Modern Traditions of Paw Paw, WV
Paw Paw isn’t just a place with a rich past — it’s a town that continues to grow, gather, and celebrate together. Our traditions are shaped by the people who call this valley home: families who’ve been here for generations, newcomers who fell in love with the mountains, and everyone who contributes to the heartbeat of our community.
These are the moments that bring us together, year after year.
Annual Events That Bring Us Together
Memorial Day Parade & Car Show
For more than 65 years, Paw Paw has honored veterans with a hometown parade that fills Winchester Street with flags, classic cars, and community pride. Families line the sidewalks, kids wave from the fire trucks, and neighbors reconnect after a long winter. It’s one of our most cherished traditions — a celebration of service, sacrifice, and small‑town spirit.
Pawpaw Festival WV
Each September, we celebrate the fruit that gave our town its name. The Pawpaw Festival brings together local growers, artisans, musicians, and families for a weekend of tastings, contests, crafts, and educational talks. It’s a joyful blend of heritage and fun, and a reminder of how deeply connected we are to the land around us.
Seasonal Traditions & Community Gatherings
Christmas in Paw Paw
From the annual Christmas parade to the lights that glow across town, the holiday season is one of Paw Paw’s most magical times. Local groups hand out hot chocolate, families gather for tree‑lighting events, and the community craft show fills the season with handmade gifts and hometown creativity. It’s a time of warmth, generosity, and togetherness
Starting Points Gnome Hunt: A New Paw Paw Favorite
In recent years, Starting Points has added a playful new tradition to Paw Paw — the community gnome hunt. Throughout the season, they hide gnome‑shaped cookie jars filled with small goodies around town. Families search for them, and when someone finds a gnome, they share a photo in the local Facebook group along with a clue — often a poem or riddle — before hiding it again for the next family to discover. It’s a simple, joyful tradition that brings neighbors together, gets kids exploring, and fills the town with laughter and excitement.
Fall Festivities
Autumn brings school events, pumpkin decorating, and the kind of crisp mountain air that makes Paw Paw feel like a postcard. As the leaves turn brilliant shades of gold and red, families gather. Fall is a season we savor — full of color, connection, and small‑town charm
Local Fundraisers & Volunteer Traditions
Paw Paw’s volunteer fire department, churches, and civic groups host dinners, raffles, and community events throughout the year. These gatherings aren’t just fundraisers — they’re a reflection of how this town shows up for one another.
Everyday Life That Makes Paw Paw Special
The Tunnel & Towpath
Locals and visitors alike walk the historic Paw Paw Tunnel, fish along the Potomac or at Tubby’s Pond, or bike the C&O Canal towpath. These aren’t just attractions — they’re part of daily life here.
Small‑Town Connections
Whether it’s chatting with neighbors at the post office, grabbing breakfast at Liberty, or supporting homegrown businesses, Paw Paw’s sense of community is woven into everyday moments.
A Town That Welcomes You In
Our traditions aren’t just events — they’re invitations. Paw Paw is a place where people wave from their porches, where stories are shared freely, and where visitors quickly feel like friends.
Want to Join Us?
Explore upcoming events, community gatherings, and seasonal celebrations on our Events Calendar.