Enjoy Oglebay Festival Of Lights, And More Exciting Christmas Happenings
There’s something special about the holiday events in Wheeling, West Virginia. Home to the infamous Oglebay Festival of Lights, but that is not all there is to see and do. The entire city comes alive with tradition, music, and holiday splendor. From strolls through glowing displays at Oglebay Park Resort to concerts downtown and handmade gifts at local art shows, Wheeling brings a little extra warmth to the season.
Oglebay’s Festival of Lights Returns as Premier Holiday Event in Wheeling for 2025
From November 6, 2025, through January 4, 2026, Oglebay’s Festival of Lights will shine across 300 acres with over a million LED lights. The drive-through features more than 100 attractions and animated scenes, including the 70-foot Welcome Tree. Visitors can also enjoy Santa’s Village, Christmas at the Zoo’s laser and light displays, the Gardens of Light walk-through, photos with Santa, festive dining, and shopping. It’s no wonder Oglebay was named the #1 Hotel to Stay at During the Holidays by readers of USA Today, offering guests a picture-perfect holiday getaway.
Main Street Fantasy in Lights Parade Celebrates 40 Years
This year marks the 40th anniversary of Wheeling’s Main Street Bank Fantasy in Lights Parade. One of the premier Christmas parades in the region. New decorations will adorn and light up the downtown streets as marching bands, illuminated floats, and community groups make their way through the city in a dazzling display of holiday spirit.
“Being part of the excitement that is the Fantasy in Lights Parade for 38 years has been an honor. The participants, the spectators, and the sponsors have made the parade one of the best in the region, and it remains one of the highlights of the Ohio Valley.”- Bill Bryson, parade’s chairman, from 1986 through 2023
The parade has been televised live every year since its beginning, allowing viewers near and far to share in the excitement. Over the decades, it has grown into a must-see tradition that draws thousands to downtown Wheeling each holiday season.
Oglebay Institute Brings Arts and Culture for Holiday Events in Downtown Wheeling
Oglebay Institute offers holiday magic beyond the lights with events throughout Wheeling. The Stifel Fine Arts Center hosts its annual Holiday Art Show & Sale from mid-November through early December, featuring pottery, jewelry, woodwork, and textiles from regional artisans. It’s a relaxed and inspiring place to shop for meaningful gifts in a historic setting.
Meanwhile, the Towngate Theatre and Cinema showcase holiday productions. The Mansion Museum and Glass Museum inside Oglebay Park also provide seasonal exhibits that highlight Wheeling’s rich heritage.
The Capitol Theatre Sets the Stage for Holiday Music
Downtown Wheeling’s Capitol Theatre welcomes two major concerts in December 2025. On December 6, The Gift Christmas Concert returns with a performance honoring the meaning of the season. This family-friendly event features Jo Ann Jones, Roger Hoard, Ron Retzer Trio, and many others performing traditional and contemporary holiday music with special appearances from Santa and the Fox Family.
On December 13, 2025, the theater lights up with A Motown Christmas. Featuring the Motown All-Stars, this soulful holiday concert blends Motown classics with seasonal favorites, creating an energetic show that brings audiences to their feet.
Plan a Festive Holiday Weekend in Wheeling
This holiday season, Wheeling invites you to slow down and enjoy the moments that make up the memories. Spend the day exploring markets, visiting historic museums, and experiencing local theater. Then head downtown for dinner and a concert that leaves you humming carols all the way home.
