The holiday season in Wheeling has a way of wrapping the whole city in something familiar. It’s the soft glow of snowflakes along the streetlights downtown, the curated artisan markets, the new attractions that draw you in and invite you to linger, and the comfort of knowing that no matter how far you’ve traveled, home feels a little closer this time of year.
Whether you call Wheeling home or you’re a visitor returning to your roots, this season is your invitation to slow down, explore, and create your own holiday experience. From exciting new attractions to time-honored traditions, unwrap the magic of Downtown Wheeling and discover what makes this season shine for you. Take our holiday quiz, plan your perfect stops, and let this guide be your map to the memories waiting to be made—because your perfect holiday experience is waiting for you!
New and Returning Favorites in Downtown Wheeling
Discover what’s new and magical downtown this holiday season!
Dine-In Igloos
Cozy up for a unique dining experience on the patio of Wesbanco Arena. Sponsored by the Wheeling CVB, this exciting new addition to downtown will be Wheeling’s coolest night out! Starting December 8, 2025 running through December 20, 2025 with multiple time spots daily. Don’t miss your chance to book one for this season once the booking link is live. Stay tuned!
Winter on the Plaza
Join us for the City’s annual holiday tree lighting ceremony and the official kickoff to the winter season! The evening will feature festive music, food trucks and free activities for children. A new tree will also be on display, purchased through the T-Mobile Hometown Grant awarded to Wheeling Heritage.
Events at the Capitol Theatre
Get your tickets for one of the upcoming events coming to Downtown Wheeling this holiday season, like Dolly Parton’s Smoky Mountain Christmas Carol, A Motown Christmas, or Cirque Dreams Holidaze.
Downtown Storefront Decorating Contest
Businesses downtown have already started decorating for this year’s holiday season! Starting at 5:00pm November 18th you can vote for your favorite storefront display. Voting will continue until November 27th, and the winner will be announced the next day during Small Business Saturday.
Downtown Illuminated Snowflakes
One of the additions from last season will be making a return to bring back that nostalgic holiday feeling of coming into Wheeling’s downtown. Walk beneath the glow of the snowflakes lining Main, Market, and cross streets, thanks to a community-wide effort led by Wheeling Heritage, and funded by dozens of community supporters.
Holiday Events to Mark Your Calendar
These are just a few of the events going on this season in Wheeling! Be sure to check out the more comprehensive list provided by the Wheeling CVB.
NOV. 5 – JAN. 3
Oglebay Park’s Festival of Lights
Experience the wonder across millions of lights, festive displays, and unforgettable holiday magic for guests of all ages to enjoy.
Wednesday
NOV. 18
Winter on the Plaza
5:30 – 7:30PM – Kick off the season at Market Plaza with live music, food, and family fun.
Friday
NOV. 20
Main Street Bank Fantasy in Lights Parade
Starts 6:30 PM – Celebrate this beloved Wheeling tradition! Floats, bands, and holiday cheer fill Main and Market Streets.
Saturday
NOV. 28
Small Business Saturday
Shop, dine, and explore local! Join the Centre Market balloon drop, pop-up artists and makers, and holiday treats around downtown.
Thursday
DEC. 3
Symphony on Ice
An annual favorite that combines world-class music and skating performances.
DEC. 4 – DEC. 6
A Fairy Tale Christmas Carol at Towngate Theatre
Everyone’s favorite classic holiday tale gets the fractured fairy-tale treatment.
Saturday
DEC. 5
Handmade Holiday Winter Market
Meet local makers and artisans. Perfect for one-of-a-kind holiday shopping.
Thursday
DEC. 10
Holiday Ladies’ Night at Centre Market
Visit Centre Market for holiday Ladies Night and get your last-minute gifts – and to treat yourself to one as well! Get your girls, grab a bite to eat, and shop around while you enjoy the holiday atmosphere at the historic Centre Market.
DEC. 11 – DEC. 12
A Fairy Tale Christmas Carol at Towngate Theatre
Everyone’s favorite classic holiday tale gets the fractured fairy-tale treatment.
Saturday
DEC. 19
Wheeling Nailers
Puck Drop at 7:10 PM – Cheer on the Nailers and enjoy festive fun on and off the ice.
Find Your Perfect Holiday Plan
Not sure where to start?
Take our Holiday Experience Quiz to discover which attractions and events match your style!
Why We Celebrate Downtown
On behalf of Wheeling Heritage, thank you for celebrating and supporting your downtown community this holiday season.
Our mission is to revitalize Wheeling through historic preservation, community development, and the arts — and that starts with people like you choosing to shop, dine, and explore locally.
This season, make it a point to try a new restaurant with friends or family, visit a gallery or event you’ve never attended, and support your neighbors! These small businesses and entrepreneurs are helping to keep our city vibrant.
Together, we’re building a stronger, brighter Wheeling. Let’s make this holiday season one to remember!
Thank You to Our Partners
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