The Friends of Vienna hosted the 2026 Freedom Festival in Vienna, West Virginia, this weekend.
The community event celebrating Independence Day features live music entertainment, a car show, big trucks show, carnival rides, food trucks, craft vendors, patriot parachute team performances, professional wrestling, Wild World of Animals performances, and an aerial drone light show. I was here for the food.
Convicted Pigs BBQThis competition BBQ team makes few appearances, and my boyfriend has sung their praises for a while. So this was my main reason for attending. I ordered pulled pork nachos, which were well done. They were layered well, and the cheesy creamy sauce was perfection. I even loved the pickled jalapenos. Next time, I'll add a bit more BBQ.
Moka’s Coffee & Snack ShackI had a strawberry smoothie from here that was pretty killer. It was so sweet, light and summery that I forgot it was downpouring just minutes ago.
Two Sisters Lemonade Lemonade is having a moment, and I am here for it. I ordered the Princess Peach lemonade, which came with peach ring gummies.
The Feed TroughCheesy Pigs are deep-fried mozzarella and pepperoni fall starts with a side of marinara.
Jodi’s Carnival TreatsI learned that they were unable to serve cotton candy; only the carnival food trucks were allowed to do so. I still wanted to support them, so I got a fried Twinkie, which came covered in powdered sugar. I don't really understand why deep-frying makes everything delicious, but these were better than even regular Twinkies.
D’Paulo’s RestaurantThis restaurant has a food truck, which goes to area events. But, this is the first time I enjoyed food from it. I got a piece of cheese pizza, which is constructed similar to DiCarlo's, but the cheese is melted. Enjoyable.
Street Side EatsServing basic fair foods, this food truck had a limited menu. I did get a hotdog with ketchup and onion.
Benny & BabeThis food truck opened later than the others, so I almost didn't get a chance to try them. But I did order a buffalo chicken salad wrap. I would have preferred it without the shredded lettuce, but it certainly was a hefty portion.
The Hangry HouseI ordered half a Mickey sandwich, which had cream cheese, provolone and a creamy garlic sauce. it was really tasty, but I ended up dipping it in some marinara sauce to cut some of the fattiness. I also had a side of Asian pasta salad, which was spaghetti noodles in a sweet sauce. Not bad.
Cunningham Craft & Creationslast, but not least, I stopped by this vendor, who had a variety of Chex mixes and other treats.
