The 42nd Annual Festival of Lights has kicked off at Oglebay Park in Wheeling, West Virginia, marking the start of the holiday season for more than 300,000 visitors who travel here each year. This year’s celebration is part of a two‑year investment to enhance the festival with fresh attractions and immersive experiences across the park’s 300‑acre grounds.
New displays and experiences
Guests will be greeted by a towering 30‑foot Frosty the Snowman and vibrant RGB lighting installations that bring a modern twist to classic holiday décor. Animated singing faces, dubbed the “Holiday Harmonizers,” add a playful soundtrack to the walk‑through light tunnels, inviting families to explore and snap photos.
Sleigh pop‑up bar
Located in the Garden Bistro, the newly introduced Sleight holiday pop‑up bar—named “Sleigh”—offers a festive menu of cocktails, seasonal beverages, and comfort food. The venue also hosts holiday‑themed activities and live entertainment, creating a cozy gathering spot for adults and children alike.
Santa’s Village returns, bigger than ever
Following its debut in 2025, Santa’s Village makes a comeback with an expanded footprint across two locations: the Levenson Shelter and Camp Russel. The village features gift‑giving stations, illuminated selfie spots, and complimentary photos with Santa Claus, ensuring memorable moments for every child.
Zoo light show and planetarium laser display
In December, Oglebay Good Zoo invites guests to step inside a larger‑than‑life holiday snow globe for a seasonal photo opportunity. The zoo’s light show dazzles with more than 40,000 synchronized lights set to beloved holiday tunes, while the planetarium adds a laser show that projects festive patterns across the night sky.
Lake reflections and animated globe
The popular “Reflections on Schenk Lake” display returns, featuring a dancing light show that circles the lake and a 15‑foot animated globe that moves in time with seasonal music, creating a serene backdrop for evening strolls.
Practical details
The drive‑through portion of the festival spans six miles and operates nightly from dusk until midnight, running through January 3. Visitors can find full details on the festival, the Sleight bar, Santa’s Village, and other holiday events at oglebay.com/lights. Parking is available throughout the park, and families are encouraged to arrive early to secure a spot for the most popular attractions.
Community impact
Beyond the lights and entertainment, the Festival of Lights continues to boost the local economy, drawing tourists who support Wheeling’s hotels, restaurants, and small businesses. The event underscores Oglebay Park’s role as a cultural hub that brings together families, faith‑centered traditions, and the spirit of the season.
Original reporting: Herald-Standard – latest news for Uniontown, Pennsylvania — read the source article.
