Discover Autumn’s Vibrant Celebrations Across the Mountain State
West Virginia’s fall festivals blend cultural heritage, natural beauty, and thrilling adventures. From the grand parades of the Mountain State Forest Festival to the quirky charm of the West Virginia Roadkill Cook-off, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re savoring local delicacies, watching live music, or exploring arts and crafts, these events showcase the very best of West Virginia in the autumn season.
Here are our top picks for a fall getaway in West Virginia.
Mountain State Forest Festival
Location: Elkins
Date: September 28 to October 6, 2024
Attendees: Approx. 75,000+
Theme: Cultural, Arts & Crafts, Family-Friendly
The Mountain State Forest Festival is one of West Virginia’s oldest and most beloved fall festivals, celebrating the state’s forestry heritage. Visitors can enjoy thrilling lumberjack competitions, chainsaw carving demos, and a grand parade filled with vibrant floats and marching bands. The festival also offers carnival rides, arts and crafts exhibits, and live bluegrass music. Families can share magical moments with nightly fireworks displays, making this week-long event a highlight of the autumn season.
Bridge Day
Location: Fayetteville, New River Gorge Bridge
Date: October 19, 2024
Attendees: Approx. 80,000+
Theme: Adventure, Outdoor Recreation
Bridge Day transforms the New River Gorge Bridge into an adrenaline junkie’s paradise. This one-day event draws thrill-seekers from around the world to witness or participate in BASE jumping from the 876-foot-high bridge. Spectators can also enjoy rappelling demonstrations, craft vendors, and regional cuisine, all while soaking in the breathtaking views of the gorge’s autumn foliage. It’s a must-visit for those looking to experience the thrill of West Virginia’s natural beauty.
Oglebayfest
Location: Wheeling, Oglebay Park
Date: October 4-6, 2024
Attendees: Approx. 30,000+
Theme: Arts & Crafts, Family-Friendly, Food and Beverage
Oglebayfest celebrates autumn in the scenic Oglebay Park with a mix of craft shows, gourmet markets, and family-friendly activities. The festival kicks off with a lively parade through the park, featuring floats and marching bands. Families can enjoy pony rides, a petting zoo, and a dazzling fireworks display each evening. Visitors can also indulge in local foods, browse artisan crafts, and take in the beautiful fall scenery of Wheeling’s premier park.
Preston County Buckwheat Festival
Location: Kingwood
Date: September 26-29, 2024
Attendees: Approx. 40,000+
Theme: Food and Beverage, Cultural, Family-Friendly
Celebrating the harvest of buckwheat, a key crop in the region, the Preston County Buckwheat Festival is a beloved tradition. Visitors can enjoy hearty buckwheat pancakes, watch parades, and take part in tractor pulls and livestock shows. The festival also features arts and crafts, providing a glimpse into rural West Virginia life. This event is a must-visit for those wanting to experience the flavors and traditions of Appalachia.
FestivALL Fall
Location: Charleston
Date: October 11-13, 2024
Attendees: Approx. 20,000+
Theme: Music, Cultural, Arts & Crafts
FestivALL Fall brings Charleston to life with a vibrant mix of music, art, and cultural events. The festival showcases Appalachian traditions through bluegrass, folk, and mountain music performances, along with visual art exhibits and theater productions. Families can explore interactive art installations scattered throughout the city, participate in hands-on pottery making and weaving demonstrations, and learn traditional Appalachian crafts. It’s a cultural feast that celebrates the artistic spirit of West Virginia.
Black Walnut Festival
Location: Spencer
Date: October 10-13, 2024
Attendees: Approx. 25,000+
Theme: Food and Beverage, Cultural, Family-Friendly
The Black Walnut Festival in Spencer honors the region’s black walnut industry with a variety of activities, including parades, craft shows, and baking contests featuring the prized nut. The festival also includes livestock shows, carnival rides, and local music performances, offering a wholesome celebration of rural West Virginia life. It’s an ideal event for families and anyone interested in experiencing the state’s agricultural heritage.
Milton Pumpkin Festival
Location: Milton
Date: Early October (exact dates TBD)
Attendees: Approx. 10,000+
Theme: Family-Friendly, Food and Beverage, Arts & Crafts
The Milton Pumpkin Festival offers a quintessential fall experience with vast pumpkin patches where kids can pick their own pumpkins. The four-day event also features friendly farm animals, apple butter-making demonstrations, and a variety of family-friendly activities. Children can enjoy hands-on crafts, and families can savor delicious seasonal treats. This charming festival is a perfect way to celebrate the autumn season.
Autumn Harvest Festival and West Virginia Roadkill Cook-off
Location: Marlinton
Date: September 28, 2024
Attendees: Approx. 10,000+
Theme: Food and Beverage, Cultural, Quirky
The Autumn Harvest Festival in Marlinton embraces the quirky side of Appalachian culture with its famous West Virginia Roadkill Cook-off. Cooks compete to create the most delicious dishes using wild game, offering a unique and adventurous culinary experience. The festival also features arts and crafts, live music, and a variety of family-friendly activities, making it a fun and unusual way to celebrate the fall season.
Mountain Heritage Arts and Crafts Festival
Location: Jefferson County
Date: September 27-29, 2024
Attendees: Approx. 15,000+
Theme: Arts & Crafts, Cultural, Family-Friendly
The Mountain Heritage Arts and Crafts Festival in Jefferson County highlights the craftsmanship of local and regional artisans. Visitors can explore works from over 200 juried artists, including traditional Appalachian crafts like quilting and woodworking. The festival also features live demonstrations, where attendees can watch artisans create their masterpieces. It’s a perfect event for those looking to purchase unique handmade items and learn about West Virginia’s artistic heritage.
Leaf Peepers Festival
Location: Davis
Date: September 27-29, 2024
Attendees: Approx. 8,000+
Theme: Nature, Family-Friendly, Arts & Crafts
The Leaf Peepers Festival in Davis celebrates the early arrival of autumn foliage in West Virginia’s highlands. Visitors can enjoy scenic drives, guided hikes, and local craft fairs, all set against the backdrop of vibrant fall colors. The festival also includes a photography contest, live music, and a classic car show, offering a well-rounded celebration of the natural beauty and cultural richness of the region.
West Virginia Chili Championship
Location: Huntington
Date: October 5, 2024
Attendees: Approx. 5,000+
Theme: Food and Beverage, Competitions
The West Virginia Chili Championship heats up Huntington with a fiery competition among the state’s best chili cooks. Visitors can sample various chili recipes, from traditional to innovative, and vote for their favorites in the People’s Choice Award. The event also features live music, family-friendly activities, and plenty of chili-friendly sides like cornbread and nachos. It’s a delicious way to warm up on a crisp fall day.
Planning Your Fall Getaway
As you plan your fall getaway, don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in these unique celebrations fully. Book your vacation rental on Lake.com to find the perfect home base for exploring West Virginia’s fall festivals. Whether you prefer a cozy cabin near the festivities or a lakeside retreat, Lake.com offers a variety of accommodations that will make your autumn adventure unforgettable.
