ROAR Day to Feather Ridge Nights—Fall at Its Best
Autumn in Vinton County is a time to celebrate the history and traditions that shaped Appalachian Ohio. On Saturday, October 25, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Lake Hope State Park will host ROAR Day. This event started years ago by naturalist Dave Sapienza and historian Deanna Tribe as a way to highlight the beautiful arts, crafts, and tools of an earlier era. But has since grown into one of the county’s most anticipated traditions.
Celebrate Appalachian Heritage at ROAR Day
From candlemakers to weavers, the lodge area will be brimming with artists demonstrating their skills and wares. From there, check out The Hope Schoolhouse, carefully refurbished by Zaleski State Forest. Step inside to see what an authentic one-room schoolhouse looked like. Outside, families can explore displays of antique tractors. Then try their hand at crosscut saws, axe throwing, and the atlatl—a tool once used by ancient hunters to launch spears farther and faster. (Learn more from the World Atlatl Association.) You’ll also find demonstrations with a cider press and forging, celebrating the resourcefulness of earlier times.
The kids will also have a blast with daytime trick-or-treating, pumpkin carving, and games. The park’s naturalist always keeps a bag of surprises ready for younger visitors, ensuring there’s something exciting for every age.
When the vendor fair winds down at 4 p.m., the fun doesn’t stop. The Nature Center will host a costume contest, followed by a classic “scary” movie at the outdoor amphitheater. It’s the perfect way to keep the fall spirit going after dark.
The Family Fun Continues at Feather Ridge inVinton County
Just a short drive away, Feather Ridge continues the celebration with its own lineup of fall activities beginning at 3 p.m. While the list of vendors is still coming together, the fun is already shaping up.
Families can look forward to horseback rides, bobbing for apples, a scavenger hunt, sack races, and a photo booth for those must-have seasonal snapshots. The Rolling Pin Mobile Kitchen will be serving up its tasty treats. If you are lucky enough to get some cornbread salad, your day will be complete.
Then, as the sun dips low, the energy shifts to live music, glowing bonfires, and gooey s’mores as the stars come out overhead.
A Full Day for Vinton County Family Fun
Together, ROAR Day at Lake Hope and the festivities at Feather Ridge create the ultimate Vinton County fall family fun. Experience Appalachian culture and heritage by day, then gather for community, food, and music by night.
Mark your calendar for Saturday, October 25, 2025—a day to celebrate, create, and connect in the heart of Vinton County.
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