Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.  

Today is Saturday, Sept. 30 

Bullock Distillery’s secret to success: excellence in craftsmanship, plus assistance from the WVEDA…WV brewers discuss craft beer’s impact on the economy…and Marshall’s new cybersecurity center is expected to put a national spotlight on WV…on today’s daily304.


#1 – From WV COMMERCE – Bullock Distillery’s owners have roots in Appalachia that go way back. While the business itself is far younger than a few centuries old, the storefront has already become an integral part of the Elk City District in Charleston. 

Like any business, Bullock Distillery ran into road blocks along the way. Fortunately, the West Virginia Economic Development Authority was able to help them grow their business, bring on more jobs, and continue this enduring family tradition.

Watch the video on YouTube and visit www.bullockdistillery.com to learn more.

Watch the video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=db3joPR6ijI

#2 – From GAZETTE-MAIL – Charles Bockway wants economic developers to understand how the craft beer industry can benefit communities.

“We are trying to illustrate to a roomful of economic development people the power of craft beer to improve community development, bring business to downtown, and … have a lot of spin-off improvements or benefits to the communities of West Virginia, where we don’t have a ton of craft breweries already,” he said.

Bockway, of Charleston, operates the Brilliant Stream website, which he uses to promote and discuss the craft beer industry in West Virginia. He was the moderator of the “Crafting Change” session at the West Virginia Economic Development Council’s annual fall conference in Huntington.

Conference panelists cited recent advancements in the local craft beer scene, like Huntington’s Private Outdoor Designated Area, which allows people within a certain mapped-out area to walk around outside with beverages from one establishment to another as long as they’re licensed to distribute those cups.

Drew Hetzler, owner of The Peddler in Huntington, pointed out that the addition of breweries in turn helps other businesses thrive. 

Read more:

https://www.wvgazettemail.com/business/craft-beer-industry-having-economic-impact-on-local-communities/article_87c86e3a-947d-5a69-972d-12c23d820b46.html

#3 – From BUSINESS FACILITIES – Marshall University has received a $45 million investment from the state of West Virginia to establish a state-of-the-art Institute for Cyber Security. This would position the university at the forefront of cyber defense and research.

“This is a landmark moment for our university, marking profound commitment to safeguarding our digital future and addressing the escalating challenges of the cyber landscape,” Marshall President Brad D. Smith said.

The funding will build a new facility in the 4th Avenue Innovation District of Huntington and will serve as an anchor for the area that is being developed as an innovation-led, mixed-use area located between downtown Huntington and Marshall’s Huntington campus. 

The proposed building will house state-of-the-art cyber security technology and training programs and become the cyber locus, where industry from throughout Appalachia and the country will find training, mentoring, and learn the most up-to-date cyber trends.

Read more:

https://businessfacilities.com/in-west-virginia-marshall-university-plans-institute-for-cyber-security/?utm_source=linkedin&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=dlvr.it-linkedin_social

Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304.

The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo. 

That’s all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.  

Today is Friday, Sept. 29 

WV SBDC business coaches are here to help you achieve your entrepreneurial dream…WV Explore founder David Sibray shares his favorite getaways in Almost Heaven…and discover natural beauty and outdoor recreation in Smoke Hole Canyon…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WV SBDC – Do you own a small business -- or are you thinking of starting one -- and could you use some advice? Business coaches with the West Virginia Small Business Development Center are happy to help you achieve your goals. Best of all, the services are at no cost to you!

Visit www.wvsbdc.com to learn more. 

Watch the video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yA-3XveiB3E

 #2 – From INNOVATORS & ENTREPRENEURS – David Sibray is founder of “West Virginia Explorer” magazine. For decades, this publication has helped people learn about West Virginia’s natural and cultural landscape. 

Sibray shares some of his favorite places to explore in the Mountain State and discusses what inspired him to launch his online magazine at www.wvexplorer.com.

“When I became a journalist in the 80’s, I had immediately fallen into doing stories on the mystique of the outdoors. What ended up happening is I heard this thing coming along called the internet, and I realized this could give me the ability to reach more people than print had up until that time,” Sibray says.

