LANSING, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Thousands converged to the New River Gorge Bridge on Saturday to take part in Bridge Day festivities.
The threat of rain and wind did not stop tens of thousands of people from around the globe from enjoying the many vendors, BASE jumpers, and autumn views offered at Bridge Day.
The weather was quite the opposite, with clouds giving way to sun and a slight breeze, and not one rain shower.
The New River Gorge Bridge closed to traffic at 7 AM, and the event kicked off at 9 AM sharp with many waiting at the gates and in shuttle lines well ahead of starting time.
Attendees were greeted by vendors on both sides of the bridge, from pepperoni rolls, corn dogs, shirts, crafts, and jewelry, there was something for everyone.
Bridge Day is not just a day; it’s an entire world of excitement suspended above the rushing waters of the New River.
Known as one of the largest extreme sports events in the world, this iconic gathering is celebrated on the third Saturday of October each year, and it’s not for the faint of heart.
The star of the show? The colossal New River Gorge Bridge, a true engineering marvel.
The main event at Bridge Day is watching daredevils leap off the 876-foot-tall bridge, plunging into the gorge below with nothing but a parachute.
This heart-stopping BASE jumping experience is one that both participants and spectators will never forget.
The New River Gorge Bridge itself is a sight to behold, offering breathtaking vistas of the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve. Attendees were lucky today as foliage in the gorge is at near peak.
Bridge Day celebrations wrapped up at 3 PM with the detour ending at 5 PM and the bridge opening back up to traffic.
LOOTPRESS streamed live from Bridge Day, a playback of the stream can be viewed here.