Paul Bunyan may be the most notable lumberjack in history, but he’s got nothing – except size – on the men and women who compete in the Webster County Woodchopping Festival every year.

Strength, endurance and skill are tested as competitors wield their axes, saws and chainsaws in the following categories: axe throw, stock appearing saw 0-4.99, hot saw, championship underhand chop, championship standing block chop, championship springboard chop, men’s single buck, women’s single buck, women’s underhand chop, master’s standing block chop, master’s underhand chop, handicap underhand chop, handicap standing block chop, two man crosscut, Jack and Jill crosscut and master’s two man crosscut.

Taking place May 25 through May 29, the festival is more than just a   celebration of wood-chopping. Also included in the festivities are a pageant for Miss Wood-  chopper, JuniorMiss Woodchopper and Miss Woodchip; turkey calling contest; motorcycle show; car and truck show; arts and crafts and a 5K run.

Whether you are up for the challenge of competing or just want to watch the wood chips fly, the festival offers something for everybody.

Schedule of Events

Wednesday, May 25

6:30 p.m.: Pet and bicycle parade
7 p.m.: Local talent variety show on Baker’s Island, free admission to the island.

Thursday May 26

6:15 p.m.: Bed races
7 to 8:30 p.m.: Woodchopping community appreciation night featuring “South of the River” in concert on Baker’s Island, free admission to the island.

Friday, May 27

6 p.m.: Arts and crafts open
7 p.m.: Firemen’s parade
8 p.m.: WV State Firemen’s rodeo championship
8 to 9:30 p.m. and 10 to 11:30 p.m.: Outdoor concerts featuring “Stonestreet”

Saturday, May 28

6:30 a.m.: Lumberjack breakfast
8 a.m.: 5K race begins
9 a.m.: World Championship Elimination Woodchopping begins
All day: Ducky Derby tickets on sale
9 a.m.: Court Square activities begin
10 to 11:30 a.m.: Coffee hour
10 a.m.: Arts and crafts open
11:45 a.m.: Paul Bunyan Grand Feature Parade
1 p.m.: Car and truck show
1 p.m.: Motorcycle show
2 p.m.: Singles horseshoe pitching tournament
8 to 9:30 p.m. and 10 to 11:30 p.m.: Outdoor concerts featuring “Southern Mix”

Sunday, May 29

8 to 11 a.m.: Webster Springs Volunteer Fire Department big breakfast W