Southern West Virginia Events

Join ACE Adventure Resort for an International Rafting Federation (IRF) workshop for river guides and trip leaders facilitated by IRF Instructor Trainer Bryant Baker along with IRF Instructor Trainer Mark Hirst of Lapin Koskikoulu. This course is intended for experienced river guides and whitewater professionals looking to increase their knowledge and skills and be evaluated with IRF standards and global best practice. IRF certifications can be used for river guiding and trip leading whitewater around the world.

Rivers: New, Gauley, Meadow, Cherry

Dates: May 11, 2026 – May 15, 2026

Price:
$450 – first three days of raft guide/safety kayak workshop
$750 – two additional days of Trip Leader workshop

Meals: Lunch will be provided each day of instruction.

Prerequisites: Experience as a commercial guide, logbook, and first aid certifications.

Additional Cost: IRF Award Fees

May 15 – May 18, 2025

Join us at Pipestem Resort State Park for the first leg of the IBO Triple Crown! For more information, please call Pipestem Resort State Park at (304) 466-1800.

Pipestem Resort State Park is set to welcome the International Bowhunting Organization (IBO) Triple Crown, with the first leg of the prestigious archery competition taking place May 15-18, 2025. This highly anticipated event is expected to draw more than 1,000 archers from across the United States and around the world.

Participants can pre-register online through the IBO 2025 website or register in person when picking up their scorecards at the IBO trailer. The event officially kicks off on Thursday, May 15, at 8 a.m., with both amateur and professional archers competing in multiple divisions. Division prizes will be awarded on Sunday evening before the event wraps up and equipment is packed up for the second leg of the Triple Crown.

Spectators are encouraged to attend and experience the action up close, free of charge. Vendors will be on-site throughout the event, offering a variety of archery-related products and outdoor gear.

Old Time Music Jam
Hosted by The Gardeners
May 15th 5-8pm

Jean Hanna Davis brings bright energy, smooth vocals, and feel-good tunes that instantly set the mood. Her acoustic style pairs perfectly with a fresh pour and a relaxed night at the brewery, mixing crowd favorites with heartfelt originals. Whether you’re tapping your foot or singing along, Jean’s upbeat sound makes it easy to settle in, sip slow, and enjoy the moment.

Appalachian Heritage Lecture Series presents Pearl S. Buck: A Living History Presentation on Friday, May 15, at 7 p.m. Portrayed by Karen Vuranch of Fayetteville, the event is a presentation of one of Appalachia’s most influential literary figures, and her lasting impact on global literary culture. Free admission but still need to register.

New River Rush in New River Gorge, West Virginia, is designed for all ability levels. You’ll explore the stunning New River Gorge National Park and surrounding areas by mountain bike, trekking, and guided whitewater rafting. Our river segment will feature multiple rapids sections of the New River. Additionally, racers will encounter scenic overlooks, historical landmarks, and abandoned coal mines. Elite teams will find the course adventurous and challenging, while all teams will enjoy the breathtaking scenery as they push themselves with teamwork and motivation toward the finish line. Although cut-off times will be in place, the course design includes short-course options to help all teams reach the finish line. Come join us for a world-class adventure!

Come join Grit Adventure Racing for a world-class adventure in the New River Gorge May 16th, 2026!

WV Birds of Prey Photography Workshops
Come join in for photography fun at our live photography days at Three Rivers Avian Center’s facility! Live, non-releaseable Raptor Ambassadors will be posing in natural settings for morning and afternoon sessions. During the event you can photograph hawks, owls, falcons, Myrtle the raven and Regis the bald eagle up close outdoors in places where these birds would normally be found.
The event is lead by professional photographer Steven Wayne Rotsch with the assistance of Three Rivers Avian Center staff. All levels of photographers are welcome, whether you use your cell phone or are a professional with years of experience and gear. Tips and tricks are shared in a fun, congenial event, great for all ages.
The Photo Workshops are completely outdoors, although there is an indoor toilet available. You will need to bring any food or beverages with you that you will need for the day. Other things to bring: extra memory cards and batteries for your camera, a tripod or monopod is helpful, some people like to bring a folding stool or chair. Good footwear for outdoor terrain is encouraged. Registration is required.

REGISTRATION INFORMATION:
* Registration forms and a gallery of photos from previous Workshops are available at www.stevenrotsch.com. Click on the red banner at the top of the page for quick access.
* Each session, either Morning (9 am – 12 pm) or Afternoon (1pm – 4 pm) is $50. Morning and afternoon sessions are in different locations in the facility and all Ambassadors will be at both sessions. If you want to sign up for a full day the fee is $100. There is a 1 hour lunch break from 12 – 1.
* For more information, contact Steve Rotsch directly at swrkab@aol.com or call him at 681-264-1065   

Carnegie Hall invites participants of all ages to unwind, stretch, and share their mat with some
furry friends during Kitten Yoga on Saturday, May 16, at 10 a.m. Led by Jacque Minarik, a 200‑Hour Certified Yoga
Instructor, this lighthearted class blends gentle movement with the calming presence of adoptable kittens from the
Greenbrier Humane Society. The session will be held in the Carnegie Hall Dance Studio on the 3rd Floor and is limited to
20 participants.

Students will practice a combination of Yin and Vinyasa‑style yoga, designed to relax the body, center the mind, and
create space for joy—all while playful kittens roam, cuddle, and charm their way into the experience. Beginners are
warmly welcomed. Participants are encouraged to bring their own yoga mat (a limited number will be available to
borrow) and to wear comfortable clothing.

The cost for the class is $20 for members and $25 for nonmembers.

By attending Kitten Yoga, participants support the community initiatives of both Carnegie Hall and the Greenbrier
Humane Society, helping to promote wellness, creativity, and animal adoption throughout the region.
Carnegie Hall encourages early registration for this popular event, which promises relaxation, laughter, and maybe even
a new four‑legged friend.

Carnegie Hall WV is a nonprofit organization supported by individual contributions, grants, and fundraising efforts such
as TOOT and The Carnegie Hall Gala.