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Square Dance

The Mountain Dance Trail, a heritage tourism project of the Augusta Heritage Center of Davis & Elkins College, will host its monthly square dance on Friday, January 13 in Myles Center for the Arts Pit Dance Studio on the College campus. The event will feature music by Ben Townsend and friends, with Nevada Tribble and other local residents calling square dances. A beginners’ workshop is set for 7:45 p.m. and the dance starts at 8 p.m. All dances are beginner and family friendly and participants don’t need to come with a dance partner. Admission is $6 for general public, $4 for students and AmeriCorps members, and free to Davis & Elkins College students, faculty and staff. Those attending should bring an extra pair of shoes for dancing. For additional information, visit www.augustaheritagecenter.org, email brittany@augustaheritagecenter.org or call 304-637-1209.

How much of your state have you really explored? WV checklist

How well do you know West Virginia? Here’s your ultimate checklist! 1. Head to Philippi to see the state’s oldest

You’ll never want to leave this mountaintop village

Snowshoe Mountain has some of the best skiing in the entire mid-Atlantic region— but there is way more to do

Heating it up on the ice: 7 reasons to catch this hockey team in the rink

  West Virginia’s signature hockey team heats up the ice every season— and you’ll want to catch these goal-blazers on

No one knows how this town’s 90-year-old tradition started. But it’s a New Year staple.

The tiny town of Lenox is about 400 miles from the ocean, but somehow, their New Year’s tradition revolves around

5 100% timeless gifts for your fashionable friends

Still stuck on what to get your most fashion-forward friend? Hit up a local boutique for unique and timeless gifts

Winter warmers: WV’s top drinks for chilly days

Seasonal beer, cocktails, wines, spirits & all! Warm up your wild, wonderful winter with some West Virginia wine, spirits and

This has got to be the quirkiest parade in the country

  The distance from Lewisburg to Shanghai, China, is about 7,450 miles. No one really knows how, when or why

6 eco-friendly gifts your friends will definitely keep

Looking for eco-friendly gifts this holiday season? Local West Virginia artisans, farmers, and merchants create locally made, recycled and sustainable

42nd Street

Based on Bradford Ropes’ novel and Busby Berkeley’s 1933 movie, 42nd Street tells the story of a starry-eyed young dancer named Peggy Sawyer who leaves her Allentown home and comes to New York to audition for the new Broadway musical “Pretty Lady.” When the leading lady breaks her ankle, Peggy takes over and becomes a star. With a book by Michael Stewart and Mark Bramble, music by Harry Warren and lyrics by Al Dubin, this sparkling new production will be directed by co-author Mark Bramble and choreographed by Randy Skinner—the team who staged the 2001 Tony Award-winning Best Musical Revival. The quintessential backstage musical comedy classic, 42nd Street is the song and dance fable of Broadway with an American Dream story and includes some of the greatest songs ever written, such as “We’re In The Money,” “Lullaby of Broadway,” “Shuffle Off To Buffalo,” “Dames,” “I Only Have Eyes For You” and of course “42nd Street.”

Mountain Stage with Larry Groce

For more than 30 years “Mountain Stage with Larry Groce” has been the home of live music on public radio. The two-hour radio show is produced in West Virginia and distributed by National Public Radio weekly on more than 150 stations across America and around the world via NPR Music and mountainstage.org. The show, which is recorded before a live audience, features performances by seasoned legends and emerging stars in genres ranging from folk, blues and country to indie rock, synth pop, world and alternative music, and beyond. Singer/songwriter Larry Groce serves as the show’s host, artistic director and co-producer. The Mountain Stage house band includes jazz pianist Bob Thompson, vocalist Julie Adams, bass player Steve Hill, drummer Ammed Solomon and guitarists Michael Lipton and Ryan Kennedy. The band is directed by Ron Sowell. While “Mountain Stage” is based in Charleston, Morgantown has been the show’s second home for more than a decade.

