The annual Fall Mountain Heritage Arts and Crafts Festival kicks off today as crafters from along the east coast and beyond have set up their wares under the billowing tents at Sam Michael’s Park.

The festival, normally an event held two times each year, June and September, has been changed with the elimination of the June show this year.

The Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce, who hosts the well-visited event, decided to limit the festival to once per year starting in the 2014 season.

“We have found that the slow down in the economy over the past few years has taken a toll of the festivals,” she said. “It will be more cost-effective for our vendors to limit the show to once per year for now, at least,” Heather McIntyre, director of the Chamber said.

The festival welcomes returning and new vendors each year offering a variety of craftsmanship in a variety of mediums including jewelry, glasswork, rugs, stonework, photography and much more.

Wineries from around West Virginia also participated once again, offering samples of their beverages which could then be purchased for off-site consumption.

Live entertainers perform throughout the days on Saturday and Sunday.

Profits from the festival goes back into the community in the form of donations made by the Chamber. Specific organizations who receive vary each year; however, some remain constant. The Jefferson County 4-H Leaders Association, the Boy Scouts, fire and rescue companies around the county and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Reserves are all annual recipients. Each of these entities provide support throughout the festivals from security to ticket takers.

The fall festival is set for Sept. 26, 27 and 28. Admission costs are $7 for adults, $4 for children 6-17. Parking, arts/crafts demonstrations, wine tasting, live bluegrass music and children’s crafts are included. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day.

All pets and alcoholic beverages are prohibited Also prohibited are firearms of any kind. For more information, call 800-624-0577.