Happy Birthday, West Virginia!

June 20, 1863 marks the date that West Virginia was recognized as the official 35th state in the United States of America. With 55 counties, four seasons, scenic landscapes, wildlife, outdoor adventures, Appalachian history, delicious food (our state delicacy–the pepperoni roll), and friendly folks, it’s no wonder they call West Virginia “Almost Heaven.”

This year, our “Wild and Wonderful” state turns 161! See how you can show your appreciation for our Mountain State in Mountaineer Country by attending true West Virginia events or exploring its vast, outdoor beauty.

Events

 

Check out the many Mountaineer Country events taking place this weekend and next!

• West Virginia Birthday Party: Head to High Street in Downtown Morgantown for a birthday celebration featuring live music, food vendors, a kids’ zone, a vintage market, and a beer garden. Join the community in celebrating our wild and wonderful state!
• Cheer on the West Virginia Black Bears at the Kendrick Family Ballpark: The Black Bears will take on The Trenton Thunder on June 20 and are offering a special West Virginia Day t-shirt giveaway to the first 500 fans!
• Preston County History Day: Celebrate West Virginia’s 161st birthday early by learning more about our history and who and what came before us in Preston County.
• McGrew House Celebration: Celebrate West Virginia by visiting the home of the state’s founder, James C. McGrew. McGrew House will be open to tour as well as offering kid’s activities and a free WV cookie to attendees.
• West Virginia’s Birthday! Head to Coopers Rock State Forest for a birthday photo on the #AlmostHeaven swing. Follow our social media for yearly birthday celebrations.

 

Activities

 

• Paddle the Monongahela River: Looking for something relaxing to do this weekend? Grab your kayak or canoe and enjoy a leisurely escape down the Monongahela River. Take in the scenic views on either side of the river and unwind.
• Bike ride the Rail to Trail: Rent a bicycle from Wamsley Cycles in the Seneca Center or break out your own to ride along the Monongahela River. The local Deckers Creek Rail to Trail expands for 19 miles, and it allows cyclists to enjoy the scenic waterway and West Virginia nature throughout the ride.
• Raft on the Cheat River: Book a raft trip with Cheat River Outfitters in Albright, West Virginia and make a memory that will last a lifetime. Experience the wild and wonderful nature there is along this rapid-filled waterway in Greater Morgantown.
• Hike the Raven’s Rock trail in Coopers Rock State Forest: Take the adventurous route and hike 2.5 miles to Raven’s Rock. This scenic view allows you to see the mountainous landscape from all viewpoints and provides a different perspective from the overlook.
• Cool off at Tygart Lake State Park’s Tygart Adventure Lake: The adventure lake at Tygart Lake State Park features twenty-five giant inflatables and a sandy beach area with lounge chairs. Whether you want to catch some rays or jump right in the water this is the place for families to have easy summer fun.

Share your West Virginia Birthday photos with us by using #VisitMountaineerCountry and #MountaineerCountryYes in your posts!