All schools in Upshur County will close at 1 p.m. today. All B-UHS sporting events today are canceled.

This year’s Strawberry Festival Horse and Carriage Parade could be the biggest yet

Horse and Carriage Parade

BUCKHANNON, W.Va. — The clip-clop of hooves will echo on city streets as horse equestrian teams, carts, carriages and individual riders proceed along the 2.5 mile route for the West Virginia Strawberry Festival Horse and Carriage Parade.

Set for Saturday, May 11 at 3 p.m., this year’s parade is attracting entries from throughout the Mountain State as well as several from out-of-state.

“This should be the largest horse and carriage parade in the history of Strawberry Festival,” according to event chairman Susie Sheets.

To date, verbal commitments have been received from 32 carriage, wagon or cart owners. Although several more equestrian teams are expected the following have indicated their plans to attend.

Leading the lot will be the Mid America Cowgirls Rodeo Drill Team (Michigan); the Buffalo Soldiers (Maryland); American Dream Cowgirls  Drill Team (Pennsylvania); Ladies Side Saddle Association (Ohio); Love Valley Misfits Drill Team (North Carolina); and the 40-some Cowgirls Drill Team along with the Barbour County 4-H Equestrian Team-both from West Virginia.

At this time, 16 West Virginia counties will be represented with carriages, wagons and carts. The furthest wagon is scheduled from Milltown, Indiana at this time. Dozens of individual horse riders will also be participating.

Three thousand dollars in cash prizes will be awarded to winners in various categories along with plaques. All participates will be offered a “down-home” cooked meal of cornbread, beans, ham, fried potatoes, applesauce and shortcake the meal is being sponsored and provided by B&L Friendly Kitchen.

An exciting Trick Riding and Drill Show by Shadow Montag of Ohio and the Mid America Cowgirls Drill Team will take place at noon in downtown Buckhannon. Live entertainment and additional activities will take place throughout the day.

For additional information on parade applications contact Susie Sheets 304-613-0103 or email wildwood0103@gmail.com.

Applications are also available at www.wvstrawberryfestival.com.

Make your plans now to attend this exciting event.

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