The scent of freshly brewed coffee filled the air as caffeine enthusiasts from across the state gathered Saturday at Valley Park for the first annual West Virginia Coffee Festival.
For Bethany Lewis, it was more than just a cup of joe—it was a chance to connect with fellow coffee lovers.
“I felt like I found my people,” Lewis said with a smile. “Whether you like sweet iced coffee or a bold international dark roast, there was something here for everyone.”
A Celebration of Coffee and Community
The event brought together 12 coffee vendors from all corners of West Virginia and beyond. Attendees wandered from booth to booth, sampling everything from flavored cold brews to classic hot pours.
Rachel Barnett, founder of Bean Theory in Poca, was one of the driving forces behind the festival.
“I realized West Virginia’s coffee scene is really spread out,” Barnett said. “So we wanted to create a space where the community could come together.”
Some vendors traveled over six hours to be part of the festival—a testament to how eager small businesses were to share their passion.
Family Roots Behind Every Brew
Barnett shared that her own coffee journey was made possible through family support.
“My business was built with the help of my family. Everything I do is rooted in that,” she said. “And I know a lot of other vendors here can say the same.”
Many of the participating vendors are small family-owned operations, and their commitment to craft and community could be felt in every cup.
A Well-Brewed Plan
According to Ashton Mobley, Event Marketing Assistant at Valley Park, the idea for the coffee festival had been percolating since December.
“We’re thrilled with the turnout,” Mobley said. “This has exceeded expectations, and we’re excited about what it could grow into.”
With the success of the first event, plans are already brewing for future festivals. If Saturday was any indication, West Virginia’s coffee scene is no longer under the radar—it’s thriving.
As Barnett put it, “This is just the beginning. Today proves that our coffee community is ready to grow.”
Whether you’re a casual sipper or a die-hard dark roast devotee, the West Virginia Coffee Festival delivered warmth, flavor, and a sense of belonging—one cup at a time.