Showmasters Gun Show

Come join us for the Showmasters Gun Show. Admission: General: $7.00; Children under 12: FREE. ​Saturday admission is also good for Sunday. Tickets can only be purchased Cash Only the day of the show at the door! Hours: Sat: 9:00AM – 5:00PM; Sun: 9:00AM – 4:00PM.

11th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr., Day Celebration: “Nonviolence is Courageous”

The Community Coalition for Social Justice will explore the theme of “Non-violence is Courageous” during its Eleventh Annual Martin Luther King, Jr., Day Celebration on Monday, January 16, 2016, at 2:00 p.m. at the Metropolitan Theatre, 373 High Street, Morgantown. The program will feature music in the lobby before the event, a welcome by Morgantown Mayor Marti Shamberger; music by the Flying Colors, Morgantown Children’s Choir, the Morgantown Community Orchestra, and the Cheat Lake Elementary School Choir; and a performance by children from the Shack Neighborhood House. Jeremy Thomas will recite sections of Dr. King’s speech “Where Do We Go From Here?,” and Lt. Matt Solomon of the Morgantown Police Department will talk about how “Police Officers are Peace Officers.” Art students from St. Francis Central Catholic School provide posters to publicize the event. The Morgantown Police Department is providing coloring and activity books on “How to Handle Bullying” for the children attending, and Rachel Wood of Virtus Wealth Solutions purchased crayons for them. High school HSTA students will assist at the event. This program is free and open to the public. For more information on the Community Coalition for Social Justice, the Backpack Snack Program, and this program, please go to www.ccsjwv.org or email ccsjwv@hotmail.com.

Nowhere goes more over-the-top for Christmas than this mountain retreat

“America’s Resort” takes holidays to the next level with 60 Spectacular Days of Holiday Cheer. Live the holiday high life.

New Year’s Eve Party

Come join us for the New Years Eve Party featuring Rick K, The Allnighters, and DJ Alex Shay.

New Year’s Eve Gatsby Style with WVAQ

Ring in the New Year Gatsby Style in Lakeview Golf Resort & Spa‘s Governer’s Ballroom with WVAQ! This Year’s Entertainment Includes Queen City Funk and Soul Band, Plus Live WVAQ Broadcasting with Jason Knight! NEW YEAR’S EVE PACKAGES: Party Package | $70/Person* • 1 Ticket to the Event with LIVE Band and WVAQ DJ Jason Knight • Hors d’Oeuvres and Party Favors • Midnight Champagne Toast Dinner Party Package | $150/Couple* • 2 New Year’s Eve Dinner Buffets at Fusion Restaurant • 2 Tickets to the Event with LIVE Band and WVAQ DJ Jason Knight • Hors d’Oeuvres and Party Favors • Midnight Champagne Toast Silver Celebration Package $169.99/Single* | $219.99/Double* • Overnight Accommodations • 2 New Year’s Day Breakfast Buffets at Fusion Restaurant • 2 Tickets to the Event with LIVE Band and WVAQ DJ Jason Knight • Hors d’Oeuvres and Party Favors • Midnight Champagne Toast Diamond Celebration Package $189.99/Single* | $279.99/Double* • Overnight Accommodations • 2 New Year’s Eve Dinner Buffets and 2 New Year’s Day Breakfast Buffets at Fusion Restaurant • 2 Tickets to the Event with LIVE Band and WVAQ DJ Jason Knight • Hors d’Oeuvres and Party Favors • Midnight Champagne Toast *Taxes and Gratuity Not Included in Package Price. Advance Purchase Required. Must Purchase Package at Least a Day in Advance. Canceling Your Reservation or Failing to Arrive Will Result in Forfeiture of Your Deposit. Must Stay Over on Saturday, December 31st, 2016. For More Details and Reservations, Please Call (304) 594-1111!

57th Annual Governors Cup Ski Race

Canaan's race staff will set up a challenging giant slalom race on Saturday and a slalom race on Sunday. On each day there will be two runs. An added bonus this year, Canaan's Wild Thing spring party coincides with Governors Cup, making for a fun-filled weekend for the whole family.

