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Foodie (and drinkie) Almost Heaven, right here

Calling all foodies! If you’ve tired of the well-trodden dining scenes in bigger cities, it’s time to put this West

This might just be WV’s most scenic rail trail

One of West Virginia’s mountain rail trails sticks out above and beyond the rest when it comes to scenic beauty:

Mamma Mia!

Mamma Mia! has electrified stages all around the globe, and now you can witness the phenomenon live for yourself. If you’re one of the millions across the world who’ve enjoyed the music of ABBA over the years, then you can’t afford to miss this show.

Best climbing areas in WV (and we’re not talking just NRG)

West Virginia is a climber’s Almost Heaven—and the New River Gorge may get the fame, but it’s far from the

Get off the country roads for the best country cookin’

High on Snowshoe Mountain, the Sunrise Backcountry Hut is a gourmet dining experience you have to snowmobile 2 miles into

6 ways to hit the Mountwood Trails

Mountwood Park outside Parkersburg has more than 50 miles of top-rated trails, with everything from traditional hiking to ATV excursions.

5 tips for taking on the Greenbrier Geocache Trail

  There’s a whole new way to discover one of West Virginia’s most popular regions: the Greenbrier Geocache Trail. Never

Beyond the pinnacle: 4 more things to discover at Coopers Rock

Sure, everyone loves Coopers Rock’s vistas. But there’s a ton more to explore at this unique park, too. That panorama

5 things you didn’t know about Tu-Endie-Wei State Park

  Tu-Endie-Wei State Park is one of the most well known places to explore outdoors in West Virginia. Thanks to

WV Winter Music Festival

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Shanghai Parade

Bundle up the family and come enjoy Lewisburg’s annual New Year’s Day parade of unknown origins which features the wackiest

Don’t let this guy undersell you— he farms the best cross-country ski trails in the East. (Yes, farms.)

Chip Chase is a living proof of the vibrancy that comes from living your dreams. Talking with Chip is like

These gyms will drive you up the walls (literally)

  Indoor climbing gyms are the most revolutionary advancement in rock climbing. Why? Well, for one, climbing gyms are unbelievably

Surf and Turf Buffet

Graceland Inn on the campus of Davis & Elkins College will host a special Surf and Turf Buffet from 5-8 p.m. Wednesday, November 2. The menu includes garden salad, New England clam chowder, Chef Mel’s Spicy Coleslaw, shrimp cocktail, steamed Alaskan crab legs, Mahi Mahi with fresh Hawaiian salsa, traditional cubed steak with hearty gravy, cheese tortellini with pesto cream sauce, roasted red bliss potatoes with rosemary, rice pilaf, West Virginia green beans, honey glazed carrots, key lime pie, lemon pound cake, fancy cupcakes, iced tea and coffee. The cost is $28.95 for adults, $9.95 for ages 6-12 and free for ages 5 and younger. Call 304-637-1600 for reservations.

Wheeling Symphony presents “Video Games Live!”

Tommy Tallarico, creator and host An incredible concert event produced by the video gaming industry! Video Games Live features music from the most popular video games of all time. Designed to acknowledge the culture and art that video games have become, the Wheeling Symphony Orchestra performs with exclusive video footage and music arrangements, synchronized lighting, solo performers, electronic percussionists, live action and interactive segments to create a unique entertainment experience! Bridging generations and exposing music lovers and fans to the symphonic orchestral experience, Video Games Live provides a new and different experience that the whole family — non-gamers included — will absolutely love!

Ron White

Ron “Tater Salad” White, best known as the cigar smoking, scotch drinking funnyman from the “Blue Collar Comedy” phenomenon, makes his return to Wheeling with his new stand-up show. White has achieved three Grammy nominations, a Gold Record, two of the top rated one-hour specials in Comedy Central history, a book that appeared on the New York Times Best Seller List, and CD and DVD sales of over 10 million units. Currently, White can be seen in music-industry vet Cameron Crowe, and renowned director JJ Abrams’ new Showtime series, Roadies. White plays road-tested tour manager Phil, in a critically praised performance.

