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November is officially here, which marks the start of the holidays and seasonal traditions. It often brings thoughts of Thanksgiving and family gatherings. However, there is plenty happening throughout Monongalia County before Thanksgiving arrives. This month brings a full calendar of activities to look forward to, well beyond Thanksgiving dinner.
Celebrate Appalachian Heritage
West Virginia University’s 79th annual Mountaineer Week returns Nov. 9-15, celebrating the Appalachian heritage, traditions and culture that make West Virginia unique. Throughout the week, visitors can enjoy live Appalachian music, storytelling, craft demonstrations, workshops and more.
Two of the week’s highlights include the Mountaineer Week Arts and Craft Fair and Quilt Show, both taking place Nov. 13-15. The Arts and Crafts Fair will feature regional artisans showcasing handmade goods, including pottery, jewelry, woodworking, stained glass and more. Nearby, the Quilt Show will display pieces created by members of the Country Roads Quilt Guild, highlighting the artistry and traditions behind Appalachian quilting. Both events are free and open to the public, offering a great opportunity to celebrate local craftsmanship and support regional artists. For a complete schedule of Mountaineer Week activities, visit: mountaineerweek.wvu.edu/.
Welcome the Holiday Season Downtown
The holiday season officially begins in Downtown Morgantown with the annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on Friday, Nov. 20. Hosted by Main Street Morgantown and the City of Morgantown, the free community celebration will take place at Courthouse Square from 5:30-7 p.m., with the lighting of the downtown Christmas tree at 7 p.m.
Bring family and friends to enjoy an evening of holiday performances, seasonal activities and community traditions. Festivities will include free hot cocoa, holiday crafts hosted by the Morgantown Public Library, Christmas carols performed by local students and a reading of “The Night Before Christmas.” Visitors can also enjoy s’mores in a light-up igloo hosted by Visit Mountaineer Country CVB. Make an evening of it by exploring downtown and supporting local businesses as the community welcomes the holiday season.
For more information, visit the Morgantown Area Partnership’s events calendar at business.morgantownpartnership.com.
A Holiday Classic Returns
A beloved holiday tradition returns to the Metropolitan Theatre as Morgantown Dance celebrates the 30th anniversary of its production of The Nutcracker on Nov. 21-22.
Featuring Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, handcrafted costumes and elaborate sets, the annual ballet is a favorite for audiences of all ages. This year’s production will also welcome back Morgantown Dance alumna and professional ballerina Christina Ghiardi, who will perform the role of the Sugar Plum Fairy.
Performances are scheduled for 1:30 and 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 21, and 1:30 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 22. Gather the family and enjoy an afternoon or evening of classic holiday entertainment in one of Morgantown’s most historic venues.
For tickets and additional information, visit morgantowndance.org.
Get Moving Before Thanksgiving Dinner
Before gathering around the Thanksgiving table, start the holiday with a little exercise at the Morgantown Running 5K Turkey Trot on Thursday, Nov. 26.
The annual Thanksgiving Day tradition welcomes runners and walkers of all experience levels for a 5K through Morgantown. Families can also join the 800-meter Turkey Fun Run for children under 12. The kids’ race begins at 8:30 a.m., followed by the 5K run and walk at 9 a.m.
The race begins near the WVU Coliseum and finishes behind the Seneca Center. It’s a fun way to get moving, spend time with family and start Thanksgiving morning with the community. For registration and additional information, visit morgantownrunning.com.
Keep the Holiday Glow Going
The holiday festivities continue after Thanksgiving with the debut of Mountain Glow WV at Mylan Park. Opening Friday, Nov. 27, this holiday walk of lights will feature festive displays, seasonal scenes and memorable photo opportunities for visitors of all ages.
Running through Dec. 23, Mountain Glow offers another opportunity to enjoy the holiday season with family and friends. Admission is $10 per person, with free parking available. Make plans to visit, take in the lights and enjoy a new holiday attraction in Monongalia County. For tickets and additional information, visit mountainglowwv.com.
From celebrating Appalachian traditions to welcoming the holiday season, November offers plenty of opportunities to gather with family, support local businesses and experience the community. Thanksgiving may be one of the month’s biggest celebrations, but there’s no shortage of reasons to get out and enjoy everything Monongalia County has to offer.