The Stonewood Firefighters Festival, a cornerstone community event, recently commenced its third annual celebration in Stonewood, West Virginia, drawing crowds to the vibrant grounds surrounding the James A. Carvelli Fire Station. This eagerly anticipated gathering serves a dual purpose: providing beloved family entertainment and critically needed fundraising for the dedicated Stonewood Volunteer Fire Department.
The festival’s sprawling layout boasts four distinct zones designed to cater to all attendees. “Food Truck Alley” tantalizes taste buds with diverse culinary offerings, while “Crafters Corner” showcases local artisans. The “Carnival Midway” buzzes with excitement from various games and rides, and the spacious fire station parking lot transforms into a lively performance stage, hosting an array of musical talents throughout the weekend.
Beyond the merriment, the festival stands as a vital fundraising pillar for the Stonewood Volunteer Fire Department. Randall Glaspell, president of Stonewood Fire & Rescue, highlighted the event’s growing success, noting proceeds of approximately $28,000 in its inaugural year and $38,000 in the second. This year, the department ambitiously aims to surpass previous achievements, hoping to reach close to $50,000 to bolster their essential operations.
The financial contributions are crucial, given the escalating costs associated with modern firefighting. Glaspell underscored the substantial investment required for personal protective equipment, explaining that a single jacket and pants set can cost around $5,000. Recent expenditures included over $18,000 for 24 new helmets and boots, illustrating the ongoing financial burden of outfitting just one firefighter, which can total up to $15,000.
Chief Glaspell, leading the department since 2013, expressed his profound appreciation for the festival’s impact. While the incredible live bands remain a personal favorite, he emphasized that witnessing the community’s joyous participation is the true highlight. The event embodies a spirit of shared enjoyment, allowing families and children to revel in free games and rides, fostering strong community bonds.
Saturday at the festival promised a host of engaging activities for all ages. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., volunteers dedicated their time to sizing children for bicycle helmets, ensuring safety by providing a free helmet to every child. The day’s schedule also included continued access to Food Truck Alley, the vibrant kids’ area, and various crafters, alongside exciting competitions.
The festival’s entertainment lineup continued with renowned musician Johnny Staats gracing the stage from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. Later in the evening, at 6:30 p.m., the fire department proudly hosted an equipment demonstration in front of the fire hall, offering attendees a unique insight into the tools and machinery vital to their life-saving work.
The weekend culminates on Sunday with further community engagement. Following an 11:30 a.m. community ecumenical service, the Stonewood Volunteer Fire Department extends its hospitality by hosting a community picnic, providing a relaxed atmosphere for families to connect and reflect on a weekend of camaraderie and support for their local heroes.
