CHARLESTON, WV (WOWK) – An event that honors Appalachian heritage kicked off Friday night at the West Virginia State Capitol.

The 48th Vandalia Gathering is happening this weekend, with numerous activities and events going through Sunday. The whole event is free to the public and features traditional Appalachian music, dance and storytelling. There will also be arts, crafts, local food and more.

The celebration was created to honor the legacy of the Mountain State.

“Folks who live here know that West Virginia is a really special place where we value community,” said West Virginia Secretary of Tourism Chelsea Ruby. “We love to be at these types of events together. We know our neighbors, we love our neighbors. This gives us an opportunity to celebrate living in the Mountain State.”

This year, as the Gathering coincides with the USA Cycling Pro Road National Championships in Charleston, the event will feature a cycling watch party at the West Virginia Culture Center’s plaza deck for a view of the Pro Road National cycling race.

For a full list of activities and events for the Vandalia Gathering, click here.