ELKINS, W.Va. - s4story -- The Railyard Event & Conference Center is excited to launch the 1st Annual West Virginia Outdoor Expo, a free, family-friendly event celebrating the Mountain State's outdoor lifestyle.

Set for Saturday and Sunday, August 8–9, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., the expo will bring hunting, fishing, hiking, biking, camping, paddling, riding, and outdoor adventure together inside The Railyard's 28,000-square-foot venue in Elkins.

As the Basecamp of the Monongahela National Forest, Elkins is the perfect gateway to West Virginia's public lands, trout streams, trails, rivers, and backcountry. The expo will connect outdoor enthusiasts with the destinations, outfitters, gear shops, guides, and experiences that make the state a true outdoor playground.

"West Virginia is one of the most unique outdoor destinations in the country, and Elkins sits right at the heart of it," said Holly Ferguson, Director of Sales for The Railyard Event & Conference Center. "We're creating a space where vendors, adventurers, and families can come together to celebrate the people, places, and experiences that define our wonderful state."

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Event highlights include:

• Live stage demonstrations
• Turkey Calling Contest on Saturday, August 8 at 2 p.m., presented by Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate
• Local outfitters, guides, gear shops, and adventure providers
• Prizes and giveaways throughout the weekend
• Food and drinks, including beer
• Family-friendly activities

The Railyard is now accepting vendors that support outdoor recreation, tourism, and adventure in West Virginia, including state parks, tourism organizations, campgrounds, RV parks, motorsports brands, gear retailers, rafting outfitters, guide services, lodging properties, and more.

Booth pricing:
Standard reservation: $450 when reserved by July 8, 2026
Discounted nonprofit pricing is available.
Optional one-hour stage demonstration: $100

A portion of every booth rental will support regional advertising for the expo. The final booth reservation deadline is Friday, July 8, 2026.

Vendors interested in reserving space can contact Holly Ferguson, Director of Sales, at holly.ferguson@taylorhospitality.com.

Follow The Railyard on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn at @RailyardEventsWV.