ALERT (03/07/2024): Due to a lightning strike, WVPB TV will be off the air in the Bethany/Wheeling area until new parts arrive. Thank you for your patience.
Harpers Ferry is a historic West Virginia city and international tourist hub. But four years ago the national park and surrounding town were devastated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Across West Virginia, many towns and cities will host Christmas parades and other holiday festivals in December. But only one town can claim to have a historic covered bridge in the backdrop of their festivities. Philippi is hoping to brand itself as a Christmas destination, with a historic twist.
“Christmas was always special here whenever I was growing up,” said Philippi Mayor Phil Bowers, who had the idea to brand the town as “A Covered Bridge Christmas” destination.
“We have tens of thousands of people who ride the Polar Express in Elkins, and we thought, we’re really not doing much to bring those people to Philippi.”
Like many locations in West Virginia, the city of Philippi is looking to tourism to boost the local economy.
Next year, the city plans to add additional Christmas-themed activities. This could include ice skating rink, and buggy rides that could transport visitors to view the Christmas lights, Bowers said.
“A Covered Bridge Christmas” kicks off Friday, Dec. 1. There will be a parade on Friday, and other events are planned throughout the month.
This story was produced by students and faculty at the Mass Communication department at Alderson Broaddus University.
Harpers Ferry is a historic West Virginia city and international tourist hub. But four years ago the national park and surrounding town were devastated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Winners of the 2023 Virginias Associated Press Broadcasters Awards were announced March 23 at the Awards Luncheon and Annual Membership Meeting at The Greenbrier Resort in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia. WVPB brought home five first place awards and seven second place awards in eight different categories.
West Virginia Public Broadcasting’s News Department has secured 11 nominations in eight categories in the 2023 Virginias Associated Press Broadcasters annual awards competition. This competition includes the best radio and television stations in both West Virginia and Virginia.