The 2026 Cheat River Festival will be held May 1st & 2nd, 2026 in Albright, WV.

The annual Cheat River Festival is a celebration of the rebirth and resilience of the Cheat River watershed. As Friends of the Cheat’s largest annual fundraiser, Cheat Fest helps advance critical watershed restoration projects and supports the organization’s year-round operations.

Rain or shine, Cheat Fest is always a good time!

On Friday, May 1st from 5:30–10:00 PM and Saturday, May 2nd from 11:30 AM–11:30 PM, the festival grounds in Albright, West Virginia will once again transform into a haven for boaters, music lovers, families, and river enthusiasts. Bands from across Appalachia will fill the valley with live music while festival-goers browse the Art Market, connect with nonprofit partners who share the FOC mission, enjoy an array of food and merchandise vendors, and—above all—help support Friends of the Cheat.

Another reason to love Cheat Fest: kids under twelve get in free! Young adventurers can gather at the ever-growing Kid’s Tent from noon to 5:00 PM on Saturday for a full lineup of hands-on activities and creative play.

As FOC’s primary fundraiser of the year, every dollar raised at Cheat Fest goes directly back into protecting, restoring, and celebrating the Cheat River watershed. Festival proceeds help sustain projects and programs that need additional support throughout the year.

Join us for a wild and wonderful weekend on the river—we can’t wait to celebrate with you!

Cheat Fest Food Drive

Please consider bringing a non-perishable food item to contribute to our annual Cheat Fest Food Drive! All items can be dropped off at the Info Booth during the Fest