The Southeast Tourism Society (STS) has selected “Mansion by Candlelight” as a Top 20 event to attend in the month of October. This year the event is scheduled for Oct. 10 and 11 at Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park in Parkersburg.
Organized by Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park with support by The Friends of Blennerhassett and the Blennerhassett Historic Foundation, the two evenings convert the island to an 1805 grand party and venue using only candles to provide light.
To be considered for this recognition, a nominated event must have at least 1,000 in attendance and have occurred for three or more years. The Top 20 events are considered the best of the best in events. Mansion by Candlelight was nominated by the Greater Parkersburg Convention & Visitors Bureau.
STS is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the promotion and development of tourism throughout the Southeast. Founded in 1983, member states include Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia, West Virginia and Arkansas. The primary areas of interest for the society are professional development, networking, advocacy and recognition programs.
STS developed the Top 20 program to recognize successful festivals and special events across the Southeast. Independent judges evaluate nominations to identify 20 events across the region each month. Selection as an STS Top 20 event is a validation of an event’s quality and a distinction that events use effectively in their marketing and publicity. STS Top 20 Events are published on the organization’s website at www.southeasttourism.org.
To discover events in Parkersburg, West Virginia, visit www.greaterparkersburg.com or email mlewis@parkersburgcvb.org. The Greater Parkersburg Convention and Visitors Bureau generates an electronic newsletter to promote events via email, produces a visitor’s guide in an online or print version, and lists places to stay.
To learn more about Blennerhassett Island, events and activities on the island, Blennerhassett Mansion, Maple Shade 18th century house, and the Blennerhassett Museum of Regional History, visit www.blennerhassettislandstatepark.com or call 304-420-4800.
About Mansion by Candlelight
For two nights, Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park takes on a new look when hundreds of candles light the way from the sternwheeler landing to the mansion and other activities on the park. Sternwheeler rides will transport visitors back to the year 1805 where the Blennerhassetts are hosting a party on the island. On this autumn evening, electricity is banished when the mansion and the island are transformed into a flame-lit world of the 19th century. Reservations are required for this event which is scheduled for Oct. 10 and 11, 2014.
The ticket includes the round-trip sternwheeler ride on the Island Belle, a Blennerhassett mansion tour and visit, the horse-drawn wagon ride, and the servants’ party. A harvest /picnic supper also is available along with other evening activities. Reservations are required and ticket purchases may be made by calling Blennerhassett Island State Park office at 304-420-4800. Visit www.blennerhassettislandstatepark.com to learn more and to find other planned events and hours of operation.