“Innovators and Entrepreneurs” is a bi-weekly segment of the daily304 that features discussions and wisdom from West Virginians who have built their companies and launched new ideas here in the Mountain State. Watch the interview with Sibray, and don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel for more great videos.

Watch the video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L2ENvfa-2GE

#3 – From BLUE RIDGE OUTDOORS – Nestled within a 40 square mile area of the Monongahela National Forest and framed by North Fork Mountain and Cave Mountain, Smoke Hole Canyon is a mecca for hikers, bikers, climbers, fishermen, paddlers, tubers, and campers alike. 

Enter from Smoke Hole Road from State Route 220 in Pendleton County or from the north on State Route 55 from Grant County. Once you’ve found this hidden gem, you’ll find many adventures to be had in Smoke Hole Canyon. 

Hike or bike North Fork Mountain Trail to some of the most stunning overlooks in Almost Heaven. Venture underground at Smoke Hole Caverns. Fish and paddle on the Potomac River. Plan your getaway today!

Read more:

https://www.blueridgeoutdoors.com/go-outside/the-hidden-gem-that-is-west-virginias-smoke-hole-canyon/

Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304.

The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo. 

That’s all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.  

Today is Thursday, Sept. 28 

Attention, hunters with disabilities, the DNR has designated select access roads open to Class Q hunting…West Virginians demonstrate their resourcefulness with a legacy of sustainability…and, make your fall travel plans for Pocahontas County…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WVDNR – With fall hunting seasons about to open, the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources is reminding hunters with disabilities that select access roads in national forests and state-owned wildlife management areas are open to those with Class Q permits.

The Class Q hunting program allows improved, extended vehicular access on 13 roads in national forests and 13 roads on state wildlife management areas. These roads are gated to limit vehicular access for approved Class Q hunters only. 

Class Q hunting permits are issued by the WVDNR to applicants who are permanently disabled in their lower extremities. 

Application forms and more information about Class Q permits is available at all WVDNR offices or online at WVhunt.com and WVdnr.gov/hunting.

Read more:

https://wvdnr.gov/national-forest-and-wma-access-roads-to-be-open-to-hunters-with-disabilities/

#2 – From CONSENSUS DIGITAL MEDIA –  Venture deep into the heart of Appalachia to discover the Best of West Virginia Innovation on Made In America. 

Mountaineers know a thing or two about surviving and thriving, and their resourcefulness has crafted a long legacy of sustainability in the region. Whether turning abandoned mine land into farmland, tapping an ancient ocean under Appalachia to bring top chef salt to the world, or brewing solar-powered West Virginia beer, these folks are bringing small town America to life once again.

Watch the video on Consensus Digital Media’s channel on YouTube, and discover why a diversity of sustainability industries are saying #YesWV.

Watch the video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3PJD95WhoJo

#3 – From POCAHONTAS COUNTY CVB – As the air turns crisp and the leaves begin their colorful transformation, Pocahontas County comes alive with a vibrant array of fall festivals and events. 

Check out some of the exciting activities coming up in the next few weeks! Enjoy live music, artisan demonstrations and Civil War history at Huntersville Traditions Day. Celebrate Halloween at Cass Scenic Railroad with a costume contest and trick-or-treating. And now through Oct. 29, check out CW’s Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch at Cass.

Read more:

https://pocahontascountywv.com/falling-for-festivals-cant-miss-autumn-events-in-pocahontas-county/

Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304.

The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo. 

That’s all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

What Makes You Wonderful brings the excitement of Charleston's Oktoberfest right to your ears in this week's podcast. Get ready for a delightful evening filled with craft beers, delectable food trucks, and live music. It's all happening this Saturday, September 30th, from 4 to 9 PM.

Don't miss out on this fantastic event that promises a taste of Oktoberfest right in the heart of Charleston! You can find more information here: https://www.cwvmainstreets.org/oktoberwest.html

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.  

Today is Wednesday, Sept. 27 

Snowshoe hosts a thrilling week of world-class mountain bike racing …Does your business have a vision? 3 Steps 2 Startup offers advice for getting ahead…and FestivFALL returns to the Capital City next month…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From POCAHONTAS COUNTY CVB -- The thrill of downhill racing, the endurance of cross-country marathons and the excitement of the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup Series are all coming together at Snowshoe Mountain Resort starting today through Oct. 1. Set against the spectacular backdrop of Pocahontas County in Almost Heaven, this event promises to be a high-octane extravaganza like no other. 

