Oglebayfest, Ohio County Country Fair, Boo At The Zoo To Kick Off
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WHEELING -- Oglebay Park is getting into the fall spirit with its annual Oglebayfest taking place this weekend and Boo at the Zoo kicking off as well.
The Ohio County Country Fair also takes place this weekend at the Levenson Shelter area inside the park.
Oglebayfest begins at noon Friday and runs through Sunday. Activities include the Artists and Gourmet Market near the Mansion Museum. The Rathskeller activities will once again take place at the Hess Shelter. It includes German-style beer, food and dancing.
Oglebayfest for many is an annual gathering of friends and family at the park. It features a variety of vendors selling their art, crafts, wares and food as well. There is also live music and demonstrations by artisans.
"Oglebayfest began as a 'thank you' to the people of Wheeling and the surrounding communities for their support of the park," said Herb Faulkenberry, vice president of Sales & Marketing for Oglebay. "That sentiment continues to this day and allows everyone to enjoy a festive weekend of sharing with family and friends in the park."
A highlight of the festival will be a parade at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, starting at the Good Zoo. Then at 8:30 p.m. Saturday there will be a fireworks display over Schenk Lake.
Faulkenberry noted the outdoor setting of the Mansion Woods along with the entire park create an "incredible" atmosphere for the festival.
"Through the sponsorship of WVU Medicine, young and old alike have the opportunity to enjoy three days of delicious choices of food and beverages, a wonderful array of live music and the very best displays and offerings from local artists," he said.
There will be a free parking and shuttle service for festival goers who do not want to walk to all the park's sites.
Stops on the shuttle service include the Mansion Museum, Good Zoo, Schenk Lake, The Hilltop, Crispin Center and Wilson Lodge.
"For many, Oglebayfest has become a family tradition and a homecoming of sorts," Faulkenberry added. "Through the sponsorship of WVU Medicine, everyone has the opportunity to reconnect with friends and family, experience the park and indulge in great foods, beverages, music and arts making it a fantastic way to start the fall season.
"We'd like to thank WVU Medicine for their continued support of Oglebayfest and we look forward to seeing everyone.
"Make your plans to attend and know that you will have an incredible time sharing with family and friends."
Ohio County Country Fair activities include 4-H displays, farm animals, antique tractors, contests and more. Fair hours include noon to 9:30 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday; and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.
On Friday, a Country Square Dance will take place from 7:30-9:30 p.m. A 4-H pet show is set for 6:30 p.m.
Quilting demonstrations will take place from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. A line dancing class is slated for 3:30 p.m. Saturday. Also on Saturday is the hog calling contest at 12:30 p.m.; a baked goods auction at 2:30 p.m.; and a pedal power contest at 3 p.m.
On Sunday, a church service will begin at 11 a.m.; a pony pull is set from noon to 4 p.m.; a rock throwing contest is at 1:30 p.m.; a baby crawling contest is at 2 p.m.; and a baked goods auction is at 2:30 p.m.
This year's Ohio County Country Fair Royalty are Queen Emma Wade and Princess Trinity Kimmins.
Boo at the Zoo begins Friday at the Good Zoo and will take from 5-8 p.m. Fridays and from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Children are encouraged to a dress in costume and make their way through the zoo, stopping at candy stations for treats. There is a cost to enter.
New this year, one winner each week will be chosen to win a Good Zoo membership and a year's supply of Mini Blizzards at Dairy Queen.
"The Upper Ohio Valley Dairy Queen is a proud sponsor of 'Boo at the Zoo'. Both organizations strive to bring joy and create memories for Ohio Valley families, not only today but for future generations," said R. Barry Boyd, owner Upper Ohio Valley Dairy Queen.
Other activities in the zoo will include an interactive scavenger hunt, a spooky train ride, the Jumbo Jumper Air Pillow, and low ropes course.
"Oglebay's 'Boo at the Zoo' is a great tradition in the Ohio Valley. We are proud to be the presenting sponsor for the fourth year in a row and hope all those attending enjoy this year's event," said Bordas & Bordas Managing Partner Jamie Bordas.
Boo at the Zoo proceeds benefit the zoo's animals. To purchase tickets in advance, visit oglebay.com/boo.