WHEELING, WV – Oglebay Resort and Park is a local establishment that is often known for their zoo, paddle boating, hiking, and golf course, however, they are also popular for their events such as the Festival of Lights and Oglebayfest. Oglebayfest hosts events for vendors and people to gather and enjoy the month of October, the cool weather, family activities, and of course a bit of beer. This event is hosted by WVU Medicine every October and is a great way to relax, enjoy some fun festivities, and spend time with your friends and family.
At this year’s Oglebay Fest, you can expect live music performances from MSM, Taylor Jo and The Copper Creek Band, Gage Joseph, and over 5 other local artists. The live music will occur in the Rathskeller, the Levenson Shelter, and the Mansion Woods. The times will vary all day so live music is ensured if you stop in at any hour.
On top of live music, there are multiple local vendors selling things such as shirts, drinks, homemade baked goods, or hand-woven quilts. Their artisan vending also features Phill Maxwell Artists’, a group of talented individuals with close relations to Phill Maxwell, a globally known artist. A West Liberty University professor, Aaron Anslow, will be selling his work through Earthsmith Pottery Studio, alongside over 30 other vendors. The vendors will all be in the Mansion Woods, near the front entrance of Oglebay.
If you are looking to turn this into a family trip, Oglebayfest also includes the Ohio County Country Fair in the earlier hours, starting at noon on Friday and 10 am on Saturday following their Oglebayfest Parade. During this time, you can find a pet show presented by 4-H, quilting demonstrations, homegrown foods, and varying competitions. The competitions include but are not limited to, baby crawling, hog calling, and rock throwing. On top of this, after the fair ends on Saturday, they will be presenting a fireworks show, with the best view being at Shenk Lake.
Food, crafts, music, and animals, what more could you ask for at an event based on Octoberfest? Beer of course! In Oglebay’s Hess Shelter, there will be a German-based beer garden with varying October-themed beers and classic domestics. Not only do they offer these beers in pitcher-sized portions. On top of this, they also have multiple beer-themed activities including a .5k beer run and a stein holding competition. This festival offers something for everyone to enjoy and has an appeal for people of all ages. Oglebayfest is fun for everyone and will be held October 4th through 6th from 10 am to 11 pm.
