We are so excited that you have decided to enter the WV Coal Festival Pageant this year! We are looking forward to a wonderful day filled with fun, excitement, and new friendships.
There is quite a bit of important information to share, so let’s get started!
First, my name is Heather Clay, and I am thrilled to meet each of you. I can’t wait to spend the day getting to know you better and watching you shine.
What Are We Looking For?
1. Passionate Ambassadors for West Virginia and Coal
We are seeking young ladies who truly want to represent the State of West Virginia, their title, and the coal industry with pride and purpose. This means promoting positivity, helping develop ideas that inspire future generations, and making a meaningful impact across our communities. Our queens are present, engaged, and serve as a strong, positive voice for coal in West Virginia. This is a significant responsibility—but also a very rewarding honor.
2. Integrity and Professionalism
Our queens are representatives of our brand year-round. We expect them to always conduct themselves with integrity, professionalism, and the highest moral character, both in person and online.
3. Confidence, Poise, and Personality
Queens should be well-spoken, appropriately dressed, and carry themselves with grace. We value confidence paired with authenticity—along with a sense of humor, personal style, and strong people skills.
4. Prepared, Relaxed, and Authentic in Interviews
Our four judges are experienced, welcoming, and fun—so don’t be nervous! They enjoy getting to know each contestant’s personality, passions, and perspective. Interview questions are designed to spark conversation, not trip you up—there are no wrong answers. We do expect contestants to have a basic understanding of the coal industry in West Virginia and to review our festival pages to be familiar with upcoming events.
5. Active and Engaged Titleholders
We are looking for queens who are committed to being active throughout their reign. This includes making appearances, engaging on social media, and promoting the title, the festival, and our mission year-round.
Pageant Day Details
📍 Location:
WV Cultural Center Theater
State Capitol Grounds
Charleston, West Virginia
📅 Date: June 6
⏰ Arrival Time: Please arrive by 10:00 AM
Dressing rooms will be provided, and lunch will be provided for all contestants.
Pageant Day Schedule Overview
Please note that times are approximate, and a detailed schedule will be provided on pageant day.
Check-In & Registration - 10:00AM
Private Interview with Judges - 12:00PM
Onstage Rehearsal 11:00AM- 3:00PM
Competition Begins (open to the public) 5:00PM- doors open
Phases of Competition
Contestants will compete in the following areas:
1. Interview
A private interview with the judges to get to know your personality, passions, goals, and understanding of the WV Coal Festival and coal in West Virginia.
2. Fun Fashion – Black Attire
Contestants will model a fun fashion outfit in the color black, showcasing personal style, confidence, and stage presence.
3. Onstage Question
A brief question asked onstage to highlight poise, communication skills, and authenticity. There are no wrong answers—just be yourself.
4. Evening Gown
Formal evening wear presentation demonstrating elegance, confidence, and overall appearance.
Packing Checklist
Please be sure to bring the following items with you:
Interview outfit
Fun fashion outfit (black attire)
Evening gown
Appropriate shoes for each phase
Hair and makeup supplies
Jewelry and accessories
Touch-up items (makeup, hairspray, safety pins, etc.)
Water bottle and any personal necessities
If you have any questions at all, please feel free to email us at
📧 wvcoalfestival@gmail.com