The series kicks off with an invigorating new addition to Snowshoe – the Cross Country Marathon World Cup (XCM). Covering a grueling 62-mile course through the Allegheny Mountains from Snowshoe to Durbin and back, this race will test riders’ endurance and skills along Snowshoe Mountain’s backcountry trails.

This year, for the first time, the XCM race is open to amateur riders without the need for a pro license. Test your mettle on the same course as the professionals, starting just minutes behind the elite riders in the Marathon of Snowshoe!

Read more:

https://pocahontascountywv.com/gearing-up-for-uci-mountain-bike-world-series/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=september_2023

#2 – From 3 STEPS 2 STARTUP – In a rapidly evolving business landscape, the significance of having a clear and compelling vision cannot be overstated. A vision serves as the North Star, guiding a company’s strategies, decisions, and actions. It not only provides direction but also inspires stakeholders to work towards a common goal. 

In its blog post, 3 Steps 2 Startup explores the importance of vision and how it shapes the trajectory of businesses. Learn how to foster innovation, cultivate employee engagement, and build a strong brand identity.

Working with 3 Steps to Startup and WVCAP (West Virginia Capital Access Program) will help you overcome challenges and lack of clarity in your dreams and aspirations by helping you follow a clear plan and goals that will help you reach both financial stability and entrepreneurial success. 

Learn more:

https://3steps2startup.com/2023/09/01/nurturing-success-the-power-of-vision-on-world-dream-day/

#3 – From GAZETTE-MAIL –  It’s shaping up to be a busy season in the Capital City. FestivFALL, Charleston’s annual fall arts and music festival, returns Oct. 13-22. The event sees the return of favorites like the Harvest Art Fair, the Carriage Leaf Trail Walk and Glow in the Park at Slack Plaza.

New for this year include the City Center Dead, a tribute to the music of the Grateful Dead, the Down & Dirty Country Music Festival, and the West Virginia International Film Festival’s A Film Under the Stars, presenting “Ghostbusters.”

The Clay Center also has released the schedule for its next season of Sound Checks, which kicks off Oct. 6 with Indie rock band Harbour.

Read more:

https://www.wvgazettemail.com/arts_and_entertainment/in-short-festivfall-returns-sound-checks-lineup-announced/article_fa3ce78d-1cb6-5db9-94d9-9524b6695328.html

Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304.

The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo. 

That’s all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.  

Today is Tuesday, Sept. 26 

The WV Tech Park spotlights #YesWV tenant Dow…Author Cory Doctorow to speak at WV Humanities Council event…and Weirton’s Pietro Fiorentini USA finds WV to be an ideal location for business…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WV TECH PARK – Dow is one of the many innovative companies that reside at the West Virginia Regional Technology Park in South Charleston.

At 126 years old, Dow is one of the world's leading suppliers of chemicals, plastics, synthetic fibers, and agricultural products. 

Dow has a global presence with over 100 manufacturing sites in 31 countries. With two operations on the Tech Park campus, including Univation™ Technologies and its Polyolefin research and development facility, Dow has a longstanding history of innovation at the site.

Home to over 25 businesses and 1,000 jobs, the Tech Park is committed to the continued growth of its multi-tenant park dedicated to research, innovation, technological advancement, and education. 

Lease space is available. The 258-acre campus is ideal for STEM industries and institutions that diversify West Virginia's economy and drive business and economic growth. For more information or to schedule a tour, contact the Tech Park or call (304) 356-3165.

Read more:

https://www.wvtechpark.com/post/tenant-spotlight-dow

#2 – From WV HUMANITIES COUNCIL – The West Virginia Humanities Council presents the 41st annual McCreight Lecture in the Humanities at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 19. This year’s distinguished speaker is author, journalist, and tech humanist Cory Doctorow. 

Doctorow, a 2020 inductee into the Canadian Science Fiction Hall of Fame, is the author of over two dozen books. His new finance crime technothriller, “Red Team Blues,” releases in April 2023; and a new work of nonfiction, “The Internet Con,” will release in September 2023.

