About Us

The Ohio Pawpaw Festival is a fun-filled and educational community event celebrating one of America's largest native tree fruits, the Pawpaw (Asimina triloba). This three-day event highlights the rich history and future possibilities of the pawpaw through delectable foods, quality entertainment, unique arts, crafts and local businesses throughout southeastern Ohio and beyond. Special events at the festival include competitions for the best pawpaw, best pawpaw-related work of art, pawpaw cook-off, and the ever-popular pawpaw-eating contest. An energetic family environment is created by Kids Central, which provides a wide range of hands-on activities. The Main Stage is host to some of the best musicians and performers in our region. A full line-up of presentations and activities cover pawpaw growing, cooking, genetics, medical use and other topics related to sustainability.

The Ohio's Hill Country Heritage Area Program. The organization is dedicated to the identification, protection and appropriate development of the natural, cultural, recreational and economic resources that make up Appalachian Ohio to enhance the quality of life of the region's residents and to welcome visitors to experience the area's rich heritage, natural beauty and traditions.

What is a pawpaw?

The pawpaw (Asimina triloba) is North America’s largest native tree fruit. The fruit has a wonderful creamy texture and a tropical flavor.

Southern Ohio is home to some of the largest and best tasting wild pawpaw patches on the planet. The pawpaw is also super nutritious and historically significant.

Come wander the hills and discover why George Washington’s favorite dessert was chilled pawpaw.