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Experience Christmas in Almost Heaven
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
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 .
Photo by Oglebay .
Photo by Wilkerson Christmas Tree Farm .
Wilkerson Christmas Tree Farm
Griffithsville – November 28 – December 24 , 2023 agriculture . wv . gov
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 .
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