West Virginia has a long history of celebrating its unique traditions through fairs and festivals. As guests filled the capitol rotunda, smells of maple syrup and buckwheat mingled with sausage, coffee, and pumpkin fudge.
From Monarch Butterflies and Honey Bees, to Bridge Day and Matewan, festivals and fairs make up an integral part of West Virginia tourism.
These celebrations promote community pride and cultural education. Festivals are likely to become more popular than ever this year as many face economic restrictions. They also provide ways for community members to get out and volunteer.