The Pocahontas County Opera House and the artisans of the 4th Avenue Gallery in Marlinton are teaming up for the second annual Music in the Mountains Old Time Festival Sept. 11 and 12.
The Music in the Mountains Old Time Festival is a showcase and celebration of Appalachian culture and craft. The family-friendly event brings together local artisans and musicians to provide an opportunity for the local community and visitors alike to experience Appalachian craft demonstrations, old time music and dance traditions along with regional food.
The festivities begin with a Friday night concert with Juanita Fireball & The Continental Drifters at 7:30 p.m. ($8).
On Saturday afternoon, 1 to 5 p.m., there will be free craft demonstrations, old-time children’s games, crafts and an open-stage, old-time jam. Family-friendly make-and-take activities include cornhusk dolls, potholders, button-and-string games and dancing limberjack toys. Festival-goers will also be treated to demonstrations of log hewing, basket making, herbal teas, book sewing, crochet and quilting. Homemade ice cream and kettle corn will also be on hand.
Food comes into play at 5 p.m. with the final judging of the cornbread contest, followed by a soup beans and cornbread dinner ($5). The evening concludes with a square dance to the music of Mudhole Control ($5). Beginner dance lessons will begin at 7 p.m., and the dance itself commences at 7:30.
Youth 17 and younger are admitted free of charge to the Friday concert and Saturday evening square dance.
The Pocahontas County Opera House is located at 818 Third Avenue in Marlinton. Performances at the Opera House are informal, family-friendly and open to all. The entrance and main seating are accessible to persons with disabilities. Persons with disabilities are encouraged to attend; special accommodations can be arranged upon request by calling 304-799-6645.
The Music in the Mountains Old Time Festival is part of the Cal Price Enrichment Series, sponsored by the Pocahontas County Convention & Visitors Bureau.
The 2015-16 Opera House Performance Series is presented with financial assistance through a grant from the WV Division of Culture and History and the National Endowment for the Arts, with approval from the WV Commission on the Arts. Support is also provided by Pocahontas County Drama, Fairs and Festivals.