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Appalachian Crafts and Music
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Quilts and Pillows from Cabin Creek Quilts Appalachian Arts, Crafts, and Music


Mountain State artisans are known worldwide for creating unique handmade crafts and beautiful masterpieces, but those are not the only cultural offerings you’ll find here. In West Virginia you can experience all kinds of theater, music, museums, culinary offerings and much more.

Arts and crafts
What makes West Virginia crafts so unique? Perhaps it’s the state’s isolated beauty that has contributed to the resourcefulness of its people: To survive within the mountainous terrain, early pioneers had to rely upon determination and ingenuity – skills that are evident in many Appalachian crafts today. For example, because large swaths of cloth were far too expensive and difficult to obtain, women would sew together bits of clothing and older blankets to make a “new” quilt. Here you’ll find beautiful hand-stitched quilts, as well as hand-blown glass, pottery, jewelry, woodworking and more.

Jamming at the Appalachian String Band Music Festival

Music, fairs and festivals
West Virginia hosts a wealth of musical talent to suit every taste. Whether your preference is traditional Appalachian bluegrass, classical, jazz, rock or country, you’ll find musical acts from every genre performing in clubs and concert halls and at fairs and festivals throughout the state.

Art Museum at The Clay Center

Theater and museums
Looking for a little drama in your life? Attend a college theater festival, enjoy an outdoor drama, ride a murder-mystery train, or watch one of many off-Broadway shows that pass through the state. You’ll also find a host of art galleries and museums of science and history – a fun and educational experience for all ages.

Fine dining in WV restaurants

Appalachian cuisine
Apple butter, honey, maple syrup, salsa, chocolate, wine and cheese: What do these foods have in common? They represent but a fraction of the wonderful culinary treats created in West Virginia. You can also shop at farmers markets for fresh produce and meats or enjoy a delicious meal of homegrown foods prepared by skilled chefs at some of the state’s finest restaurants and resorts.

 




West Virginia Festivals back to top

West Virginia Division of Tourism Calendar of Events