5 ways to explore WV’s winter backcountry

Of course the Mountain State is the place to be for winter slopes— but you can trek those wild winter

You need these unique WV holiday ornaments for your tree

No tree is complete without some West Virginia flair. Wrap that blue garland, top it with a gold star and

The Apollo Jazz Orchestra present their Annual Christmas Concert – “Tell The Tale of Christmas”

Join us as we celebrate Christmas at the historic Apollo Civic Theatre. The Apollo Jazz Orchestra presents their 2nd Annual Christmas Concert, “Tell the Tales of Christmas”. The concert will feature the Apollo Jazz Orchestra as they perform holiday classics to the narration of the classic poem, “T’was The Night Before Christmas”. Musical selections include: Wee Three Kings, I’ll Be Home for Christmas, Boogie Woogie Santa Claus, Jingle Bells and many more! Tickets are $12.00 Online and $15.00 at the door.

Danny Paisley and The Southern Grass and Circa Blue

The Apollo Civic Theatre welcomes Danny Paisley & The Southern Grass & Circa Blue ****Danny Paisley, 2016 IBMA Male Vocalist Tickets: Early Bird – $20.00; Door Admission – $25.00; $2.00 per transaction (not ticket) Ticket go OFF SALE 2 hours prior to the performance and then can only be purchased at the door. Tickets purchased online can be picked up at the Box Office WILL CALL the day of the performance.

3 holiday road trips to make gift shopping exciting

Mine the mountains for handcrafted gifts! Only Santa could fly through all of West Virginia, but these road trips hit

Getaway gifts (that won’t break the bank)

Give the gift of a mountain escape. Treat someone special in your life to a Mountain State retreat, full of

Gifts that show off WV pride

  If you’re shopping for someone who holds West Virginia near and dear to their heart, look no further. From

The unbelievable perks of spending your holiday at the casino

Score the year’s best and biggest casino prizes and giveaways, just in time for the holidays. Extra rewards, special entertainment

Toughman

To Register to Fight call 1-800-296-3897 Generations Resturaunt and Pub has a location inside the WesBanco Arena serving pub style food, mix drinks and beer doors open at 6 p.m.

Monster Jam

Monster Jam starring the biggest performers on four wheels: Monster Jam trucks! The twelve-feet-tall, ten-thousand-pound machines will bring you to your feet, racing and ripping up a custom-designed track full of obstacles to soar over - OR smash through. The 2016 touring season brings more Monster Jam excitement tailored perfectly for your family's budget, and these colorful, larger-than-life beasts are sure to capture the hearts of both young and old.

Monster Jam

Monster Jam stars the biggest performers on four wheels: Monster Jam trucks! The twelve-feet-tall, ten-thousand-pound machines will bring you to your feet, racing and ripping up a custom-designed track full of obstacles to soar over - OR smash through. The 2016 touring season brings more Monster Jam excitement tailored perfectly for your family's budget, and these colorful, larger-than-life beasts are sure to capture the hearts of both young and old.

Winter Wonder Weekend – North Bend State Park

It's full steam ahead to North Bend State Park and Winter Wonder Weekend 2017! Your stop is just the ticket for winter activities like sleigh riding (weather permitting), winter hikes, tours of the local area, programs, crafts and entertainment. Bill Beatty of Wellsburg, WV, is returning to provide an entertaining and informative program Friday evening that you won’t want to miss. The presentation will be followed by an ice cream social by the fireplace and performance by Stepping Stone Band. Saturday activities will include hikes, crafts, bingo, and door prizes along with more entertaining speakers and refreshments. Courtesy of Cal and Sharon Malcom, the weekend will include a display of “Railways in Ritchie County”, a miniature circus with operating model trains, including trains representing the narrow-gauge trains that operated in Ritchie County. Whether you long for bygone days of hearing that lonesome whistle blow or are passionate about trains and their history in the North Bend area, by making North Bend State Park your whistle-stop, you will find Winter Wonder Weekend to loaded with entertaining and informative experiences for all ages! Oh! and if there is Snow! Winter Wonder Weekend becomes an extra special weekend! Winter Wonder Express The link provides pricing and all activities planned.

