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Fayetteville’s Wizard Weekend 2026
Wizards and muggles alike will gather in Fayetteville West Virginia for Fayetteville’s Wizard Weekend January 23-25. Join us to celebrate a magical weekend as Fayetteville transforms into a magical village. The majority of activities will take place outdoors and involve walking around town. Participants will want to check the weather before attending to dress accordingly. This year we will have more self-guided activities where groups can explore things on their own including a wizard-themed scavenger hunt through town. We will have falconry and Roy Moose with the Snakes of West Virginia Presentation, multiple ticketed feast events, a yule ball and more! Stay tuned for a full schedule of 2026 events including our annual quidditch tournament, ticketed feasts, workshops, themed crafts and shopping and more!
Magic Makers Market Vendors Information
Vendor spaces are full for the 2026 Magic Makers Market; all vendors need to have a permit from the Town of Fayetteville which requires a WV business license. Only accepting handmade items for this market.
UPDATE SPACES FULL
Thank you to our generous sponsors!
ULTIMATE WIZARD SPONSORSHIP
UPMC GoHealth Urgent Care
GOLD SPONSOR & QUIDDITCH GAME SPONSOR
New River Health
Town of Fayetteville
Shady Spring Dental Care
Century 21 Jim Lively
The Gaines Estate
PJ Stevenson
WIZARD WEEKEND SCHEDULE:
R- Registration Required
$-Fee
Tuesday, January 20th:
7:00pm Wizard Themed Trivia at the Southside Junction Tap House (all ages welcome)
Wednesday, January 21st:
7:00pm Butter Beer Bingo at the Southside Junction Tap House
Friday, January 23rd:
6:00pm-8:00pm Enchanted Forest Hike at the Gaines Estate
6:00pm-8:00pm The Great Feast at The Gaines Estate R $
7:00pm-9:00pm Wizard Trivia at Lost Paddle at ACE Resort (off site in Minden)
Saturday, January 24th:
9:00am-3:00pm Dragon Egg Hunt through town- Turn in dragon egg (one per person) at the Fayetteville Visitor Center for a small prize
9:00am-1:00pm Hogwarts Library at the Fayetteville Library with a flying key craft, photo-op, mystery activity, & characters
10:00am-3:00pm Wizard Scavenger Hunt starts at the Fayetteville Visitor Center
11:00am-12:00pm Wand Making Workshop at the New River Yoga Studio R $
11:00am-1:00pm Wild Creatures including snakes, tortoise, and frog.
11:00am-4:00pm Magic Makers Market on Court St Downtown
11:00am-4:00pm Wand Testing and Certification: Wizards can visit the Escape-A-Torium lobby to have their wands officially permitted. Must complete permit form and demonstrate effectiveness for permit award.
11:00am-5:00pm Diagonal Alley at participating businesses (see list below)
11:00am-4:00pm Folk Magic Art Exhibit at Love Hope Center for the Arts
11:30am-1:30pm Wand Making at Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Building
12:00pm-1:30pm Witches Hat Workshop at Mountain Magnolia R $
1:00pm-3:00pm Folk Magic Art Exhibit Opening Night Reception
2:00pm-3:00pm Snakes of WV Presentation with Roy Moose at the Fayetteville Town Hall
2:00pm-3:30pm Broom Making Workshop at Mountain Magnolia R $
2:00pm-4:00pm Paper Cutting Workshop and Identifying the Dark Arts – A hands on, paper cut arts workshop at New River Yoga Studio and hosted by artist Blue of
Paperbluebeard, a Fayetteville Creates artist-in-residence. (Ages 13 and above) Email fayettevillewvcreates@gmail.com to reserve R
4:00pm-4:30pm Costume Contest in front of the Fayette County Courthouse stairs
4:00pm-5:30pm Quill Crafting at Mountain Magnolia R $
