Travel WV
written by paige kocourek
International West Virginia
Photo by Marshall University .
Photo by Bavarian Inn Resort .
Photos by Jules Rone .
Photo by West Virginia Department of Tourism .
Culture is an invaluable part of our world and always has been . It creates a united identity and binds communities and people together in a profound manner . The preservation of culture is essential to continually transform our world for the better and generate new , unique ideas for solving complex problems . Culture brings together diverse voices and experiences , which is necessary for growth and lifelong learning as well as for preserving heritage . While the Appalachian region has a deeply rooted culture of its own , West Virginia actively celebrates cultures from around the globe through varying events and festivals . This is important to communities throughout the state because it allows West Virginians and visitors to experience a new way of life and traditional values .
The first of many internationally themed events in the state takes place in Shepherdstown , WV . The Bavarian Inn hosts an unmatched Oktoberfest , which celebrates German traditions in food , music and dance . The annual , outdoor event is ideal for the entire family , with children ’ s activities onsite and an assortment of German beer and wine to enjoy alongside selections from Bavarian Brother ’ s Brewing . Vendors are arranged throughout the property and guests can enjoy themselves as they witness unbeatable views . The Bavarian Inn ’ s Oktoberfest is an essential international festival to attend .
The next event is both unique and representative of countries spanning far and wide . The Berkeley Springs International Water Tasting is the largest and longest-running water tasting in the world . Judges taste water from across the U . S . and as far away as Tajikistan , New Zealand , Indonesia , Greece and St . Kitts and select a winner for a variety of categories , such as best purified water , best municipal water and best sparkling water . No one can deny the importance of water , and the event hosts seminars covering important topics like sustainability and the cost of water .
The city of Wheeling , WV , is no stranger to a full schedule of international events , one of these being the Grecian Festival that takes place each July . For over 20 years , St . John the Divine Greek Orthodox Church has brought Greece ’ s tastes , sights and sounds to Wheeling . Those who attend the festival will enjoy traditional Greek food — like moussaka , pastitsio and gyros — authentic dance and musical performances and other activities that bring Greek culture alive . Visitors can tour the church , attend cooking classes and enjoy Greek desserts , like the Baklava cheesecake , which may just become your next Achilles heel .
Wheeling is not the only West Virginia town to dive into its ethnic background ; the town of Helvetia is
34
2023 Discover West Virginia