Dearest Readers,

The first of June always feels like the unofficial start of summer in West Virginia, and this month’s edition of Hashtag highlights some of the biggest events and community gatherings happening around the state as the season gets fully underway.

Leading this issue is our cover story on the West Virginia Renaissance Festival, which continues to attract visitors from across the region with its mix of entertainment, creativity and immersive experiences. From knights and performers to artisan vendors, themed food and elaborate costumes, the festival has become one of the area’s most recognizable summer attractions. Whether attendees spend the day shopping handmade goods, watching live shows or simply enjoying the atmosphere, the ren fest offers something a little different from the typical weekend event calendar — and its popularity continues to grow each year.

This month’s issue also features a closer look at the annual Home and Garden Tour, an event that gives visitors the opportunity to explore some of the area’s unique homes, gardens and historic spaces. It’s a chance to appreciate the creativity, preservation efforts and personal touches that help make local communities stand out.

At the Greenbrier Valley Airport, the Wings and Wheels will combine classic cars, aircraft and family-friendly activities into a summer gathering for enthusiasts across the region.

Music and outdoor recreation also take center stage this month with the return of Wild Trails Festival. The event has quickly built a reputation for bringing together live music, outdoor adventure and Appalachian culture in a way that reflects the energy and landscape of southern West Virginia. For many, it has become one of the signature events of the summer season.

Of course, these are only a few of the many events happening across the Mountain State this month. From festivals and concerts to local fairs, markets and community celebrations, June offers plenty of opportunities to get out, explore and support local organizations, artists and businesses.

As always, thank you for reading Hashtag and supporting local storytelling. We hope this issue helps you discover a few new events, revisit familiar favorites and make the most of summer in West Virginia.

With love,
Sarah