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Top Annual Events in Harpers Ferry

February 29, 2024

Our quiet town comes to life every season with a calendar full of events in Harpers Ferry. We’ve got everything from town festivals to holiday celebrations to century-long traditions. Every season brings something new to town. While planning your stay at luxury cabins near Harpers Ferry, here are our top annual events you’ll want to check out.

Spring Events in Harpers Ferry

Spring is a time for revival in Harpers Ferry. The temperature warms up, seasonal activities restart, and tourists begin returning. This lively energy is seen in the many events Harpers Ferry hosts during the season. From the arts to recreation, you’ll have plenty of spring events in Harpers Ferry to check out.

Flip Flip Festival

Photo Credit: Anton Gvozdikov

Did you know Harpers Ferry, WV, is the unofficial midpoint on the Appalachian Trail? Join the annual celebration of hikers attempting the 2,000+ mi route from Georgia to Maine. The festival refers to an alternate ‘flip flop’ route hikers take starting their journey in Harpers Ferry, hiking to Maine, catching a ride to Georgia, and finishing back in Harpers Ferry. It coincides with Earth Day for multi-day outdoor activities like hiking workshops with the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, a cookout, live music, and pack-checks for hikers.

Phoenix Fest

Photo Credit: NDAB Creativity

The Phoenix Fest rises from the ashes to put on a show-stopping festival for Harpers Ferry’s music fans. Massive crowds pack the field at the Mountain Lake Club for a three-day music extravaganza.

Get tickets or multi-day passes in advance for a chance to watch some of the best bands in the Blue Ridge Mountain region and beyond perform live. The stage is set for back-to-back performances. The diverse lineup features acts playing progressive, bluegrass, rock, Gypsy jazz, country, and good old-fashioned Americana tunes.

Blue Ridge Arts & Crafts Festival

Photo Credit: Afanasiev Andrii

Explore the artistic creativity thriving in the region at this annual arts and crafts festival. More than 70 vendors exhibit 100% handmade crafts throughout Sam Michaels Park. It’s a great chance to meet local artisans from the Blue Ridge region and support the arts by shopping their wares—jewelry, paintings, candles, pottery, home goods, furniture, wellness, body care, tea, woodwork, pet gifts, and custom merch. The park comes to life with live music, kids’ activities, and local food trucks.

Harpers Ferry Half Marathon & 5K

Photo Credit: Carsten Medom Madsen

Runners are already training for the Harpers Ferry Half Marathon & 5K. Thanks to the beautiful scenery, it’s one of the most anticipated events in Harpers Ferry every spring.

The event organizers strategically picked the most scenic areas around Harpers Ferry. Pass through the historic downtown, the C&O Canal, and the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park. Get ready for the hills! This annual half marathon was established to promote the local history and healthy lifestyle.

Participate in the half marathon and enroll the children in the Kids Fun Run. This event is just as fun to watch the runners passing by and cheer them on.

Check out our complete Harpers Ferry Spring Guide!

Summer Events in Harpers Ferry

The warm summer days are great for spending time outdoors. Summer in Harpers Ferry is the perfect time to get outside your cabin rental and experience the exciting summer events in Harpers Ferry.

RiverPalooza

Photo Credit: Michael Tatman

Want even more water fun? RiverPalooza is an annual block party right on the river. Climb into a raft or kayak and join with 200+ people in this leisurely excursion—dibs on the six-person raft! Start at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers and navigate the 7-mile route, where you’ll enjoy laughs, splashes, and astonishing riverfront views.

Fireworks at Sam Michaels Park

Photo Credit: Gino Santa Maria

Harpers Ferry has a rich history of people fighting for rights established with our independence. Celebrate the 4th the right way with fireworks illuminating the skies above one of the USA’s most historic towns. Jefferson County Parks and Recreation sponsors this family-friendly annual event, drawing more than 10,000 attendees for fireworks, vendors, games, and live bands.

Appalachian Chamber Music Festival

Photo Credit: Andrey Burmakin

Music fills the air during the summer, thanks to the Appalachian Chamber Music Festival. Listen to harmonious strings and melodic instrumental solos, all deserving of a standing ovation after the last piece. For two weeks in August, the ACMF performs a concert series at venues throughout the Eastern Panhandle region, including Harpers Ferry, Shepherdstown, and Charles Town.

Fall Events in Harpers Ferry

Come for the fall foliage and stay for the exciting fall events in Harpers Ferry. This is one of the most beautiful times to visit West Virginia. Mark your calendar for some of the popular local events.

Anniversary of John Brown’s Raid at Harpers Ferry

Photo Credit: Lissandra Melo

John Brown’s raid is one of the most famous historical events in Harpers Ferry that helped ignite the Civil War. Commemorate this iconic raid of the armory with an interpretive presentation. See costumed actors reenacting the events and hear stories of local heroes in front of the John Brown Fort landmark.

Highland Games of Harpers Ferry

Photo Credit: BluIz60

The age-old Scottish games descend upon Harpers Ferry every October. Harpers Ferry Celtic Culture Society honors Scottish heritage with this traditional event. Clap along to traditional Scottish dancing, taste Scottish culinary treats, drink Scottish ales in the beer garden, and explore the lineup of local vendors at this outdoor festival.

Harpers Ferry Annual Chili Cook-off 

Photo Credit: Maria Dryfhout

Foodies are in for a treat this season. Come hungry to The Barn of Harpers Ferry, and the chili cook-off will guarantee you won’t leave hungry. Locals fill their crock pots to the brim with delicious chili made with their own unique recipes for a chance to win cash prizes. From hot and spicy to thick and flavorful, you’ll have a mouthful finding your favorite chili.

Harpers Ferry/Bolivar Veterans Parade & Ceremony

Photo Credit: Cheryl Casey

The cemeteries around Harpers Ferry are filled with fallen war heroes. Honor those in service from the past and present at the annual Veterans Day Parade. The Bolivar-Harpers Ferry District Veterans come together every year to march along Washington Street. Salute the Veterans Honor Guard and the Jefferson High School Air Force ROTC. Jam with the Harpers Ferry Middle School Band.

Olde Tyme Christmas Festival

Held for more than 50 years, the annual Olde Tyme Christmas Festival is a local tradition ushering in the holiday season. You’ll have a merry time seeing Harpers Ferry National Historical Park transform for the holidays. Start with the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, warm up around the Yule log campfire, and enjoy live entertainment all weekend.

Winter Events in Harpers Ferry

Even the cold and snow can’t keep people from enjoying many of the winter events in Harpers Ferry. Grab your coat and mittens because you don’t want to miss out on one of the most festive times of the year.

Holiday Tour of Historic Homes

Harpers Ferry’s historical homes are beautiful in any season, but the winter holidays make them look even more special. Move at your own pace on this self-guided tour past our most decorative historic homes and inns. Ticket sales support the restoration efforts for Harpers Ferry’s historical landmarks.

Bolivar and Harpers Ferry Christmas Parade

Photo Credit: Tony Moran

Hundreds of people crowd the sidewalks of Washington Street every December to watch the Bolivar and Harpers Ferry Christmas Parade. Gawk at Christmas-themed floats tossing candy to the kids on the curbside. Listen to local bands performing your favorite Christmas songs. You might even spot Santa Claus riding through Harpers Ferry!

Luxury Cabin Rentals Near Harpers Ferry

Stay in town for your favorite local event at one of our Mountain Mama cabins. Our rentals are the perfect location for easy access to attending these events and enjoying other popular things to do in Harpers Ferry.

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