Posted in West Virginia November 16, 2018 by Robin Jarvis

This Italian Christmas Street Festival In West Virginia Is As Good As It Gets

There’s no other place we’d rather be than home for the holidays. During the Christmas season, small towns and cities all over The Mountain State host a variety of festivals and events that provide a backdrop for bringing families even closer together. Whether you’re taking a road trip to see the best Christmas towns in the state, hopping aboard a Christmas-themed train ride, or heading to the street festival below that celebrates Italian heritage, this Christmas season promises to bring a joyful spirit to all.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/

You may be thinking December is an odd time for a huge street festival (especially when it can be a little chilly outside), but trust us... the weather just doesn't matter.

The Feast of the Seven Fishes held each year in Downtown Fairmont is one Christmas festival that you won't want to miss.

This traditional festival is modeled after an American-Italian custom of feasting on (at least) seven fishes each Christmas Eve.

The tradition carries into the festival, which is held the second Saturday in December, and dishes up plenty of edible goodness from local restaurants and vendors. If you leave this event hungry, you're doing it wrong...

In addition to a variety of flavorful food choices, there is always a great deal of other vendors on hand with locally-made arts and such (perfect for doing a little Christmas shopping while you're feasting... ).

And of course, the wine doesn't hurt either. It pairs nicely with the festival atmosphere and whatever weather may be in play for the day.

If you're more in the mood for traditional "fair" fare, then don't worry, there will be plenty of that, too!

Come rain, snow, or shine, the Feast of the Seven Fishes will go on. Enjoy a wide variety of Italian cuisine, and if you need to get warmed up, or it starts to rain, there will be indoor venues as well.

If you're not from Fairmont, have you heard of this niche Italian Christmas custom, or the festival? We'd love to know!

The Feast of the Seven Fishes takes place on December 8, 2018 on Monroe Street in Downtown Fairmont from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Be sure to stick around for the annual Christmas parade, which begins at 5:00 p.m. at 4th Street and Fairmont Avenue. Plenty of free parking will be available throughout the Downtown area. The festival is free to attend. Learn more at this link on the official website page for the festival.