The Mothman Festival is a yearly blowout in Point Pleasant, West Virginia. Over the years, the festival has become a magnet for tourists, cryptid fans, and people who love all things spooky (pun intended).
It’s about celebrating the mysterious Mothman. But more than that, it’s about having a good time. There’s live music, wild costumes, awesome food, and even a few haunted thrills for good measure.
The festival goes down on the third weekend of September every year. This is the place to be if you’re into paranormal fun and quirky Americana.
In this article:
A Brief History of Point Pleasant, West Virginia
Point Pleasant sits where the Ohio and Kanawha Rivers meet. That’s about 55 miles northwest of Charleston, WV, and around 120 miles southeast of Columbus, OH. It’s always been in a pretty handy spot, which played a big part in its early development.
Back in the day, it was home to the Shawnee and Mingo tribes before settlers moved in in the 1700s.
In 1774, Point Pleasant was the scene of a bloody battle (the Battle of Point Pleasant), a pre-Revolutionary conflict between settlers and Native American forces. In some way, it was the first battle of the American Revolution.
Point Pleasant became an industrial hub through the 19th and early 20th centuries. Thanks in part to the nearby Ordnance Works, where they cranked out military supplies during World War II. Plus, its location along significant routes like Route 35 made it a key spot.
However, things took a tragic turn in 1967 when the Silver Bridge (connecting Point Pleasant to Gallipolis, Ohio) collapsed, taking 46 lives with it.
These days, Point Pleasant is a quiet place. Proud of its history. Proud of its community spirit. And, of course, proud of its many Mothman legends. In fact, these exact legends are what really put Point Pleasant on the paranormal map.
And, every year, thousands of visitors roll into town for the now-famous Mothman Festival.
The Mothman Festival
The Mothman Festival started back in 2002 with a small group of people passionate about the Mothman cryptid. It was originally called the Mothman Prophecies Festival—named after the book and movie—but eventually just became the Mothman Festival.
The festival’s grown a ton since it started. In fact, it grew so much that it now brings a significant boost to the local economy. Other than in 2020 (thanks, COVID), the festival’s been going strong every year and keeps growing.
Activities and Attractions
The Mothman Festival has a little bit of everything. It’s a jam-packed weekend that’s got something for everyone.
First, there are guest speakers and paranormal experts. They are always a hit. Authors, cryptozoologists, and investigators join to share their experiences, stories, and research on all things mysterious. If you’re into the paranormal, this is the place to get the inside scoop straight from the experts.
And, of course, there’s the famous Mothman statue downtown—a 12-foot steel masterpiece with those glowing red eyes that everyone wants a selfie with. It’s a major festival landmark and makes for some killer photo ops.
How about those of you looking for some scares? Well, you’re in luck, too. The haunted hayride is a fantastic experience. It’ll take you out to the TNT Area—one of the eeriest places around, loaded with spooky vibes and surprises that’ll give you chills.
If that’s not enough, there’s also the “Mothman Sightings” VR experience. Put on the headset and transport yourself to 1960s Point Pleasant—it’s like you’re really seeing the Mothman in action. It’s pretty wild.
For those who want to get a little active, there’s the annual Mothman 5K Run. Runners get to take in the sights of Point Pleasant while supporting local causes. It’s a great way to kick off a day of festivities.
Then there’s the Mothman Museum—a must-see if you want to go deep into the Mothman story. (Get directions to the Mothman Museum on Google Maps.) It’s packed with newspaper clippings, photos, film props, and other memorabilia.
Of course, live music fills the air all weekend. With mostly local bands playing everything from rock to bluegrass. It’s what gives the Mothman Festival that unmistakable celebratory feel. Plus, the variety means everyone will find something they like.
If you’re into quirky fun, don’t miss the cosplay contest. The costumes are always incredible. Mothman, Bigfoot, the Jersey Devil, Slender Man, aliens, vampires, and even classic horror movie characters like Jason and Freddy.
Not to mention some delicious food (more on that next) and the pancake-eating contest. Yeah, pancakes. It might sound goofy, but it’s seriously intense and draws big crowds every year.
Taste the Mothman Festival
The food scene at the Mothman Festival is an experience in itself. Lots of tasty treats and some fun Mothman-themed dishes that bring local culture right to your plate.
One of the biggest draws is the lineup of Mothman-themed foods. Think giant, fluffy “Mothman pancakes” decorated with eyes, Mothman-shaped cookies, and even some reaaally spicy “Mothman Wings” if you’re feeling brave. Vendors love to get creative, and visitors eat it up—literally.
Then there’s the pancake breakfast at the fire station. It’s a cozy community tradition where you’ll share tables with locals and visitors alike. The pancakes are piled high, the syrup flows freely, and it’s the perfect way to fuel up before a day of exploring.