“A Family Christmas!” 1170 & Ron Retzer Trio

The Ohio Valley’s own Ron Retzer Trio and 1170 return to the Capitol Theatre to provide a spectacular Christmas Event. The Ron Retzer Trio and the 1170 Jamboree Staff Band have been entertaining audiences for decades! The Band performed for the crowds at Jamboree in the Hills with our very own Brad Paisley. This event will add joy to your Holiday Season. Our family welcomes your family to enjoy an evening filled with fun, entertainment, and Holiday Spirit! Tickets are $20.00 Each and are festival seating!

Sam’s Uptown Cafe Book Club: Last Days of Summer by Steve Kluger

Book Club with discuss "Last Days of Summer" by Steve Kluger.

Same dish: gourmet or homestyle? You decide

Sometimes nothing beats a good, old-fashioned home-cooked meal. But our creative chefs sure know how to add gourmet flair to

3 odd facts about this underground wonder

The other-worldly underground formations in Lost World Caverns have some history that is… interesting, to say the least. Sitting 120

Full Moon Hike (Cass Scenic Railroad SP)

Full Moon hikes at Cass Scenic Railroad are led hikes designed to encourage visitors to enjoy being outdoors in wintry and spring weather. Meet at the Visitor's Center at Cass, WV at 6:30p.m. There is no charge to participate. Hike guidelines include: • Fee free activity, but limited to 30 participants. • Preregistration is required. Use email link below or call. • Registration will be confirmed by hike leader. • Meet At The Visitor Center • Hike is approximately 3 miles total. • Walk begins from the Visitor Center to MM 79 On The Greenbrier River Trail and back. • Trail is crushed gravel and minimal grade change. • Dress for the weather. Boots or closed toes footwear, socks, layered outerwear is recommended. Oh! Headwear and gloves could be handy. • Pack a water and/or snack. • Photography is permitted, but flash photography is not. We'll need to retain our night vision. • NO FLASHLIGHTS OR HEADLAMPS. Shining a bright flashlight will diminish your night vision for up to 30 minutes, limiting your view of the night sky and wildlife. You can bring a flashlight for the 'just in case' but refrain from shining – we'll let the moon and stars do that! • Participants should be believe they can complete three miles. You can do it! The Full Moon Hike group will remain together for the duration of the walk/hike. Safety first. • Children must be with a parent or guardian at all times. • Well behaved dogs are allowed. Dogs will rely on their human to keep them on leash and under control. • Due to limited participation (30), large groups (10 or more people)

8th annual Little Princess Ball – North Bend State Park

Bring your little princess (ages 5 – 12) to North Bend State Park's 8th Annual Little Princess Ball. Celebrate with dinner, a father / daughter dance, arts and crafts, and much more! Dress your daughter in her favorite party dress and be prepared to make some special memories. Photos will be taken of fathers and daughters. Radio personality and DJ, Jack Horton from V96.9 in Parkersburg will be playing all your favorite hits. Stop by his booth and request your special song as you dance into the night. • There a special arts and crafts room open during the evening with games, activities, and arts and crafts for girls of all ages. • The North Bend Restaurant prepares a special menu for princesses and their fathers. • Take a break from the dance and make your own smoothie, choosing your favorite fruits to create a sweet treat! Back by popular demand! After the dance, come down to the lobby for a family friendly movie. Popcorn and drinks will be provided. Movie rated G – PG. The Little Princess Ball is fee based. A lodging package is available in addition to evening only attendance. Reservations are required. The web link below provides more detail.

NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY – North Bend State Park

Countdown the old and ring in the New Year at North Bend State Park. Enjoy great food, live music and dancing, refreshments, and a champagne toast at midnight. New Year's is always a sellout at North Bend. Call early for reservations. Neon Moon will be at North Bend to help you ring in the New Year in style with their renditions of popular songs from yesterday and today. This local band featuring Jerry and Lisa Queen has been playing throughout the Mid-Ohio Valley for years and will have you dancing your way right into 2017! The North Bend Restaurant will be featuring its famous New Year's Eve buffet, including a carving station with several entrées, assorted sides, and decadent dessert table; all served by the North Bend wait staff. Atmosphere is casual, dress comfortably and to have fun. Click the web link for greater detail. Advanced reservations required. Contact: 304-643-2931

Cass Scenic Railroad SP – FIRST DAY HIKE

First day hikes are led hikes designed to encourage visitors to enjoy state parks year round and to promote good health and exercise. Meet at the Visitor's Center at Cass, WV at 1:00 p.m. Monica Fleming First Day Hike leader. Walk on the Greenbrier River Trail from the Terminus at mile mark 80.8 (end of Front Street) South to first trail side camping area at 78.5 then back again. Mileage: approx. 4 miles round trip approximate time to complete this First Day Hike is around 2+ hours. Trail is crushed gravel flat downhill in south direction uphill north direction no more than a 2% grade. Join us outdoors for your First Day in 2017.

Great Backyard Bird Count – Kanawha State Forest

Take part with over 100,000 birders from over 130 countries to observe and count bird species, contributing to a massive amout of data used to track "the health of bird populations on a global scale." gbbc.birdcount.org/2016-gbbc-summary/ - It's a nationwide community of birders! Meet at the Kanawha State Forest Nature Center at 2 p.m. We plan to have a feeder count followed by a bird hike. Data collected from the day will be submitted to eBird. Free to the public. Three pairs of binoculars are available for borrow. Join us!

Kanawha State Forest – FIRST DAY HIKE

Start the New Year right with a hike at your local State Forest! Meet in the Pool Parking area at 2 p.m. Bring your hiking shoes. All are welcome. Free to the public. Bundle up for whatever nature brings today! Enjoy the outdoors.

Bluestone State Park – FIRST DAY HIKE

A Brisk Bluestone Morning Hike! Take your first step into the New Year with a hike at Bluestone State Park. Meet Superintendent Brett McMillion or Assistant Superintendent Joe Swiney at 9:00 a.m. to embrace the new year with this brisk wintry walk. The superintendent's will focus on Bluestone State Parks history as well and winter aspects such as trees and watchable wildlife. Meet at the park office. Coffee and cocoa awaits upon return. No fee to participate. Open to the public. Wear appropriate outwear and footwear for the weather conditions. Get Outdoors! Explore!

Blackwater Falls State Park – FIRST DAY HIKE

Take your first step into the New Year with a hike at Blackwater Falls State Park. Meet park naturalist, Paulita Cousin at the Sled Run parking area to embrace the new year with this brisk wintry walk along Forest Road 18 and Lindy Point Trail to one of West Virginia's most spectacular views. Cathedral State Park Ranger, Ben Leedom will be assisting. Blackwater Falls has a healthy attendance and welcome past participants or new hikers for this 1st Day event. This hike is approximately 3 miles round-trip. Sturdy shoes required. Dress appropriately for weather conditions. Please, carry water and a snack. Get Outdoors! Explore! Individual participating in First Day Hikes, when completing an attendance card, receive a First Day Patch via mail. Hikers do not have to be enrolled in the WV State Park Hiking Program to attend the First Day Hike.

Pipestem State Park – WINTER BALLROOM DANCING WEEKEND

This weekend at Pipestem State Park features ballroom dancing option. The instructors are Alicia Clark and Steve Prowse and the package includes instructional time, two nights and more time for of open dancing, dinner on Saturday. The weekend package also includes two nights lodging at McKeever Lodge. Click the link below to visit Pipestem event page for dance time, lessons, etc. The Saturday evening dance is semi-formal to dressy casual. Dance package without accommodations or meal is $42.40 per person. For two individuals in a lodge room: two nights, instruction Saturday dinner, open dancing is $245.36. Rates available for single room occupancy as well as add-on for triple or quad room occupancy. Call for reservations.

How to spend a weekend in Charleston (outdoors & about town)

West Virginia’s capital city has a rich old-school charm, but a modern scene and a small-town feel. Charleston has the

Vogues Christmas Show

"Christmas With The Vogues", with special guest "Bo Wagner's Tribute to Sinatra."