New Year’s Day Comedy Show

Kick off the New Year with a whole lot of laughter! Don't miss West Virginia's most hilarious premier comedy troupe, The Fearless Fools as they bring you a live comedy show on Sunday, January 1st at 8 p.m. This performance will feature improve comedy akin to the “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” TV show! Overnight packages start at just $109 and include overnight accommodations in our lakeside lodge plus two tickets to the comedy show at 8 p.m. Additional tickets may be purchased at the door for just $5. A cash bar will also be available (must show ID). Details at StonewallResort.com

A storybook holiday escape in the mountains

Thousands upon thousands of tiny glistening lights unite in one of America’s largest light displays: the Winter Festival of Lights

Joyful Night Celebration

Governor Earl Ray Tomblin and First Lady Joanne Jaeger Tomblin will welcome West Virginians to the annual Joyful Night celebration Tuesday, December 6 at the State Capitol Complex in Charleston. As part of the evening's festivities, the First Family encourages attendees to bring a new unwrapped toy for the U.S. Marines' Toys for Tots campaign. There also will be a special tribute to West Virginia's military men and women, veterans, Gold Star Families and first responders. The Joyful Night program will begin at 5:30 p.m. at the South Plaza of the Capitol with performances from West Virginia school bands and at 6 p.m. Governor and First Lady Tomblin will light the state Christmas tree, donated by Brenda and David Hanson of Winfield.

These unique historic homes only open for the holidays

West Virginia’s most historic homes are open for tours during the holidays— and for some of these vintage gems, it’s

9 unexpected discoveries from “The Best of West Virginia”

Some of the Mountain State’s best artisan works, unique flavors and traditional sounds can all be found under 1 peaked,

GoodNight

GoodNight is Charleston’s family friendly New Year’s Eve celebration. It returns for its 24th year this New Year’s Eve with

Wild Thing Weekend

Come get wild on the slopes at Canaan Valley Resort. Plenty of family fun activities and contest scheduled throughout the weekend. This annual event includes various contests, races, cook-outs, live entertainment, and “The Infamous Pond Jump” and Sunday Rail Jam. Let’s get “WILD” this weekend!

Wheeling Nailers vs Kalamazoo Wings

Steelers vs. Browns Night: Appearances by Merril Hoge & Earnest Byner, Wear Your Favorite Football Team's Attire to the Game.

Wheeling Nailers vs Brampton Beast

Flat Screen Friday & Frosty Friday: One lucky fan will win a free flat screen television, and fans ages 21 and over can enjoy $1 drink specials

Wheeling Nailers vs Brampton Beast

All kids tickets are $6

Wheeling Area Chamber of Commerce Home and Garden Show

Free Admission 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Enjoy Home and Garden Show downstairs on the Main Arena Floor and A Craft Show Upstairs

Wheeling Area Chamber of Commerce Home and Garden Show

Free Admission 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. Enjoy Home and Garden Show downstairs on the Main Arena Floor and A Craft Show Upstairs

Wheeling Area Chamber of Commerce Home and Garden Show

Free Admission 3 p.m. - 7 p.m. Enjoy Home and Garden Show downstairs on the Main Arena Floor and A Craft Show Upstairs. Call Stacey to be a part of this show at 304-233-2575

NYE Las Vegas Celebration

Ring in the New Year with a Viva Las Vegas Celebration at Wheeling Island Hotel-Casino-Racetrack! Tickets are available on ticketmaster.com or at the Stone Street Gift Shop for the Showroom and Terrace parties.

OVAC Cheering Tournament

Doors open at 8:30 a.m.; Cheering Begins at 9:30 a.m. Admission: Adults $6 / Students $4.

