gone on to sell over 110,000 copies and was recently nominated for the Country Music Association’s Album of the Year. COST: $30-$44

West Virginia Outdoor Sports Show

The 50th West Virginia Outdoor Sports Show is the biggest and best in the region. Explore the new outdoor adventure zones

Jim Gaffigan, The Fixer Upper

Jim Gaffigan is a Grammy nominated comedian, New York Times best-selling author, top touring performer, and multi-platinum-selling father of five. He recently wrapped the first season of his semi-fictitious television show, The Jim Gaffigan Show, which TV Land picked up for a second season and premieres this summer. Tickets: $37.75 - $57.75

With A Little Help From My Friends: The Marathon Concert

Rubber Soul, (Tribute to John, Paul, George and Ringo) local Beatles tribute band, in conjunction with Fund For the Arts, is sponsoring a community event on Groundhog Day, February 2, 2018. We are calling this a community event because it will involve a who’s who of local and world musicians performing the music of the Beatles for a great cause. This event “With A Little Help From Our Friends: The Marathon Concert” will involve the continuous, live performance of all (206 to be exact) of the Beatle’s songs. The plan is to start about 12:00 noon on Friday February 2 and complete around midnight. Hosted by Larry Groce, the core band Rubber Soul, will play continuous songs stopping only to welcome featured musicians to the stage to sit-in.

Monster Jam Triple Threat Series

Featuring eight of the most intense athletes of Monster Jam, Charleston fans will witness a fierce battle for the championship

Charleston Restaurant Week

Charleston Restaurant week celebrates six years this winter. Presented by Buzz, #CWVRESTWEEK is one of the most highly anticipated culinary event in the region. It's a celebration of local cuisine and gives patrons the opportunity to try 3 courses for $25 or $35 at any one of the participating restaurants. Please check our website and Facebook for updated information.

Cincinnati Reds Caravan

This year's tour features broadcaster Jeff Piecoro, pitchers Sal Romano and Cody Reed, Manager Bryan Price, minor league infielder Nick Senzel, Reds Hall of Famer Tom Browning, Vice President & Senior Advisor to the General Manager Buddy Bell, and mascot Mr. Red.

WV Hunting & Fishing Show

Each year in January, we present the West Virginia Hunting and Fishing ShowSM at the Civic Center in Charleston, West Virginia. All proceeds, except for costs to run the show and club operating expenses, are donated to programs that promote or protect hunting, fishing, wildlife, conservation, and related educational activities. We only solicit vendors of high quality products and services related to the sport of hunting and fishing. The show features exhibitors from as far away as Alaska, New Zealand, Spain, and Africa, plus the United States and Canada. We are all 100% volunteers. In conjunction with the show, we run the West Virginia Whitetail Hall of FameSM. The West Virginia Whitetail Hall of FameSM provides an opportunity for individuals to bring their West Virginia deer trophies in for official scoring and to display the largest racks harvested. You may bring as many mounts in to be scored as you wish. Bring your tags for the deer for official WV DNR scoring. Friday, January 26: 12:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Saturday, January 27: 9:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. Sunday, January 28: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Admission: Adults $9; Children 6-12 $1; Under 6 Free.

Arts in our Communities 2018 Conference

Share your ideas, learn what others are doing, and meet key national arts leaders as we continue our conversation about arts in our communities.

The Charleston Light Opera Guild presents “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee”

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee is a musical comedy that centers on a fictional spelling bee in the gymnasium of the Putnam Valley Middle School. An eclectic group of 6 quirky middle school students (usually played by adults) arrive at the 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, each eager to win for different reasons. The Bee is run by an equally quirky group of 3 adults. Four real audience members are invited on stage during each performance to compete alongside the 6 characters. With a book by Rachel Sheinkin and engaging, tuneful score by William Finn, the 2005 Broadway production won the Tony Award and Drama Desk Award for best book. Dates and times: Friday, January 19 at 7:30pm to 10:00pm Saturday, January 20 at 7:30pm to 10:00pm Friday, January 26 at 7:30pm to 10:00pm Saturday, January 27 at 7:30pm to 10:00pm Sunday, January 28 at 2:00pm to 4:30pm Friday, February 2 at 7:30pm to 10:00pm Saturday, February 3 at 7:30pm to 10:00pm Sunday, February 4 at 2:00pm to 4:30pm

West Virginia International Auto Show

New cars, trucks and SUVs will fill the Charleston Civic Center Center for the 2019 West Virginia International Auto Show!

Pricketts Fort 18th C. Firearms Show

Collectible vendors will bring together their best warfare wares for a unique peek into Colonial combat at the Pricketts Fort Firearms & Accouterments Show. Friday 1pm – 6 pm Saturday 9am – 5pm Sunday 9am – 3pm

Pricketts Fort 18th C. Firearms Show

14th Annual Ice Bowl and Chili Cook-Off

This annual winter-time disc golf tournament will once again feature a chili cook-off. Awards will be given to both players and top chili recipes. Proceeds benefit the Fairmont Soup Opera, a local food bank.

