Mark Your Calendars!
Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping experience at Bridge Day 2024, happening on October 19th! This annual event, held every third Saturday in October, transforms the New River Gorge Bridge in Fayetteville, West Virginia, into a playground for thrill-seekers and spectators alike.
Discover the New River Gorge
Nestled in the heart of West Virginia, the New River Gorge is a stunning natural wonder. The New River, one of the oldest rivers in North America, carves through the Appalachian Mountains, creating a breathtaking gorge that stretches for miles. The New River Gorge Bridge, towering 876 feet above the river, is an engineering marvel and the longest steel arch bridge in the Western Hemisphere.
A Brief History of Bridge Day
Bridge Day began in 1980 as a celebration of the completion of the New River Gorge Bridge. The event was initially conceived to showcase the bridge’s impressive architecture and to provide a unique opportunity for BASE jumpers to leap from its heights. Over the years, Bridge Day has grown into West Virginia’s largest single-day festival, attracting thousands of visitors from around the world.
Why People Flock to Bridge Day
So, why do people come to Bridge Day? The answer is simple: for the thrill, the spectacle, and the sense of community. BASE jumping, rappelling, and highline walking are just a few of the extreme sports that take centre stage. Spectators gather to watch these daring feats, cheering on the participants and soaking in the electrifying atmosphere.
What Happens on Bridge Day
Bridge Day is packed with activities that cater to both adrenaline junkies and those who prefer to keep their feet firmly on the ground. Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect:
- BASE Jumping: Watch in awe as experienced jumpers leap from the bridge, free-falling for several seconds before deploying their parachutes and gliding gracefully to the river below.
- Rappelling: Adventurers rappel down the side of the bridge, showcasing their climbing skills and bravery.
- Highline Walking: Witness the incredible balance and focus of highline walkers as they traverse a narrow line stretched across the gorge.
- Vendor Booths: Explore a variety of booths offering local crafts, delicious food, and unique souvenirs.
- Live Music and Entertainment: Enjoy performances by local bands and entertainers, adding to the festive atmosphere.
BASE jumping at Bridge Day has a fascinating history that adds to the allure of this unique event. The tradition began with a daring leap by Burton Ervin, who is considered the father of Bridge Day. On August 17, 1979, Ervin made the first known BASE jump off the New River Gorge Bridge at 10:20 PM, in front of an impromptu crowd of a couple hundred people.
The following year, locals began calling the gathering “Bridge Day,” and five parachutists took the plunge. By 1981, the number of jumpers had grown to ten. This marked the beginning of an annual tradition that would see the event grow in popularity and scale.
Bridge Day is now the only day of the year when BASE jumping is permitted from the New River Gorge Bridge, making it a highly anticipated event for jumpers and spectators alike. The event has evolved to include not just BASE jumping, but also rappelling and highline walking, attracting thrill-seekers from around the world.
The spirit of adventure and the sense of community that started with Ervin’s jump continue to define Bridge Day, making it a must-see event for anyone interested in extreme sports and breathtaking feats of bravery.
Attendance and Activities
Bridge Day typically draws a crowd of around 80,000 people, making it a bustling and vibrant event. Whether you’re there to participate in extreme sports or simply to enjoy the spectacle, there’s something for everyone. Many attendees take advantage of the opportunity to explore the surrounding area, including hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and the charming town of Fayetteville.
Weather on Bridge Day
October in West Virginia is known for its crisp, cool weather, making it the perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities. Temperatures usually range from the mid-50s to the low 70s Fahrenheit, with clear skies and vibrant fall foliage providing a picturesque backdrop for the day’s events.
Bridge Day 2024 promises to be an unforgettable experience, filled with excitement, adventure, and camaraderie. Whether you’re a seasoned thrill-seeker or a curious spectator, this event offers a unique opportunity to witness some of the most daring feats in extreme sports. So, mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and head to the New River Gorge for a day of fun and adventure.