West Virginia Fall Food and Drink Festivals
By Megan Bevins & McKenzie Stalnaker
It’s no secret that West Virginia offers one of the most breathtaking fall seasons. As the leaves transform, so does the culinary landscape, bringing people together to celebrate West Virginia’s rich culture through its food and local brews. Sharing meals is a cornerstone of life in West Virginia, fostering connections that lead to lively festivals that bring people together to celebrate their cultures. These celebrations highlight the core values and interests of the state, showcasing delectable dishes and local drinks that embody the warmth and hospitality unique to this region and resonate with the season.
The Nicholas County Potato Festival
Date: Friday, September 5, and Saturday, September 6
Time: Friday from 5:30-11 p.m., Saturday from 8 a.m.-10 p.m.
Location: Summersville, WV
In September, Downtown Summersville will boast West Virginia’s agricultural heritage with its 55th annual potato festival. While the festival will offer a multitude of potato tastings and potato-themed events—such as the Potato
Display and Auction—that is not all guests will experience. This family-friendly event will feature a full weekend of entertainment, including amusement park rides, craft and food vendors, parades and classic car and tractor shows. There will also be a Saturday night concert kicking off at 7 p.m. with Jack Blocker as the opening act, followed by headliner Kelsey Hart taking the stage at 8:30 p.m. Festivalgoers can even participate in the Potato Idol Competition, a pet pageant or the Spud Run 5k. The event is free to attend with possible additional fees for activities inside the festival. Don’t miss your chance to be part of one of West Virginia’s tastiest annual traditions.
Oglebay Fall Food Truck Festival
Date: Saturday, September 13
Time: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.
Location: Wheeling, WV
Sample the best of West Virginia’s food truck scene all in one place at the Oglebay Fall Food Truck Festival. This free, family-friendly event features a variety of regional food trucks serving up everything from smash burgers and tacos to crepes and donuts. Enjoy live music throughout the day, sip on a seasonal drink from the Beer Garden and let the kids play in the Inflatable Fun Zone with bounce houses and face painting. Held at Oglebay Park Resort, it’s a delicious way to spend a fall day.
OktoberWest
Date: Saturday, October 11
Time: 3-7 p.m.
Location: Charleston, WV
Lovers of beer and European culture can celebrate the spirit of fall at OktoberWest, West Virginia’s traditional German-inspired beer festival. Held in Charleston’s Elk City district, this popular and vibrant event features more than 100 craft beers and ciders, including classic Oktoberfest brews and exclusive seasonal options. The festival will have live music—including two DJs and a headlining band—delicious local eats and contests like a keg roll and sausage toss. Two pricing options are offered: $45 for a general admission ticket, which grants 4 p.m. admission to the festival, and $55 for a VIP ticket, which grants 3 p.m. admission to the festival as well as access to things like special beers. All proceeds from OktoberWest are donated to Charleston Urban Works and other projects supporting community and economic revitalization.
Apple Butter Festival
Date: Saturday, October 11, and Sunday, October 12
Time: Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Location: Berkeley Springs, WV
This year marks the Berkeley Springs – Morgan County Chamber of Commerce’s 50th Annual Apple Butter Festival. Along with 200 vendors and delicious apple butter, the free-to-attend festival will offer music and live entertainment—including two stages with performances from local artists and award-winning musicians—arts and crafts, fun contests and a 9 a.m. opening parade. This year will also kick off with the third Beer Garden Party, taking place on Friday from 5-9 p.m., where guests can experience food trucks and local craft beer in the West Virginia Wine & Spirits Garden. Make sure to visit the charming town of Berkeley Springs this October and bask in the spirit of fall.
