HINTON W.Va. (Hinton News) – A big celebration is about to get underway in Hinton, West Virginia, as the town celebrates its 150th birthday during this year’s Railroad Days festival Oct. 13-15. Hinton is rich in history, with the railroad playing a large part in the story, but you don’t need to be a railroad enthusiast to have fun at this festival, where the streets come alive with visitors, vendors, and
residents.
Said Mayor Jack Scott, “This year’s event is shaping up to be our best and biggest, taking up nearly all of Hinton’s historic downtown. We have something for everyone—three days of music on two different stages, a car show, fireworks, a kid zone with face painting and inflatables, and vendors selling a large variety of items.”
There’s even something for the history buffs, with all three of the town’s museums—the Railroad Museum, the Campbell-Flannagan-Murrell House, and the Veterans Museum—open for tours.
Foodies can sample offerings from more than a dozen food trucks and groups, and there will also be a beer garden.
Over 100 artisans and craftspeople will have booths selling homemade jewelry, clothing, soaps, decor, foods, quilts, and more. This is the perfect opportunity to get a start on holiday shopping with gifts that are personal and creative, while helping support local creators as well.
Animal lovers can cast their vote for the hotly sought-after title of Prettiest Pet. With over 40 contestants, the competition should be fierce.
Even getting to Hinton can be part of the fun now that the leaves are changing colors and the drive is so pretty. Hinton is less than an hour from Lewisburg, 1 ½ hours from Charleston, or 2 1/2 hours from Huntington. If you prefer to ride the rails, Amtrak’s Cardinal Line has Friday and Sunday service in Hinton, arriving at 11 AM and departing at 6:06 PM.
Parking will be available at a variety of lots, including First Baptist Church, under the Technology Center, Lifeline Church, Summers County High School, and Beech Run Road (where the Sweet Rose Motel used to be), with free shuttles available to transport guests around town. It’s all happening in Hinton, where the rivers converge, and the New River Gorge National Park begins.
Celebrate 150 years of railroad history with community, food, music, and fun. This is a party you won’t want to miss.
For more information, call Hinton City Hall at 304-466-3255.