Wheeling Nailers vs Reading Royals

Princesses & Pirates Night: Dress up and meet characters from popular movies and television shows.

Harlem Globetrotters

The Original Harlem Globetrotters are preparing for their action packed 2016-2017 tour! A star-studded roster will have fans on the edge of their seats to witness the ball handling wizardry, basketball artistry and one-of-a-kind family entertainment that thrills fans of all ages. Join Globetrotter stars after the game where they will stay for an autograph, photograph and high five session for fans (subject to availability).

Wheeling Nailers vs Brampton Beast

Pittsburgh Penguins Night: Appearance by two-time Stanley Cup Champion Pascal Dupuis.

Wheeling Nailers vs Quad City Mallards

Flat Screen Friday & Frosty Friday: One lucky fan will win a free flat screen television, and fans ages 21 and over can enjoy $1 drink specials.

Wheeling Nailers vs Toledo Walleye

All kids tickets are $6

OVAC Wrestling Tournament

Jan. 19: Open Ceremonies 6 p.m.; Wrestling begins at 6:30 p.m. Admission: Adults $6; Students $4 Jan. 20: Friday Session 2 - Noon (Doors open at 11 a.m.); Friday Session 3 - 6 p.m. (Doors open at 5 p.m.) Jan. 21: Saturday Session 4 - Noon (Doors open at 11 a.m.); Saturday Session 5 - 6 p.m. (Doors open at 5 p.m.)

Wheeling Nailers vs Kalamazoo Wings

Star Wars Night: Nailers will wear Star Wars Jedi Jerseys vs. Kalamazoo who will wear Stormtrooper Jerseys, Backpack Giveaway (first 1,000 kids), Scout Night (boys & girls).

Wheeling Nailers vs Toledo Walleye

All kids tickets are $6

Wheeling Nailers vs Cincinnati Cyclones

Family Funday: All kids tickets are $6, Post Game Skate with the Team (Odd Numbered Players).

Wheeling Nailers vs Toledo Walleye

Flat Screen Friday & Frosty Friday. One lucky fan will win a free flat screen television, and fans ages 21 and over can enjoy $1 drink specials

11 top Mountain State traditions to start this holiday

Start new traditions in the Mountain State this holiday season. Share Mountain State memories with folks you love most— decorating together,

The Christmas Shoppe Vendor & Craft Show

Basket and other raffles, concession stand with donuts and coffee, hot dogs, nachos, and cold drinks, and a bake sale will also be available. If you are interested in being part of this event or need any additional information, please contact Andy at 304-627-7247 or Mary at 304-695-1269.

Here’s where to find full-on Southern hospitality & charm— on a hostel budget

In West Virginia, you can get pretty darn cozy on a light budget. The state already has a lower cost

4 mountain adventure inns

If you like a little (or a lot of) adventure with your quaint B&B retreat, these inns have an extra

The most romantic and upscale retreat you’ve never heard of

If you’re looking for a less clichéd and more off-the-beaten-path romantic vacation, Parkersburg, West Virginia is your sweet escape. A

Santa’s Christmas Adventure at The Resort at Glade Springs

Families are invited on December 2, 3, 9, 10, 16 and 17, 2016 to create memories through this interactive Christmas Adventure! Children will write letters to Santa Claus, assist Santa’s elves in his workshop, try Mrs. Claus’ Christmas cookies, and even meet Santa Claus himself on this fun, one-of-a-kind experience. Adults $22; Children age 3 and up $11.50; free for under age 3. Santa's Christmas Adventure is sold by time slots, beginning at 6 p.m. through 8 p.m. nightly. A special, extended “Tea with Santa” time slot begins at 4:30 p.m. and is a highly popular upgrade to the Santa’s Adventure experience. Tickets are required and early reservations are strongly recommended. Visit gladesprings.ticketleap.com to get your tickets! One and two-night packages including deeply-discounted room rates, your Santa's Christmas Adventure “Passport to the North Pole” and breakfast the following morning are available by calling the Resort directly at 304-763-2000.

