By Lauren hunt | Categories: Things To Do | Comments Off on 2023 Live on the Levee Artist Highlights
Live on the Levee is an annual concert series held in Charleston, West Virginia. The event takes place on Friday evenings throughout the summer and features a variety of musical genres. What sets Live on the Levee apart from other concert series is that it is completely free and family-friendly, making it the perfect event for those looking for a fun and affordable night out.
The concert series is held at Haddad Riverfront Park, which is situated along the Kanawha River.
The concert series features a diverse lineup of performers, including local and regional musicians, as well as nationally recognized acts. From rock to country to blues, there is something for everyone. Highlights of this year’s schedule are:
HAIR SUPPLY – May 26
Southern West Virginia-based 1980s rock tribute act Hair Supply formed in 2018 as a vehicle for paying homage to the rock hits and anthems of the most decadent decade in popular music history.
Hair Supply enjoys recreating the mega-hits of artists like Poison, Warrant, Bryan Adams, Foreigner, Billy Squire, Journey, and Loverboy, among others. You will be singing along during the entire show. Check out their videos on Facebook.
John Inghram presents: A Tribute to The Who – June 9
For the 5th year, the John Inghram Band and friends take over Live on the Levee with a special tribute. Rock out to songs from one of the most influential rock bands of the 20th century at the Tribute to the Who. Bring the family down, make it a date night.
Aristotle Jones – June 16
Known as the Appalachian Soul Man, West Virginia native Aristotle Jones has become a fan favorite in West Virginia, Central Appalachia and beyond. With engagement, connection, and passion, Aristotle Jones leaves it all on the stage with uplifting music influenced by artists like Bill Withers, Leon Bridges, Ray Charles, Darius Rucker, and other genre-blending musical pioneers. When he is performing as a one-man acoustic singer songwriter, Aristotle delivers a heartfelt folk-and-gospel-inspired repertoire that includes many entertaining anecdotes about life growing up in rural Appalachia, and spending time on his Granddad’s (Robert Jones) Farm.
On stage with his 9-piece “Amazing Appalachian Soul Band”, Jones captivates audiences with his range, emotion, authenticity, and originality. With his full band, Aristotle expands the arrangement to include a stellar horn section, a solid rhythm section, and feature soloists. The music is modern but the feeling of Aristotle’s full-band shows transport the audience with the nostalgic energy of Juke Joints found throughout rural Appalachia.
Jones’ music reflects the values of courage, fortitude, and determination that were taught to him while porch picking with his grandfather, a regional gospel and soul singer who traveled to segregated coal camps performing for black coal miners in the mid 20th Century. Aristotle is proud to carry on the legacy of Soulful Folk music inspired by Doo Wop, Gospel, and Blues in Appalachia.
Rasta Rafiki – June 16
Rasta Rafiki strives to produce music that is equally appealing to the mind and body. Their music promotes peace, equality, and understanding in an ever-desensitized world. Rasta Rafiki also supplies a healthy dose of fun! Featuring Derrick McDonald on lead vocals and percussion, John Schmitt on lead guitar, Thomas P. Batchelor on rhythm guitar and vocals, Andy Lindsay on bass, Steven Markle on drums, and David Lloyd on keyboards.
Shelem – August 18
Isaac Shelem Fadiga, known by his mononym Shelem (pronounced shuh-lem) is a young hip-hop artist and producer. A self-proclaimed true entertainer, his primary focus has always been to bring levity and good times into the lives of his audience. He strives to create a magnificent experience with every song, performance, video, and interaction. Born in Silver Spring, MD, to parents from the Ivory Coast in West Africa, he began producing, writing, and recording his own songs at age 14. After graduating from Marshall University in Huntington, WV, with a degree in Civil Engineering in 2018, he moved to Charleston, WV, to begin his engineering career as he developed a plan to launch his music career.
Shelem’s debut album, The Jaunts, was released September 2018. The following year, he launched his “Delivery Man” campaign in tandem with the release of his song of the same name. For a month, he personally delivered all merchandise orders within a 100-mile radius of Charleston. Later that year, he released a series of 25 one-minute freestyles on social media titled Lemme Rap (Season 1) that showcased his lyrical prowess in unforgettable bite-sized bops. Three of those tracks were released as a packaged single bearing the same name on streaming platforms.
