Fayetteville’s First Friday
As the crisp air of September rolls into the New River Gorge, Fayetteville comes alive with festivals, live music, fall flavors, and epic outdoor adventures. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or planning to stay a little longer, this is the perfect month to experience the heart of Almost Heaven, West Virginia.
Festivals & Community Events
- Starlite Fall Festival – September 2–6
Kick off September with carnival fun at the Starlite Drive-In in Oak Hill. From rides to games to festival food favorites, this is the perfect outing for families and friends. Gates open at 6pm, Tuesday through Saturday.
- New River Friends Fest at The Outpost – September 3
Celebrate with an evening of live music, great food, and community at the Outpost New River Gorge. This year’s lineup features John Inghram, Matt Mullins and the Bringdowns, Andrew Adkins, and MC Lary Groce. Proceeds benefit Friends of the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve. - Fayetteville’s First Friday – September 5
Join us downtown from 5–8pm for one of our favorite community gatherings. Shop artisan vendors, enjoy food trucks, and catch live music while your favorite local shops stay open late.
- Arrowhead Bike Farm Decathlon – All September
Get ready for a month of friendly competition and wacky challenges at Arrowhead Bike Farm. From cornhole and trivia to bike races, apple dunking, and hot dog eating contests, there’s something fun for everyone. Prizes and bragging rights await! - West Virginia Spartan Race Trifecta World Championship – September 6–7
Athletes from around the world descend on the Gorge for one of the toughest race weekends of the year. Test your grit or come cheer on competitors as they tackle the steep hills, rugged terrain, and water features that make this course legendary. - Gauley Fest – September 18–21
American Whitewater’s largest paddling event in the U.S returns to Summersville, celebrating whitewater culture with live entertainment, vendors, and river conservation. This is the ultimate gathering for river lovers. - Gauley Animal Race – September 22
Catch the action on the Upper Gauley as paddlers go head-to-head in the wildest river competition of the season. Known as the “Beast of the East,” this is a spectacle for both racers and spectators. - Rumble Through the Ridge – September 27
Grab your jeep and crew for a guided off-road ride through the ridges of Hico with Blue Jacket Off Road Adventures. It’s a day of adrenaline and camaraderie.
And don’t forget to stop by the Fayette County Farmers Market every Saturday from 8:30am–1pm at the courthouse parking lot. Stock up on fresh produce, jams, fall treats like Irene’s famous pumpkin bread, meats, eggs, and locally made crafts.
The New River Gorge National Park & Preserve also hosts special programs throughout the month, including Patio Talks with a Ranger, guided hikes at the Canyon Rim Visitor Center, guided tours at historic Thurmond, coal mining history talks, and the Sounds of Appalachia program at Grandview on September 25.
Gauley Season: The Heart of Fall Adventure
Starting September 5th, Gauley Season is here! For six weekends, paddlers from across the globe flock to West Virginia to ride the waves of the mighty Gauley River. With scheduled dam releases, the Upper Gauley delivers a world-class thrill with Class V rapids, while the Lower Gauley offers a more laid-back adventure surrounded by incredible fall views. Whether you’re chasing adrenaline or soaking in the scenery, it’s a bucket-list experience.
Live Music & Nightlife
September nights in Fayetteville are best spent with live music and fun. Cozy up at the Outpost New River Gorge for their Saturday night Fireside Jams under the stars or stop in at Southside Junction Tap House or Charlie’s Pub for shows and local flavor.
Make It a Weekend
With so much happening this month, why not make it a getaway? Book a cozy cabin or a vacation rental close to town and enjoy Fayetteville’s small-town charm alongside easy access to adventure. From camping under the stars to relaxing in a historic inn, September is the perfect time to extend your stay.
Fall Outdoor Fun
- Hit the Trails: Fall is one of the best times to hike the Gorge. Don’t miss favorites like Endless Wall Trail, Long Point Trail, or a scenic drive along Fayette Station Road for unbeatable views of the New River Gorge Bridge.
- Paddle & Float: Get in those last paddleboard and kayak trips with Mountain Surf Paddle Sports before the weather turns chilly.
- Ride the Gorge: Rent a bike from Arrowhead Bike Farm and pedal through miles of beautiful fall trails.
- Savor the Season: After a day outdoors, cozy up at one of Fayetteville’s local restaurants for hearty seasonal dishes and a taste of our mountain town hospitality.
👉 Plan Your September Escape to Fayetteville
Between festivals, river thrills, and crisp mountain air, September is the perfect time to plan an overnight stay in Fayetteville. Check out our lodging options and start planning your Almost Heaven fall getaway today.