All Things Pawpaw

Unbeknownst to most, the pawpaw is North America’s largest native fruit and is even more common in the Appalachian region that Morgantown falls into.

On Saturday, September 28th, the West Virginia University Core Arboretum celebrated its second annual Pawpaw Festival with over 1,000 people coming to enjoy the native Appalachian fruit. 

Zach Fowler, WVU Core Arboretum Director, said that the event was a great way to connect people with nature and Appalachian culture.

“We see this amazing opportunity with this delicious, tropical flavored fruit that has been growing here for thousands of years, but nobody has tried,” said Fowler. “So we try to get people to come out and come to a better understanding of what they’re surrounded by, and the surprises it holds. It’s interesting to see how it has grown.”

Plenty of activities were available for everyone at the event, including tastings, lawn games, and music.  However, there’s no doubt the pawpaws stole the show.

Pawpaws are known for their large seeds and sweet, tropical flavor. They are typically described as tasting like a cross between a banana, mango, and pineapple.

Plenty of other fun activities were available for guests, such as giant bubble making and corn hole. Katy Shine said she has been taking her son to the festival since its start two years ago, and enjoys the interactions she has built each year.

Floods of people came to try the tropical fruit for the first time, or for the hundredth time. The pawpaw found its way into the hearts of many at the festival.

There are many varieties of pawpaws to enjoy, so there's always something for everyone. Meshea Poore (left) and Corey Farris (right) enjoyed trying the Shenandoah pawpaw for its sweet and buttery texture.

Pawpaws can be used for a variety of recipes including jams, ice cream, smoothies, and cocktails. Their flavor is unique, yet versatile.

Customers could take home pawpaws to enjoy themselves.

Some booths even sold pawpaw trees and books for customers who wanted to learn all about the tree. Other items, such as pawpaw shirts and pins, were also for sale.

After filling their stomachs with the Appalachian fruit, guests could enjoy live music from local bands while being surrounded by nature.

Published with the Daily Athenaeum