One of the best things about Live on the Levee is that it is a family-friendly event. There is a playground for children to enjoy, as well as plenty of space for families to spread out and enjoy the music. Food vendors are also on site, so you can grab a bite to eat while you listen to the music.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting Charleston, Live on the Levee is a must-see event.
As a youth, Paul Smith wanted to explore the world. But after much travelling, he ended up right back where he belonged: Charleston, West Virginia.
A graduate of Charleston Catholic, Chef Paul Smith has experienced culinary highs – from Hyde Park and Napa Valley to Asheville and the Gulf Coast. He trained at the CIA – Culinary Institute of America – and saw firsthand what world-class hospitality looked and felt like. The more he saw and experienced, the more he knew he wanted to come home to Charleston and bring that experience and knowledge back to his hometown. He wanted to make a difference, and, he is.
Chef Paul is a familiar face around Charleston, and while his Beard Award nominations are for his work at 1010 Bridge Restaurant, he’s also part owner of local hotspots Ellen’s Homemade Ice Cream and The Pitch at Shawnee Sports Complex. Smith is a Chef Partner at Barkadas in Charleston and The Humble Tomato in Lewisburg, and he conducts cooking exhibitions at Capitol Market May through October during the free “Let’s Get Cooking” series.
Smith’s work within the Charleston community and travel throughout the state promoting West Virginia’s culinary scene made him a “no-brainer” for a new role as Ambassador for Charleston.
CWV Q&A
1. Favorite thing(s) about Charleston: Charleston is a great place to raise a family. Charleston is a place where one person can make a difference.
4. Favorite venue for live performance or live music in #CWV: Clay Center
5. Favorite Charleston memory: Coming home to Charleston.
6. What do you wish people knew about CWV? Vibes are high! Artwalk night, new Sternwheel Regatta vibe, come out and explore not only the culinary scene, but also all the great things Charleston has to offer.
By Lauren hunt | Categories: Things To Do | Comments Off on Appalachian Soul Man
Known as the Appalachian Soul Man, West Virginia native Aristotle Jones has become a fan favorite in West Virginia, Central Appalachia and beyond. With engagement, connection, and passion, Aristotle Jones leaves it all on the stage with uplifting music influenced by artists like Bill Withers, Leon Bridges, Ray Charles, Darius Rucker, and other genre-blending musical pioneers. When he is performing as a one-man acoustic singer songwriter, Aristotle delivers a heartfelt folk-and-gospel-inspired repertoire that includes many entertaining anecdotes about life growing up in rural Appalachia, and spending time on his Granddad’s (Robert Jones) Farm.
On stage with his 9-piece “Amazing Appalachian Soul Band”, Jones captivates audiences with his range, emotion, authenticity, and originality. With his full band, Aristotle expands the arrangement to include a stellar horn section, a solid rhythm section, and feature soloists. The music is modern but the feeling of Aristotle’s full-band shows transport the audience with the nostalgic energy of Juke Joints found throughout rural Appalachia.
A central theme of Aristotle’s music and community projects is shedding light on the contribution to art in culture provided by Black Americans living in the Appalachian Mountains. He is the descendant of coal miners and farmers, who against all odds, made a life in the poor coal town of Osage, West Virginia.
Jones’ music reflects the values of courage, fortitude, and determination that were taught to him while porch picking with his grandfather, a regional gospel and soul singer who traveled to segregated coal camps performing for black coal miners in the mid 20th Century. Aristotle is proud to carry on the legacy of Soulful Folk music inspired by Doo Wop, Gospel, and Blues in Appalachia.
You can find music from Aristotle Jones on Apple Music, Spotify, CD Baby, as well as other major platforms, and at www.AristotleJones.com
CWV Q&A
What is your favorite thing about Charleston?
Downtown Charleston has a lot to offer in a cozy and organized footprint, plus it is flat, so you can easily walk between the restaurants and shops, all of which are totally accessible during events like Live On The Levee, FestivALL, and other fantastic events.
Favorite CWV restaurant?
Depending on my mood, for a fun evening meal in a great setting it’s a toss-up between Pies & Pints and Black Sheep Burritos and Brews both have a lot to offer and it’s hard to make a bad menu selection. For breakfast, on the go… I have to go with Tudor’s Biscuit World, it’s always fun to start my day the “homemade way.” When I have a little more time to savor the mornings I love stopping by First Watch for a sit-down hearty meal..
Favorite CWV shop?
