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Welcome to the West Virginia Strawberry Festival, a cherished celebration of community, tradition, and the sweet bounty of our region. Since its inception in 1936, the festival has grown into a beloved annual event, drawing visitors from near and far to experience the unique charm and hospitality of Buckhannon, West Virginia.
The West Virginia Strawberry Festival was born from a simple yet heartfelt idea: to honor the hardworking farmers of our region and celebrate the strawberry harvest that plays such a vital role in our local economy. What started as a small community gathering has blossomed into one of the state’s most anticipated events, spanning an entire week each May with a rich array of activities and entertainment.
At the heart of the West Virginia Strawberry Festival is a commitment to community and tradition. Our mission is to foster a sense of unity and pride among our residents, while also showcasing the agricultural heritage and cultural richness of our area. We aim to provide a joyful, family-friendly environment where people of all ages can come together to create lasting memories.
1. Community Engagement: We believe in the power of community. Our festival is a collaborative effort, relying on the dedication and enthusiasm of countless volunteers, local businesses, and civic organizations. Together, we create an event that reflects the spirit and generosity of Buckhannon.
2. Tradition: We honor our roots and celebrate the traditions that have shaped our festival over the decades. From the grand parade and strawberry pageant to the arts and crafts fair and carnival rides, our events are steeped in history and nostalgia.
3. Innovation: While we cherish our traditions, we also embrace new ideas and innovations that enhance the festival experience. Each year, we strive to introduce fresh attractions and activities that delight our visitors and keep the festival vibrant and exciting.
4. Agricultural Appreciation: The festival is a tribute to the farmers who cultivate the land and produce the strawberries that are at the heart of our celebration. We are dedicated to promoting agricultural education and awareness, ensuring that future generations understand and appreciate the importance of farming to our community and economy.
5. Inclusivity: We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome. Our festival is a place where diverse cultures and backgrounds come together in a spirit of friendship and mutual respect. We pride ourselves on providing unique, once-in-a-lifetime experiences for the families who attend our events.
Consisting of over 25 volunteers, the West Virginia Strawberry Festival Board of Directors selflessly dedicates their time for free to ensure the tradition lives on and to bring you one of the best events in West Virginia.
President – Kristy Spencer
1st Vice President – Tammy Samples
2nd Vice President – Lori Meadows
Secretary – Amanda Hayes
Treasurer – Johnnie-Jo Hovis
Assistant Treasurer – Nicole Davis
Past President – Shane Jenkins
Executive Member – Matasha Weaver
Executive Member – Debra Hupp
City Representative – Robbie Skinner
Board Members – Brian Allman, Deanna Chenoweth, Bethanie Cogar, Alicia Costello, Sonya Henderson,
Cassidy Myers, Alexis Queen, Lacy Ramsey, Carol Shenuski, Sara Tobin, Jim Valenson, Deborah Wilson
Associate Members – Amy Hackett, John Hyre, Emyle Johnston, Asad Khan,
Marisa Meadows, Grace Snider, Mark Spencer, Brandon Zickefoose
West Virginia Strawberry Festival, Inc. is a 501(c)3 organization dedicated to promoting agriculture and culture through international programs and events.
Copyright © 2024 West Virginia Strawberry Festival. All Rights Reserved.