West Virginia Wild and Wonderful
Celtic Festival and Highland Games

 

 

 

 

West Virginia Wild and Wonderful Celtic Festival and Highland Games

 

West Virginia Wild and Wonderful Celtic Festival and Highland Games is a proud veteran-owned and operated 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, established in August 2022 by William B. Ferguson.

Our mission is to present, educate, and inform West Virginia residents about the rich Scottish and Celtic heritage within the Mountain State. We endeavor to celebrate and share the traditions rooted in Scottish and Celtic history with visitors, fostering a sense of camaraderie among clan members in the region.

We are also committed to collecting and preserving literary, historical, and genealogical records, documents, and artifacts related to Celtic heritage. Our initiatives emphasize the traditions, values, and characteristics of the past while highlighting 4H Camp Pioneer, the town of Beverly, Randolph County, and the surrounding communities through traditional music, dance, arts, Highland games, and sports.

 

A Festival That’s Flourishing

Our inaugural festival exceeded our wildest expectations. We hosted an event featuring professional Highland athletic competitions, Highland dancers, Appalachian Cloggers, sheep herding demonstrations, blacksmith showcases, world-class musical performances, and a delightful selection of traditional food, drinks, arts, and crafts. With over 1,200 attendees and numerous participants, we received hundreds of glowing reviews and sincere praises on our website and social media platforms.

The second year proved to be even more successful, as we introduced additional events and attractions, effortlessly doubling our attendance to over 2,700. Once again, the feedback and comments across our media channels were fantastic. In our third year, we continued to thrive, surpassing our 2023 attendance despite facing severe heat warnings and temperatures exceeding 90 degrees.

 

Looking Ahead to 2026

We are currently in the planning and organization phase for our fourth annual festival and Highland Games, scheduled for the third weekend in June 2026 at 4H Camp Pioneer in Beverly, West Virginia. We will be introducing additional events and activities this year, and we have increased our advertising budget to draw in a larger audience. If the weather is as favorable as it was during our first two years, we expect to welcome well over 3,500 attendees.

 

You're Invited to Sponsor

We invite your esteemed organization to join us as a sponsor for the fourth annual West Virginia Wild and Wonderful Celtic Festival and Highland Games, taking place on June 19th and 20th, 2026. This unique cultural celebration has grown significantly since its inception, bringing together thousands of attendees from across the region to enjoy the rich traditions of Celtic heritage.

The festival showcases the captivating music, dance, and athletic competitions associated with Celtic culture. From spirited bagpipe performances to traditional Scottish dancing and the awe-inspiring Highland Games, this event offers an unforgettable experience for individuals and families alike.

 

Why Sponsor Our Event?

Becoming a sponsor of our festival presents a valuable opportunity for your organization to connect with a diverse audience, enhance brand visibility, and demonstrate your commitment to cultural enrichment. By supporting this event, you will be contributing to the preservation and celebration of Celtic traditions while also benefiting from:

• Brand Exposure: Your company logo will be prominently featured on festival materials, including banners, brochures, and our official website—reaching thousands of attendees and potential customers.

• Community Engagement: Engage with festival-goers through interactive booths, displays, and demonstrations, allowing for meaningful interactions and networking opportunities.

• Media Coverage: Gain visibility through local media coverage and social media promotion, further amplifying your brand's reach.

 

What’s in It for You?

We’re committed to providing exceptional value for your investment. Our comprehensive advertising campaign is designed to promote the festival while simultaneously showcasing your company or organization. Your brand will be featured on our website, social media platforms, and all promotional materials.

Advertising will begin immediately upon receiving your donation and will remain active across all channels until August 2026. Donors will also have the opportunity to renew or replace their sponsorship for the 2027 festival, with continued advertising through August 2027.

• Tailored Sponsorships: You may choose to sponsor specific events, such as the 5K run, and be recognized as a primary sponsor for that activity.

• Anonymous Giving: Donors may opt to remain anonymous.

• Flexible Contributions: Donations can be made via our website, PayPal, check, or credit card.

• Open Collaboration: We welcome and encourage partnerships with all interested individuals and organizations.

​

Donations and Sponsorships

We are a nonprofit organization owned and operated by veterans. Like many nonprofits, we began our journey with just a handful of small donations. Our operations primarily depend on these contributions, and we remain committed to creating the best Celtic festival for our community.

While we’ve received generous support from various businesses and organizations, we have not yet reached the total amount needed to host our event.

 

What Are Our Expenses?

Our expenditures include costs for the event venue, waste disposal, portable restrooms, and payments for athletes, judges, officials, dancers, and live performers. Insurance is also a significant expense. We believe in providing a high-quality experience—because no one wants to wait in line for an overused restroom or miss out on essential amenities.

 

What Is Our Income?

We anticipate revenue from ticket sales, T-shirt and beverage sales, raffle tickets, vendor fees, and fundraisers. However, much of this income will only be available after the festival concludes. That’s why your generous donations are so vital.

 

What Happens to Surplus Funds?

This event is held annually, and all funds collected are allocated for future festivals. Every penny goes directly into the event and the promotion of our activities. We plan to increase our advertising budget to enhance marketing efforts and attract future donors and sponsors.

Our festival promises a wide array of entertainment, including:

• Live bands

• Highland dancing

• Highland games

• Food and drinks

• Arts and crafts

• Merchandise vendors

• Sheep herding

• Highland cows

• Blacksmith demonstrations

There will be entertainment and activities suitable for everyone.

 

Let’s Connect

Please feel free to contact us to discuss sponsorship opportunities further. We look forward to the possibility of partnering with you and making this year’s festival a resounding success.

Thank you for considering this opportunity to support the West Virginia Wild and Wonderful Celtic Festival and Highland Games.

Warm regards,

Timothy L. Ferguson President (304) 641-8770

David Ferguson Vice President (681) 495-7242