CINCINNATI — A popular springtime event returns to Cincinnati’s Coney Island on May 7-8, bringing Appalachian culture to life.

The event will transform the area along the scenic Ohio River into an authentic mountain-life village for the 51st Annual Appalachian Festival.

“It’s really important to celebrate this tradition and culture,” said Shanon Rice with the Appalachian Community Development Association. “Years ago, 10s of thousands of Appalachian people migrated to Cincinnati and really helped to build Cincinnati with Appalachian culture.”

The two-day event will feature a national headliner and new entertainment, dancers, handicrafts, storytelling, food and more.

One of the most popular attractions at the festival, the “Living History” mountain village, will feature period re-enactors who show mountain lives in the 1800s through dress, living quarters and activities.

The 51st Annual Appalachian Festival begins Saturday, May 7, at 10 a.m. Tickets may be purchased at the gate.

A list of more events around Ohio may be found here.