5:30pm-7:00pm Wizardly Yoga at New River Yoga Studio R $
6:00pm-8:00pm Enchanted Forest Hike at the Gaines Estate
6:00pm The Great Feast at The Gaines Estate R $ CANCELLED
6:00pm Wizard Feast & Murder Mystery at Smokey’s on the Gorge (off site in Lansing) R $ POSTPONED
7:00pm-9:00pm Fayetteville Ghost Tour by Ghosts on the Gorge – $20 per person Leaving from Mountain Magnolia R $
7:00pm Wizard Weekend’s Yule Ball at Southside Junction Tap House (Ages 18 & over) $
Sunday, January 25th
10:00am-1:00pm Wizard Weekend Chess Tournament at Wood Iron Eatery $
10:00am-3:00pm Wizard Scavenger Hunt starts at the Fayetteville Visitor Center
11:00am-4:00pm Folk Magic Art Exhibit at Love Hope Center for the Arts
11:00am-5:00pm Diagonal Alley at participating businesses (see list below)
12:00pm-1:00pm Laurel Fork Falconry Presentation at the Memorial Building
2:00pm-5:00pm Everwild Hat Party at the Freefolk Brewery (off site in Hico) R $
2:30pm Fayetteville’s Annual Quidditch Game at the Fayetteville town park ball field – all ages and skills welcome to show up and join in the fun
Diagonal Alley Wizard Stops Around Town
* Businesses Participating Sunday
R-Registration Required
$-Fee
ACE Adventure Gear – Find the golden snitch for prizes and discount opportunities
Ari’s House Vintage – Photo Op and candy
Cathedral Café – Butter beer in famous mugs, Wizard themed brunch all weekend $ *
D & K Collectibles – Wizard treats for kids
Enjoyed Again – Wizard themed Items for sale $ *
Escape A Torium – Vanders Wand Certification Site (Sat 11am-4pm) Book escape rooms daily $ *
Fayetteville Visitor Center – Information & Mystical Creature Shop *
Firecreek BBQ & Steaks – Wizard themed specials $ *
Great Googly Moogly – Mystical crystal shop $ *
The Hobbit Hole – Junk Store with Professor Trelawney as a guest shopper, chocolate frogs and chocolate wands $ *
Lost Appalachia Trading Co – Lost Owlery with owl adoptions, themed items, stickers for purchase $ *
Maggie’s Pub – Wizard drink specials $
Mayari – Wizard themed items $ *
Mountain Magnolia – Themed sweet treats $
New River Yoga – Wand Making at 11:00am on Saturday $ R and Wizardly Yogic Sleep: Guided Mediation on Saturday at 5:30pm $
New River Zen – Wizard themed items $
Pies & Pints – Discount for anyone in costume, wizard themed cocktails and mocktails $
Rangefinder Coffee – Wizard drink specials $ *
Secret Sandwich Society– Wizard photo op and themed drinks $ *
Southern Pillar Jeweler – Wizard themed jewelry for purchase $ *
Southside Junction Tap House – Themed food & drinks and Wizard Weekend mugs $ *
Studio B Art & Wine Gallery – Wands for purchase $ *
Tequila Taco Bar – Themed drinks $ *
Very Rare Vintage – Magic Alley *
Water Stone Outdoors – Scavenger Hunt & wizard themed coffee drinks and mocktails $ *
Whitewater Photography – 9 ¾ platform photo op *
The Wild Kind – Custom Horcrux, specializing in witchy attire $ *
Wisteria Gifts – wizard themed merchandise for purchase $
Wood Iron Eatery – Themed food and drinks $ *
Wizard Makers Market – Downtown Court Street 11am-4pm Saturday
Look for this sign to help spot Wizard stops through town
Wizard Weekend Map
Wizard Weekend Schedule of Events 2026
MORE EVENT INFORMATION:
Friday, January 23rd Events:
The Great Feast at The Gaines Estate
On January 23rd or 24th, you are invited to embark on a journey into the realm of magic and wizardry. During Wizarding Weekend, The Gaines Estate, known to many as a charming and historic property, serves as the clandestine gateway to a world where spells are cast, and potions are brewed.
