Salem Apple Butter Festival Parade to Celebrate 40th Year This October
SALEM, W.Va. — One of North Central West Virginia's most recognizable fall traditions is set to reach a major milestone this year.
The Salem Apple Butter Festival Feature Parade will celebrate its 40th anniversary on Saturday, October 10, 2026, bringing marching bands, community organizations, antique vehicles, festival royalty and local pride through the streets of downtown Salem. The parade is scheduled to begin at noon.
Organizers recently announced plans for the anniversary parade and are encouraging participants to begin making plans now for the milestone event. Lineup is scheduled for 11 a.m. along K.D. Hurley Boulevard in Salem. According to festival organizers, parade entries traditionally include floats, civic groups, businesses, schools and antique vehicles.
The parade serves as one of the signature events of the Salem Apple Butter Festival, which will celebrate its 40th year from October 7 through October 10. The festival was founded in 1984 and has grown into one of Harrison County's premier fall events.
In addition to the parade, the festival features live apple butter making using copper kettles over open fires, food vendors, entertainment, crafts, a car show, contests, a 5K run, quilt displays and family activities throughout the four-day celebration. Admission to the festival is free.
Additional information about parade registration, festival activities and event schedules is expected to be released in the coming months as organizers prepare for the 40th anniversary celebration.
Those interested in participating in the parade or learning more about this year's festival can visit the official Salem Apple Butter Festival website at www.salemapplebutterfestival.com.