Noon Year’s Eve

Children and families are invited to help us celebrate the New Year by counting down the minutes until noon! Crafts, stories, and New Year's traditions from around the globe round out this special family event.

Sissonville Branch Library Holiday Open House

The holidays are approaching so join us for Sissonville Branch Library's holiday open house! We will have music, games, snacks and even a visit from a very jolly old fellow.

Teen Festivus Party

Celebrate a Festivus for the rest of us in the Teen Zone! Learn more about the holiday and take part in traditional Festivus activities: "Airing of the Grievances," "Feats of Strength," discovering Festivus miracles, and more.

The perfect ski-it-all escape

If you find yourself dreaming of winter wonderland getaways filled with skiing and snowboarding, the Mountain State in the winter

Holiday Make-It Take-It Tuesdays

Winter holidays, fun, and crafting, oh my! Join us as we celebrate the winter season with a simple make-and-take craft project available each Tuesday during the month of December. This is an informal drop-in event, so you can assemble your craft at the library or take it home and work on it there. Stop by any time throughout the day to get your craft kit.

Holiday Make-It Take-It Tuesdays

Winter holidays, fun, and crafting, oh my! Join us as we celebrate the winter season with a simple make-and-take craft project available each Tuesday during the month of December. This is an informal drop-in event, so you can assemble your craft at the library or take it home and work on it there. Stop by any time throughout the day to get your craft kit.

Dunbar Branch Library Holiday Open House

Stop by during the Dunbar Branch Library's annual Holiday Open House for refreshments, music, children's crafts, and other fun activities! Find out what's new in the library and bask in the holiday spirit.

A Visit from Santa

Santa and Mrs. Claus are making a special stop at our library! Bring the whole family to meet them! Be sure to bring your camera and holiday wishes! We will also have holiday crafts.

Step Inside the Library (and Leave with a Brownie)

What’s better than a warm brownie on a cold day? You can make your own single serve Brownie in a Mug in minutes. Recipe, ingredients and mugs will be provided. Just mix, microwave and enjoy! Registration is limited to twenty per location. Call your library or register online at http://kanawhalibrary.org/events-classes/?c_month=12.

Step Inside the Library (and Leave with a Brownie)

What’s better than a warm brownie on a cold day? You can make your own single serve Brownie in a Mug in minutes. Recipe, ingredients and mugs will be provided. Just mix, microwave and enjoy! Registration is limited to twenty per location. Call your library or register online at http://kanawhalibrary.org/events-classes/?c_month=12

Step Inside the Library (and Leave with a Brownie)

What’s better than a warm brownie on a cold day? You can make your own single serve Brownie in a Mug in minutes. Recipe, ingredients and mugs will be provided. Just mix, microwave and enjoy! Registration is limited to twenty per location. Call your library or register online at http://kanawhalibrary.org/events-classes/?c_month=12.

Step Inside the Library (and Leave with a Brownie)

What’s better than a warm brownie on a cold day? You can make your own single serve Brownie in a Mug in minutes. Recipe, ingredients and mugs will be provided. Just mix, microwave and enjoy! Registration is limited to twenty per location. Call your library or register online at http://kanawhalibrary.org/events-classes/?c_month=12.

The Reel Connection Reading and Discussion Group

Discover these books that Hollywood has adapted to the big screen. The group meets the first Thursday of each month September through May. This month's title is "The Revenant" by Michael Punke. Copies of the book are limited and may be picked up at the Reference Desk.

Camp Virgil Tate’s 4th Annual Breakfast With Santa 2016

You’re invited! Camp Virgil Tate invites you camp this December 10th from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. You will have a chance to take pictures with Santa, shop for handcrafted gifts, enjoy a delicious pancake and sausage breakfast, ride a pony, or in the buggy of the Christmas mule and more! For $5 each: leave with a professional printed photo taken with Santa, enjoy a pancake and sausage breakfast, and go on a pony ride. Also, we should mention, Santa loves animals and is taking pet pictures too!

