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EMILY RICE
The Return of Fall Festivities
IN WEST VIRGINIA
The arrival of autumn in West Virginia is marked by a chill in the air , changing leaves and the celebration of harvests and haunts . This year , it will also be marked by the return of some of the Mountain State ’ s best seasonal events . After a year of cancelations , residents and visitors alike are looking forward to the fairs , festivals and attractions that characterize fall in Almost Heaven .
Celebrate the changing of the leaves with a leaf-peeping road trip by visiting the Davis , WV , festival dedicated to the beloved autumn activity . If you ’ re looking for a good scare this fall , why not visit one of the Mountain State ’ s historic sites for a paranormal tour ? For the lover of all things pumpkin flavored , Milton ’ s Pumpkin Festival offers everything you could want or need , including pumpkin ice cream . Whatever you may be seeking this fall , West Virginia has it all .
Para-Con
Moundsville - September 11-12 , 2021 wvpentours . com / paracon
Established in 1866 , the West Virginia State Penitentiary housed incarcerated people until 1995 . Today , the gothic-style building invites guests to experience ghost tours and the occasional spook . The Paranormal Convention , or Para-Con , is an annual event held at the penitentiary to bring thrill seekers together .
Leaf Peeper ’ s Festival
Davis - September 24-26 , 2021 canaanvalley . org / see-do / listings / leaf-peepers-festival
Making its triumphant return in 2021 , the Leaf Peeper ’ s Festival is sure to check every box on the autumnlovers list . With a craft fair , live music , car show , food vendors and more , this festival is a must-go .
45th Annual Mountain Heritage Arts & Crafts Festival
Kearneysville - September 24-26 , 2021 mhacfestival . org
Considered one of the top festivals in the country , this juried event hosts approximately 200 artisans and craft persons carefully selected each year . Live bluegrass music will be played while visitors enjoy crafts , food and drinks .
Thurmond Ghost Hunt
Thurmond - September 25 , 2021 aceraft . com / event / thurmond-ghost-hunt-fall-event
In the heyday of coal mining , this small town in beautiful Fayette County was a hub of activity and commerce . Today , its population of about five residents welcomes you to tour the ghostly shell of its former coal-powered glory on this special ghost hunt .
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WEST VIRGINIA EXECUTIVE