About Us

West Frankfort, Illinois celebrates the coal mining industry every year during the second weekend of May.       

The festival first began in 1941.       ​

This longstanding tradition includes the crowing of Old King Coal, Princess Flame and her court, a coal miner's memorial service, job fair, parade, and a downtown festival filled with food, rides, games, vendors, and free nightly entertainment on the main stage.       ​

The Old King Coal Festival is a family friendly environment. 

Bring your lawn chair and enjoy West Frankfort's hospitality.