The West Virginia Black Heritage Festival is taking place in downtown Clarksburg this weekend, celebrating culture, community, and history. This three-day event features local vendors, live entertainment, and cultural performances.
The festivities began with a prayer and the song “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” Festival Princess India Garvin and Prince Jayden Smalls emphasized the significance of the celebration, with Jayden noting the importance of recognizing Black culture not just annually, but continuously.
Since its inception in 1990, the festival has expanded to include nearly 50 vendors, scholarships, and opportunities for local youth. Leo Riley, pastor of Agape Life Ministries, highlighted the importance of understanding one’s heritage and honoring the legacy of ancestors.
For further updates, a video coverage of the event will be available after it airs.