4 adventures in & right around Morgantown

Morgantown is the perfect base camp for adventure: a lively small-city scene, and a gateway to outdoor exploration. Go exploring,

Wheeling Nailers vs Elmira Jackals

New Year's Eve & Throwback Night Nailers will wear Thunderbirds Jerseys, All Tickets are $10, Bam Bam Sticks Giveaway (all), Wine Tasting, New Year's Eve Party

Wheeling Nailers vs Cincinnati Cyclones

Ugly Holiday Sweater Party: Wear your ugly holiday sweater to the game, All kids tickets are $6.

Wheeling Nailers vs Fort Wayne Comets

Flat Screen Friday & Frosty Friday: One lucky fan will win a free flat screen television, and fans ages 21 and over can enjoy $1 drink specials.

Wheeling Nailers vs Orlando Solar Bears

All kids tickets are $6 for this game.

Wheeling Nailers vs Utah Grizzlies

Pittsburgh Pirates Night: Appearances by Clint Hurdle, The Pirate Parrot, and the Bucco Brigade, plus the Nailers will wear Pirates Jerseys.

Wheeling Nailers vs Utah Grizzlies

Flat Screen Friday & Frosty Friday: One lucky fan will win a free flat screen television, and fans ages 21 and over can enjoy $1 drink specials.

Morgantown, underground: 5 best undiscovered spots in WV’s most vibrant nightlife scene

Morgantown is a college town known for its vibrant nightlife, but sometimes the best finds are off the beaten path.

Olde Town Christmas Parade

Watch Christmas come to life at Martinsburg's annual holiday parade. You'll see familiar characters like Santa, Mrs. Claus and Rudolph as well as festive floats, antique cars, firetrucks and more.

Martinsburg’s Tree Lighting Ceremony

Usher in the beginning of the holiday season at Martinsburg's annual tree lighting ceremony in the beautifully decorated town square. Drink hot chocolate, listen to carols and watch Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive in a horse-drawn sleigh to light up the tree.

Uncover Hidden Gems in West Virginia by Geocaching

Remember those epic summer camp scavenger hunts when you were a kid? Geocaching is a modern-day treasure hunt for the

The 1 place to visit 8 National Parks

Harpers Ferry is such a gold mine for history and the outdoors, it’s part of 8 overlapping National Parks and

Creole Revels- Winter Dining Series

Laissez les bon temps rouler! Celebrate Mardi Gras at our Creole-inspired Winter Dining Series event. From the bayous of Louisiana and the keys of the Caribbean this meal will make your mouth water and your brow sweat. Tasty, piquant, and always surprising, Creole cuisine is what spawned the flavors of the south. Come and get it at Smokey’s. $40/person. Call us to reserve your seat.

Chinese New Year

Bid goodbye to the Monkey and say hello to the Rooster. The first day of the Chinese Year is traditionally the day of the new moon between between January 21 and February 20. This year, that will be January 28, and the dinner we present to mark it will be unforgettable, all year long. Take your taste buds to China as we celebrate the Year of the Rooster in our Winter Dining Series. $40/person. Call us to reserve your plate.

Knight of Murder Mystery Dinner

Don your Renaissance duds and dive into character during this dinner with a show starring...you and your friends! Whether ’tis to gaze upon yon knights jousting or to partake ale and merriment, thy business is thine own... until thou findest thineself in the midst of a murder most foul. Knights! Protect the King and Queen! $40/person. Reservations required. Once you have reserved your spot, we'll assign you a character to portray for the mystery!

New Year’s Eve at Smokey’s on the Gorge

Ring it in right—right on the rim of the New River Gorge, that is! We’ll have all the food, revels and music you can stand. Live music by the Wild Rumpus. Please party responsibly: have a designated driver or rent a cabin! $55 for just dinner, or $70 for dinner, the party and champagne toast at midnight. Ticket includes dinner, after-party and champagne toast.

