WHEELING, W.Va. — The Upper Ohio Valley Italian Heritage Festival will return to Wheeling Heritage Port July 24-26, bringing three days of Italian food, live entertainment, cultural activities and family-friendly attractions to the riverfront.
Now entering its 43rd year, the festival has been a summertime tradition in Wheeling since 1983. Founded by local Italian-American community leaders, it has grown into one of the nation’s largest celebrations of Italian heritage, drawing thousands of visitors to the Ohio Valley each year.
Organized by Undo’s Upper Ohio Valley Italian Heritage Festival, the annual event celebrates Italian culture and traditions while showcasing local entertainment, food vendors and community organizations.
Festivalgoers can enjoy a variety of activities throughout the weekend, including live music, dance performances, inflatables, wine tasting, fireworks and cultural exhibits.
Headlining this year’s entertainment lineup are Ray Massa’s Eurorhythms, Bayou Blue and Silver Springs – A Fleetwood Mac Experience.
Additional performances throughout the weekend will feature Bellaire Mayor Robert “Moose” Dodrill, Shawn McClurg’s Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra tribute show, Mikey Dee, Faire May, the Folkloric Dance Ensemble and the TIO Dance Academy.
The festival is open to the public and will take place at Wheeling Heritage Port. Organizers say the event remains one of the Ohio Valley’s premier cultural celebrations, bringing together residents and visitors from across the region.
More information, including a complete entertainment schedule, is available through the festival’s organizers.