The 2023 McCreight Lecture takes at the University of Charleston's Geary Auditorium, and will include an audience Q&A. The lecture will be followed by a book signing and refreshments. Admission to the lecture and signing are free and open to the public. 

Read more:

https://wvhumanities.org/programs/mccreight-lecture/?es_id=d9d59428ed&fbclid=IwAR27pzPglOe3O14TaRMLGNHMSYPRGYku0vREaAFVtQKf1zOTnX1a9JE0PvQ

#3 – From WV ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT – Pietro Fiorentini USA is one of the many international companies that has chosen to reside in #YesWV.

Located in Weirton but headquartered in Italy, Pietro Fiorentini boasts a vast portfolio of products and solutions catering to the oil and gas industry worldwide. While historically focusing on natural gas and oil, the company is adapting to emerging trends in renewable energy, particularly with hydrogen and biomethane. 

The state’s support and commitment to business development have made it an ideal location for the company’s growth, according to company officials.

“West Virginia is a welcoming place for foreign companies to grow. It is supportive in development and future growth of the business,” said Mattia Pizzacaro, director of operations.

Pietro Fiorentini is deeply involved in the local community. In addition to their membership with the Weirton Area Chamber of Commerce, they also utilize the Governor’s Guaranteed Workforce Program to invest in the development of local workforce with comprehensive training.

Read more:

https://westvirginia.gov/pietro-fiorentini-usa-bridging-cultures-and-energizing-west-virginias-future/

Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304.

The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo. 

That’s all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.  

Today is Monday, Sept. 25 

Go behind the scenes at the plant where the colorful Fiesta dinnerware is made…“Ignite WV” with your business pitch, and the chance to win big…and “fall” in love with autumn in Almost Heaven…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WV DEPT OF COMMERCE  – You’ve seen their colorful dinnerware in artisan markets and department stores. You may even own a set or three. The iconic company that makes this popular line has been operating in West Virginia for over a hundred years.

Located in Newell in the Northern Panhandle, Fiesta rebranded as The Fiesta Tableware Company in 2020, maintaining its commitment to producing quality, American-made china. Fiesta dinnerware continues to be a leading brand in the casual tabletop market and remains highly sought after by collectors.

“I encourage anybody to come up and visit us and take a tour and see how we make our dishes,” says Katie Bricker, director of marketing. “There’s so much hand craftsmanship. Our workers take so much pride in what they do. It’s really a team effort to make these dishes.”

Watch the video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MW8XDAB1NRg

#2 – From IGNITE WV – Do you have suggestions on what actions West Virginia should take to grow its population, grow its economy, grow its businesses, and grow its communities, rural and urban? Submit your idea to ignite West Virginia!

IgniteWV is a competition open to all parties interested in registering a business in West Virginia to support the start and growth of their business ideas. The goal is to provide budding entrepreneurs with the education, skills, contacts, and motivation necessary to create a viable start-up company in West Virginia.

Unlike traditional pitch competitions, IgniteWV will offer a four-month program with specialized training, coaching, and resources. Finalists will receive cost-free support from subject matter experts. Coaching will be customized based on need. In collaboration with a local support organization, we will determine specialized training and make industry connections based on business concepts.

Learn more:

https://ignitewv.com/

#3 – From WV TOURISM -- As fall rolls into #AlmostHeaven, vibrant colors creep into the treetops. It’s a time for festivals, leaf-peeping drives, outdoor recreation (Gauley Season!) and other special events held outdoors when the weather is perfect -- not too hot, not too cold.

As the third most forested state in the United States, West Virginia in autumn is nothing short of breathtaking, and there’s plenty to do here. 

Don’t miss peak color in your favorite region by signing up for Tourism’s weekly fall foliage updates. Visit www.wvtourism.com/seasons/fall to sign up. You’ll also find suggestions for scenic drives, things to do, and cozy places to stay. Check it out!

Read more:

https://wvtourism.com/seasons/fall/

Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304.

The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo. 

That’s all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.  