My style is a bit of vintage mixed with a bit of modern so there’s one place in town that is a must-go-to shop for me… and that’s Sullivan’s Records. If you are into collecting vinyl, or just into having great conversations, Sullivan’s Records owner Sam Lowe has the best selection of new and used records in the state.
Another great shop that adds to the character of Charleston, WV, is Taylor Books. It’s a great bookstore mixed with an art gallery and a coffee shop. It’s also a great place to see local singer songwriters perform in an intimate, warm and fun setting.
Favorite CWV venue to see live music?
The Clay Center is really making a name for itself as a great place to catch a show in Charleston, WV. It’s a really beautiful venue and there are literally no bad seats in there. Of course when I get a chance to catch the Mountain Stage Radio Show at the Culture Center on the State Capitol Complex I jump at the chance to watch the top notch national talent they bring to Charleston. Charleston also has many tavern and pub sized music venues, like the legendary Empty Glass,Sam’s Uptown Cafe, and The Blue Parrot. All great places to see up-and-coming regional talent take the stage.
What is your Favorite CWV Memory?
Growing up in West Virginia I have many memories of school field trips to the State Capitol Complex. I can still remember the feeling of seeing the golden dome growing larger on the horizon out of a yellow school bus window. But while my favorite memory in Charleston happened on the State Capitol Complex and involved an educational moment that shaped my life, it had nothing to do with a school field trip.
I was in my early 20’s and had recently returned to West Virginia for summer vacation from my studies at Berea College in Kentucky. I was spending time with my parents at the Multi-Cultural Fest waiting for the 70s funk band WAR to take the stage (think “Cisco Kid”, “Low Rider” now you’re groovin’) Before the concert I spotted a handmade Djembe style drum for sale for $40, and I knew I had to have it.
After purchasing my new drum I found a seat on the ledge of a raised tree bed and as the legendary funk ensemble delivered a high energy concert to the crowd of thousands, I jammed along with them on my new drum completely in the zone. There were no complaints from the other audience members near me and I felt free, connected, and inspired. At that point my music career had not yet started. I wasn’t in a band, but in my own way, In my mind I was part of the band, along with the whole city. Seeing and feeling how music brought the community together at the Multi-Cultural Fest inspired me, and it was one of those moments I credit in shaping my musical confidence.
What do you wish others would know about Charleston?
I wish that people knew that the Mountains in our state’s nickname (The Mountain State) refers to the people that call it home. Positive energy growing around Charleston that is feeding the spirit of inclusion and empowerment. The residents are using that energy and opportunity to create a place they love to live, and that you’d love to visit. Charleston, WV, is a safe, friendly and welcoming place, that’s a blend of rural values and city charm. Along my travels I talk to lots of people both from other parts of WV and those from out of state, and Charleston is often a place that those folks say they “drove through or past.” I wish people would know that Charleston, WV, is more than just a place that’s on the way to your destination. Instead, for your next vacation, get-away, concert road trip, or new home, Charleston, West Virginia, could be your destination.
By Lauren hunt | Categories: Things To Do | Comments Off on Our Hometown Country Singer
Photo by: Crissy Musick Photography
Singer/songwriter Kate Boytek hit the stage for the first time at the tender age of five at her local country fair talent show. Singing opportunities were few and far between in Kate’s tiny hometown of Logan, West Virginia, nestled deep in the Appalachian coalfields. Kate sang at dozens of local charity events, directed her church choir, and eventually attracted the attention of Vic Gabany, West Virginia native and legendary Grand Ole Opry and Bradley’s Barn audio engineer. With Vic’s help and guidance from her late musical director and drummer Scotty Hawkins (Reba McEntire, Kix Brooks), Boytek pursued her dream in Nashville and appeared with country hitmakers Tyler Farr, Eric Paslay, Trick Pony, and others. But like a sad country song, Kate’s goals of a life in music were turned upside down when she was forced to walk away from her dreams for almost a decade.
Now a wiser and more seasoned artist, Kate Boytek has re-emerged with a songwriting style that is both fresh and contemporary yet echoes classic singer-songwriters from the 1970s. Boytek’s upcoming debut album will include tracks written by Kate along with veteran songsmiths, including Britton Cameron (Lonestar, Sister Hazel), Kim McLean (Loretta Lynn, Trisha Yearwood, and Tim McGraw), and Brian Carper (Aaron Lewis). With career guidance from veteran music executives Bernard Porter (Jason Aldean) and Burke Allen (America’s Got Talent Winner Landau Eugene Murphy Jr.), a treasure chest of first-class songs, and a personality that shines through like few others, Kate Boytek’s career, like the title of one of her new songs, is poised to go anywhere. And we’ll be watching.
