Photo provided STATE FOOD — Wheeling Park will host its inaugural Pepperoni Roll Festival on May 9.

Wheeling Park will host its inaugural Pepperoni Roll Festival from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday, May 9, celebrating one of West Virginia’s most iconic culinary traditions. This lively festival brings the community together for a full day of entertainment, friendly competition, and local flavor.

“The pepperoni roll is such an important part of West Virginia’s story, and we’re excited to celebrate it in a way that brings people together,” said Bob Peckenpaugh, President and CEO of the Wheeling Park Commission. “This festival is about community, connection, and creating a fun, memorable experience for everyone who joins us at Wheeling Park.”

Guests can kick off the afternoon with a live cooking demonstration at 1 p.m., where skilled chefs will walk through the process of crafting this West Virginia classic. From dough preparation to achieving the perfect balance of pepperoni and seasoning, attendees will get a behind-the-scenes look at the techniques that make this beloved snack so special.

At the heart of the festival is the Pepperoni Roll Cook-Off, taking place at 2 p.m. The region’s top culinary talents will gather to compete for pepperoni roll bragging rights, presenting their signature creations as judges evaluate flavor, texture, creativity, and overall roll perfection. Each competitor brings their own style to the classic recipe, making this one of the most anticipated moments of the day.

Featured competitors include Chef Adam Luiso (Chef N Company), Chef Rocco Basil (Private Chef), Chef Travis Purr (Wheeling Park Executive Chef), DiCarlo’s Pizza, Fabio’s Pizza, DeFelice Pizza, Vocelli Pizza, Around the World Gourmet, Sarita’s Coffee & Goods, Sugar Mommas Cottage Home Bakery, Butter Me Up Cookie & More, Emma Jean’s Baked Goods, Home of the Grains, and more.

In addition to the cook-off, guests can enjoy the Pepperoni Roll Eating Contest at 4:30 p.m. This high-energy competition invites participants to go bite-for-bite for a chance to win the grand prize: free pepperoni rolls for a year from Wheeling Park (one roll per month).

A variety of food vendors will also be on site offering festival favorites, along with family-friendly activities that create a welcoming, community-centered atmosphere.

Live music will be featured, with performances from the Road Hogs from noon-2 p.m., MSM from 2:30-4:30 p.m. and Casinos & The Divas from 5-7 p.m.

Families can also enjoy the “Pep in Our Step” Kids Fun Run at 11 a.m. Admission is free, and all are welcome.