Wheeling Kicks Off Holiday Season with Winter on the Plaza
WHEELING, W.VA. – Jolly old St. Nick will make his way to Winter on the Plaza, the City’s annual holiday tree lighting ceremony and kickoff to the winter season, on Wednesday, Nov. 19. The celebration will take place from 5:30–7 p.m. at the Plaza on Market, 1053 Market Street.
In addition to Santa’s appearance, the new holiday tree, sponsored by Duplaga’s Top Notch Landscaping and Supply, will be lit in preparation for the 40th annual Fantasy in Lights parade taking place later in the week. The new holiday tree will be adorned with handcrafted ornaments by the children of the Ohio Valley. The evening will also feature festive music, local vendors and free activities for kids. The extended weather forecast is predicting a 100 percent chance of snow for the event.
Those participating include the Junior League of Wheeling, Letters to Santa; Wheeling Nailers, autographs and candy canes; Tripp’s Fun Zone, bouncy slide; and Wheeling Arts & Cultural Commission, Christmas craft. Glow Zone will be selling fidget spinners while So Nuts for Donuts, and Northern Belles will have some of your favorite food and drinks available for purchase. Robert & Libby Strong from the SMART Center will also be on hand with a telescope looking at the moon and the rings of Saturn. With any luck, perhaps Santa will be spotted making his way to Wheeling.
Festivities begin at 5:30 p.m. Mayor Denny Magruder will welcome attendees at 6:15 p.m., followed by Santa’s grand entrance with the assistance of the Wheeling Fire Department and the official lighting of the tree. Children will also have the chance to share their holiday wishes with Santa before he returns to the North Pole.
The event will wrap up around 7 p.m. Those interested in participating as a vendor, free of charge, may call 304-234-6432 for more information.
