9 things you’ve gotta try on Bridge Day

You’ll definitely need the entire weekend for this one-of-a-kind festival. Bridge Day goes way beyond BASE jumping and rappelling. Spend time with award-winning bands, sample gourmet cuisine and even go ziplining into the New River Gorge!

Here’s your Bridge Day 2016 checklist:

1. Catch the action!

If you’ve never seen people soaring 800+ feet into the Gorge, now’s your chance! Bridge Day is the world’s biggest BASE jumping event, with hundreds of parachuters and rappellers descending into the gorge.

2. Yes— YOU can jump!

If you’d like to get some air time of your own, you’re in luck! Try the glory and spine-tingling rush of leaping into the Gorge with TandemBASE. A seasoned jumper will fly with you— no experience required!

This is very popular, though, so make a reservation. As of now, there are only 5 tandem jumps left!

3. Highline

Looking for something less daunting? Try the Bridge Day Highline! This unique zip ride swoops you from the bridge into the Gorge— a speedy descent of 700 feet.

4. Taste of Bridge Day

Relish the best regional entrees, desserts, craft brews and wine under 1 roof. All the top caterers and restaurants will be there. Sample it all and enjoy tasty eats, live music and stellar fall views at Smokey’s on the Gorge from 5-9 p.m. Oct. 14 (Bridge Day Eve.)

5. Bridge Jam

Jam to top rock, country, bluegrass and acoustic music all weekend long at Bridge Jam! Catch award-winning performers like The Grascals, Travers Brothership and music legend John Ellison from Oct. 14-15.

6. Chili Cook-off

Sample traditional and non-traditional stews (and cornbreads!) in historic Fayetteville after the festival. Help pick the People’s Choice Award winner and listen to live music, too! $5 gets you 5 tastes.

7. Bridge Day 5k

Jog across the iconic New River Gorge Bridge, pound through downtown Fayetteville and cross the finish line at the historic courthouse. Registration starts at 8 a.m. on Bridge Day.

8. Xpogo

You’ve never seen pogo stunts like these! Gather at the bridge’s south entrance at 10 a.m. and watch as pro athletes soar, twist and defy gravity. Extreme pogo leaps can top 10 feet, with wild stunts and flips.

9. Vendors

Find your Bridge Day souvenir! From eco-friendly commemorative shirts to handcrafted jewelry, you’ll find something unique to take home. Browse vendors all along the 3,030-foot bridge for hot pepperoni rolls, handmade gifts, giveaways, contests and more.

What’s your favorite Bridge Day activity?