By Arianna Whitehair
It’s almost the most wonderful time of the year again, and we’re feeling thankful to be spending it in Almost Heaven. While our state is a sight to behold any time of year, the magic that accompanies the Christmas season adds a little extra sparkle and cheer to an already beautiful place. Whether you like to spend it drinking hot cocoa while watching the snow fall outside your window, checking out dazzling light displays with family and friends or finding the perfect Christmas tree to take home and adorn with ornaments, we can all agree that Christmas in the Mountain State is something special. Below is a list of five fun, family-oriented events that are sure to warm your heart on even the coldest winter nights.
Oglebay Festival of Lights
Wheeling – November 9, 2023 – January 8, 2024
oglebay.com
Photo by Oglebay.
One of the best light shows in the Mountain State, visitors can immerse themselves in the Christmas spirit at the stunning 2,000-acre Oglebay resort in Wheeling. This spectacular festival began in 1985 and has grown to be one of the largest light shows in the entire country, bringing in millions of visitors from all around. Featuring over 100 lighted attractions, this is sure to be an unforgettable experience for the whole family. Visitors can drive through the resort to witness this awe-inspiring show every night from dusk to midnight, with a suggested donation fee of $30. Both cash and card are accepted.
Wilkerson Christmas Tree Farm
Griffithsville – November 28 – December 24, 2023
agriculture.wv.gov
Photo by Wilkerson Christmas Tree Farm.
A family custom-turned-tradition, the Wilkerson Christmas Tree Farm has been helping families take home the perfect tree since 1971. Having inherited his father’s farmland after he passed away in December of 1960, Larry Wilkerson used his biological science degree from Marshall University and established a business that cultivates not just trees, but cherished memories as well. With Wilkerson
having passed away in July of 2021, the tradition is currently being kept alive by his son-in-law, Jeff Harper, and grandson, Landin. Located just off Route 5 on Sam’s Branch Road in Griffithsville, guests can choose from an astounding 15,000-18,000 trees on approximately 75 acres of land. To really get everyone into the Christmas spirit, the farm also includes a pop-up store where guests can shop for ornaments, wreaths and other Christmas decorations. The Wilkerson Christmas Tree Farm markets this annual choose-and-cut tree picking event as a true family experience—run by one family in hopes of bringing a little holiday cheer to hundreds of other families—and it is certainly one you won’t want to miss out on.
Christmas at The Greenbrier
White Sulphur Springs – Late November 2023 – Early January 2024
greenbrier.com
Photo by The Greenbrier.
World-renowned luxury resort, The Greenbrier, nestled in the breathtaking Allegheny Mountains in White Sulphur Springs, turns itself into a Christmas lover’s paradise once a year for guests to enjoy. Like something right out of a Hallmark Christmas movie, America’s Resort is adorned with hundreds of lights, garland and wrapped packages. As if this wasn’t enough, dozens of unique, photo-worthy Christmas trees are on display in every room of the resort. Guests can also take part in festive events like Christmas cookie decorating workshops, a winter wonderland dinner party, photos with Santa and a showing of “The Nutcracker” ballet. Both guests and walk-in visitors can experience the annual Christmas tree lighting on the front lawn every Saturday in December while listening to carolers and enjoying free cookies and hot cocoa. The resort also offers horse and carriage rides, an ice-skating rink and ample shopping opportunities. Oozing with timeless beauty and southern charm, The Greenbrier is the picture-perfect place to ring in the holiday season.
Harpers Ferry Old Thyme Christmas Festival
Harpers Ferry – December 1-3, 9-10, 2023
experienceharpersferry.com
Photo by Harpers Ferry – Bolivar Merchants Association.
Dreaming of an old-fashioned Christmas experience? Head over to Harpers Ferry for a memorable event that takes you back in time to a whimsical small-town Christmas complete with yule logs, Christmas carolers and townspeople donning 19th century attire. Explore the historic towns of Bolivar and Harpers Ferry either on foot or by horse and wagon, and see for yourself why people flock here yearly to enjoy shopping, Christmas tree lightings and festive dining against the nostalgic backdrop of simpler times.
Christmas at Cass
Cass – December 1-17, 2023
mountainrailwv.com
Photo by Cass Scenic Railroad.
Lovers of the Christmas classic, “The Polar Express” will delight in the 75-90-minute steam-powered adventure of Christmas at Cass. Departing the Cass Depot and winding its way down the beautiful Greenbrier River, guests are given the chance to experience the picturesque town of Cass like never before. With beautifully decorated and heated coaches, this journey is sure to make anyone believe in the magic of the holiday season. Head over to the website and reserve your seats soon, as tickets for this event sell out quickly. Kids under the age of 3 ride for free.
