Experience fun, flavor, and West Virginia history at Kingwood’s Buckwheat Festival, a nearly century-old tradition.
written by ALISHA JARRETT
photographed by NIKKI BOWMAN MILLS
EVERY FALL, THE VIBRANT TOWN OF KINGWOOD COMES ALIVE as it hosts the Preston County Buckwheat Festival. It’s a touchstone of agricultural tradition that began in 1938 and has grown into one of the state’s most anticipated events.
The Buckwheat Festival began as a celebration of Preston County’s prized buckwheat crop, an essential food source during the Great Depression. Local farmers would gather to show off their harvests, with the best crop earning its grower the title of King Buckwheat. Since its inception, the festival has been organized by the Kingwood Volunteer Fire Department and serves as a cornerstone of the community.
While the name suggests otherwise, buckwheat is not related to wheat at all. It is actually a gluten-free fruit seed, making it an excellent alternative for those who have gluten sensitivities. Buckwheat is also the star ingredient of the festival’s famous buckwheat pancakes, served each year alongside locally sourced sausage. “We’ve been putting a unique twist on buckwheat recipes,” says Buckwheat Festival Coordinator Evan Hardesty. “We now offer buckwheat beer and buckwheat waffle cones served with ice cream, which were a massive hit last year.”
Beyond food, the festival features parades, carnival rides and games, arts and crafts, livestock shows, and live music from local and national artists. The festival’s court is also crowned each year, highlighting the achievements of local youth. They then participate in parades across the state, spreading the word about the historical celebration.
“What is truly special about this event is its strong sense of community spirit,” says Chase Thomas, general chairman of the Buckwheat Festival. “Thousands of volunteer hours make it possible, and admission remains free, thanks to the generosity of local sponsors.” The result is a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere where everyone can enjoy delicious food, live entertainment, and the unique charm of West Virginia hospitality.
This year’s Buckwheat Festival runs September 25–28, with Family Night on September 24.
115 Brown Avenue, Kingwood, buckwheatfestival.com, @buckwheatfestival on FB
READ MORE ARTICLES FROM WV LIVING’S FALL 2025 ISSUE
Leave a Reply