Vandalia Gathering Launches Unofficial Start Of Summer

The Vandalia Gathering has been going on for nearly 50 years with a mixture of music, arts, storytelling and dance. People come from all over the region to enjoy the entertainment on the state capitol grounds. Admission is free.

What to Expect

From mountain flatfooting to Celtic dancing, the Vandalia Gathering brings to life the international heritage of West Virginia dance. It features demonstrations of Irish, Scottish, Morris (a traditional style of English dance), Swiss, Croatian and Appalachian dancing in the Great Hall. Audience members are even invited to learn and join. 

Native Americans present their dance and music outdoors on the Capitol grounds. Square dancing and flatfooting takes place at the dance stage as well. 

Ethnic and American foods are served at the many food booths. The craft circle brings a wide assortment of West Virginia artists and their works from wood-fired pottery and Raku to folk toys and glass. 

The “old-time for young’uns” area will give children the chance to experience some of the life, work and play of the early days of the state.

History

Vandalia was a proposed colony, originating in the land speculations of politically influential Englishmen and prominent colonial Americans. In 1768, Benjamin Franklin was one of the organizers of the Great Ohio Company, which proposed the creation of Vandalia as the 14th colony. It would have included almost all of present West Virginia, except for the Eastern Panhandle, and much of Kentucky. 

The name was a gesture to Queen Charlotte, wife of George III, who proudly claimed descent from the Vandals through her birth to German nobility. The plan almost came to fruition in 1772-74, until the deteriorating American political situation made the British government back off.

Parking for the Gathering

There will be no charge to use metered parking on the Capitol Complex Friday evening after 5 p.m., and all day Saturday and Sunday. Guests may also park in the parking garage at no charge, though the elevator will not be working.

For more information, visit the Vandalia Gathering website.