Winterfest
Families can take train rides, visit with Santa, listen to a story with Mrs. Claus, and enjoy face painting, STEM projects, and holiday crafts. The celebration features live dance and twirling performances, as well as complimentary cookies and hot chocolate. The festivities conclude with a community ceremony, the lighting of the city tree, and fireworks.
What to Expect
Outdoor holiday celebration with live performances, tree lighting, and fireworks.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown Parkersburg
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Greater Parkersburg Convention & Visitors Bureau
Food & Drink
The City of Parkersburg provides cookies and hot chocolate, and the Sips Coffee Truck is on site.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with young children
Vibe
Festive and family-friendly
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
Free
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Free admission.
- Hours: Event listing: 4:30 pm - 6:30 pm; activities: 4:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.; live performances: 4:45 p.m. - 5:45 p.m.; ceremony starts at 6:00 p.m., followed by tree lighting and fireworks.
Tips & Advice
- Dress warmly for the evening because all Winterfest activities are held outdoors at Bicentennial Park.
- Arrive during the 4:30–6 p.m. activity window to fit in children’s activities and live performances before the ceremony.
- Stay at Bicentennial Park after the ceremony to watch the tree lighting and fireworks.
- Look for the Sequel book boutique trailer if you want to browse; it will have a few items for sale.
- Take advantage of free admission, since the event is open to the public.
Special Events & Promotions
- This year, every Winterfest activity is held outdoors at Bicentennial Park.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is there for kids to do?
Kids can ride the train, visit Santa, hear a story with Mrs. Claus, get their faces painted and write letters to Santa. There is also a STEM activity from Discovery World, plus holiday crafts from First Chapter Bookstore and the Parkersburg Art Center. The West Virginia State Treasurer's Office hands out take-home activities.
Who performs?
The live show features MOV Ballet, Southern Belles, YoYo Elite Baton, PACE and the Phoenix Twirlers.
Is there food and drink?
Yes. The City of Parkersburg hands out free cookies and hot chocolate, and local food trucks come too, including the Sips Coffee Truck.
Is Winterfest indoors or outdoors?
This year, all the activities are outside at Bicentennial Park.
How does the evening end?
The Winterfest ceremony comes first, then the City's tree lighting, then fireworks you can watch from Bicentennial Park.
More Christmas Events Near Parkersburg
More Christmas Events near Parkersburg
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.