There are many reasons to celebrate the fall season. Autumn festivals are spread near and wide.

This weekend you can enjoy the Wellsburg Applefest or take in the ever-popular Oglebayfest. Last weekend’s Barnesville Pumpkin Festival brought in an enthusiastic crowd as usual.

While the warmer temperatures don’t lend themselves to the fall feeling, the thermometer doesn’t deter the huge crowd that traverses the hills of Oglebay Park this weekend.

There is no denying that Oglebayfest is one of the festivals that serves many purposes.

First there are the skilled artists and crafters who bring their wares to the event.

Follow that up with the variety of foods and music and you have a winning combination.

This family-friendly festival also brings bounce houses and other attractions aimed at keeping the youngsters happy.

There is a unique parade of farm implements and fall-related entries. A fireworks display has been a huge part of the weekend, too.

But let’s not forget the Ohio County Country Fair that is being held in conjunction with Oglebayfest.

This portion of the weekend showcases the efforts of our farmers, 4-H’ers, homemakers groups and more. It’s a great place to introduce kids to cows and goats and other animals up close.

Oglebayfest also has served as an annual homecoming for scores of families and friends who put the word “tradition” in Oglebay’s motto.

Reservations are made a year in advance for many folks who want to assure the reunions continue.

The annual festival has held a special place in my heart and my husband’s for a very personal reason.

It was 39 years ago on Saturday, Oct. 5 that we did not get to attend the event although we really wanted to be there.

Yet it was on that Saturday afternoon of Oglebayfest that our son, Jamie, decided to make his entrance into the world.

While many of you were enjoying the music, dancing and food, I was providing Dr. Dennis Niess with the challenging job of delivering our nearly 9 pound baby boy. And we both did a fine job.

Later that day, family members came to the hospital and gifted our son with relics of Oglebayfest.

From wooden toys to stuffed animals, a part of the event was with us after all.

Just the mention of Oglebayfest each year brings me back to one of the best days of our lives. Happy birthday, Jamie!

Heather Ziegler can be reached via email at hziegler@theintelligencer.net.