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WV COAL FESTIVAL IS COMING UP IN
WV Coal Festival, Inc. was founded in 1994
The original and the only coal festival in West Virginia
Volunteer
Help bring the WV Coal Festival to life. It takes a small army to pull off the festival each year and we would love for you to be involved.
Become A Sponsor
Without our sponsors this festival would not happen. We rely on the generous donations of those who share in our vision. Please consider becoming a sponsor.
About the Festival
Learn how the WV Coal Festival came to life and how you can get involved.
Contact Us
Contact us to learn more about the WV Coal Festival or to learn how you can get involved as a sponsor, vendor, or entertainer.
2026 WV Coal Festival Queen’s Pageant
West Virginia Coal Festival Pageant
2026 Queen’s Pageant
We are so excited that you have decided to enter the WV Coal Festival Pageant this year! We are looking forward to a wonderful day filled with fun, excitement, and new friendships.
Welcome Message
There is quite a bit of important information to share, so let’s get started! First, my name is Heather Clay, and I am thrilled to meet each of you. I can’t wait to spend the day getting to know you better and watching you shine.
Questions? wvcoalfestival@gmail.com
What Are We Looking For?
1) Passionate Ambassadors for West Virginia and Coal
We are seeking young ladies who truly want to represent the State of West Virginia, their title, and the coal industry with pride and purpose. This means promoting positivity, helping develop ideas that inspire future generations, and making a meaningful impact across our communities. Our queens are present, engaged, and serve as a strong, positive voice for coal in West Virginia. This is a significant responsibility—but also a very rewarding honor.
2) Integrity and Professionalism
Our queens are representatives of our brand year-round. We expect them to always conduct themselves with integrity, professionalism, and the highest moral character, both in person and online.
3) Confidence, Poise, and Personality
Queens should be well-spoken, appropriately dressed, and carry themselves with grace. We value confidence paired with authenticity—along with a sense of humor, personal style, and strong people skills.
4) Prepared, Relaxed, and Authentic in Interviews
Our four judges are experienced, welcoming, and fun—so don’t be nervous! They enjoy getting to know each contestant’s personality, passions, and perspective. Interview questions are designed to spark conversation, not trip you up—there are no wrong answers. We do expect contestants to have a basic understanding of the coal industry in West Virginia and to review our festival pages to be familiar with upcoming events.
5) Active and Engaged Titleholders
We are looking for queens who are committed to being active throughout their reign. This includes making appearances, engaging on social media, and promoting the title, the festival, and our mission year-round.
Pageant Day Details
- Location: WV Cultural Center Theater, State Capitol Grounds, Charleston, West Virginia
- Date: June 6, 2026
- Arrival Time: Please arrive by 10:00 AM
- Dressing Rooms: Provided
- Lunch: Provided for all contestants
Schedule Overview
Please note that times are approximate, and a detailed schedule will be provided on pageant day.
- Check-In & Registration: 10:00 AM
- Onstage Rehearsal: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Private Interview with Judges: 12:00 PM
- Competition Begins (Open to Public): 5:00 PM – Doors Open
Phases of Competition
- Interview: A private interview with the judges to get to know your personality, passions, goals, and understanding of the WV Coal Festival and coal in West Virginia.
- Fun Fashion – Black Attire: Contestants will model a fun fashion outfit in the color black, showcasing personal style, confidence, and stage presence.
- Onstage Question: A brief question asked onstage to highlight poise, communication skills, and authenticity. There are no wrong answers—just be yourself.
- Evening Gown: Formal evening wear presentation demonstrating elegance, confidence, and overall appearance.
Packing Checklist
- Interview outfit
- Fun fashion outfit (black attire)
- Evening gown
- Appropriate shoes for each phase
- Hair and makeup supplies
- Jewelry and accessories
- Touch-up items (makeup, hairspray, safety pins, etc.)
- Water bottle and any personal necessities
Spotlight on Our Queens
Congratulations to Mattie Vandale
For being the highest-ranking WV Coal Festival Queen ever! Mattie earned 2nd Runner-Up at the West Virginia Association of Fairs and Festivals.
Congratulations to Sophia Wigal
Who has been crowned the WV Association of Fairs and Festivals Queen.
We are so proud of these incredible women and their accomplishments!
Announcing the Winners of the
2025 WV Coal Festival Pageant!
We are thrilled to announce the winners of this year's WV Coal Festival Pageant.
Congratulations to these remarkable individuals who have demonstrated exceptional poise, talent, and dedication:
WV Coal Festival Queen: Alyssa Smith
Mrs. WV Coal Festival: Sara Stinnett
Ms. WV Coal Festival: Grace Craze
WV Coal Festival Teen: Evan Mace
WV Coal Festival Jr. Teen: Harlee Houdersheldt
Support the WV Coal Festival
Join us in celebrating the rich heritage and the resilient spirit of the coal mining communities. Your donation helps us keep the legacy alive, supporting a range of activities from educational programs to honoring the hard work and contributions of coal miners throughout history. Every contribution, large or small, makes a significant impact.
2025 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
CLICK THE BUTTON BELOW TO VIEW FULL SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
Featured Song: Coffey Anderson – 4th of July Song
FROM THE 2024 WV COAL FESTIVAL
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