A Meaningful Gift Just in Time for the Holidays
The holiday season is in full-swing and many of us are searching for gifts that feel thoughtful, memorable, and a little more personal than what we can toss into a shopping cart. Experience-based gifts are at the top of everyone’s wish list this year, and Wheeling Heritage’s beloved Paint Your Pet workshop offers the best of both worlds: a fun, creative outing and a custom pet portrait you get to take home.
Perfect for pet lovers, craft enthusiasts, or the person who already has everything, this year’s event expands beyond pups to include all pets—furry, feathered, or scaly.
Paint Your Pet returns Saturday, January 10, 2026, at the Wheeling Artisan Center, with two sessions available:
Each session is limited to 30 participants.
What to Expect at Paint Your Pet
Registration is simple: upload your favorite photo of your pet when you sign up. Before the event, your pet’s portrait will be pre-sketched onto a 16×20 canvas, ready for you to bring to life.
A professional artist will guide participants step-by-step through the painting process—no experience necessary and all materials included. It’s equal parts creative workshop, pet celebration, and keepsake-making.
Past participant Elizabeth Henry gave the event rave reviews:
“I absolutely loved this event! I actually did both sessions last year. We had a group of talented artists as amazing instructors who made the process so easy. All three of our doggos are now proudly framed in our foyer, and I love seeing them daily. If you’re looking for a fun time out and a gorgeous painting of your fur baby, sign up for this. You will not be disappointed.”
This year, Wheeling Heritage is excited to broaden the event’s scope.
“Dog lovers are obviously still welcome, but we’re eager to see all kinds of pets represented,” said Riley Carpenter, Director of Programming. “Don’t wait to reserve a seat for you or a friend—this event will be sold out before you know it!”
Registration is $75 per portrait and available at: https://wheelingheritage.org/
Stop by Handmade Holiday to Learn More
If you’re attending Handmade Holiday at the Wheeling Artisan Center tomorrow, Saturday, December 6, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., be sure to stop by the table located on the third floor. Ellen, our lead volunteer for FidoFest, will have a Paint Your Pet information table!
- Details on how the event works
- A direct registration link
- Answers to your questions
It’s a great chance to grab a perfect last-minute gift or secure your own spot before the sessions fill.
Looking Ahead: FidoFest Vendor Applications Open January 14
Wheeling’s beloved dog-centered festival FidoFest returns Saturday, May 16, 2026, at Garden Park in Warwood. Vendor applications open January 14 and will remain open through February 11.
If you create products for dogs—or can tailor your goods for dog lovers—this is the time to get involved! Keep an eye on Wheeling Heritage’s social media pages for updates and application links.
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