ELKINS, W.Va. - s4story -- The Railyard Event & Conference Center counts down to its first annual West Virginia Outdoor Expo, a two-day celebration of everything that makes the Mountain State an outdoor playground. Opening Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 8-9, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, the expo will transform The Railyard's 28,000-square-foot venue into a regional hub for hunting, fishing, hiking, biking, camping, paddling and riding — all under one roof, and admission is free.

Positioned as the basecamp of the Monongahela National Forest, Elkins is the natural gateway to nearly 1 million acres of public land, world-class trout streams, legendary singletrack and some of the most rugged, scenic backcountry. The West Virginia Outdoor Expo brings that landscape indoors, connecting outdoor enthusiasts directly with the destinations, outfitters, gear shops and guides that bring it to life.

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"We can't wait to throw open the doors for our very first Outdoor Expo," said Holly Ferguson, director of sales at The Railyard Event & Conference Center. "This is a weekend built for everyone who loves these mountains — a chance to gear up, meet the outfitters who know this country best, win some incredible prizes and celebrate everything that makes West Virginia wild and wonderful. Bring the whole family and make a day of it, both days."

What guests can expect
Admission is free both days, and the event is all-ages and family-friendly. Highlights include:

• Hourly prize drawings — Vendor prizes drawn every hour on the hour, from noon to 5 p.m. both days. Must be present to win.
• Grand prize drawings — Two headline giveaways sponsored by Outdoor 304: the Outta Site four-panel hunting blind, drawn Sunday, Aug. 9 at 2 p.m., and a camping package, drawn Saturday, Aug. 8 at noon. Attend both days to double your chances at the hunting blind — you can enter once each day. Must be present to win.
• Turkey calling contest — Saturday, Aug. 8 at 2 p.m. A community fun event for all ages and skill levels, presented by Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate, Josh McGrath, broker, 304-635-SOLD.
• Kids' hunting games — Hands-on, interactive hunting games just for the little ones.
• Live stage demonstrations — Vendors demonstrate gear, share expert tips and showcase destinations throughout the day.
• Meet the outfitters — Connect with local guides, gear shops and adventure providers from across the region.
• Food and drinks — On-site food vendors and concessions all weekend, plus beer.
• Family-friendly activities — Hands-on experiences designed for every age, making it a true weekend adventure.

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