West Virginia adds 3 sites to the U.S. Civil Rights Trail

West Virginia is home to three historic stops on the United States Civil Rights Trail. The trail launches with the

This West Virginia popcorn is unlike any you’ve ever tried

Move over, microwave popcorn! These family owned businesses give new meaning to the term mom and “pop” store. The folks

Bettye Lavette and More on Mountain Stage

BETTYE LAVETTE: Bettye LaVette is no mere singer. She is an interpreter of the highest order. Whether the song originated as country, rock, pop, or blues, when she gets through with it, it is pure R&B. She gets inside a song and shapes and twists it to convey all of the emotion that can be wrought from the lyric.

Mountain Stage Presents: Patti Smith, Mollie O’Brien and Rich Moore, Tim O’Brien w/ Jan Fabricius, Charlie McCoy and Van William

MOLLIE O'BRIEN & RICH MOORE WITH BRIGID & LUCY MOORE: Families making music together have long been linchpins in the library of American music. It’s the singing. It’s the harmonizing. It’s the way you can’t tell which family member is singing which part. It’s the wonders of DNA at play that bring you into a rich, musical world that comes about only when people with common speech patterns and genetics get together behind a song. Mollie O’Brien and Rich Moore’s fans have come to know over the years that they produce thoughtful and rich recordings covering the broad spectrum of all the music we call our own. PATTI SMITH & FAMILY: American rock musician, born on December 30, 1946 in Chicago, Illinois, USA. Inducted into Rock And Roll Hall of Fame in 2007 (Performer). TIM O'BRIEN W/ JAN FABRICIUS: Born in Wheeling, West Virginia on March 16, 1954, Tim O’Brien grew up singing in church and in school, and started playing folk and rock music on guitar at age 12. After seeing Doc Watson on TV, he became a lifelong devotee of old time and bluegrass music. VAN WILLIAM: Van William has spent every summer of his life working on his father's commercial salmon fishing boat off Kodiak Island, Alaska - a job he loved and a job that influenced every part of his life. When he wasn't fishing, he was growing up in the small coastal California town of Cambria, learning to write songs and eventually touring the world by the age of 20 - leading a few different indie rock outfits including Port O'Brien and WATERS. CHARLIE MCCOY: Grammy award-winning multi-instrumentalist who has also been a prolific Nashville session musician, especially on harmonica.

Live on Mountain Stage: Dailey & Vincent, Molly Tuttle, Western Centuries, The Sweetback Sisters and Richie and Rosie

DAILEY & VINCENT: Grand Ole Opry Members, Five-time GRAMMY® award winners individually, three-time GRAMMY® award nominees collectively, four-time DOVE Award winners, and winners of 35 IBMA Awards altogether (including 3-time IBMA Entertainer of the Year Award winners and 3-Time Vocal Group of the Year Award winners), Jamie Dailey and Darrin Vincent, backed by one of the best bands on tour today, are some of the most reputable and elite entertainers in American music; bluegrass, traditional country and gospel music. MOLLY TUTTLE: Molly Tuttle, a virtuoso multi-instrumentalist and award winning songwriter with a distinctive voice, has been performing on stage since she was 11 and recorded her first album at age 13. In just 2012 alone, she was awarded music and composition Merit Scholarships to the Berklee College of Music in Boston, the Hazel Dickens Memorial Scholarship award from the Foundation for Bluegrass Music in Nashville, Best Female Vocalist and Best Guitar Player by the Northern California Bluegrass Society and 1st place in the prestigious Merlefest’s Chris Austin Songwriting Competition. WESTERN CENTURIES: Round up a country band and an early R&B group with three lead vocalists, weave in a hefty amount of vocal harmony and witty turns-of-phrase, and let ‘em rock out like The Band. The sound of roots music mavericks Western Centuries sits at these crossroads, and their debut album Weight of the World introduces a band as skillful in their musicianship as they are innovative in their writing. With upbeat, barroom dance numbers, lilting, introspective tunes of heartbreak, and everything in between, the album strikes an oft-strived-for but rarely achieved balance between genre-busting experimentation and thoughtful continuity. THE SWEETBACK SISTERS: The Sweetback Sisters fresh take on the golden age of country music featuring vibrant vocal harmonies in a six-piece rockin' country band. The Sweetback Sisters' blend of magical harmonies, blazing leads, and charging rhythms doesn't just look back on honky-tonk with fond nostalgia, but rather moves it forward into the 21st century, presenting a vital take on an All-American genre. With King Of Killing Time, The Sweetback Sisters have hit their own golden era, and it only gets brighter from here. RICHIE AND ROSIE: Richie Stearns and Rosie Newton grew up a 150 miles and few decades apart. While both were raised by professional cellist, Richie started playing banjo at 14 and Rosie began classical piano lessons at eight, eventually moving to classical viola as a teen. Both shared incredibly unique, musically-immersed childhoods: Richie’s family founded the iconic GrassRoots Festival of Music & Dance (which he is now President of) and by her junior year of high school, Rosie was playing fiddle and touring with folk rock band The Mammals. During that time, the two were introduced at Saratoga Springs’ Flurry festival -- a meeting that would spark a fated friendship and unique musical bond.

