known for honoring and preserving its Swiss roots . Although many festivals are sprinkled throughout Helvetia ’ s busy year , the most popular events are the Helvetia Community Fair and Fasnacht . The small town , while already rich in culture , truly embodies its Swiss heritage during these celebrations . The Helvetia Community Fair includes authentic activities like yodeling , Swiss folk dancing and flag swinging , alphorn playing , a parade and more .
Fasnacht is a pre-Lenten celebration and one of the most distinctive festivals in West Virginia . The festivities include a candlelight parade , a square dance , the burning of Old Man Winter and the consumption of delectable , traditional food . All the while , Fasnacht goers wear homemade masks throughout the evening . Helvetia is a true example of keeping traditions alive .
Fitting for its name , Ireland , WV , also taps into its heritage with an annual event called the Irish Spring Festival . Beginning more than 40 years ago , the events of the day include a parade , old fashion square dance and crowning of a festival king and queen . The days during the festival are packed full of activities , and outdoor adventurers can enjoy the tradition of hiking to Blarney Rock , a boulder sitting on a mountain overlooking the town , in celebration of the vernal equinox .
Covering a span of cultures , the Marshall University International Festival is West Virginia ’ s longestrunning international festival . People from across the state can come together and learn about many different countries and customs . The annual festival has expositions showcasing food , music , dance and other important cultural traditions set up to bring everyone together and preserve heritage . Restaurants from the tri-state area also gather to serve up international cuisine . Visitors are given the opportunity to travel the world in one room .
Like Marshall University , West Virginia University ’ s ( WVU ) International Street Festival is an annual event showcasing cultures from around the globe . Students and scholars alike have the opportunity to show their diverse backgrounds by setting up booths along High Street in Morgantown , WV , along with local vendors and performers . WVU has over 1,200 international students from over 100 countries , and this event is the perfect place to share the mix of such incredible cultures .
Embodying Italian heritage , Clarksburg , WV , hosts the West Virginia Italian Heritage Festival , and it is a spectacle to be seen . From authentic Italian food and singing to dances , pageantry and the arts , the event is full of elements reflecting the pride for Italian heritage . Thousands are drawn to the area each year to join in the celebration .
West Virginia is fortunate to have an abundance of internationally themed festivals and events . Immerse yourself into a new culture while experiencing something new and truly wonderful .
Photo by Elkins-Randolph County Tourism .
Photo by Elkins-Randolph County Tourism .
Photo by Shamrock CEOS Club .
Photo by Kyleigh Decker . Photo by Joe LaRocca .