Make the Best of Fall Fests
Nature’s Mountain Playground is the epicenter of family fun and adventure during the autumn season! There’s something special about taking in our mountain air during this time of year. As the leaves begin to change and the temperatures begin to cool, Pocahontas County comes alive with fun events for the whole family and seasonal activities everyone can enjoy!
Labor Day Weekend Festivities
Labor Day is a jam-packed, banjo pickin’ filled weekend that never disappoints year after year – 2018 is no exception.
Bid the last of summer farewell and check out Snowshoe Mountain Resort’s FreeFall Festival September 1-2. Enjoy craft beers, unique vendors, fireworks and live music from bands like Dr. Dog and West Virginia favorite, Davisson Brothers Band. While you’re there be sure to take in the best of the mountain – try zip lining, the climbing wall or just hanging by Split Rock Pool.
Once you’ve enjoyed a little bit of life from 4,848 feet in elevation, drop down to Watoga State Park and check out Watoga Art in the Park. Celebrating local artists and talents, this event takes place September 1-2 and features hands-on demonstrations, a taste of Appalachian culture, nature activities and FOOD! You can shop, listen to live music from local bands and take in West Virginia’s largest state park, with activities from paddle boarding, to disc golf and swimming.
Music In The Mountains
Traditional old-time music is a staple of Appalachian culture and heritage. Here in Pocahontas County, the sounds of traditional bluegrass and old-time music still ring as clear as they did back in days past. This annual event held at the Pocahontas County Opera House is hosted by the Mountain Music Trail – a multi-county initiative celebrating musicians and music venues along scenic Route 219 in the Mountain State. September 14-15, bring the family out to enjoy the sounds of traditional Appalachian music and immerse in the uniqueness of Appalachian culture. There are old-fashioned games, craft demonstrations and a live jam session, where local musicians collaborate together on the steps of the Pocahontas County Opera House.
While you’re in town for the weekend, be sure to head to Beartown State Park for the Leaves of Fall Walk. Beartown State Park is known for its boardwalk, which winds visitors through intriguing and mesmerizing rock formations – a spectacle to see in the fall season!
September’s Final Shindig
With the end of September comes the peak of fall foliage and some of Pocahontas County’s most popular events. Head out to the annual Autumn Harvest Festival September 28-29! Friday night, enjoy a traditional square dance at the Pocahontas County Opera House – and don’t worry if you don’t know the steps! The kind folks of Pocahontas County will have you on your feet and twirlin’ to the bluegrass beat before you know it!
Saturday, continue to enjoy the Autumn Harvest Festival by browsing local vendors and artisans, local food options and live music all day at the Marlinton Gazebo. Don’t miss out on the West Virginia RoadKill Cook-Off Saturday, September 29. That’s right – road kill served up gourmet style in West Virginia’s most distinctive and exciting culinary competition. While it’s not the real stuff you see on the side of the road, these chefs do whip up vittles like possum, turtle, squirrel, deer and bear!
Sunday, September 30, be sure to check out the Cranberry Shindig at Cranberry Mountain Nature Center! This annual event brings together hundreds of artisans and vendors showcasing their best work and selling crafts and goods. While you’re there – head across the Highland Scenic Highway (Route 150) to see breathtaking views of peak fall foliage.
Huntersville Traditions Day & Greenbrier River Trail Marathon
Celebrating traditions of days past, Huntersville Traditions Day, October 5-6, features family fun activities and interactive demonstrations and exhibits that showcase the history of the community of Huntersville and Pocahontas County.
Learn how to make apple butter, sip apple cider and enjoy horse and carriage rides while hearing the sounds of traditional bluegrass music through the historic town of Huntersville. And, for those families full of adventurous spirits – register now for the Greenbrier River Trail Marathon, taking place Sunday, October 7. The inaugural race will take runners down the Greenbrier River Trail, tracing the banks of the Greenbrier River, from the historic logging town of Cass to Stillwell Park in Marlinton. Registration ends September 22 (although racers can technically register up until October 6 for $10 increase on overall registration fee).
Halloween at Cass & Halloween in the Campground!
Trains, goblins and ghosts – oh my! Head to Cass Scenic Railroad State Park for Halloween at Cass, October 26-27, and experience the historic logging town of Cass in the most spookiest way possible! With haunted houses and scenic train rides that take passengers to some of the best scenic vistas in the county, there’s fun and excitement for the whole family!
For more Hallow’s Eve fun, head to Watoga State Park October 26-27, for Halloween in the Campground! Family activities include pumpkin carving and costume contests. Also, see if your family can decorate the creepiest campsite in the campground!
To really get in the spirit of autumn, be sure to check out Frost More Farm’s Pick-Your-Owns this fall, where your family can pick pumpkins and gourds! Or head to Frostmore Farm for apple cider tastings, and a mini corn maze! Click here to visit our calendar of events page for dates.
Planning your trip? Click here for a list of places to stay, or call the Pocahontas County CVB for assistance.