Today is Sunday, Sept. 24 

National Park officials anticipate a busy fall season in Almost Heaven…the “House in the Clouds” artist reveals what drew him to West Virginia…and September is National Voter Registration Month; register or update your information today!…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WBOY-TV –  Fall is the peak season for tourists who come to enjoy the sights of West Virginia. As the leaves are beginning to turn, one national park representative estimates that this year will be the busiest so far.

Dave Bieri, District Supervisor at New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, said that many travelers already called to ask about the fall foliage.

“We’re also just starting into the Gauley Season, so that brings a lot of people out, especially on the weekends,” Bieri said.

In addition to whitewater rafting on the Gauley River, there are numerous fall festivals and other activities taking place throughout the state. 

Visit www.wvtourism.com/seasons/fall to sign up for weekly fall foliage updates and find scenic drives and other seasonal activities and events in Almost Heaven.

Read more:

https://www.wboy.com/wv-outdoors/fall-activities-attracting-more-tourists-to-west-virginia-than-ever/

#2 – From THE GAZETTE-MAIL –  Before becoming a self-described “West Virginian by choice,” having spent half his 85 years living and working in his home and studio atop a remote Hardy County ridgetop, nationally recognized artist Robert Singleton arrived at his West Virginian homesite by chance.

Singleton is the subject of a new film, “House in the Clouds: The Artistic Life of Robert Singleton,” that tells the story of what inspired him to return to his studio and resume an art career.

The film also details the artist’s progression from conventional imagery to award-winning abstract expression, and on to “light paintings” and ethereal, mystical horizon lines and clouds, depicting the meeting space between heaven and earth.

“One day I went for a walk with my dog and found a clearing in the forest where I laid down and looked up at the sky, and went to sleep. When I woke up, my depression was gone.”

SIngleton had discovered what he wanted to paint: clouds.

“They’re all about capturing light,” he said, “and no two are the same.”

Read more:

https://www.wvgazettemail.com/news/acclaimed-hardy-county-artist-subject-of-new-documentary/article_22f16619-1338-5ded-8531-fde36b21d1ed.html

#3 – From MY BUCKHANNON – September is National Voter Registration Month. All eligible West Virginia residents are encouraged to register to vote or, if already registered, verify that their information is updated and accurate.

Since January 2017, West Virginia Secretary of State Mac Warner and his staff have worked closely with the county clerks to register 333,575 eligible citizens to vote. Of that number, more than 100,000 have been eligible high school students – many of whom will vote for the first time in the upcoming May 2024 Primary Election.

According to Warner, those voters who change their name or get married and assume their spouse’s last name are required to update their voter registration. Those voters who have moved their residence since the last election or who may have a new address because of the remapping of the state’s 911 system should also update their voter registration.

To register or update your voter registration, visit the Secretary of State’s secure election website at GoVoteWV.com.

Read more:

https://www.mybuckhannon.com/nearly-50-voter-registration-drives-scheduled-to-take-place-throughout-w-va-in-september/?fbclid=IwAR3YN1BEsjL9KsGtVJ31Bf_Ac08n08HrkFciyo9Z-0m_hhIj4IRetT8fju0_aem_AQRJrQmbAA6ov-M4V03U3Ky-_ABNQxBJjqCgccMNc5WukY2_HriLTv3PQVHPdB6YAv4

Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304.

The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo. 

That’s all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.  

Today is Saturday, Sept. 23 

The WV Grown directory showcases products made in the Mountain State -- get yours today…the Coalfields Community Health Fair is coming to Beckley on Oct. 4…and take a peek at some of the best camping spots in Almost Heaven…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WV AGRICULTURE – Support small businesses by downloading your free 2023 West Virginia Grown directory and shopping small.   

Developed in 1986, West Virginia Grown was designed to market products made right here in the Mountain State to consumers. By purchasing a West Virginia Grown product, buyers are assured that the item was grown or processed in West Virginia. 

The directory is produced by the West Virginia Department of Agriculture and provides listings for farms, vineyards, apiaries and more arranged by travel region.

To learn more, visit www.agriculture.wv.gov and click on Ag Business.

Read more:

https://agriculture.wv.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/WV-Grown-Directory.pdf

#2 – From WVNS-TV Beckley – Mark your calendars for the Coalfields Community Health Fair, set for 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. October 4 at the Beckley-Raleigh County Convention Center.