In 2023, Kate filmed her first video in Charleston.
CWV Q&A
What is your favorite thing about Charleston?
My favorite thing about Charleston, West Virginia, is the consistent momentum forward and strong sense of community.
In my experience, it’s rare to find cities that carry a strong presence of a “close knit/small town vibe” similar to what everyone seeks and usually finds in smaller rural towns.
Charleston has found a way to combine that convenient, exciting, ever-growing city life while maintaining the friendly hometown feel.
This is definitely at the top of my list of things to love about my home state capital.
Favorite CWV restaurant?
Photo by: Crissy Musick Photography
Being the foodie that I am, this is definitely a tough question! I could literally name a dozen favorite restaurants off the top of my head, but to name only a few for the sake of having a novel-like answer for this question, here we go!!
Favorite CWV venue to see, or preform, live music?
I love to perform at Sam’s Uptown Cafe and of course at Charleston’s beautiful Haddad Riverfront Park.
Favorite CWV memory?
I’ve been coming to Charleston almost every weekend since I was a kid and I have some wonderful memories in this city, aside from performing in Charleston and seeing my first concert at the Charleston Coliseum, the memories that stand out the most are my birthdays. Growing up, my mom would let me pick one friend to go with me and we would spend the whole day shopping at the Charleston Town Center, then follow it up with a local restaurant of my choice and lastly end the birthday celebration with a movie night at Marquee Cinemas at South Ridge. I wouldn’t trade my memories in this city for anything.
What do you wish others would know about Charleston?
My hope is that everyone looking to explore a new area of West Virginia would come to Charleston and see first hand what I’ve been so fortunate to grow up with, from the unique one-of-a-kind shops and restaurants, to the people that have infused this city with kindness and friendship, it’s truly one big wonderful community and definitely worth a stop on your bucket list cities!
Ask locals of a certain age about Kanawha City, and they, no doubt, will get a nostalgic twinkle in their eyes. For decades MacCorkle Avenue, aka the Kanawha City Strip, was a weekend destination for teenagers – the place to see and be seen. Today, Kanawha City retains a few old favorites from those years and is home to specialty retailers, local eateries, West Virginia’s largest hospital, and the city’s namesake college, the University of Charleston.
Fun Fact: The University of Charleston’s Men’s Soccer team won NCAA Division II National Championships in 2017 and 2019! Go Golden Eagles!
Trivillian’s Pharmacy and Soda Fountain is an independent pharmacy with a nostalgic diner! Enjoy a burger, sandwich, daily soups, ice cream floats and shakes while you soak in the atmosphere. No prescription needed! Other local restaurant favorites include Pepperoni Grill, The Pitch KC, and M&M Mart – a hidden gem of a deli.
Cruise on over to Budget Tapes and Records, the state’s “hippest record store and lifestyle emporium.” Budget has been cranking rock ‘n’ roll in its storefront for 50 years. Shop for vinyl, tie-dye and “lifestyle accessories” and you’ll leave with a traditionally hand-written bill of sale.
Biking is one of the fastest growing sports, and in Charleston we have the go-to spot for bikes and equipment at Charleston Bicycle Center. Tucked away on 53rd street, you find bikes for all riders. Walking in the shop, you are greeted by friendly, expert staff who will help you pick the perfect ride from children’s bikes to big kid mountain biking and street riding models. Charleston Bicycle Center also has a huge selection of apparel, repair items, helmets and more.
Pro tip for parents: They can even fix your jogging stroller tires!
By Lauren hunt | Categories: Food, Things To Do | Comments Off on South Hills
A stately mansion on the hill overlooking Charleston has long been the most visible landmark of the South Hills neighborhood. The mansion, home of a former governor, was known to generations of children as the Sunrise Museum. Today, it is the cornerstone of the neighborhood that is home to trendy boutiques and an amazing urban trail.
The best view of the city is accessed by a quick hike along the Sunrise Carriage Trail.The view from the top is breathtaking!
If you prefer a more relaxing form of self-care, the Bridge Road Shops are more your speed. This quaint area of the city is home to the most unique boutiques in the area. Yarid’s Shoes is a family owned and operated shoe store established in 1918. They offer the finest collection of footwear, handbags, scarves and jewelry for ladies and gentlemen. Yarid’s also carries smashbox cosmetics and butter LONDON nail polish. If you are looking for something to bring home, Eggplant is an exclusive gift boutique where you will find everything from luxurious bath and body products and fabulous jewelry and accessories to home décor, custom invitations and stationery.
