Annual "Make It Shine Program" Cleanup Day

The Philippi Main Street's annual "Make It Shine Program" cleanup day will be held April 24, beginning at 9 a.m. All volunteers are asked to meet on the Courthouse Square to get their supplies and cleaning assignment. Anyone that helps out that day will be provided refreshments and lunch.

The program is sponsored by WV Make It Shine Program, WV Department of Environmental Protection, WV Division of Highways and Keep America Beautiful, Inc.

WV Make It Shine Statewide Cleanup/Great American Cleanup encourages West Virginians to participate in hands-on activities that dramatically improve their communities, creating healthier, cleaner and safer environments across the nation.

For any additional information about the cleanup day, call Tammy Stemple at the Main Street office, 304-457-3700 ext. 226.

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Annual City Wide Yard and Business Sidewalk Sale

The Philippi Main Street fourth annual city wide yard sale will occur May 1, from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m. Participates may rent a 10x10 foot space on the Courthouse Square or have a yard sale at their residence. Courthouse space costs and a fee will be charged to residence yard sales that wish to be included in the yard sale advertising.

A flier/map will also be created and distributed. This will reference those on the Square and those paying the fee.

Businesses are asked to have sidewalk sales on that day as well.

To be included in the flier and advertising you must register by April 24. Fees can be paid at City Hall or mailed to Tammy Stemple, Philippi Main Street, Inc., 108 North Main Street, Philippi, WV 26416. Questions may be addressed to Tammy Stemple at the Main Street office, 304-457-3700 ext. 226.

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Annual Main Street Chili Cookoff

Everyone is encouraged to attend and experience this annual event. The day will be filled with entertainment, games, prizes and a Bicycle Road Race, while chili contestants stir up their favorite chili recipes.

A cooks' parade will begin at 11:30 a.m. and chili cooking will officially start at noon. Judging of the chili takes place at 3:00 p.m. with tasting starting at 3:15 p.m. First, second, and third place cash prizes will be awarded in three categories: business/restaurant, organizations, and individuals.

Games go on throughout the day and include hot pepper eating, frozen T-shirt contest, and a basketball shoot-out.

There will be a silent auction and Bicycle Road Race.

Vendors will be stationed around the Courthouse Square selling a variety of items as well as food.

Those interested in cooking or wishing to volunteer for the event can contact the Main Street office - 304-457-3700 ext. 226. If you are interested in the Bicycle Road Race please call 304-457-6090 for more information.

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Blue and Gray Reunion

Experience a piece of America's history. You can relive the year 1861, when the first land battle of the Civil War was fought. Re-enactors will highlight important moments in our history. Civil War campsites will be erected for the public to enjoy. Other activities will include artillery, little soldiers' battles, amputation re-enactment, parades, crafts, a Civil War ball, 5k Run, a Quilt Show at Mountain Treasures and food everywhere.

Friday, June 4th is Kids' Day. Along with the normal activities, there will be living history stations with Abe and Mrs. Lincoln, nurses, quilting, cooking, music, games, General Lee, court room proceedings, and more.

The re-enactment of the first land battle of the Civil War will take place on Sunday at 2 p.m. Following the battle, a re-enactment of the historic Hanger amputation will take place in sutler row. A discussion of commonly used Civil War medical practices will also take place. There will be a medical display including a federal doctor's field kit, repro medical supplies, commonly used herbal remedies, photos, and other medical artifacts.

Visit the Blue and Gray Park, featuring the five flags that flew over Philippi, Virginia, during the first land battle of the Civil War. Walk over the Covered Bridge. Tour the Barbour County Historical Museum. Travel back 145 years, dress for the occasion, feel like it's 1861.