Bridge Day, held annually on the third Saturday in October at the New River Gorge Bridge in Fayette County, West Virginia, is the largest BASE jumping event in the world and West Virginia’s largest single-day event. For six hours during the festival, the New River Gorge Bridge is the launching point for BASE jumps, rappelling teams and high line rides.
This popular extreme sports event draws hundreds of BASE jumpers from around the world and as many as 200,000 spectators. And, Bridge Day is the only day of the year that pedestrians are permitted to walk onto the bridge. Other options for spectators include viewing the events of the day from the bottom of the New River Gorge, either by signing up in advance for a special Bridge Day van service or by booking a whitewater rafting trip with one of the many local outfitters.
Weekend festivities surrounding the main event add to the fun, including:
- Taste of Bridge Day - a chance to sample West Virginia cuisine and food products
- Hundreds of Bridge Day Vendors - featuring crafts, souvenirs, food and refreshments
- A Car Show
- A Pancake Breakfast
- Entertainment and more
Prohibited items include dogs, backpacks, coolers, large handbags, bicycles, skates, skateboards, wagons, weapons, fireworks, illegal Drugs, and alcoholic beverages.
Dedicated and officially opened on October 22, 1977, the New River Gorge Bridge spans 1,700 feet with an overall length of 3,030 feet and is the longest single arch bridge in the Western Hemisphere and the second longest in the world. At 876 feet high, it is the second highest bridge in the United States. It is owned by the West Virginia Department of Highways. The first New River Gorge Bridge Day was held on November 8, 1980.
For additional information about Bridge Day, visit:
- Bridge Day Area Hotels - Compare Prices
- Directions and Shuttle Information from the Official Bridge Day Festival Web Site
- Official Bridge Day Festival Web Site Home Page
