Chris Tope
What is Bridge Day?
Bridge Day is West Virginia’s largest single-day festival and one of the world’s most thrilling extreme sports events! Held annually on the third Saturday of October, it’s the one day when BASE jumpers are legally allowed to leap off the New River Gorge Bridge, and spectators can walk across this iconic structure. The event draws thousands of visitors to witness adrenaline-pumping jumps, rappels, and fall colors.
Date: Saturday, October 19, 2024
Location: New River Gorge Bridge, Fayetteville, WV
Find Your Lodging Early
To fully immerse yourself in the festivities, book your lodging in Fayetteville as soon as possible. Hotels, vacation rentals, and campgrounds fill up quickly around Bridge Day, so don’t wait! If you’re staying in town, take advantage of the Bridge Day shuttle for convenient transportation to the event. Shuttle stops are located at:
- Fayette County Courthouse (in front of the Southside Junction Tap House off Maple Ave.)
- Fayetteville PK-8 School (W. Maple Avenue)
What to Wear
Prepare for the variable fall weather by dressing in layers. Mornings can be cool and damp, but temperatures may rise throughout the day. Comfortable shoes are a must, as you’ll be walking and standing for most of the day. Don’t forget to check the official Bridge Day page for any updates on restricted items, but as a reminder, no bags or backpacks are allowed on the bridge. Clear backpacks and handbags are permitted, and you can purchase these from the Fayette County Chamber of Commerce or at select shuttle stops (cash only).
Taste of Bridge Day
Kick off the celebration early at the Taste of Bridge Day on Friday evening, October 18, 2024. Hosted at Adventures on the Gorge, this family-friendly event features a culinary showcase by local restaurants and caterers, with live music and artisan vendors. Tickets are limited, so be sure to grab yours in advance for a delicious prelude to the big day! Proceeds benefit the Canyon Rim Rotary Club and go toward community service projects.
Bridge Day 2024 Event Schedule
Stay up to date with all the happenings by following this year’s official schedule:
- 5:30 AM: Vendors arrive in staging lots
- 7:00 AM: U.S. Route 19 closes to traffic, and detours begin
- 8:15 AM: Buses begin transporting 5k racers to starting line
- 8:30 AM: Shuttle service begins from all designated lots
- 8:45 AM: Active Southern West Virginia Bridge Day 5K begins
- 9:00 AM: BASE jumping, rappelling, and Into the Gorge bus rides start (pre-sold tickets only)
- 1:30 PM Into the Gorge bus rides end
- 3:00 PM: Bridge Day festivities end
- 3:00 PM: Bridge Day Chili Cook-off begins in downtown Fayetteville
- 5:00 PM: U.S. Route 19 re-opens, and detours end
- 6:00 PM: Chili Cook-off ends
Don’t Miss the Active Southern West Virginia Bridge Day 5K Run
For runners, this is the ultimate chance to experience the New River Gorge Bridge like never before! The Active Southern West Virginia Bridge Day 5K offers breathtaking views as participants race across the bridge and finish in downtown Fayetteville. Limited to600 runners, spots fill up fast, so sign up early! This race supports Active Southern West Virginia’s Kids Run Clubs and community health programs.
Shuttle Bus Locations
With the bike valet service no longer available, taking advantage of the shuttle bus service is your best option for getting to and from Bridge Day smoothly. Shuttle stops are conveniently located at the following spots:
- South Fayetteville Shuttle Stops:
- Fayette Landing Shopping Center (New River Health)
- Fayetteville Walmart
- Fayetteville PK-8
- Fayette County Courthouse
- North Fayetteville Shuttle Stops:
- Lighthouse Worship Center Smales Branch Road
- Midland Trail High School
The shuttle service runs regularly throughout the day, making it the easiest way to access the event without the hassle of parking. Make sure you bring your $5 cash (per person) to access the shuttles.
Experience the Bridge Day Chili Cook-off
After the adrenaline rush of Bridge Day, unwind at the Bridge Day Chili Cook-off in downtown Fayetteville starting at 3:00 PM. Enjoy a variety of chili dishes from local chefs and vote for your favorite while soaking in live music from the Longpoint String Band and the relaxed atmosphere of Fayetteville’s charming downtown. It’s the perfect way to wrap up your Bridge Day adventure!
Extend Your Stay
Make the most of your visit by staying a little longer to explore all Fayetteville has to offer. From hiking in the New River Gorge National Park to dining at local favorites like Pies & Pints or Secret Sandwich Society, there’s plenty to see and do. Bridge Day weekend is full of fun events to plan to make it a full weekend of fun.
Bridge Day 2024 is shaping up to be another unforgettable celebration of adventure, community, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or simply here for the scenery, this year’s event promises excitement for all!