It’s never too early to start planning for winter fun in Randolph County!
The cooler days ahead are full of seasonal festivities, outdoor opportunities for the daring, and indoor activities for the whole family.
Arts and Culture
Warm up with West Virginia’s hottest dinner theater at the Gandy Dancer Theatre. See an unforgettable show with seasoned singers and musicians, costumed dancers, comedians, and a holiday feast at the Mountain Memories Christmas Show. Or ring in the new year with the one-night-only New Year’s with Elvis. The Gandy Dancer Theatre’s large venue is perfect for group getaways of any size. You can also enjoy local theater year ’round at The Old Brick Playhouse.
During the first weekend in December, Randolph County transforms into a winter wonderland with the annual Jingle All the Way Christmas Parade in Elkins and Old Fashioned Christmas in Beverly, where you can experience Christmas traditions across time and make your own crafts. You might even meet Santa!
Enjoy elaborate Christmas light displays in Elkins and Mill Creek throughout the month of December. Find the perfect gift at one of our many holiday markets and bazaars—like the annual Holiday Artist Market at The Arts Center, the Christmas Community Bazaar at the Phil Gainer Center, or any of our many local shops. Discover handmade art, vintage clothing, local delicacies, and much more.
Outdoor Adventure
From Randolph County, you’re within an hour’s drive of some of the top downhill skiing destinations in the state. This winter is the perfect time for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing on the Allegheny Highlands Trail. This 26-mile rail-trail runs all the way from Elkins into neighboring Tucker County along a former railroad grade. Elkins is also home to the headquarters of the expansive Monongahela National Forest, which allows cross-country skiing on many of its trails and roads—including those in Laurel Fork Wilderness and Otter Creek Wilderness as well as along Stuart Memorial Drive (FR 91) near Stuart Recreation Area and Bickle Knob Observation Tower. Be aware that most forest roads are not maintained in winter.
When it’s time to relax, grab a freshly made hot chocolate or coffee at any one of our cafes or a local beer from one of our microbreweries.
Fun Ahead
Already tired of the cold? Plan to celebrate the end of winter during the one-of-a-kind Fasnacht festival in Helvetia. This unique Swiss–Appalachian tradition is known for its amusing and intricate handmade masks, parade by lantern light, square dance, and ceremonial burning of Old Man Winter. Stop by any time of the year to find locally made crafts and cheese at Swiss Roots, or take a short drive to Pickens to sample local wines at Heavenly Heritage Winery.
Start planning your winter getaway today at elkinsrandolphwv.com.
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