Window displays celebrate Festival history
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ELKINS – As the Mountain State Forest Festival welcomes visitors from across the region, downtown Elkins has once again been transformed through a collection of beautifully decorated display windows showcasing the rich history, traditions, and people who have shaped the Festival throughout the years.
Featuring historic Royal Court gowns, costumes, memorabilia, original artwork, and treasured Festival keepsakes, the displays offer residents and visitors an opportunity to reflect on the Festival’s legacy while celebrating the community spirit that continues to make the event special.
"The festival windows throughout town are a wonderful way to celebrate the history, traditions and people who have made the Mountain State Forest Festival so special over the years," said Director General Nathaniel Bonnell. "Seeing past Royal Court costumes alongside treasured festival memories gives our community a chance to look back with pride while sharing that history with a new generation.
“I especially want to recognize Assistant Director Karrah Washington and her committee of dedicated volunteers. Their creativity, countless hours and attention to detail have transformed these windows into a beautiful tribute to the festival and the generations of families who have been part of it. We are incredibly grateful for their commitment to keeping our traditions alive and making our town shine during Festival week."
The annual window decorating project is made possible through the collaboration of local businesses, families, artists, volunteers, and Festival committee members who spend months planning and organizing the displays.
"Downtown window decorating has become a special part of the Mountain State Forest Festival tradition, bringing together our Festival's history, local businesses and the incredible creativity of our community," said Assistant Director Karrah Washington. "From historic gowns, costumes and memorabilia to original artwork painted by local artists, each window tells a story and adds something unique to the Festival experience.
“This project takes months of coordination and countless volunteer hours, and I am incredibly grateful for the businesses, families, artists and committee members who help bring it all together. As thousands of people visit Elkins during Festival week, we hope these displays encourage them to explore downtown, support our local businesses and experience the history and community pride that make the Mountain State Forest Festival so special."
Festival organizers encourage residents and visitors to take time to stroll through downtown Elkins and enjoy the displays throughout Festival week. The exhibits not only highlight the Festival's storied past but also showcase the dedication and community pride that continue to make the Mountain State Forest Festival one of West Virginia's most cherished traditions.