5 Most History-Rich Hikes in Harpers Ferry

Harpers Ferry is one of the most history-rich places in the country. Get fresh air and a fresh perspective on

Trek the sunken cave-like streets of this “town of rocks”

When you walk through Beartown, you’re literally trekking the sunken crevices of a massive rock formation that covers more than

3 best backpacking trips in West Virginia

When it comes to finding seclusion in the great outdoors, there’s no better place than West Virginia. Filled with gorgeous

Snowshoe Winter Brew Fest

Sample more than 50 beers from local favorites to nationally recognized award winners, all while enjoying the funky sounds of Optimus Rift and Lewisburg’s own The Spanglers.

Stilian Kirov

Capitol Conference Center Symphonic Series.

The McKameys Return to Chuck Mathena Center

The Chuck Mathena proudly announces the return of The McKameys on November 18, 2016 at 7 p.m. This show marks the ninth performance by the beloved gospel singing family at CMC. With 16 No. 1 singles, the group has been honored by Horizon Records for having the most No. 1 hits in the history of Southern Gospel music. The McKameys also hold the record for having the most No.1 songs on Singing News magazine's charts. Tickets are $18.00, with a 10% discount for groups of ten or more, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online at www.chuckmathenacenter.org, by calling 304-425-5128 or visiting the CMC Box Office at 2 Stafford Commons, Princeton, WV 9am-5pm Monday – Friday.

4 most remote WV adventures

If you want to take solitude-seeking to the next level, the Mountain State has some of the most remote lands

5 unforgettable 1-day adventures in WV

  What if we told you it only takes the better part of a day to conquer some of Wild,

The great mountain RV camping tour

The thing about traveling by RV in West Virginia is that there is so much to see! Unless you’re living

6 totally free National Parks in the Mountain State

There are several National Parks to explore in the Mountain State—all with no entry fee! Pack your hiking boots and

This tiny mountain town is an outdoor adventurer’s dream

We’re going to let you in on a little secret— deep in West Virginia, there’s a prime destination for art

The best wildlife spotting is a little off the shore

Spot some of our nation’s most regal creatures on a wildlife safari across the islands of a remote National Refuge.

Cabin Fever Craft Beer Festival

Cabin Fever Fest is North Central WV's annual in-door winter craft beer festival featuring regional brews from around the Mountain State along with music, games and food and merchandise vendors.

Aliens? The ‘Area 51’ you can actually go inside

ET phone Green Bank: This real alien contact site is right out of a sci-fi novel! There’s a surreal sight

Tuck into this mountain valley Winter Wonderland

Whether you’re skiing or just looking for a winter escape, Canaan Valley, WV, is a winter wonderland. Tuck away just

Upcycled mountain arts

  For a state covered in green, it’s only fitting that West Virginia join the “Go Green” movement. Around West

Greek, Italian, Swiss… the best celebrations of WV’s patchwork heritage

West Virginia is a true melting pot of cultures— and we celebrate them all! From Greek and Italian to Scottish

True, tranquil lakeside luxury

Soak in West Virginia’s rugged mountain beauty, without sacrificing the comforts of home at Stonewall Resort. This secluded retreat is

7 best ways to enjoy a day at North Bend Lake

Hit the water or head to the trail to make the most of this picturesque lake and surrounding land. If

Meet the Mothman

It’s been more than 50 years since residents of Point Pleasant woke up to these words stretched across the front

Way Back Weekend- Christmas Village

Celebrate the most wonderful time of year, as the village brings you West Virginia’s best artisans in woodworking, spinning, soap making, and so much more. Plenty of song, laughter, and joy for the entire family! *WBW's events include: museum tours, wagon rides, petting zoo, food for purchase and other hands-on farm fun!

