West Virginia’s rugged mountains, rolling hills, and tight-knit communities provide the perfect backdrop for a year packed with unforgettable festivals. In 2025, the Mountain State invites you to experience its rich tapestry of culture, adventure, and tradition through these annual events. From daredevil leaps off bridges to savory buckwheat cakes and everything in between, here’s an in-depth look at 10 West Virginia festivals you won’t want to miss. Note that dates are based on historical patterns and may shift slightly—check official websites for confirmation as the time approaches!

1. Bridge Day Festival – Fayetteville (October 18, 2025)

Imagine standing on the edge of the New River Gorge Bridge, 876 feet above the rushing waters below, as BASE jumpers launch themselves into the void. That’s the heart-pounding essence of Bridge Day, West Virginia’s largest single-day festival, held annually on the third Saturday of October in Fayetteville. Drawing over 60,000 attendees, this event transforms the nation’s third-longest single-span steel bridge into a spectacle of courage and celebration. On October 18, 2025, you can watch hundreds of parachutists leap—legally, for this one day only—while rappellers descend the gorge’s rocky cliffs. For those who prefer solid ground, the bridge closes to vehicles, allowing pedestrians to stroll its length, soaking in panoramic views of the vibrant fall foliage. Beyond the adrenaline, Bridge Day offers a chili cook-off with steaming pots of local recipes, live music echoing through the crisp air, and vendors selling handmade crafts and hearty Appalachian fare. It’s a thrilling blend of extreme sports and community spirit that captures West Virginia’s wild soul.

2. Vandalia Gathering – Charleston (May 23-25, 2025)

Step back into the heart of Appalachia at the Vandalia Gathering, a three-day celebration of West Virginia’s cultural heritage held over Memorial Day weekend on the State Capitol Complex grounds in Charleston. Scheduled for May 23-25, 2025, this free festival has been a tradition since 1977, drawing musicians, dancers, and artisans who keep the state’s traditions alive. Picture the twang of banjos and the wail of fiddles as contestants compete in old-time music showdowns, while spontaneous jam sessions spill across the lawn. Dancers showcase everything from square dancing to Celtic step, their rhythms echoing the region’s diverse roots. Meanwhile, craftspeople demonstrate skills like blacksmithing, basket weaving, and quilt-making, offering a tactile connection to the past. Kids can try their hand at folk toys or storytelling sessions, while food stalls serve up mountain staples like cornbread and beans. The Vandalia Gathering isn’t just a festival—it’s a living museum of West Virginia’s soul, welcoming all to join in the song and dance.

3. State Fair of West Virginia – Lewisburg (August 7-16, 2025)

For 10 glorious days in August, the State Fair of West Virginia turns Lewisburg into a bustling hub of summer fun. Running from August 7-16 in 2025, this century-old tradition—entering its 99th year—blends agricultural pride with carnival excitement. Sprawled across the fairgrounds, you’ll find livestock barns where 4-H kids proudly show off prize-winning cows, sheep, and pigs, alongside exhibits highlighting the state’s farming innovations. The midway pulses with thrilling rides like the Ferris wheel and Tilt-a-Whirl, while the aroma of funnel cakes, fresh cinnamon rolls, and mountaineer burgers fills the air. Each night, the grandstand hosts big-name concerts—past performers have included legends like Alabama and contemporary stars like Nelly—drawing crowds under the stars. Daily schedules brim with tractor pulls, horse shows, and cooking demos, ensuring there’s never a dull moment. Whether you’re a family seeking wholesome fun or a fair-food fanatic, the State Fair delivers a quintessential West Virginia experience that’s as grand as the mountains themselves.

4. West Virginia Strawberry Festival – Buckhannon (May 10-18, 2025)

Spring bursts into flavor at the West Virginia Strawberry Festival in Buckhannon, a week-long celebration of the state’s juiciest harvest. Set for May 10-18, 2025, this event splits its festivities across two weekends (May 10-11 and May 12-18), giving you ample time to savor the sweetness. The streets of Buckhannon come alive with parades—think marching bands, colorful floats, and the crowning of the Strawberry Queen—while vendors dish out strawberry shortcakes, pies, and jams made from the freshest local berries. Live music fills the air, from bluegrass to country, and craft booths offer handmade treasures like jewelry and quilts. Kids can enjoy carnival rides and games, while adults might catch the antique car show or a lively street dance. What sets this festival apart is its small-town charm, with the community rallying around its agricultural roots to create a warm, welcoming vibe. It’s a berry-licious kickoff to the warmer months you won’t want to miss.

5. Mountain State Apple Harvest Festival – Martinsburg (October 16-19, 2025)

Autumn in West Virginia shines brightest at the Mountain State Apple Harvest Festival, a four-day event in Martinsburg from October 16-19, 2025. This festival pays homage to the region’s apple orchards with a lineup that’s as crisp as a freshly picked Granny Smith. The fun kicks off with the crowning of Queen Pomona, followed by pageants for Little Miss and Mister Appleseed—adorable traditions that spotlight local youth. Competitive eaters tackle the apple-eating contest, while rodeo fans cheer at the thunderous bull-riding events. Stroll through the craft fair to find handmade soaps, wood carvings, and, of course, apple-themed goodies like cider and dumplings. An antique car show revs up the nostalgia, and live music—from folk to rock—keeps the energy high. Set against the backdrop of Martinsburg’s historic charm, this festival is a deliciously festive way to embrace the fall harvest season.