The fair is a huge opportunity for people to gain easy access to vital health resources all in one place. More than 70 vendors will be on hand, offering free stroke and cancer screenings, blood pressure and glucose tests, vaccines, mental health services and more.  

Kelly Elkins, Regional Community Development Manager for Appalachian Regional Healthcare, said the fair is a team effort across the community.

“Healthcare is our focus,” said Elkins. “We love coming together with Raleigh General Hospital and being able to give this to our people and to our communities.”

Read more:

https://www.wvnstv.com/news/coalfields-community-health-fair-is-back-with-more-free-resources/

#3 – From ONLY IN YOUR STATE – Get ready for an insider’s guide to the best camping in West Virginia – a mix of top-rated spots and hidden gems that’ll take your camping game to the next level. 

Whether you’re a camping pro or just starting out, the Mountain State has a little something for everyone. From epic state parks to those secret forest getaways, these campgrounds are where the real adventure begins. 

Stay in a treehouse at Cabins at Pine Haven in Beaver. 

Glamp in style with your own hot tub and Keurig coffee maker at Loves Way Village in Moorefield. 

Plan a camping adventure at West Virginia state parks and forests like Babcock, North Bend and Watoga and enjoy activities like hiking, biking, boating and more. 

Or get away from it all with a stay in the Dolly Sods Wilderness in the Monongahela National Forest.  

Check out the list for more ideas and start planning your Almost Heaven campout today!

Read more:

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/west-virginia/best-camping-in-west-virginia/

Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304.

The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo. 

That’s all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.  

Today is Friday, Sept. 22 

Mansion by candlelight tours return to Blennerhassett Island…WVU’s marching band gets tapped to join in the 2024 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade…and Snowshoe Mountain prepares for an early opening, so get those season passes now…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WV STATE PARKS – For two nights only! Candlelight tours return to Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park on Oct. 6-7.

Board the Island Belle sternwheeler to Blennerhassett Island to arrive in the enchanted, 18th century world of Harman and Margaret Blennerhassett. The island and its magnificent mansion will be illuminated by hundreds of candles and lantern boxes. 

Docents, dressed in the style of the period, will welcome visitors to an evening of festivities including live music, horse-drawn wagon rides, and a special candlelight harvest supper.

Space is limited and reservations are required. For tickets, call 304-420-4800 or visit www.blennerhassettislandsp.com.

Read more:

https://wvstateparks.com/event/mansion-by-candlelight-blennerhassett-island-2/

#2 – From WV EXPLORER – Representing West Virginia University and the Mountain State,  the Mountaineer Marching Band will participate in the 2024 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, marking the second appearance for the band in the historic parade.

The WVU Marching Band, “The Pride of West Virginia,” based at the College of Creative Arts, is one of 10 marching bands selected for the annual event out of hundreds of nationwide applications.

Cheldon Williams, associate director of bands and director of athletic bands, said the band will prepare in earnest for the event in the coming months and that the students are thrilled to represent the state and university on a major national stage.

The band will spend the next 14 months planning for its appearance, which is a return trip. As part of this achievement, the Macy’s team presented the band with a $10,000 fundraising kickoff.

Read more:

https://wvexplorer.com/2023/09/16/wvu-marching-band-to-perform-in-macys-thanksgiving-parade/

#3 – From WV EXPLORER – Get ready, skiers and snowboarders! Officials at Snowshoe Mountain have announced plans to open skiing and snowboarding on the day before Thanksgiving, weather permitting, featuring an action-packed 2023-2024 events calendar.

Snowshoe president Patti Duncan says crews are installing a new chair lift in advance of the season while hospitality staff are designing an action-packed season.

“The days are getting shorter, the nights are becoming chilly, and excitement for winter is starting to build here on the mountain,” Duncan said. “The weather experts are all in agreement that we’re in for a strong El Niño pattern this winter, and historically that has been a very favorable setup for natural snowfall here on the mountain.”

For more information or to make a Snowshoe lodging reservation, call 877-441-4386 or visit online at Snowshoemtn.com.

Read more:

https://wvexplorer.com/2023/09/12/snowshoe-mountain-to-open-skiing-snowboarding-by-thanksgiving/

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