The annual “Paint Your Pup” event organized by Wheeling Heritage is getting a fresh twist.

Now called “Paint Your Pet,” the popular event invites all animal lovers, whether your best friend is furry, feathered, or scaly, to turn their pets into works of art.

The workshop will be held on Jan. 10, 2026, at the Wheeling Artisan Center, 1400 Main St., Wheeling. Participants can choose from a morning session (10 a.m.-1 p.m.) or an afternoon session (2-5 p.m.), with each session limited to 30 participants.

Those registering can simply upload their favorite photo of their pet, and the image will be pre-sketched onto a 16-by-20-inch canvas. During the workshop, a professional artist will guide the painters step by step to bring their pet’s portrait to life.

No painting experience needed and all materials are provided.

“I absolutely loved this event. I actually did both sessions last year,” said Elizabeth Henry, a past participant. “We had a group of talented artists as amazing instructors who made the process so easy. It allowed for lots of individual attention. All three of our doggos are now proudly framed in our foyer, and I love seeing them daily. If you are looking for a fun time out and a gorgeous painting of your fur baby, sign up for this.

“You will not be disappointed,” Henry added. “I seriously cannot recommend this class highly enough. I’d get a fourth doggo just to do this again.”

“We’re very excited to expand this painting experience to all pets this year,” said Riley Carpenter, director of programming at Wheeling Heritage. “Dog lovers are obviously still welcome, but we are eager to see what other animals will be created on canvas on January 10. Don’t wait to reserve your seat. This event was sold out by Dec. 1 last year.”

The cost is $75 per portrait. Registration is available at wheelingheritage.org/paint-your-pet/. There is limited space.

Wheeling Heritage has also announced that FidoFest returns May 16, 2026. It will take place from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at Garden Park in Warwood. More information can be found at wheelingheritage.org/fidofest/ or by following Wheeling Heritage on Facebook and Instagram.

For additional details, contact Wheeling Heritage at 304-232-3087.