6. FestivFALL – Charleston (October 13-19, 2025)

Charleston’s FestivFALL takes the creative energy of its summer counterpart, FestivALL, and drapes it in autumn hues for a 10-day celebration from October 13-19, 2025. This citywide festival turns the capital into an arts extravaganza, blending seasonal flair with cultural richness. The Harvest Art Fair showcases local painters, sculptors, and jewelers, while Glow in the Park lights up the night with illuminated displays. Families can join the Art Scavenger Hunt, exploring Charleston’s nooks for hidden treasures, or get spooky at the City Center Dead, a zombie-themed twist on Halloween fun. Theater performances, dance recitals, and live music—from jazz trios to indie bands—fill the schedule, with venues ranging from cozy cafes to grand stages. It’s a dynamic, all-ages event that celebrates West Virginia’s artistic heartbeat, set against a backdrop of golden leaves and cool breezes.

7. Preston County Buckwheat Festival – Kingwood (September 25-28, 2025)

Since 1938, the Preston County Buckwheat Festival has been a delicious nod to West Virginia’s farming heritage, and 2025’s edition, running September 25-28 in Kingwood, promises to keep the tradition alive. This five-day event centers on buckwheat cakes—fluffy, nutty pancakes made from scratch and served with sausage and syrup—drawing crowds eager for a taste of history. The fairgrounds buzz with carnival rides, from spinning teacups to towering Ferris wheels, while live bands play everything from gospel to rock. Unique contests like lamb dressing and livestock judging highlight the area’s rural roots, and a car show brings vintage beauties to the forefront. Craft vendors sell quilts, pottery, and woodwork, adding a handmade touch. With its cozy, down-home feel, this festival is a warm embrace of community and comfort food in the crisp September air.

8. West Virginia Pumpkin Festival – Milton (October 2-5, 2025)

Pumpkin enthusiasts will find their paradise at the West Virginia Pumpkin Festival in Milton, a four-day harvest celebration from October 2-5, 2025. Held at the picturesque Pumpkin Park, this event transforms the humble gourd into a star with pumpkin pies, breads, and even ice cream on offer. Competitive spirit shines in the pumpkin carving contests and the heaviest pumpkin weigh-off—some growers haul in behemoths tipping the scales at over 1,000 pounds. The midway offers classic rides and games, while live music keeps toes tapping. Craft stalls brim with fall décor, from scarecrows to wreaths, and the kids’ zone ensures little ones stay entertained. Surrounded by Milton’s small-town charm, this festival is a cozy, orange-hued ode to autumn that’s perfect for families and Instagrammers alike.

9. Mountain State Forest Festival – Elkins (September 27-October 5, 2025)

Spanning nine days from September 27 to October 5, 2025, the Mountain State Forest Festival in Elkins is one of West Virginia’s oldest and grandest events, steeped in reverence for the state’s woodlands. This festival kicks off with the coronation of Queen Silvia, followed by parades featuring ornate floats and marching bands. Lumberjack competitions—think log rolling and axe throwing—showcase the grit of the region’s forestry past, while wood exhibits highlight sustainable practices. Headline concerts bring national acts to the stage, and amusement rides thrill visitors of all ages. Arts and crafts vendors line the streets, offering everything from carved bowls to woven rugs, and food stalls serve up hearty mountain fare. Set in the stunning Potomac Highlands, this event is a majestic celebration of nature, heritage, and community that feels like a journey through West Virginia’s history.

10. West Virginia Roadkill Cook-Off – Marlinton (September 27, 2025)

For a festival that’s as quirky as it is tasty, the West Virginia Roadkill Cook-Off in Marlinton on September 27, 2025, is a one-of-a-kind experience. Part of the broader Autumn Harvest Festival, this single-day event challenges chefs to turn roadside finds—think squirrel, deer, or possum—into gourmet masterpieces. Past dishes have included squirrel gravy over biscuits and venison chili, judged on flavor, creativity, and presentation. Beyond the culinary daring, the festival offers live bluegrass music, traditional games like cornhole, and a lively street fair atmosphere. Held in the charming Pocahontas County town of Marlinton, it’s a tongue-in-cheek tribute to West Virginia’s resourcefulness and humor, proving that even the wildest ingredients can become a feast. Bring an open mind and an empty stomach!

These 10 festivals showcase West Virginia’s unbeatable blend of adventure, culture, and community spirit in 2025. Whether you’re leaping into the gorge, tapping your feet to a banjo tune, or sampling a roadkill delicacy, there’s a celebration here for every taste. Plan your visit, pack your enthusiasm, and let us know in the comments which festival you’re most excited to explore!