5 reasons to take the Coal River Walhonde Water Trail

If you love a good river float, canoe excursion, or kayak trip, then the Coal River is the place for

The Fabulous Thunderbirds, Golden State – Lone Star Revue, The Honey Island Swamp Band and More on Mountain Stage

The Fabulous Thunderbirds, Golden State - Lone Star Revue, The Honey Island Swamp Band and More on Mountain Stage Doors open 6:30 p.m. Show time: 7 p.m. Advance Tickets: $20 Day of Show: $25 Available Online, By Phone (877-987-6487) or at Taylor Books in downtown Charleston.

7 things you didn’t know about WV’s Historic Theater Trail

The West Virginia Historic Theatre Trail’s grand old venues have a lot of fascinating history within their walls. 1. Several

Landau Eugene Murphy Jr.

This Carnegie Hall Mainstage Performance will feature WV's own Landau Eugene Murphy, Jr. Since wowing the America's Got Talent judges with his interpretations of classics by the likes of Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin and walking away with the grand prize, Landau has performed all over the country -- from the California State Fair to New York's famous Appollo Theater, from Caesars Palace in Las Vegas to the Marina Civic Center in Florida -- and all points in between.

WV Symphony Orchestra “Home for Holidays”

This Carnegie Hall Mainstage Performance will feature the West Virginia Symphony Orchestra "Home for the Holidays". Currently in its 76th season, the WV Symphony Orchestra enriches the region by providing affordable, high-quality concerts, collaborations with West Virginia arts organizations and a nationally award-winning education program.

7 youth group trips they’ll never forget

Take the group on a wild, wonderful journey they’ll never forget. These mountains are full of adventure, but here are

11 wild teambuilding retreats for school & youth groups

Take your youth group to the mountains for some wild, wonderful team building. Nothing brings a group closer than overcoming

The ultimate romantic retreat, hiding just outside DC

Only about 1 hour from Washington D.C. is the perfect, but little-known romantic getaway: West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle. Take a

8 reasons to dress to the nines in WV

Sometimes it is just plain fun to go all out and dress up for a night on the town. Want

7 films you didn’t know were made in or about WV

Dozens of movies have been filmed in or about West Virginia, including “We Are Marshall,” the story of the 1970

She’ll have to say yes to these breathtaking proposals

For one of the most important questions in your life, you need a perfect location. Wild, Wonderful West Virginia is

Wait, farm-to-table is a trend? Not here!

While the farm-to-table trend seems to have appeared out of nowhere, here in West Virginia, locally sourced food has always

3 absolutely unforgettable scenic (and stunning!) plane rides

Zoom above untamed landscapes on a “Wild and Wonderful” scenic flight! Admit it: there’s only so much you can see

12 must-do races in WV

Are you ready to take on the best trail running and mountain biking races in West Virginia? It’s no secret

Old Time Christmas at Welton Park- FREE

A beautiful setting of enchanting lights, horse drawn carriages, Dickens carolers, story time, hot cocoa and cookies- all Free at Welton Park- come celebrate the Christmas Season with us! Call the chamber office for more details or see our website! And don't forget the Snowflake Express Train Ride with Santa and Christmas Parade the same weekend- come enjoy the weekend with us!

Scents along the trail your dog will loooooove

When you hit the trail, it’s sensory overload. The bright shades of green, the uneven roll of the land beneath

60 Spectacular Days of Holiday Cheer at The Greenbrier

Holidays at The Greenbrier are as memorable as they are special. Thousands of lights adorning just about every structure, special holiday-themed entertainment and Christmas tree lighting ceremonies every Saturday in December are all part of the merriment! Nobody in the region puts on a bigger or better display of holiday pride than The Greenbrier during the 60 Spectacular Days of Holiday Cheer!

This ol’ barn: mail pouch barns

  If you’ve spent any amount of time driving around the rural east or midwest, you may have noticed old

Dear world: You’re eating your dogs all wrong!

Here in West Virginia, we put our own spin on a national food staple. A “WV dog” is usually topped

Lucky Day? Roll the dice. Or pick a card. Or…

Entertainment is a sure bet in West Virginia, with games galore at 5 casinos. From blackjack and bingo to penny

Say what? 6 dead giveaways you’re from WV

In West Virginia, we speak our own language. If you catch yourself saying these 7 terms, pronunciations and sayings, you’ve

Mountain Stage

Gregory Alan Isakov, Mandolin Orange, Elysian Fields, The Brother Brothers, Hush Kids.

