West Virginia’s 150th birthday is just a little more than two months away. On Thursday, Governor Earl Ray Tomblin announced the line-up for the big event which will stretch over four days.
“West Virginians from every corner of the state will be filled with pride as we celebrate the state’s birthday,” Tomblin said during a news conference on the steps of the state capitol.
The Sesquicentennial committee has been working on the event for more than two years, determined to make it the biggest and best celebration the state has ever seen.
The governor noted one unique event that will take place during the celebration.
“Our state’s history will be brought to life with a three-dimensional film that will be projected directly onto the face of the capitol,” he said.
That will take place two evenings during the celebration.
The Sesquicentennial will begin Thursday, June 20th with a bell ringing and birthday ceremony at 1:50. It’s virtually non-stop activities for the rest of the weekend.
Some of the events include: concerts on the capitol lawn, a parade, Zambelli fireworks, the annual Vandalia Gathering, history lectures, Civil War reenactors, sternwheeler rides, food, crafts and a giant birthday cake.
Tomblin says many West Virginians have fond memories of the state’s Centennial back in 1963.
“Some people remember getting around an old black and white TV to watch from their living rooms and others remember standing on the steps [of the Capitol] waiting for President Kennedy to speak,” recalled Tomblin.
He says the 150th birthday will be an even bigger celebration.
“It was a day that made all of us proud to be West Virginians,” according to the governor. “And this June we get to do it all again.”
For a full rundown of the Sesquicentennial events, you can log on to www.wv150.com.