September 14, 2026 - First held in 1974, the King Coal Festival in downtown Williamson, West Virginia has made its mark on the region, and this year’s schedule will only enhance the reputation of Mingo County’s longest-running event.

While the events began on Sunday with the Coal Dust 5K Run, the festival kicks off in full on Thursday and runs until late Saturday night.

The week-long festival honors Mingo County and Williamson’s coal mining heritage. At its height, the area was known as the Billion-Dollar Coalfield.

The festival turns downtown Williamson into a hotbed of food, music and community.

There are events for everyone, so those near and far should attend the 53rd annual King Coal Festival, said Williamson City Council member and Events Committee Chairman Ralph Hall.

The annual King Coal Awards Dinner is on Thursday in front of the Mingo County Courthouse. The menu includes pinto beans and cornbread, plus plenty of fixings and side dishes, he said.

The festival’s signature tradition of crowning Mr. King Coal is held during the dinner. The honor goes to a working coal miner, male or female, who best represents the men and women who built the region.

During the dinner, local humanitarian and community service awards are also presented to those who make a positive impact on the area.

The popular King Coal Pet Show begins at 6 p.m. on Friday in downtown Williamson and is open to everyone, organizers said. The family-friendly event draws animal lovers from across the region.

Cats, dogs and other animals are showcased in their finest as they seek attention from the adoring crowd.

Hall said a surprise is scheduled after the dinner. “I think it is something everyone will like,” he said, without giving out any further clues.

The big events are slated for Saturday. From 10 a.m. until well after dark, attendees can eat, listen to music, play and watch the parade.

The day starts with a street festival that includes vendors, food and a car show.

At 11 a.m., a corn hole tournament on Court Street is scheduled.

From noon to 5 p.m., music will be provided by DJ Homer Mullins. A Young Musicians Showcase is also scheduled. A performance by Debbie’s Dance Studio will be held and a Kids’ Fun Run is slated.

At 1 p.m., the festival will hold an awards presentation.

Starting at 6 p.m., the King Coal Festival Parade is scheduled to begin. The lineup begins at 4:30 p.m. Hill said a highlight of the parade will be Belfry High School’s marching band.

King Coal After Dark starts at 6:45 p.m. and includes music and food.

All events are held in downtown Williamson.