No trip to South Hills is complete with stopping by Lola’s for pizza and sangria. Lola’s isn’t your typical pizzeria. This charming restaurant offers gourmet brick oven pies such as Fig Jam & Rosemary and Spicy Shrimp & Sausage. Top off the meal with homemade gelato from nearby Caffé Romeo.
By Lauren hunt | Categories: Things To Do | Comments Off on East End
One of the most iconic landmarks in Charleston is the 23.5 karat gold dome of the West Virginia State Capitol. In addition to the picturesque dome, the State Capitol complex is a perfect destination for those who love architecture, history, art, or slowing down and relaxing outdoors. Take a free indoor tour of the Capitol Building, and, on the second floor be sure to look at the ceiling tiles that are hand carved to represent items from around the state.
The Capitol Complex also is home to the West Virginia State Museum, a free, interactive and informative museum for all ages.Highlights include the Talking Soldier, history of the Floating Capitol, and a remake of Capitol Street from the 1950s.
For nearly 40 years, Mountain Stage has been the home of live music on public radio. The show is recorded in front of a live audience at the State Culture Center on the Capitol Grounds. Hear seasoned legends and emerging stars from across the musical spectrum. Each two-hour episode is heard weekly on nearly 300 stations across America, and around the world via NPR Music and mountainstage.org.
The Empty Glass, on the other hand, is THE place for live music in Charleston. An East End staple since 1985, the stage at “The Glass” has been graced by acts like Jason Isbell, Gov’t Mule, and Tyler Childers – we can’t list them all or we’d just be name dropping. The post-Mountain Stage Jam sessions are a must-see. You’ll get an intimate show from Charleston’s own Carpenter Ants, and a surprise visit from some of that night’s Mountain Stage performers. The Empty Glass is more than just a music venue…it’s iconic.
The great performer Tony Bennett once said the Clay Center’s Maier Theater was “one of the jewels of the planet.” That’s a big endorsement. The Clay Center for the Arts & Sciences is way more than just music, though. The Juliet Art Museum houses a rotating collection of national and local artists.The Avampato Discovery Museum houses three floors of hands-on discovery exhibits featuring more than 12,000 square feet of non-stop fun. The littles can splash around in WaterWorks, learn about the science of sound in The Maier Foundation Music Studio, and get their bodies in motion in the Healthy Me exhibit. Check out real life exploration in My Town and climb to new heights on Ashton’s Climbing Sculpture. The Mylan Explore-atory gallery plays host to limited time exhibits from all over the country. Trust us, your child and your inner child will love this place!
Hear the crack of a bat? The East End is home to GoMart Ballpark and the Charleston Dirty Birds! Enjoy traditional snacks and local favorites while you join the “You are TOAST!” chants as opposing batters strike out.
Time Magazine named the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve one of the World’s Greatest Places 2021. Lucky for us, it’s just an hour’s drive from Charleston.
Are you as excited about the return of the Sternwheel Regatta as we are? Plans are underway to bring this local favorite back to Charleston June 30 – July 1.
New name, same great family fun! The Charleston Dirty Birds (formerly the West Virginia Power) open their home season April 21.
Run, walk, or watch the Charleston Distance Run, offering a 15-mile race, three-person 15-mile relay, 5k race and 5k walk.
Kanawha State Forest, just moments from downtown, offers outdoor recreation, including hiking and biking trails, picnic areas and diverse wildflower, tree, and bird populations.
Float 12 miles along the Coal River during the Tour De Coal community kayak float.
By Lauren hunt | Categories: Things To Do | Comments Off on Capital City Trail Life
Get in a great workout just steps from downtown Charleston.
Want to know a secret, that’s not really a secret? Sightseeing in Downtown Charleston is a fantastic workout. Our city is walkable, bikeable and parts are even hike-able! To see the sights by foot, start at Capitol Market. Grab a bottle of water and head down Capitol Street. You’ll know you’re close to the Peanut Shoppe when the powerful aroma of freshly roasted nuts and popcorn hits you. Stay strong – you can stop on the way back. At the end of Capitol Street, cross Kanawha Boulevard to Haddad Riverfront Park and take in the view of the river.