Related: 16 Lesser-Known Mothman Facts: From Curses to UFO Connections
You’ll also find all the classic festival eats, like funnel cakes and corn dogs. And a lot of comfort food (from pulled pork sandwiches to homemade pies, with local bakers showing off their best recipes).
But with a local twist.
For example, some may have a dash of “Mothman sauce” to spice things up. It’s these small touches that make everything feel unique to the event.
More than just the food itself, it’s about the festival vibe. The smell of grills cooking up juicy burgers, the colorful food trucks, and the laughter of people digging into cryptid-themed snacks—it all adds to the festival magic.
Whether you’re going for the weirdest dish on the menu or just savoring some comfort food, it’s sure to be a delicious part of the adventure.
Essential Details to Help You Plan Your Visit
When and How Long: The Mothman Festival happens on the third weekend of September—usually over Saturday and Sunday. It kicks off in the morning and runs until late at night, with a packed schedule of activities on both days.
Getting There: Point Pleasant is in West Virginia, and it’s easiest to drive in. It’s about 55 miles from Charleston, WV, and 120 miles from Columbus, OH. Route 35 runs right through town, so if you’re coming from nearby cities, it’s a smooth drive. If you’re flying, the closest major airport is Yeager Airport in Charleston—about an hour’s drive away.
Click to find Point Pleasant, West Virginia, on Google Maps.
Costs: Admission to the festival itself is free. Which is great news if you’re on a budget! However, some activities (like the guided tours of the TNT Area) may have a small fee—typically between $10 and $25, depending on the tour. The Mothman Museum costs around $5 to get in. Other attractions (like the haunted hayrides or pancake-eating contests) may also have additional fees.
Where to Stay: Point Pleasant is a small town. So, hotel rooms can get snatched up quickly during the festival. That’s why we recommend booking a room as early as possible. If places are fully booked, Gallipolis is just across the river and has more options.
Recommended Restaurants: You’ll definitely want to check out some local eats while you’re here. Here are some places we recommend:
- Village Pizza Inn: A beloved local spot known for its classic American-style pizza, subs, and salads. The cozy atmosphere makes it a favorite for both families and casual diners. (Get directions to Village Pizza Inn on Google Maps.)
- Rio Bravo 2: If you’re in the mood for Mexican cuisine, Rio Bravo 2 is the place to be. It offers a variety of Mexican dishes, including fajitas, tacos, and delicious margaritas—all in a laid-back setting right on Main Street. (Get directions to Rio Bravo 2 on Google Maps.)
- China House: For something different, China House offers classic Chinese dishes. It’s great for takeout if you want to enjoy your meal by the river or during a festival break. (Get directions to China House on Google Maps.)
- Ichiban Hibachi Steakhouse: This hibachi and sushi restaurant provides a mix of Japanese dishes, including hibachi-cooked meals and sushi rolls. (Get directions to Ichiban Hibachi Steakhouse on Google Maps.)
What Else to Do in Point Pleasant: Besides the Mothman Festival, there’s plenty more to do around town. The Point Pleasant River Museum is worth a visit for some insight into the area’s river history. (Get directions to the River Museum on Google Maps.) Tu-Endie-Wei State Park offers a peaceful spot to relax by the river, plus some history of the Battle of Point Pleasant. (Get directions to Tu-Endie-Wei Park on Google Maps.)
Oh, and don’t miss the floodwall murals—they’re beautiful pieces of art that tell the town’s story. And if you cross the river into Gallipolis, you’ll find even more small-town charm, parks, and shops.
Tips for First-Time Festival-Goers
1) Plan Accommodations Early: Point Pleasant is tiny, and hotel rooms go fast during the festival weekend. Book early or look in nearby Gallipolis.
2) Get There Early: If you want to beat the crowds, arrive early. It’s easier to find parking, and you can explore the museum and food vendors before it gets packed.
3) Explore Beyond the Festival: Take some time to visit the River Museum and the floodwall murals. They’re a cool way to get a feel for the town’s history beyond Mothman.
4) Come Prepared for All Weather: September can be unpredictable in West Virginia. Bring layers—mornings can be chilly, but afternoons can warm right up.
Is the Mothman Festival Worth Visiting?
Absolutely. The Mothman Festival is a must if you’re into local legends, offbeat culture, or just love a good time. It’s this fun mix of history, folklore, small-town spirit, and a whole lot of weird.
From live music and family-friendly games to haunted tours and the legendary Mothman cosplay contest, there’s plenty to keep you entertained. Plus, you get to hang out with other Mothman fans, eat some amazing food, and soak in the quirky vibes that make this festival one of a kind.
So, if you’re looking for something a little different, a weekend adventure full of character and charm, definitely put the Mothman Festival on your list.
