Pawpaw Festival brings vendors, running races and more to Powhatan State Park

POWHATAN COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) — Powhatan State Park’s Pawpaw Festival is returning in September, bringing with it two running races, vendors, music and other festivities.

Ever heard of a pawpaw? According to the Department of Conservation and Recreation, they are an oblong, green fruit that is native to most areas in Virginia, and are the largest fruit native to the U.S. The fruit are edible and said to taste like a fusion of both a mango and a banana.

This year’s celebration of the pawpaw tree and its fruit will kick off at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 21 at the park, with festivities coming to a close at 3 p.m.

Attendees can expect to enjoy music, food and brewery vendors, as well as creations from local artisans. The event will also feature demonstrations like solar viewing, butterfly crafts and ranger-led programs like pawpaw foraging hikes.

“Depending on the quantity of fresh fruit, guests will be invited to taste fresh pawpaw and even take a few seeds to plant at home,” said Powhatan State Park Manager Amelia Hulth.

Those looking for a challenge can participate in a 5 or 10-miler race on Saturday from 8 to 11 a.m., with registration required . According to organizers, the race takes runners along the exterior trails of the park, and has a mix of terrain.

For more information about all the event has to offer, visit the Department of Conservation and Recreation’s website .

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