Ready for a hike? Cross the Southside Bridge to the Sunrise Carriage Trail. The Carriage Trail begins at the foot of the hill behind the Chesapeake & Ohio Railroad Depot, which itself is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. If you drive, you can park at the bottom of the Carriage Trail or at the top. Dogs are welcome on the trail if they are leashed. Need to clear your mind? Put in the work and hit the gravel trail rising 200 feet through the forest. Along the way you’ll find several historical gems, including the graves of two female Civil War spies and a memorial to Christa McAuliffe, American teacher and astronaut, and the view from the top is breathtaking.
Looking for flatter terrain? Take in the Kanawha River, while traveling on a paved path that is full of Charleston history and connects to parks and some of Charleston’s most famous landmarks, including Haddad Riverfront Park. The trail begins on Patrick Street and heads south along Kanawha Boulevard. As you travel, by foot or bike, it transforms into a two-lane cycle track with a pedestrian path – with very generous space for bikers. At Magic Island there is a labyrinth path, or you can keep going until you reach the gold-domed State Capitol. Just a little further and you’ve conquered the Boulevard! Stretch, because now you must walk back – or call for a ride. We won’t tell, we’re great at keeping secrets.
By Leslie Smithson | Categories: Things To Do | Comments Off on Explore the Gorge
An hour’s drive south of Charleston is the nation’s newest national park. The New River Gorge National Park and Preserve was named one of the World’s Greatest Places 2021 by Time Magazine. With more than 70,000 acres of land along the New River, this natural playground features world-class whitewater rafting, hiking, biking, fishing, and hunting. The New River is one of the oldest rivers on the North American continent, with fossil evidence leading geologists to estimate the New River could be as old as 320 million years. The New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is the nation’s 63rd national park. Links to commercial outfitters, trail maps, and basic information are available on the park’s website.
Image courtesy @geekdad248_instragram
Adjacent to the national park, Adventures on the Gorge, ACE Adventure Resort, and River Expeditions provide unparalleled outdoor activities both on land and water. Water-based activities in the New River Gorge include whitewater rafting, kayak tours, stand up paddle boarding, and guided float fishing trips. Land-based fun includes zipline tours, mountain biking, guided rock climbs, and bridge tours. AOTG’s zipline is one of the longest in America and reaches up to 65 mph, and a one-of-a-kind experience awaits under the New River Gorge Bridge. Take your turn on the explore the entire 3,030 foot length of the bridge – all while securely fastened to a safety harness.
The Parks Service makes it easy to plan your New River adventure on its website. Find commercial whitewater outfitters, trail maps, basic information and more.
Want the outdoor adventure with the comforts of the city? Stay in Charleston and play in the Gorge! Find #CWV accommodations.
Image courtesy New River Gorge National Park & Preserve
What is your Favorite CWV Memory?
Favorite CWV memory?
If you prefer a more relaxing form of self-care, the Bridge Road Shops are more your speed. This quaint area of the city is home to the most unique boutiques in the area. Yarid’s Shoes is a family owned and operated shoe store established in 1918. They offer the finest collection of footwear, handbags, scarves and jewelry for ladies and gentlemen. Yarid’s also carries smashbox cosmetics and butter LONDON nail polish. If you are looking for something to bring home, Eggplant is an exclusive gift boutique where you will find everything from luxurious bath and body products and fabulous jewelry and accessories to home décor, custom invitations and stationery.
For nearly 40 years, Mountain Stage has been the home of live music on public radio. The show is recorded in front of a live audience at the State Culture Center on the Capitol Grounds. Hear seasoned legends and emerging stars from across the musical spectrum. Each two-hour episode is heard weekly on nearly 300 stations across America, and around the world via NPR Music and mountainstage.org. 
Hear the crack of a bat? The East End is home to GoMart Ballpark and the Charleston Dirty Birds! Enjoy traditional snacks and local favorites while you join the “You are TOAST!” chants as opposing batters strike out.
Want to know a secret, that’s not really a secret? Sightseeing in Downtown Charleston is a fantastic workout. Our city is walkable, bikeable and parts are even hike-able! To see the sights by foot, start at Capitol Market. Grab a bottle of water and head down Capitol Street. You’ll know you’re close to the Peanut Shoppe when the powerful aroma of freshly roasted nuts and popcorn hits you. Stay strong – you can stop on the way back. At the end of Capitol Street, cross Kanawha Boulevard to Haddad Riverfront Park and take in the view of the river.
