Summer Events Preview: Fishing and Biking and Artwork, Oh My!
Options for organized adventure and casual fun keep growing in Tucker County
ArtSpring Festival, May 24-26
This event is spread across multiple communities in Tucker County. It features live music, art exhibits, a Thomas art walk, a pint tour, and other activities.
Insider tip: Local filmmaker Justin Harris will be on hand at 2:30 p.m. May 25 at the Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center for a screening of some of his work, including the visually stunning Freeland.
Click here for more information. Also, Saddles & Smiles will feature free live music, including the Davisson Brothers Band and the Soda Pop Gypsies, May 24 and 25.
Appalachian Fly Fishing Festival, May 31-June 2
The organizers of this new event in Thomas, Robby McClung and Tyler Waldo, are thinking big from the start. Events include casting clinics, a casting competition, a kid’s fly fishing “rodeo,” fly tying demonstrations and workshops, a variety of food options, and a fundraising dinner.
Click here for more information.
Canaan Mountain Bike Festival, June 13-16
This festival has grown to become a favorite for both locals and visitors. Events include free guided mountain bike rides, skills training, a fundraising dinner, raffle, scavenger hunt, and trail work.
Some events have already sold out, so register soon.
Insider tip: Don’t miss the “Run What Ya Brung Trials” event June 14. Watch the area’s best riders dazzle with their skills navigating obstacles as the crowd cheers them on. If you’re an expert mountain biker, sign up to compete. The event is held at the Camp 70 trails gateway behind the Shop ‘N Save.
Click here for more information.
West Virginia Days, June 14-16
This event at Canaan Valley Resort State Park features Civil War re-enactments, battlefield demonstrations, Irish road bowling, and other events.
Click here for more information.
Canaan Valley Trail Run, June 22
This race on the Promised Land Trail in Canaan Valley State Park features 5.9-mile and 11.8-mile options.
Click here for more information.
Windfest, July 5-7
This event at Canaan Valley Resort State Park features lessons on flying stunt kites, plus scenic chairlift rides, a wagon ride, and other events.
Insider tip: Don’t miss the free outdoor concert at 3 p.m. July 7 featuring the Wheeling Symphony Orchestra.
Click here for more information.
Mountaineer Days, July 6
This event in Thomas features live music, a parade, food and craft vendors, and fireworks. The music lineup and other details are still to be determined.
Click here for more information.
Pickin’ in Parsons Bluegrass Festival, July 30-Aug. 3
This five-day event event features jam classes and a huge lineup of bands including The Seldom Scene. Event passes are $40 per day or $105 for the full event when purchased in advance. Prices are higher at the gate.
Many people camp on site for this event. Shuttle rides are available from locations in Thomas, Davis, and Canaan Valley.
Click here for more information.
Moonlight on the Falls Marathon, Aug. 24-25
This nighttime run at Blackwater Falls State Park features a quarter marathon, half marathon, marathon, distance challenge, and relay options.
Click here for more information.
Brew With a View, Aug. 31 -Sept. 1
This event at Timberline Mountain features live outdoor music, food, local craft beers, and scenic chairlift rides. The music lineup includes Soda Pop Gypsies, Stone Senate, Josh Folmsbee & The Crooked Roots, Tom O’Connor, and Nat Frederick.
Insider tip: Bring a folding chair or a blanket.
Click here for more information.
Mountain Music Series
Enjoy spectacular mountain views and free music every Friday from 6-9 p.m. at Canaan Valley Resort State Park. The event kicks off May 24 and wraps up on August 30.
Click here for more information.
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