Pride in Appalachian Heritage
For years, the King Coal Festival has been Mingo County’s celebration of everything that makes Southern WV what it is. “This event brings pride in our Appalachian heritage,” Says Jada Hunter, President of Action in Mingo(A.I.M.) organizing group for the King Coal Festival.
This year, the King Coal Festival, which mainly takes place in downtown Williamson, will have a few changes. “This year, we’ll have a few new events!” says Jada. “We’ll have a Heritage display beside the King Coal Festival Information Booth, and for the first time, there will be a fashion show.” There will also be a performance from the Lincoln County Cloggers, and some country music groups from the area. They will also bring back an old tradition: the Horseshoe Pitching Contest. The winner will receive a dinner for two at 34:ATE.
Another new event at this year’s King Coal Festival will be a special Children’s Division in the parade. Local girls will wear their favorite princess dress to be led by Cinderella, while boys are invited to wear their favorite superhero costume, and will be led by a surprise superhero. Face painting and crafts will also be provided.
Events for the King Coal Festival will begin Thursday, September 16, with a pet show for local cats and dogs. On Friday, September 17, things will continue with a variety of food vendors, and a cruise night. This will be followed with a corn hole tournament, and a block party. The block party will feature a cake walk every hour, and a dance contest.
Saturday, September 18 will kick off with the Frank O’Brien 5K/10K hosted by the Tug Valley Road Runners Club, and will be followed by two rubber ducky races. The annual car show will be held on First Avenue in downtown Williamson, and there will also be “the biggest inflatable slide ever”, Says Jada.
Jada is excited for the ways in which this event highlights local heritage, especially the music. “Country and bluegrass music will be played and sung all day,” She says. This event also spotlights local artisans and creators. “It is also an opportunity for talented people who make handcrafted items to sell those items to people who appreciate and cherish the beauty and time it takes to create those items.” Registration is open now for those wanting to sign up to be a vendor during King Coal.
Jada is excited about many parts of this festival, but there is one exciting new event she is most excited for. “I am excited by so many elements of our A.I.M. King Coal Festival this year,” She says. “But the Children’s Division of the parade is most exciting for me right now!”
Want to learn more about the King Coal Festival and keep yourself updated on the various events and activities planned for that weekend? Check out the Facebook event page.
All flyer photos from the King Coal Facebook Page.