Things to know ahead of Bridge Day 2024

FAYETTEVILLE, WV (LOOTPRESS) – West Virginia’s largest one-day festival, Bridge Day, returns for its 45th annual celebration on October 19, 2024.

Hosted by the Fayette County Chamber of Commerce, this popular event brings tens of thousands of visitors to Fayetteville to witness and participate in an array of adrenaline-pumping activities.

Bridge Day marks the one day each year when pedestrians are permitted to walk across the New River Gorge Bridge.

The event, which started as a celebration of the bridge’s completion, has evolved into a highly anticipated gathering for thrill-seekers and spectators alike.

Attendees can look forward to watching BASE jumpers, highliners, rappellers, and even whitewater rafters. Events will run from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

BASE (Buildings, Antennas, Spans, and Earth) jumpers will leap 876 feet from the bridge into the New River, while rappellers will descend the bridge’s towers.

Spectators are encouraged to enjoy the fall foliage, food vendors, and the array of thrilling performances. For those looking to join in, there are opportunities to participate in rafting trips or the Highline through the bridge’s famous gorge.

To accommodate the event, US Route 19 north and south will be closed from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on October 19, 2024.

The road closure extends from I-64/I-77 exits and limits travel to event, emergency, and security personnel only.

Heavier-than-usual traffic is expected, and travelers are advised to plan their routes accordingly.

For those traveling through southern West Virginia and not attending the event, alternative routes such as I-79 and I-77 through Charleston are recommended.

Visitors can experience the Highline through the Bridge Walk available on both Friday and Saturday.

For more event details, visit OfficialBridgeDay.com or follow Bridge Day on Facebook.