How Much Did W.Va. Spend on Its 150th Birthday?

The West Virginia Sesquicentennial Commission spent $138,285 for a four-day celebration of the state’s 150th anniversary at the Capitol.

The Charleston Daily Mail reports that the largest expense was a 3-D movie that was projected onto the Capitol facade. The state paid $50,000 of the movie’s $175,000 cost. The remainder was paid with private donations.

Other expenses included $21,400 for souvenirs and $21,000 for musical entertainment.

The celebration in June also included nightly fireworks, a parade and a car show.
 
The commission also provided $233,000 in grants to other celebrations across the state.