As autumn arrives in Pocahontas County, West Virginia, our local calendar fills up with a variety of seasonal events. With something for everyone to enjoy, from flavorful wild game cook-offs to traditional Appalachian celebrations, our area offers a unique and unforgettable fall experience. Here are some of the best upcoming festivals and events to attend in Pocahontas County.
UCI Mountain Bike Marathon World Championships
Dates: September 22, 2024
Location: Snowshoe Mountain Resort
Witness a global showdown of endurance and skill during the UCI Mountain Bike Marathon World Championships at Snowshoe Mountain Resort. This event brings together the world’s top mountain bikers for a thrilling competition.
Riders will conquer the brutal Snowshoe Marathon course, tackling demanding terrain that includes challenging climbs, technical descents and forest trails on a grueling three-hour race. Cheer on your favorite athletes and experience the electric atmosphere at this once-in-a-lifetime event on September 22.
Rockin’ Redneck Square Dance, West Virginia Roadkill Cook-Off & Autumn Harvest Festival
Dates: September 27 & 28, 2024
Location: Marlinton
Kick off your weekend with lively dancing! Join the Rockin’ Redneck Square Dance on Friday, September 27, at the Pocahontas County Opera House. No experience is necessary! Everyone is welcome to learn the steps and twirl the night away to the mountain music beat.
After the square dance, the annual West Virginia Roadkill Cook-Off and Autumn Harvest Festival is back for another memorable year. This unique event features a culinary competition where local chefs battle it out to create the most delicious dishes using unconventional ingredients. You never know what might be on the menu — bear wontons, turtle stew? Purchase a wristband for just $10 to sample a variety of wild game dishes starting at 11 a.m. And don’t miss the Hudson Cream West Virginia Biscuit Bake-Off, where you can taste-test some delicious biscuit creations during the event!
Beyond the food, the festival offers plenty of other activities. Browse the works of local artisans, listen to live music and participate in the Possum Trot 5K.
The schedule includes the Rockin’ RoadKill Square Dance on Friday, September 27, from 7 to 9 p.m., and the festival officially kicks off at 9 a.m. on Saturday, September 28, with the West Virginia Roadkill Cook-Off winners being announced at 4 p.m.
Huntersville Traditions Day
Dates: October 4 & 5, 2024
Location: Huntersville
Discover the heart of Appalachian culture at Huntersville Traditions Day. Listen to live mountain music, watch skilled artisans demonstrate traditional crafts and take a journey through history with tours of local landmarks.
On Friday night, experience the exciting atmosphere with live mountain music and clogging performances, followed by a delicious country dinner and a pie auction. On Saturday, immerse yourself in the region’s rich heritage with old-time country music, wagon rides and demonstrations of traditional crafts like blacksmithing, quilting, chair canning, broom-making and wool spinning. Walk through a Civil War encampment and take guided tours of the Huntersville Jail, Huntersville Museum and Presbyterian Church, which served as a hospital during the Civil War.
Horse Scavenger Hunt at East Fork Campground
Date: October 12, 2024
Location: Durbin
Saddle up and explore the beautiful trails of the East Fork Campground during a fun-filled mounted horse scavenger hunt and trail ride.
Participants will have the chance to win prizes by completing the scavenger hunt course. The registration fee is $30 per rider, and registration closes on September 30. After the ride, stick around for dinner and live entertainment, open to the public at a reduced fee.
Stay for the weekend for the perfect equestrian getaway. Enjoy full RV hook-up sites, riverside tent camping and overnight stables. Take advantage of amenities like restrooms, showers, a playground, picnic areas, Wi-Fi and on-site trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding.
Additional Fall Events
Droop Mountain Open Studio Tour (September 14-15)
Explore the backroads of Pocahontas County and discover local artisans at their studios during the Droop Mountain Open Studio Tour. Watch demonstrations, make-and-take activities and the opportunity to purchase unique handcrafted items.
Breaking Legs – A Play Presented by the Pocahontas County Drama Workshop (September 20-21)
Get ready for a hilarious night of comedy with “Breaking Legs.” This play, presented by the Pocahontas County Drama Workshop, follows the antics of a mobster family involved in the theater business.
USARA Adventure Racing National Championship (September 27-29)
Test your endurance and navigation skills in the USARA Adventure Racing National Championships at Snowshoe Mountain Resort. This challenging event will take participants through various terrains and activities, including canoeing, biking and hiking.
Cranberry Shindig (September 29)
Celebrate Appalachian culture at the Cranberry Shindig, a popular annual event featuring traditional artisans, demonstrations, live music and tasty food, set against a backdrop of stunning fall foliage.
Greenbrier River Trail Marathon & Half Marathon (October 6)
Run along the scenic Greenbrier River Trail in the Greenbrier River Trail Marathon & Half Marathon. Tackle this beautiful point-to-point course with a one percent downhill grade and connect with nature during this race.
Snowshoe Bike Park Closing Weekend (October 12-13)
Say goodbye to the season with a final weekend of biking at the Snowshoe Bike Park. Enjoy one last chance to hit the trails and spend time with friends.
Embrace The Colorful Season
From thrilling adventures to cultural experiences, Pocahontas County offers something for everyone this fall. Discover the vibrant flavors of local cuisine, immerse yourself in the region’s rich history and create lasting memories with family and friends.
Extend your stay and explore more. Find cozy accommodations to suit your needs and make the most of your visit. For detailed information on upcoming events and attractions, visit our event calendar.