In October of 1973, a small group of friends and artists gathered in PawPaw, Hampshire County, WV, for what would become the legendary Halloween Bowl Party. A costume parade was suggested and since there was no trophy or prize, Tom Rodd, a Hampshire county potter gave one of his handmade stoneware bowls to the winner. Although the party has since migrated south, the same large green pottery bowl is still being passed 45 years later to the winner of the annual costume parade. (pictured above: Jessica Roczniak as the Jefferson Street Psych Ward)

Traditionally the winner of the bowl is next year’s host or hostess. There are no guidelines or specifications for each year’s event. It is totally up to the discretion of the host as to where and how big the party will be. Historically, it has been held the Saturday before Halloween in Pocahontas or Greenbrier county and guests bring a contribution of food or beverage to offset costs. The crowd is usually as diverse as the costumes and locations have varied from small living rooms to large venues to abandoned barns and river camps.

(pictured above: Monica Armstrong)

Although the Bowl Party is essentially a Halloween Happening, it has always centered around art in one way or another. Personal expression and creativity are the spirit of the bowl party. The originality and diversity of the costumes, prize, and guests are the heart of the event.

(pictured above: Phylis Cantrell)

This year marks the 45th anniversary of the Bowl Party, which will be held inside the horse barn at Hollow Hills Farm, Home of the WV Renaissance Festival, October 27th at 8pm.

Enjoy live music by Stockyard Parade. Together almost a year, the band members include Mark Cline on guitar and lead vocals,Todd Longanacre on drums, and Virgil Kelly on bass and vocals. They cover mostly 70s and 80s and mix in originals. They tell us they always have a great time watching people dance to the tunes they play. Mark tells us they are a power trio, “We tend to cover songs that use guitar, bass, drums, and vocals. We like songs that are slightly challenging for one reason or another. ZZ Top, Pink Floyd, LED Zeppelin, Aerosmith, and tunes from that time period.”

(pictured: large green pottery bowl handed down for 44 years)

There is no cover for this event. Donations are appreciated! Costumes are encouraged and bring your favorite beverage.

– HashtagWV #106. October 2018.