Festival Info & What to Expect

Last updated: Jan 6, 2026

Welcome to the Pawpaw Festival WV — a small‑town celebration of Appalachia’s favorite native fruit, our community, and the magic that happens when everyone shows up with good vibes and an empty stomach. This page covers everything you need to know before you arrive: what to bring, what not to bring, how to behave, and how to have the best possible day.

We keep things simple, friendly, and honest — just like Paw Paw itself.

1. General Festival Vibes

The festival is outdoors, community‑run, and full of local charm. Expect:

  • Good food
  • Good people
  • Pawpaw everything
  • A little bit of chaos (the fun kind)
  • Volunteers doing their absolute best
  • Schedules that may shift because… Appalachia

We’ll update the website and social media with any major changes.

2. Parking & Getting Here

Parking details may vary depending on weather and field conditions. Volunteers will guide you when you arrive — please be patient and follow their instructions.

If it’s rained recently, wear shoes that don’t mind a little mud.

3. What to Bring

  • Comfortable shoes
  • Sunscreen
  • A reusable water bottle
  • Cash or card (some vendors may prefer one or the other)
  • A sense of adventure
  • Kids, grandparents, cousins, neighbors — it’s a family event

4. What Not to Bring

  • Outside alcohol
  • Illegal substances
  • Drones (unless pre‑approved)
  • Anything that could be unsafe in a crowd
  • A bad attitude

5. Pets

For everyone’s comfort and safety, no pets are allowed at the festival.

We love animals — truly — but:

  • No one wants to step in dog poop
  • No one wants to get nipped by someone’s “he’s usually friendly” rat‑sized menace
  • Crowds, heat, noise, and food tents are stressful for animals
  • It’s safer and cleaner for everyone

Service animals are, of course, welcome.

Please leave all other pets at home where they can relax in peace.

6. Weather

This is West Virginia — the weather does what it wants.

The festival is rain or shine unless conditions become unsafe. Bring layers, check the forecast, and embrace the unpredictability.

7. Accessibility

We aim to make the festival as accessible as possible, but please note:

  • The grounds may include grass, uneven terrain, and natural surfaces
  • Volunteers are available to assist where possible
  • If you have specific needs, feel free to reach out ahead of time

8. Photography & Media

Photos and videos may be taken throughout the festival. By attending, you may appear in festival media used for promotion or documentation.

If you prefer not to be photographed, let a volunteer or photographer know and we’ll do our best to accommodate.

For full details, see our Photo & Media Release.

9. Code of Conduct (The “Be a Good Human” Section)

We want everyone — attendees, vendors, volunteers, and performers — to feel welcome and safe. By attending the festival, you agree to:

Be Kind

  • Treat others with respect
  • Be patient with volunteers
  • Use polite language
  • Remember everyone is here to have fun

Keep It Family‑Friendly

  • No excessive profanity
  • No inappropriate behavior
  • No disrupting performances or activities

Follow Volunteer Instructions

They’re not bossy — they’re just trying to keep things running smoothly.

Respect the Grounds

  • Use trash and recycling bins
  • Don’t damage plants or property
  • Keep pathways clear

No Alcohol or Illegal Substances

Alcohol is not permitted.

Safety First

  • Don’t block emergency routes
  • Report unsafe behavior
  • Follow instructions during weather or emergency announcements

Prohibited Behavior

We may ask you to leave if you engage in:

  • Harassment or bullying
  • Violence or threats
  • Vandalism or theft
  • Unsafe or disruptive behavior
  • Ignoring staff instructions

This is a community festival — we protect our community.

10. Lost & Found

Keep track of your belongings. We are not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged items.

If you lose something, check with the info booth or a volunteer.

11. Questions?

If you need more information, want to clarify something, or just want to say hi, please contact us. We typically respond within a few business days.

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