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Can't connect to local MySQL server through socket '/var/lib/mysql/mysql.sock' (11)Charleston is the capital of the U.S. state of West Virginia. It is located at the confluence of the Elk and Kanawha Rivers in Kanawha County. As of the 2000 census, it has a population of 53,421. However, the 2005 Census Estimate has Charleston with a population of 51,176, and a metro area of 307,763. Currently, Charleston is the largest city in the state. It is the county seat of Kanawha County.
The city also holds public parks, such as Cato Park and Coonskin Park. It also is home to Kanawha State Forest, a large public state park that sustains a pool, camping sites, several biking/walking trails, picknick areas, as well as several shelters provided for recrteational use.
Charleston is home to numerous annual events and fairs that take place throughout the city, from the banks of the Kanawha River to the capitol grounds.
The West Virginia Dance Festival, held between April 25 and 30, features dance students from across the state that attend classes and workshops in ballet, jazz and modern dance. At the finale, the students perform in the West Virginia State Theatre; these are free to the public. Between April 27 and 30 is the West Virginia International Film Festival, where many domestic and international films are shown that range from "full-length feature films, shorts, documentaries, animation and student films."
On May 6, the Kanawha Kordsmen Barbershop Chorus performs at the Clay Center for the Arts. The 40-man cappela chorus performs music in a show titled "Songs America Sings." On Memorial Day weekend, the Vandalia Gathering is held on the grounds of the state capitol. Thousands of visitors each year enjoy traditional music, art, dance, stories, crafts and food that stems from the "uniqueness of West Virginia's mountain culture." There is no fee for admission.
Easily book online or call toll free 1-800-594-3541