John Oates, Tyminski, Lilly Hiatt, Bil Lepp and Danny Barnes Live on Mountain Stage-Morgantown

John Oates: John Oates is one half of the best-selling duo of all time Hall & Oates, as well as an accomplished solo artist. Singing from the time he could talk and playing the guitar since the age of five, John Oates was destined to be a musician. Since embarking on a long awaited solo career in 1999, John has recorded five solo albums: Phunk Shui, 100 Miles of Life, Mississippi Mile, a live album called The Bluesville Sessions, and Good Road To Follow, (which featured collaborations with Ryan Tedder of OneRepublic, Vince Gill, Nathan Chapman, Jim Lauderdale, and Jerry Douglas). Tyminski: Tyminski, a Rutland, Vermont native, is a 14-time Grammy Award-winner and one of the premier vocalists in modern acoustic music. He co-wrote Southern Gothic with top songwriters including Sarah Buxton (“Stupid Boy”), Josh Kear (“Need You Now”), Cary Barlowe (“American Honey”), Andrew Dorff (“Neon Light”), Amy Wadge (“Thinking Out Loud”) and Southern Gothic producer Jesse Frasure (“Dirt On My Boots”). Lilly Hiatt: Lilly Hiatt has returned with Trinity Lane, released August 25th, 2017. The 12-song set was produced by Michael Trent of Shovels & Rope and engineered by Andy Dixon at Trent’s Studio Bees in Johns Island, SC. It is the follow up to her acclaimed sophomore album Royal Blue, which Paste Magazine described as “a glorious tumble of influences – surf rock, Smiths vibes, Laurel Canyon twang and jangle, Sonic Youth flatline, Britpop flourishes, Seattle grunge and Joy Division meets Human League synthery.” Bil Lepp: Bil’s humorous, family friendly tall-tales and stories have earned the appreciation of listeners of all ages and from all walks of life. Though a five time champion of the WV Liars’s Contest, Lepp’s stories often contain morsels of truth which present universal themes in clever and witty ways. Audiences all across the country, from grade schools to corporate execs to the Comedy Central’s Hudson stage, have been delighted by Bil’s mirthful tales and delightful insights into everyday life. Bil’s books and audio collections have won awards including the PEN Steven Kroll Award for Children’s Book Writing, Parents’ Choice Gold awards, and awards from the National Parenting Publications Assoc., and the Public Library Assoc. Danny Barnes: American banjo player, singer, and composer, born 21 December 1961.

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Winter Indoor Gardening

The joy of gardening doesn’t need to end just because it’s cold outside. Master Gardeners Bill and Emilie Johnson will share ideas, tips, and tricks for successful indoor gardens as well as provide examples and inspiration. $5 for WVBG members, $15 for non-members. Register online at www.wvbg.org.

Starting from Seed

Growing plants from seed can be very rewarding. Many do well directly sown into ones garden or started in a nursery row to be transplanted as they grow in size. Others need to be started indoors in order to be ready for the growing season. The class, led by WVBG Executive Director, Bill Mills, will discuss the many techniques of what can be a very rewarding experience. $5 for WVBG members, $15 for non-members. Register online at www.wvbg.org.

The Heart of the Matter

Heart disease is the number one cause of death in United States. By making adjustments in our diet and lifestyle we can reduce this statistic. In this class led by Certified Health Coach MarryAnn Post, we'll cover 10 heart health tips, enjoy heart friendly snacks, go for a walk at the Garden, and look at the importance of the "mind-body connection" in regard to your heart health. $30 for WVBG members, $45 for non-members. Register online at www.wvbg.org.

Seed Swap

Share the bounty of your garden while growing your own! Come swap seeds with friends at this fun social event. Details on types of seeds to bring and packaging will be sent to registrants. Free. Donations encouraged.

Two Rivers String Quartet Concert

The Friends of Music will present the third concert of their 2017-2018 season on Saturday, January 13. The concert will be held at 7:30 p.m. at Trinity Episcopal Church in Shepherdstown. It will feature the Two Rivers String Quartet. The concert program is entitled "Contrasting Passions." It will include two works: • Bedřich Smetana (1824-1884) — String Quartet No. 1 in E minor • Felix Mendelssohn (1809-1847) — String Quartet No. 4 in E minor, Op. 44, No. 2. Jed Gaylin, the Music Director of Friends of Music, says both works show great passion but their styles are very different. He says the Mendelssohn piece is "virtuosic, fleet, and intense, with moments, such as the final chorale, of magnificent serenity." On the other hand, he says, Smetana's quartet "is earthy, rooted in Slavic folk music traditions." Admission to the concert will be free for Friends of Music members. The ticket price for others will be $20 per person ($18 before December 31). Tickets can be purchased on the Friends' website at www.friendswv.org or by mail (FOM, PO Box 220, Shepherdstown, WV 25443). Visa and Master Card will be accepted. If there is snow that makes travel difficult on January 13, the concert will be rescheduled to January 20. The Friends of Music is a non-profit organization that was founded in 1999 to support and promote musical excellence in the region. For full information about the Friends and their concerts, go to www.friendswv.org.