Upon arrival, you will be greeted by our esteemed groundskeeper who will be eagerly awaiting you in the parking lot. The groundskeeper will guide you through the enchanting grounds to what has long been whispered about but seldom witnessed – the world of wizardry. We encourage you to don your most magical attire and bring an open heart and curious mind. Wizarding appetizers and cocktail potions will be served in the enchanted lounge at 5PM. All wizards and witches will go through to the pavilion, promptly at 6pm to begin The Great Feast.
We look forward to welcoming you to The Gaines Estate, and beyond its façade, the enchanting realm of The School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
Ticket price includes appetizers, dinner, and dessert.
The Great Feast will take place two nights during Wizarding Weekend. Reservations are required and must be made in advance. Reservations may be made by way of owl or by calling 304-382-7509!
Enchanted Forest Hike
6:00–8:00 PM
New for 2026, we’re thrilled to introduce the Enchanted Forest Hike—a magical nighttime adventure through the woods as part of Fayetteville’s Wizard Weekend! This immersive evening hike will bring the forest to life with mystical creatures, wandering characters, and a little Appalachian wizardry, all with our own unique Fayetteville spin.
The hike takes place on the Gaines Estate Trail and is approximately ¼ mile in and ¼ mile back out, with clear signage and a marked turnaround point the hike is self-guided, but we will have volunteers onsite. The trail is mostly flat, but as with any forest hike, expect uneven ground, vines, and natural obstacles along the way.
Important Details to Know Before You Go:
- This is a night hike — please dress warmly for the weather and wear sturdy, comfortable walking shoes.
- Flashlights or headlamps are required for both getting to the trail and while hiking.
- There are no restrooms facilities, so plan accordingly before embarking on your journey.
- Costumes are highly encouraged—you never know who (or what) you might encounter in the forest.
- Please stay on the marked trail and help us protect the forest by avoiding contact with any mystical creatures you may encounter.
Parking & Directions:
Park at the Fayetteville PK-8 parking lot. From there, follow the event signage and walk down the gravel road located off the left side of the parking lot toward the Gaines Estate property. When the gravel road forks, take the right fork to reach the Enchanted Forest Trail entrance. Additional signage will guide you along the way.
If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring a forbidden forest under the stars, this is your chance—just be sure to keep your wits about you and your wand at the ready.
Saturday, January 24th Events:
Dragon Egg Hunt
1. Look for dragon eggs throughout town
2. Collect 1 dragon egg (limit one egg per person)
3. Return your dragon egg to the visitor center for a small prize
Wizard Scavenger Hunt
1. Pick up a scavenger hunt from the Fayetteville Visitor Center
2. Look for items and characters throughout town
3. Return to the visitor center upon competition for a small prize
Folk Magic Exhibit at Love Hope Center for the Arts
Stop by the Love Hope Center for the Arts Saturday and Sunday during the Wizard Weekend festivities to admire local artists creations representing folk magic.
Wand Making Workshop at New River Yoga Studio
In this hands-on Wand Making Workshop, participants will choose their wand base and transform it using natural elements, crystals, wire, paint, and adornments inspired by ancient magical traditions. Learn about wand lore, intention setting, and how different materials are believed to enhance magical focus and personal power.
Whether you’re a seasoned wizard, a curious apprentice, or simply magical at heart, this workshop invites creativity, imagination, and a little enchantment.
Magic Makers Market
Court Street in front of the Fayette County Courthouse
As you stroll through the bustling market square, you’ll find an array of colorful tents and stalls, each displaying the craftsmanship of local wizards and artisans. The atmosphere is brimming with excitement as visitors explore the diverse array of magical creations. Talented wand makers will showcase their meticulously crafted wands. Talented bakers will entice with an array of magical pastries and baked goods. Visitors can purchase handcrafted items and mystical creations. Magical food trucks will line the street offering delectable treats and wizard themed delights. Have a magical photo experience flying on a broom or try out and invisibility cloak.
