Alderson Lion Days Celebration

Tuesday, April 15 through Saturday, April 19, 2025

Alderson Main Street in partnership with Greenbrier Valley Theatre is excited to bring back Alderson Lion Days for the second year, April 16-19, 2025! The event celebrates the captivating story of the African lion cub named French who was rescued by a local resident in the 1890's and kept as a pet before later becoming the first African lion at the National Zoo in Washington DC. French also spent some time traveling with the Barnum and Bailey Circus, but his roots trace back to Alderson, WV and he is a beloved part of their town history.

Event Schedule:

• Tuesday, April 15 at 2pm - Lion Mural Painting for Kids at the Alderson Community Center
• Wednesday, April 16 at 2pm - Always Keep Your Lion on a Leash performed by GVT Traveling Artists at Alderson Elementary School
• Saturday, April 19 from 3-5pm - Lion on a Leash book signing with author Charles Ryan at Alderson Artisans Gallery
• Saturday, April 19 from 4:30-5:30pm - Kid's Murals available for pickup at the Alderson Train Depot
• Saturday, April 19 from 6-7:30pm - Writer's Station Open Mic with special guest, Charles Ryan at the Alderson Train Depot