For generations, many have debated the nature of the “treasure” in the Treasure Mountain Festival. Some speculate that Chief Killbuck and his men pulled real wealth out of Fort Seybert when they attacked and burned it. Likely the treasure sought by the Delaware Indians lay more in tools and cooking implements of iron rather than gold or silver, which American Indians found useless in their own lives.
The real treasure, of course, is the traditions honored, friends and family seen, and memories made during the time in September where Pendleton County welcomes one and all to enjoy the good times. This year, Treasure Mountain Festival will be held Sept. 17-20.
“We’re excited for this year! We’ve got great stuff lined up,” shared Annie Humes, who is serving with the Treasure Mountain Festival and also is executive director of the convention and visitors bureau.
TMF has always attracted some of the best available musical acts and 2026 will be no different. “Spencer Hatcher is coming back to kick us off,” said Humes. His website states that he “has always believed in country music, hard work, and God” and “I’ve got an immense amount of respect for all my heroes in music” but the Nashville recording artist hopes “to build my own reputation as a real country artists singing real country music.”
He takes the main stage at 6 p.m. on Sept. 17. Music lovers can also enjoy Joe Crites, Mahala Alt, Reckart Hollow, Tennessee Mojo, John Benjamin, Jonathan Zinn and Fender Ridge, Micala Curry, Jack and Davis Reid, Bryer Moyers, and more on Sept. 18 and 19.
Bill Wellington also returns with his popular square dancing show on Sept. 18 and 19.
One note to remember. The historical reenactment of the burning of Fort Seybert will take place at 7 p.m. on Sept. 19.
A new twist on an established tradition will also greet attendees. Called “Tea With the Queen,” those who participate in the Treasure Mountain Festival Heritage Tea Room will be served by one of the TMF pageant queens. On all three days, one can join between 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. at the community building. Money collected helps to support the financial demands of serving as a pageant queen and other associated costs.
A number of old favorite presentations and exhibits will welcome visitors. The Sew and Sews Quilt Guild will hold its annual traditional show at the community building. Also, the Friends of the Library will hold their fundraiser used book sale in the basement of the Pendleton County Library.
Pendleton Senior and Family Services will be having its customary breakfast. Humes added that a number of new food vendors will be selling their wares at TMF as well.
“A PSA, though,” Humes stated, “we appreciate our local folks running for office, but we graciously decline to have them in the parade.” She added that last year, Gov. Patrick Morrisey was granted permission because “he was doing a public health promotion.”
She also asked that “people be respectful of parking signage” and not leave their cars in areas forbidden. Last year a vehicle fire erupted during TMF on Main Street and emergency vehicles struggled to get to the scene.
TMF officials advise that attendees park at the festival grounds parking behind the country store (freewill donation jar), Julie’s Flea Market (fee donated to local youth sports), Potomac Highlands Recreation Center (fee on Saturday), and Franklin Elementary School on Saturday and Sunday only.
The parade will be at 3 p.m. on Sept. 19 with registration held on the day of. All entrants must be physically present at Pendleton County Middle/High School by 2:30 p.m. There will be 13 classes where entrants can earn first, second, and third place trophies.
Karen Pitsenbarger, Pendleton County administrator, also confirmed that the Pendleton County Courthouse will be closed all day on Sept. 18 for TMF.
