Annual Cheat River Festival Returns May 1–2, 2026 in Albright, West Virginia
ALBRIGHT, W.Va. — Friends of the Cheat (FOC) invites outdoor enthusiasts, music lovers, and families to the 32nd Annual Cheat River Festival on Friday, May 1st, and Saturday, May 2nd, 2026, along the scenic banks of the Cheat River in Albright, West Virginia. Now in its fourth decade, Cheat Fest is FOC’s largest annual fundraiser and community outreach event — a spirited celebration of the remarkable restoration of one of America’s once-most-endangered rivers.
“Cheat Fest is a very special event unlike any other because it is a festival with a purpose. This event raises funds to help with the Friends of the Cheat’s mission to restore, preserve, and promote the outstanding qualities of the Cheat River watershed.”
— Lisa Maraffa, Festival Coordinator
A River Reborn
Once named one of America’s Most Endangered Rivers in 1995, the Cheat River stands today as a powerful testament to environmental resilience. For three decades, Cheat Fest has united communities to raise funds and awareness for watershed cleanup and protection. The festival draws approximately 3,000 attendees annually and maintains the grassroots, family-friendly, reunion-like atmosphere that has defined it since its founding.
Two Days of Music, Art, and Community
Gates open at 5:00 PM on Friday, May 1st, and 12:00 PM on Saturday, May 2nd. Live music begins at 5:00 PM Friday and 12:30 PM Saturday, with performances by local and regional Appalachian acts. This year’s headliners are the Wilson Springs Hotel and Hogslop String Band.
Festival highlights include the beloved Art Market featuring local pottery, clothing, jewelry, and fine art; a diverse lineup of food vendors offering BBQ, hoagies, calzones, baked goods, and more; and educational workshops hosted by local experts in the Education Eddy, covering local flora and fauna and the latest FOC recreation initiatives. As always, no pets, glass, or bad vibes are allowed.
Family-Friendly Fun
Children 12 and under are admitted free with a parent or guardian. The Kid’s Tent on Saturday features a full slate of activities including crafts and art projects.
Silent Auction and Food Drive
The 2026 Silent Auction is virtual again this year, featuring one-of-a-kind items from Art Market artists, vendors, and nonprofits.
FOC is partnering with Food for Preston to collect nonperishable food and hygiene items for their 11 pantries across Preston County. Donations are welcomed at the Info Booth. A full donation list is available at cheatfest.org.
Tickets and Information
Discounted combo tickets are available online for $45 until 9:00 PM on Wednesday, April 29th at cheatfest.org. Single day tickets are available at the gate only: $20 on Friday and $35 on Saturday.
For full event details, visit cheatfest.org or follow Cheat Fest on Facebook and Instagram.
2026 Festival Sponsors
Friends of the Cheat gratefully acknowledges the generous support of Mykl Messer, Team Boosch, Highland Outdoors, Eclipse Construction, and all community sponsors whose contributions make the festival — and the mission — possible.
ABOUT FRIENDS OF THE CHEAT
Friends of the Cheat is a nonprofit watershed conservation organization dedicated to the restoration, preservation, and promotion of the Cheat River watershed in West Virginia. Since its founding, FOC has led efforts to address acid mine drainage, improve water quality, and protect the natural and recreational resources of this iconic river. Learn more at cheat.org.
