Just because the weather may have turned colder doesn’t mean it’s time to hibernate! Winter in West Virginia brings with it an array of events to warm your heart, get your blood pumping and keep away the winter blues. Kick off the New Year at a First Night celebration or be the life of the party at a New Year’s Eve dinner and dance. Plan three-day-weekend getaways in January and February, or whisk away that special someone for a Valentine’s Day he or she will not soon forget. Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland, W.Va., and say “good-bye winter, hello spring” at one of the state’s great festivals. The possibilities for winter fun are endless in the Mountain State.
GoodNight 2009: Dec. 31, Charleston
Celebrate the new year at Charleston’s favorite family-oriented and free New Year’s Eve party. Music and dance performances take place at venues throughout the capital city starting at 6 p.m. Free parking is available in the Virginia Street garage next to City Hall. Trolleys make continuous loops between all the GoodNight sites and rides are provided at no charge. Visit www.cmawva.org for a performance schedule or call the information hotlines at 304-346-7832 or 304-346-2494.
New Year’s Eve Celebrations: Dec. 31, West Virginia State Parks, Statewide
Ring in 2010 at one of West Virginia’s great state parks. Participating parks include Cacapon Resort State Park in Berkeley Springs, Canaan Valley Resort State Park in Davis, North Bend State Park in Cairo, Twin Falls Resort State Park in Mullens and Tygart Lake State Park in Grafton. Special packages are available. For more information, visit www.wvstateparks.com.
Lewisburg Shanghai Parade: Jan. 1, Lewisburg
Bundle up and enjoy Lewisburg’s annual Shanghai Parade on New Year’s Day at noon. This 150-year tradition features a wacky costume and float-filled parade that was recently named a Top 20 Event by the Southeast Tourism Society. For more information, contact 304-645-2080 or visit www.greenbrierwv.com.
Boar’s Head & Yule Log Festival: Jan. 8 – 9, Christ Church United Methodist, Charleston
Based on a traditional English festival, this two-night event features a cast of more than 150 people in full medieval or biblical costuming. Add a 40-voice choir and 16-piece orchestra and let the singing and merrymaking begin! A medieval-themed reception takes place in the church’s fellowship hall following the show. Tickets are $10. For more information, visit http://boarshead.ccumwv.org/.
Fifth annual Eagle Survey: Jan. 9, Pipestem Resort State Park, Pipestem
Naturalist Jim Phillips is seeking volunteers to assist with surveys of bald and golden eagles in the Bluestone area. Volunteers will meet at the Pipestem State Park Nature Center to arrange a car caravan to Bluestone Lake. The activity will last about two hours, including travel time. For details, contact Phillips at 304-466-1800 ext. 344 or check the activity schedule at www.pipestemresort.com.
Lore & Tracking Weekend: Jan. 15-17, Twin Falls Resort State Park, Mullens
Learn how our ancestors tracked the animals that provided food and clothing in the 18th century. Attendees participate in track walks and then have the opportunity to put their new skills to use. Other weekend topics include Indian stories, edible and medicinal plants and an 18th century trading camp. Reservations and fees are required. To learn more, visit www.trailsinclivinghistory.com or call 304-294-4000.
Great Backyard Bird Count: Feb. 12 – 14, Pipestem Resort State Park, Pipestem
Start a new tradition this Valentine’s Day; participate in the annual Great Backyard Bird Count. All levels of birdwatchers, from beginner to expert, are welcome. For more information, call Jim Phillips at 304-466-1800 x 344.
Sweetheart Weekends: Feb. 12 – 14, West Virginia State Parks, Statewide
Get away with your sweetheart for a Valentine’s Day Weekend to remember. Participating state parks, including Cacapon Resort State Park in Berkeley Springs, North Bend State Park in Cairo, Pipestem Resort State Park in Pipestem, Stonewall Resort State Park in Roanoke and Twin Falls Resort State Park at Mullens, offer special packages. For more information, visit www.wvstateparks.com.
Irish Spring Festival: March 17 – 21, Ireland Community Center, Ireland
This annual spring festival includes the increasingly popular Irish road bowling, snake chase, Irish jig, harp workshops, car show, art and crafts, games, parade, food and much more. Admission and parking are free. Event times vary each day. For more information, call 304-452-8962 or visit www.angelfire.com/wv/irishspringfestival/.
Potomac Highlands Regional Maple Festival: March 20-21, Keyser
Bid farewell to winter at this spring break-out festival. Sample West Virginia-made maple syrup and maple products, enjoy artisans and crafters, live entertainment, petting zoo and pony rides for the kids. There also will be plenty of delicious food: buckwheat pancake and sausage breakfast, BBQ chicken and ribs, sausage sandwiches and funnel cakes. Admission and parking are free. Bus parking is available. For more info call 304-788-1831 or 304-788-4230, interested vendors call Robin at 304-813-7080 or e-mail maplefest@hotmail.com
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Dec. 23, 2009
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Tricia Sizemore
304-558-2003, ext. 319
tricia.t.sizemore@wv.gov