What is Friends of the Cheat?  Friends of the Cheat is an environmental non-profit organization based in Kingwood, West Virginia. Our mission is to restore, preserve, and promote the outstanding qualities of the Cheat River Watershed. Our day to day work includes: acid mine drainage clean-up, education & outreach, coordination of a citizen scientist program called CAPABLE, and recreation and river access initiatives.

What is the Cheat River Festival?

Cheat Fest is the annual celebration hosted by Friends of the Cheat on the banks of the Cheat River. Boaters, music lovers, and families enjoy a day full of live music, dancing, art, vendors, and fun. For athletes, we hold a 5K foot race and a Down River Race through the Cheat Canyon. Many fest goers make a weekend out of it and stay in the adjacent campgrounds. Cheat Fest serves as FOC’s primary fundraiser, and supports our work throughout the year.