Frequently Asked Questions – Pawpaw Festival WV FAQ

Have questions about Pawpaw Festival WV? You’re in the right place. Below are answers to the most common questions about attending, parking, activities, and what to expect.

General Information

What is Pawpaw Festival WV?

Pawpaw Festival WV is a one-day celebration in Paw Paw, West Virginia, honoring North America’s largest native tree fruit—the pawpaw (Asimina triloba). The festival features live music, educational presentations, food vendors, local artisans, and family activities.

When is the festival?

The 3rd Annual Pawpaw Festival in Paw Paw, WV takes place on:

September 12, 2026
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Where is the festival located?

Pawpaw Festival WV is held at:

Paw Paw School Campus
60 Pirate Circle
Paw Paw, WV 25434

Is admission free?

Yes. Admission to Pawpaw Festival WV is free for all attendees.

Do I need tickets to attend?

No. Admission to Pawpaw Festival WV is free. Some activities, food, merchandise, or pawpaw tastings may require a separate purchase.

Pawpaw Questions

What is a pawpaw?

The pawpaw (Asimina triloba) is North America’s largest native tree fruit. It grows in many parts of Appalachia and has a creamy texture with a tropical flavor often described as a mix of banana, mango, and custard.

Can I try pawpaw fruit at the festival?

Yes. Pawpaw sampling is available through a ticketed tasting experience while supplies last.

Can I buy pawpaw fruit at the festival?

Fresh pawpaw fruit may be available for purchase, depending on seasonal availability and harvest conditions. Because pawpaws are highly seasonal and perishable, availability can vary from year to year.

Planning Your VisiT

What should I bring?

We recommend:

Comfortable walking shoes
Sunscreen
Water bottle
Cash or card for vendors
Chairs or blankets for seating
A sense of adventure

What should I not bring?

For safety and comfort:

Pets (service animals excepted)
Alcohol or illegal substances
Drones (unless approved)
Anything unsafe or disruptive

Is the festival pet-friendly?

No pets are allowed at Pawpaw Festival WV, with the exception of service animals.

What happens if it rains?

The festival is held rain or shine unless conditions are unsafe. Please dress appropriately for the weather.

Getting There

Where do I park?

Parking is available at and around the Paw Paw School Campus. Follow all signage and volunteer directions upon arrival. Overflow parking may be used if needed.

Is there handicap or accessible parking?

Yes. Accessible parking will be clearly marked, and volunteers will be available to assist.

Festival Experience

What kind of vendors will be there?

You’ll find:

Food vendors
Local artisans and crafters
Small businesses
Plant and agricultural vendors

What kind of entertainment is there?

The festival features live music throughout the day from regional musicians and performers. Guests can enjoy a variety of musical styles while relaxing, shopping, eating, and exploring the festival.

Are there educational presentations?

Yes! Throughout the day, guests can attend presentations from pawpaw growers, authors, educators, and other experts.

Topics may include:

Growing and caring for pawpaw trees
Pawpaw history and folklore
Native plants and sustainable gardening
Agriculture and environmental stewardship
Appalachian culture and heritage

Presentation schedules and speakers vary each year. Visit our Schedule or Presenters & Guests page for the latest information.

Is there a nature walk?

Yes! Guests are invited to join a guided nature walk and explore the natural beauty of the Paw Paw area.

The walk may include opportunities to:

Learn about native plants and trees
Identify pawpaw trees and other local species
Discover Appalachian ecology and wildlife
Explore the landscape that makes this region unique

The nature walk is suitable for most ages, but participants should be prepared for uneven terrain and outdoor conditions. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Please check the festival schedule for walk times and meeting locations.

Should I bring a chair or blanket?

Yes! We encourage guests to bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating during live music performances and throughout the festival grounds. Seating is limited, so bringing your own chair or blanket can help make your visit more comfortable. Outdoor festivals commonly encourage guests to bring chairs or blankets when permitted.

Is this a family-friendly event?

Yes. Pawpaw Festival WV is designed for all ages and includes activities for families and children.

Additional Questions

Who organizes the festival?

Pawpaw Festival WV is organized by the Pawpaw Festival Committee, a nonprofit organization dedicated to celebrating Appalachian agriculture, community, and the pawpaw fruit.

How can I stay updated?

Visit the Festival Info page or follow our website and social media for updates on schedules, vendors, and announcements.

Who can I contact with questions?

Please use the contact form on our website for any additional questions.

Get Involved

How can I support the festival?

There are many ways to help Pawpaw Festival WV continue to grow and thrive:

Make a donation
Volunteer your time
Become a sponsor
Share festival information with friends and family
Follow and engage with us on social media
Attend the festival and support our vendors

Every contribution—whether it’s time, resources, or simply helping spread the word—helps make the festival possible.

Can I volunteer?

Yes! Pawpaw Festival WV is powered by volunteers, and we’re always grateful for helping hands.

Volunteer opportunities may include:

Festival setup and cleanup
Parking and guest assistance
Information booth support
Activity assistance
General festival support

Whether you can help for a few hours or the entire day, we’d love to hear from you. Volunteering is a great way to support the festival, meet new people, and help create a memorable experience for our visitors.

Interested in volunteering? Contact us through our website for more information.

Can I become a vendor?

Yes! We welcome a variety of vendors, including craft vendors, food vendors, and nonprofit organizations.

Applications for food vendors may still be available, depending on space and availability. However, craft vendor and nonprofit exhibitor applications are currently closed for the 2026 festival.

If you’d like to participate in a future festival, we encourage you to follow our website and social media for application announcements.

Can I sponsor the festival?

Yes! Sponsors are an important part of Pawpaw Festival WV and help make this community event possible.

Sponsorship support helps fund festival operations, educational programming, entertainment, family activities, and other experiences that keep the festival accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

We offer sponsorship opportunities for businesses, organizations, and individuals who want to support our mission while gaining visibility within the community and beyond.

Interested in becoming a sponsor? Visit our Sponsor page or contact us for more information.