Celebrated on the Third Saturday of October
Bridge Day is the only day of the year when BASE jumping is legal from the New River Gorge Bridge. BASE jumpers come from all over the world to leap from the bridge, which is 876 feet (267 meters) above the New River. The first official Bridge Day took place in 1980. The New River Gorge Bridge was completed in 1977, and three years later, the event was created to celebrate both the bridge and its significance to the region.
Origins of Bridge Day
The New River Gorge Bridge: The bridge was completed in 1977 as a significant engineering achievement. Spanning 3,030 feet across the New River Gorge and standing 876 feet above the river, it was the world’s longest steel single-arch bridge at the time and remains one of the highest bridges in the U.S.
First Bridge Day: The first official Bridge Day celebration took place on November 8, 1980, three years after the bridge opened. During this event, two parachutists leaped from the bridge, marking the beginning of the BASE jumping tradition that has become the hallmark of Bridge Day.
Evolution of the Event
Growth in Popularity: Over the years, Bridge Day has expanded from a local celebration into a major event that attracts tens of thousands of visitors and participants from around the world. The spectacle of BASE jumpers, rappellers, and other daredevils taking on the challenge of the bridge makes it a must-see event for adventure enthusiasts.
Legal BASE Jumping: Bridge Day is the only day of the year when BASE jumping (an extreme sport involving parachuting from fixed structures) is legally permitted from the New River Gorge Bridge. The height and stunning backdrop make it an ideal spot for this daring activity.
Additional Activities: While BASE jumping is the main attraction, Bridge Day has evolved to include other activities like rappelling down the bridge, skydiving demonstrations, and highline rides. There are also vendors, food, live music, and other festivities that make it a family-friendly event.
Milestones and Challenges
Safety and Regulations: As Bridge Day grew, so did concerns about safety, leading to more stringent rules for participants. BASE jumpers are required to have a certain level of experience and must undergo safety checks before they are allowed to jump.
Cancellations: In some years, particularly during times of national crisis or due to weather concerns, Bridge Day has been canceled. For example, the event was called off in 2001 due to the aftermath of the September 11 attacks.
Significance Today
Bridge Day continues to be a celebration of engineering, adventure, and the natural beauty of West Virginia’s New River Gorge. It is recognized as one of the largest extreme sports events in the world, attracting thousands of participants and spectators each year.
Whether you’re a BASE jumper looking to take the plunge or a spectator enjoying the show, Bridge Day is a thrilling event that showcases the daring spirit of adventure.
