Happy Birthday West Virginia! On this day in 1863, we officially became a state. Here are some ways you can celebrate the occasion.

1. Hike Long Point Trail in Fayetteville.
Flickr user: Gene
Or any of the other great trails in West Virginia.
2. And once you've worked up an appetite, head to the original Pies and Pints.
Pies and Pints via Tripadvisor
It's a Fayetteville and regional favorite. Or try any other of the West Virginia-owner restaurants.
3. Read "When I was young in the mountains," to your kids.
Amazon.com
Or nieces and nephews or grandkids. The book is based on the author's life growing up in West Virginia.
4. Catch some FestiVALL events if you're in Charleston.
FestivALL/Facebook
The Art Parade on Capitol Street (pictured) is a favorite, but there are many events. Check out FestivALLCharleston.com.
5. Get a growler of your favorite West Virginia craft beer.
Charleston Brewing Company
Until recently West Virginians had to go to the breweries themselves to fill growlers, but a new law allows beer retailers to fill them.
6. Sing Country Roads in your car at the top of your lungs.
ABC Television/ public domain
.... Or at a karaoke night, or in the shower or where you want.

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7. Eat a pepperoni roll.
Flickr user: Lewie Osborne
It's our state food and they're so good.
8. Or have a Tudor's Biscuit
Facebook/ Tudor's Biscuit World
Delicious and a West Virginia original.
9. Read a book by a West Virginia author.
Amazon.com
I recommend October Sky (Rocket Boys) by Homer Hickam, Storming Heaven by Denise Giardina, or Crapalachia by Scott McClanahan.
10. Learn some state history at the Mine Wars Museum.
Mine Wars Museum/ Facebook
This museum in Matewan teaches a lot of what our history books don't.
11. Get a piece of commemorative glass at Blenko.
Blenko Glass
The Milton company is offering a limited-edition piece in honor of the state’s 152 birthday. The "Autumn Flame" went on sale at 8 a.m. Saturday for $152 and they’re only making 152 of them.
12. Get a West Virginia-themed tee shirt.
Kin Ship Goods
My favorite is this one from Charleston's Kin Ship Goods. Another choice is Made in West Virginia (https://made-in-west-virginia.myshopify.com).

So how are you celebrating your birthday, West Virginia? Let me know in the comments!

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