April 16 2011
Madison, WV
Story & Photos by: Joe Eddins
What started out as a rainy evening in Madison WV ended with a successful fundraiser for the 2011 West Virginia Coal Festival.
This marks the 4th year for the event that raises extra funds for the festival that is held in June each year.
The event always sticks with a theme each year and this year was “Rock and Roll”. Decorations from the 50′s era were on each table including a malt milkshake, bubble gum, and sunglasses. Last year featured a beach theme with decorations and Jimmy Buffet style music. They have also had a western them which featured a tribute to Patsy Cline show and decorations.
Lets not forget about the food! Each year the Lions Club donates all of the food with all of the proceeds going towards the Coal Festival. Their home-made bbq, hotdogs, and coke floats are all a big hit!
Also each year a silent auction is held which also generates income for the festival. This year there were items from Hatfield McCoy Trail, the local water-park, WVU apparel, tools, oil changes, many gift baskets, and more!
The entertainment lineup was also announced at the event which will include performances by some big names! Thursday June 23 is Opry star and TV host Marty Stuart and his Fabulous Superlatives. Friday will show off the oldies sounds of The Avalons, and Saturday will feature EXILE.
So be sure to mark your calendars for the WV Coal Festival in Madison WV. Something for everyone and a large part of the culture of Boone County and WV. A trip to the Coal Museum, carnival rides and games, mine equipment dispaly (the largest in WV), free entertainment, food, parade, pageant, and an all around good time!
Some of the decorations at the 2011 WV Coal Festival Fundraiser
Joy Underwood (WVCF) & Bill Heaberlin (MPE Entertainment)
at the 2011 WV Coal Festival Fundraiser