Need motivation for your mountain run? How ‘bout a drink!

To the uninitiated, the Mountain Momma Hash House Harriers (M2H3), may seem like an unorganized horde of people running wild

Want to understand the vibe of “America’s Coolest Small Town”? Stop here.

Vibe is tricky to put your finger on. For Lewisburg, a quaint city in southeast West Virginia, creativity sets it

4th Annual Christmas Festival Of Lights

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

Annual Romney Christmas Train

Ride the Potomac Eagle Excursion Train and visit with Santa and his elves. Train Departure Schedule: Friday, Dec 16th at 4:30 pm; Saturday, Dec 17th at 10:00 am, 12:30 pm, 3:00 pm. Boarding begins 30 minutes prior to departure. Contact the Chamber of Commerce for Ticket Sales, Tue - Fri 11:00 am - 4:00 pm.

Nature in Winter

What are the plants and animals doing during this time of year? What makes nature in winter so special? This program will be the first in a new series focusing on what is happening in nature and the Botanic Garden through the seasons. West Virginia Botanic Garden Education Director Erin Smaldone will present a short slide show followed by a walk around the Garden. All ages are welcome. This event is free and open to the public. All activities take place at the West Virginia Botanic Garden, 1061 Tyrone Road, Morgantown, WV 26508 unless otherwise noted. Park in the lower parking area. Walks and presentations will last 1.5-2hrs and are free of charge unless otherwise noted. Donations are appreciated and can be made at the Welcome Center any time. Please refrain from bringing your pet to activities.

Walking & Yoga: A Rejuvenating Journey in the Gardens

As the holiday season gets rolling, it’s time for you to get strolling and flowing! Treat yourself to time in nature and rejuvenate your mind and body with Heidi Sherwin, E-RYT. The workshop will include a mindfulness walk around the Gardens, followed by a gentle flowing yoga sequence and meditation in the Botanic Garden’s new Welcome Center. Yoga and walking make a perfect combination for connecting with the rhythms of nature, enhancing one’s energy, shifting the mood, and quieting mind chatter. Now that’s holiday joy! Please bring warm clothes, walking shoes, water, a journal and pen, and a yoga mat. Hot water and tea will be provided. The cost is $20 for WVBG members and $30 for non-members. Register online at www.wvbg.org by November 28.

Native American Heritage Month Lecture: The Trail of Tears Experience of Ohio’s Iroquois

Christopher B. Chaney, Unit Chief, Criminal Justice Information Law Unit, FBI Office of the General Counsel Mr. Chaney is a member of the Seneca-Cayuga Nation from Oklahoma who currently resides in West Virginia. In 1832, Seneca and Shawnee tribal members living in Ohio were forcibly removed from their homes and faced deprivation and death on the Trail of Tears. Upon arrival in Indian Territory (now Oklahoma), the tribal members forged a new way of life only to find their dreams shattered by the Civil War. Key to the survival of the Seneca-Cayuga Nation during this tumultuous time was Quashacaugh, also known as Lewis Davis, who is Mr. Chaney’s great- great-grandfather.

The top 5 most photogenic vistas in WV

The mountains of West Virginia have a peacefulness and wonder that only sweeping view of nature can provide. With diverse

5 best ol-time stops in this National Park’s living history village

Harpers Ferry is perhaps one of the most unique places in the United States. The upper portion of Harpers Ferry is a

New Year’s Eve “Night on the Nile”

Step out of 2016 and into an oasis as you channel your inner Cleopatra or King Tut and feel like a Pharaoh for an evening! Join us for a night of dinner and dancing all while being encompassed in the rich tones of Ancient Egypt. Bringing you Hit Play from Wheeling, WV, who will showcase all the top 40 hits from the Beatles to Bruno Mars, Journey to Adele. Finish the evening with a champagne toast and an exquisite overnight room. Please call 304-422-3131 to book your stay!