Clarksburg, WV – The West Virginia Black Heritage Festival (WVBHF), a much-anticipated annual event, has today unveiled its star-studded line-up for its 32nd edition. The festival, taking place on September 9th and 10th, 2023, on Main Street in downtown Clarksburg, will feature a vibrant array of musical talent that promises to delight attendees.
Established in 1990 by the Kelly Miller Association, the WVBHF brings a spectacular list of artists to the stage, including hip-hop pioneer, rapper, and producer Kurtis Blow; Hall of Fame doo-wop group, The Marcels; and tribute bands for blues, funk, and R&B legends Earth, Wind, & Fire, as well as Purple Madness Prince Tribute, and Formation Experience, Beyonce Tribute. The festival will also showcase local talent, with performances by Byron Cooper among others.
For 32 years, the WVBHF has been a beacon of hope, focusing on exposing African American youth in West Virginia to new opportunities and the idea that their positive contributions matter. “Our youth are dealing with various challenges today, from the trauma of COVID-19 to the tumultuous climate in politics. We hope that this year’s festival will create a sense of harmony so powerful that it radiates throughout the entire state of WV,” stated Jim Griffin, Chairman of the Board of the WVBHF.
The festival continues its tradition of recognizing a young king and queen and providing scholarships to deserving youth to assist in their pursuit of higher education.
In the lead-up to the festival, several pre-festival events are planned. These include the Sankofa, a mobile museum displaying the journey from slavery to freedom through its artifacts, pictures, lectures, and tours. The Sankofa will be stationed at the Kelly Miller Community Center in Clarksburg from August 24th through the 27th, open from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM. In addition, a Youth Block Party will take place on September 8th in Jackson Square on Pike Street in Clarksburg, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM. The WVBHF Annual Golf Tournament is also slated to take place at the Bel Meadows Country Club in Mt. Clare, WV at 8:00 AM.
For more information about the West Virginia Black Heritage Festival and its year-round activities, please visit the official website at https://www.wvbhf.com/.