Magic Makers Market Vendors
Ariadne’s Clue – crochet plushies $
Country Thai Food Truck – The best Thai food in WV $
Everwild – Jewelry, suncatchers, leather goods and more $
The Takeout – golden snitches and mini Shepherd’s pies $
Fayette County Humane Society – Animal Adoption info
Grey Raven Apothecary – soy candles $
The Hatter’s Bookshop – themed blind date books and wizard book accessories $
Hills & Holler Apothecary – herbal remedies and salves $
Krissytina Creations – wizard themed crochet items $
M A D Concessions – Wizard themed treats, funnel cakes, corn dogs, hot chocolate, and more $
Magical Morsel Emporium Bakery – wizard themed baked cupcakes and sweet treats $
Mountain Magnolia Artisan Co-op & Bakery – themed sweet treats $
Olden Days Farm and Cottage – pepperoni rolls and sweet themed treats $
Soda Pop & Lemon Drops – Dirty soda and lemonade $
Spoonie Magic – coloring books $
Stepstone Family and Youth Services – Foster care info
Summit Bechtel Reserve – Summit Info and wood branding $
The Wild Kind – custom horcrux necklaces, jewelry, witchy attire $
Snakes of WV Presentation
Roy Moose has been a favorite every year with his snakes of WV Presentation. Learn about all the native snakes that call West Virginia home.
Paper Cutting Workshop and Identifying the Dark Arts
Ages 13 and above
Led by Blue Miskelley
A hands on, paper cut arts workshop hosted by artist Blue of Paperbluebeard, a Fayetteville Creates artist-in-residence. Learn the tools, techniques and magic to create a piece of cutpaper art of your own. Knives, glue, paper and secret plans provided. Bring your own wand and desire to learn an ancient art. Age: 13+ Limited seats. Email fayettevillecreateswv@
Costume Contest
Join us in your best wizard attire for a costume contest in front of the courthouse stairs. Line up and strut your favorite wizard attire for a chance to win prizes!
- Best Youth Category
- Best Adult Category
- Best Group/ Family Category
Wizardly Yogic Sleep Session at New River Yoga
Guided Yoga Nidra Meditation with The Appalachian Healer
Cost: $20
Step into the enchanted realm of deep relaxation with our wizard-themed Yoga Nidra session, led by The Appalachian Healer. This spellbinding experience invites witches, wizards, and magical beings to journey inward through a guided meditation designed to restore, rejuvenate, and awaken your inner magic. Best suited for ages 14 and up.
What to Expect:
– A cozy, candlelit atmosphere inspired by halls of magic
– Soothing soundscapes and magical visualization to guide you into yogic sleep
– Gentle breathwork and intention-setting with a touch of wizardry
– A restorative practice that feels like floating on a Nimbus 2000
– Leave with your own special wand!
Dress comfortably and prepare to be transported beyond the veil of ordinary consciousness. No mat needed – your spot will await you!
The Great Feast at The Gaines Estate
On January 23rd or 24th, you are invited to embark on a journey into the realm of magic and wizardry. During Wizarding Weekend, The Gaines Estate, known to many as a charming and historic property, serves as the clandestine gateway to a world where spells are cast, and potions are brewed.
Upon arrival, you will be greeted by our esteemed groundskeeper who will be eagerly awaiting you in the parking lot. The groundskeeper will guide you through the enchanting grounds to what has long been whispered about but seldom witnessed – the world of wizardry. We encourage you to don your most magical attire and bring an open heart and curious mind. Wizarding appetizers and cocktail potions will be served in the enchanted lounge at 5PM. All wizards and witches will go through to the pavilion, promptly at 6pm to begin The Great Feast.
We look forward to welcoming you to The Gaines Estate, and beyond its façade, the enchanting realm of The School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
Ticket price includes appetizers, dinner, and dessert.
The Great Feast will take place two nights during Wizarding Weekend. Reservations are required and must be made in advance. Reservations may be made by way of owl or by calling 304-382-7509!
