THE FRONT PORCH: Ramp season returns, festivals across West Virginia celebrate a spring tradition

By Dakota Baker, RealWV

April is peak harvest season for ramps, also known as wild leeks, in West Virginia. Anyone from the state knows ramps are a true delicacy. 

Mainly known for their strong flavor which has been described as a mixture between onion and garlic, ramps have uses beyond adding some kick to your favorite burger. Ramps have been used as a remedy for colds, earaches, insect bites, and croup. 

Ramps hold such cultural significance in West Virginia that there are festivals held all over the state to celebrate its flavor. 

Here are a few ways to celebrate ramp reason across the state: 

Camp Creek Lumber Jack and Ramp Fest — April 18, 2026 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. In Camp Creek, W.Va. Ramps will be served until they sell out. The menu at Camp Creek State Park includes ramp casserole, nachos, and hot dogs. The $15 plate dinner raises funds for the Camp Creek State Park & Forest Foundation.

Feast of the Ramson — April 18th, 2026 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Richwood, WV, at the Academic Complex. Offering take out or indoor seating and the menu will consist of RAMPS, potatoes, brown beans, cornbread, ham and bacon, desserts, Gub’s Sassafras Tea (also available for sale) and cold drinks. An arts & crafts fair will take place simultaneously. Tickets for the dinner are $25 for Adults, $15 for children 15 and under.

Ramps and Rails Festival — April 25, 2026 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Elkins, W.Va. Next to the Elkins Depot, the free 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. festival features crafts, live entertainment, and a favorite ramp dish contest. Vendors have created delicious ramp-themed dishes such as ramp chili, ramp burgers, ramperoni rolls, and shrimp ramp risotto. The Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad will host train rides.

Shortline Ramp Festival — April 25, 2026. A 5K run will start at 9 a.m., and the festival will kick off at 10 a.m. The menu includes the usual ramp fixings, smash burgers, and sides, served in the school cafeteria beside the field from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (or until the food runs out). Outside, there will be crafters and vendors, a ramp eating contest, live bluegrass music, ramps for sale, children’s games, and a ramp cook-off with ramp foods to sample.The event is hosted by the Pine Grove Fire Department.

Stinkfest — April 25, 2026. from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., with free admission. The festival will feature a menu prepared by Chef Nick Atkins, including ramp cornbread, ham, fried potatoes, fried ramps, and beans sourced from local farmers. The event will feature art and produce vendors, live music, and kids’ activities. The Wild Ramp is located at 555 14th St. West (Central City Antiques District), Huntington. 

If you have a favorite ramp recipe, share it in the comments!