5 most oddball museums

Some of the Mountain State’s museums have some … let’s say … “offbeat” memorabilia. Here are 5 museums that have

This ol’ barn: meet the barnyard critters

Make friends with farm animals in the Mountain State. Get in touch— literally— with farm animals at these 6 popular

Hottest tickets in town: Best live theatre bets for 2016!

Here are 6 local theatre groups that are sure to knock your socks off! 1. Charleston Light Opera Guild |

7 heroic stories behind WV’s war memorials and markers

  West Virginia has a fascinating military history, even longer than the life of the state itself. The French and

The totally last-second guide to a great family vacation in WV

Escape any time with a spontaneous mountain trip the family will never forget. The best vacations are the ones where

Meet the real busy bees behind your mountain honey

For a real sweet taste of mountain flavor, head straight to the source for some fresh, flavorful honey. Did you

Offbeat ideas for solo travelers in the mountains

Looking for solo travel ideas that aren’t run-of-the-mill? Just change your approach! Traveling by yourself can be liberating. And it

Pilot your way to a mountain retreat

Leave your car at home and pilot to a secluded holiday instead! That’s right, you can bring your plane on

Gal getaways: Treat yourself

Whether it’s a celebration or a chance to reconnect with college or childhood friends, a gal getaway in West Virginia

7 best free family activities in WV

Adventure abounds in the hills of West Virginia— and lots of it is free! In West Virginia, families can enjoy

Black book for your dates. Red book for your meals

Never— really, never— taste the same thing twice at Redbook Restaurant at Hillbrook Inn and Spa. Every dish— elegant multi-course

4 best mountain 4×4 trails

West Virginia has some of the best off-roading terrain on the East Coast. Whether you’re looking for mild or wild,

Craft beer + local food pairings you have to taste together

What better way to taste authentic mountain flavor than with classic meals paired with craft beers, all made right here

4 Unexpected Finds Along WV’s Country Roads

We all know the song that leads our Almost Heaven dreaming, a familiar tune celebrating 50 years of success in

This ol’ barn: Tuck in for the night

Get a quaint taste of simple life on the farm— without all the work. Renting rustic, historic barns in West

Gal getaways: hit the town

Longing for a ladies’ night out? Hit the town with your gal friends. Sophisticated wine tastings, casual bars and snazzy

Escape to a world with no fast food, no stoplights

Get away from it all– traffic, crowds, even stoplights– in Monroe County, WV. Sometimes it is nice to step into

How would you have fared on the wild frontier?

Every so often, whether you’re camping out in the woods, suddenly without cell reception, or even if there’s a cable

7 jaw-dropping horseback riding adventures in WV

Trek the mountains the same way the settlers did— by horseback. Many mountain trails are only used for horseback rides,

WV’s richest history lies deep underground

Take a fascinating tour through the earth in an authentic, restored, turn-of-the-century coal mine in Beckley. If you haven’t yet

7 mountain bands you need to hear

From Mountain Stage to the Appalachian String Band Music Festival, West Virginia’s mountain music is a perfect combination of old

Wake up to a wild brunch this Sunday

West Virginia is known for our home cooking and hospitality, and come Sunday, it’s time for a big, hearty, social.

Your inner foodie will flip for these 9 dine-around events

Attention foodies: the Mountain State is full of flavor, and ready for you to take a bite! These festivals, cook-offs

7 amazing mountain hikes even the kids will love

Share wonder with your kids on a jaw-dropping mountain hike. Even these rolling Mountain State trails can be smooth enough

4 falls you should take off the WV mountains

West Virginia is the Mountain State, and we’ve got more than enough great cliffs, crags and rocks for you to

Have you visited WV’s National Parks? We bet you didn’t do this…

Southern West Virginia’s National Parks are known for their natural beauty and outdoor recreation. The New River Gorge National River, Gauley