FAYETTEVILLE, WV (LOOTRESS) – Friend Fest presented by Friends of New River Gorge Park & Preserve will bring live music, local food, and community together for a family-friendly fundraiser celebrating one of West Virginia’s most treasured places.
The event will take place on Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. at The Outpost NRG (843 Fayette Station Rd, Fayetteville, WV 25840) in the heart of the New River Gorge.
The evening’s live music lineup features performances by The John Inghram Band, Matt Mullins and The Bringdowns, Carpenter Ants, and Andrew Adkins, along with a special appearance by Larry Groce. Families are highly encouraged to bring the kids, as the event will feature a dedicated Kids Zone with activities provided by Active Southern West Virginia, as well as the New River Gem Mining Co. giving festivalgoers of all ages plenty of ways to join in the fun.
All proceeds from the event will benefit Friends of New River Gorge National Park & Preserve, a nonprofit partner of the National Park Service. The organization connects private citizens, volunteers, donors, and community partners with projects that preserve, restore, and enhance the natural and cultural heritage of the New, Bluestone, and Gauley River watersheds. Funds raised will support park priorities, improve visitor experiences, expand educational and interpretive opportunities, and support ongoing research.
Doors and bar service will open at 5:30 p.m. Local food caterers will be available on site. The event will be held rain or shine. All parking will be located at The Outpost.
Tickets are $25 for adults and $10 for children, plus taxes and fees. Because this is a fundraiser, camping at The Outpost does not include event admission. Tickets are available online at https://outpostnrg.com/events/new-river-friends-fest-fundraiser-09-09-2026.
New River Friends Fest is made possible with the generous support of event sponsors and community partners. Come enjoy great music, family fun, and an evening dedicated to celebrating and supporting the New River Gorge!
For more information, visit friendsofnewriver.org or @friendsnewrivergorge
