Oglebay Park’s Festival of Lights kicks off Thursday, hours after the U.S. Capitol Christmas tree makes a stop at Wheeling Park on its tour of the state. (Photo Courtesy
of Oglebay Park)
Unofficial Start of Holiday Season in Wheeling
Thursday, November 9, 2023
Wheeling, West Virginia
The holiday spirit will be in full swing in Wheeling this Thursday, marking the unofficial beginning of the festive season. A series of major holiday events are set to kick off, bringing cheer and excitement to the community.
The U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree Tour
11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Location: White Palace at Wheeling Park
The distinguished U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree, sourced from Monongalia National Forest, will make a special stop at Wheeling Park as part of its tour across West Virginia. After being felled by local sawyers, the 63-foot Norway spruce will ultimately find its place of honor on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol for the holiday season.
Oglebay Park’s Festival of Lights
6:15 p.m.
Location: Wilson Lodge, Oglebay Park
Santa Claus himself will join Wesbanco CEO Jeff Jackson to illuminate the breathtaking Festival of Lights at Oglebay Park. This beloved annual tradition includes captivating light displays spread across 300 acres, including the enchanting Reflections on Schenk Lake and the dazzling Welcome Tree.
Other Exciting Holiday Activities
Winter Carnival at Levenson Shelter
Location: Levenson Shelter, Oglebay Park
The Winter Carnival promises fun for the whole family with activities like a synthetic ice rink, climbing wall, and Christmas tree trail. At the Oglebay Good Zoo, guests can snap a photo with Santa and enjoy the mesmerizing Rockin’ Holiday Light Show.
Oglebay Institute’s Festival of Trees
Location: Oglebay Institute
The Festival of Trees features elegantly decorated trees, wreaths, and garlands that can be bid on or purchased outright. Additionally, guests can explore the Holiday Art Show & Sale, showcasing a variety of artistic works.
Winter on the Plaza
5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Location: Market Plaza, Wheeling
The City of Wheeling invites residents and visitors to join the Winter on the Plaza event. Enjoy music, activities, and the lighting of the tree with a grand entrance by Santa Claus himself.
Upcoming Holiday Events
Santa’s Wonderland Experience at Cabela’s
Location: The Highlands, Wheeling
Date: Saturday, November 11, 2023
Cabela’s welcomes Santa Claus to kick off their Santa’s Wonderland Experience on Saturday. The experience, running until December 24, will offer free photos with Santa and a festive atmosphere.
Oglebay Institute’s Festival of Trees
Opening Reception: November 10, 2023, 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Location: Oglebay Institute
The Festival of Trees will showcase beautifully decorated trees, wreaths, and garlands, available for bidding or purchase. The event will also include the Holiday Art Show & Sale, featuring a diverse range of artwork.
Winter on the Plaza
November 15, 2023, 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Location: Market Plaza, Wheeling
Winter on the Plaza will feature music, activities, and the lighting of the tree with the presence of Wheeling Mayor Glenn Elliott and a special appearance by Santa Claus.
Capitol Christmas Tree Tour Schedule
Saturday, November 11, 2023
6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Location: Elkins Depot Welcome Center, Elkins
Sunday, November 12, 2023
2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Location: Summersville Arena and Conference Center, Summersville
Monday, November 13, 2023
4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Location: Mitchell Chevrolet, Marlinton
Tuesday, November 14, 2023
11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Location: Tamarack Marketplace, Beckley
5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Location: WV State Capitol Complex, Charleston
Wednesday, November 15, 2023
11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Location: Former ACF Industries Parking Lot, Huntington
Thursday, November 16, 2023
11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Location: White Palace at Wheeling Park, Wheeling
Friday, November 17, 2023
3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Location: 84 Lumber, Morgantown
11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Location: Operation Welcome Home at Mylan Park, Morgantown
2:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Location: West Virginia University at Downtown Morgantown, Morgantown
Sunday, November 19, 2023
2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Location: Swilled Dog/Raymond’s Gymnastic Center, Upper Tract
Monday, November 20, 2023
4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Location: DavisYard, Davis
Tuesday, November 21, 2023
10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Location: WV Schools for the Deaf and the Blind, Romney
Wednesday, November 22, 2023
Noon – 2:00 p.m.
Location: Hatpers Ferry Job Corps Center, Harpers Ferry
Thursday, November 23, 2023
4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Location: Joint Base Andrews (Base only)
Friday, November 24, 2023
Delivery to West Lawn, U.S. Capitol Building