Bpowell@dominionpost.com
POINT PLEASANT — Each September, the quiet river town of Point Pleasant transforms into a bustling hub of folklore, fandom and fun as visitors from around the world gather to celebrate one of West Virginia’s most famous legends — the Mothman.
The Mothman Festival, held every third weekend in September, commemorates the mysterious 1966 sightings of a red-eyed, winged creature that has since become an international cryptid icon. This year’s festival, held Sept. 20 and 21, drew thousands of attendees, marking a record-breaking turnout.
Festivalgoers crowded Main Street, where local vendors lined the sidewalks selling unique crafts, collectibles and themed merchandise. Food trucks offered regional favorites, while live music and guest speakers kept the atmosphere lively. Fans also flocked to the Mothman Museum, located next to the town’s famous Mothman statue, and enjoyed cosplay, photo ops and other interactive experiences designed to immerse visitors in the legend.
The story of the Mothman traces back to Nov. 15, 1966, when two young couples reported a terrifying encounter near the old TNT munitions plant outside of town. They described seeing a towering, winged figure with glowing red eyes that chased their car out of the Point Pleasant area.
Today, Point Pleasant — a town of just 5,000 residents — leans proudly into its place in folklore history. A stroll down Main Street feels like stepping back in time, with century-old buildings, mom-and-pop shops, family-owned restaurants, a historic hotel and even a vintage movie theater dating back to the 1940s. The town’s riverfront park, framed by hand-painted murals and views of the Ohio River, serves as a scenic backdrop for festival events and evening sunsets.
As the 2025 festival wraps up, organizers are already looking ahead. The Mothman Festival will return in 2026, continuing its tradition of blending small-town hospitality with worldwide fascination for the unknown.
For more information about the annual event, visit www.mothmanfestival.com.