Enchanted Forest Hike
6:00–8:00 PM
New for 2026, we’re thrilled to introduce the Enchanted Forest Hike—a magical nighttime adventure through the woods as part of Fayetteville’s Wizard Weekend! This immersive evening hike will bring the forest to life with mystical creatures, wandering characters, and a little Appalachian wizardry, all with our own unique Fayetteville spin.
The hike takes place on the Gaines Estate Trail and is approximately ¼ mile in and ¼ mile back out, with clear signage and a marked turnaround point the hike is self-guided, but we will have volunteers onsite. The trail is mostly flat, but as with any forest hike, expect uneven ground, vines, and natural obstacles along the way.
Important Details to Know Before You Go:
- This is a night hike — please dress warmly for the weather and wear sturdy, comfortable walking shoes.
- Flashlights or headlamps are required for both getting to the trail and while hiking.
- There are no restrooms facilities, so plan accordingly before embarking on your journey.
- Costumes are highly encouraged—you never know who (or what) you might encounter in the forest.
- Please stay on the marked trail and help us protect the forest by avoiding contact with any mystical creatures you may encounter.
Parking & Directions:
Park at the Fayetteville PK-8 parking lot. From there, follow the event signage and walk down the gravel road located off the left side of the parking lot toward the Gaines Estate property. When the gravel road forks, take the right fork to reach the Enchanted Forest Trail entrance. Additional signage will guide you along the way.
If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring a forbidden forest under the stars, this is your chance—just be sure to keep your wits about you and your wand at the ready.
Wizard Weekend Yule Ball at Southside Junction Tap House
𝑪𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒄𝒉𝒆𝒔, 𝒘𝒊𝒛𝒂𝒓𝒅𝒔, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒎𝒂𝒈𝒊𝒄𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒚 𝒊𝒏𝒄𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒅 𝒎𝒊𝒔𝒄𝒉𝒊𝒆𝒇-𝒎𝒂𝒌𝒆𝒓𝒔, Southside Junction Tap House is hosting our annual Yule Ball for Fayetteville’s Wizard Weekend and you’re invited to show up like you just got your acceptance letter.
Expect a night of high-energy vibes, dramatic entrances, and plenty of reasons to twirl your cloak, because 𝐃𝐞𝐦 𝐃𝐨𝐧𝐤𝐞𝐲 𝐁𝐨𝐲𝐬 (live 4-piece string swing band) are bringing the music and keeping the dance floor moving all night long.
𝑪𝒐𝒔𝒕𝒖𝒎𝒆𝒔 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒉𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒍𝒚 𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒓𝒂𝒈𝒆𝒅.
Go full wizard cloak, rep your house, roll in as a house elf, troll, or any magical creature you can dream up. Or keep it classic and come dressed to impress in a beautiful gown, dress robes, or a sharp cloak moment. We love commitment.
𝐓𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐞𝐭𝐬: $𝟏𝟓
𝐀𝐯𝐚𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐨𝐧𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞, 𝐢𝐧 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐛𝐞𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭, 𝐨𝐫 𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐝𝐨𝐨𝐫 𝐝𝐚𝐲-𝐨𝐟 (𝐚𝐬 𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐬 𝐰𝐞 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐧’𝐭 𝐬𝐨𝐥𝐝 𝐨𝐮𝐭).
18+ only
Valid ID required at the door.
Sunday, January 25th Events:
Wizard Scavenger Hunt
1. Pick up a scavenger hunt from the Fayetteville Visitor Center
2. Look for items and characters throughout town
3. Return to the visitor center upon competition for a small prize
Wizard Chess Tournament at Wood Iron Eatery
Laurel Fork Falconry Presentation at the Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Building
Colin from Laurel Fork Falconry will be giving an educational presentation on the art of falconry. Get an up-close view of some amazing birds of prey during his presentation.
Quidditch Game at Fayetteville Town Park
- Fayetteville Town park starts at 2:30pm
- All ages are encouraged to join, bring your broom.
- We will go over the rules on site. Players will be sorted into two teams of all ages from adults to small children. We play hard.
