Christmas at the Fort

Historic Fort Steuben invites friends and families to make holiday memories - and learn a little history, too - at our annual event that runs from Nov. 24 to Dec. 30.

Fort Steuben Park is transformed into a Christmas Wonderland with lights, music, and singing Christmas trees 24/7. But the holiday spirit really thrives on the weekends!

Every Friday-Sunday after Thanksgiving, two model trains chug around the 32' Christmas Tree while over a dozen artisans sell their wares out of decorated "chalets." Stroll under the canopy of colorful lights and admire some of the famous Steubenville Nutcrackers. St. Nicholas will greet you with a candy cane and a blessing. Photo opportunities abound throughout the park. Food vendors will offer hot chocolate, cider, and flavored coffee, popcorn, hot dogs, and special treats.

Head into the Fort Steuben Visitor Center where the Steubenville Art Association has their original art for sale. There is a table for writing letters to Santa and a miniature village and train on display. The Christmas Shoppe carries the Fort's excellent stock of history books as well as old-fashioned toys, games, crafts, gifts, and holiday decor as well as the Fort's collectible 2023 Nutcracker. You can purchase a raffle ticket for a stunning nutcracker themed quilt made by a local artisan. History lovers will appreciate the displays on the Lewis and Clark expedition and Native American culture.

For a modest fee of $3, visitors can tour the reconstructed Fort where the lanterns and campfires recreate 18th century life.

On Fridays there are movies in the Christmas Tree Plaza; on Saturdays there is live entertainment. The Holly Trolley takes riders around the downtown ($5) on Saturday and Sunday afternoons and there are puppet shows on two weekends.

There are other events throughout the downtown presented by the Steubenville Nutcracker Village including a Children's Corner, hayrides, a display of international Nativity Sets, a Gluhwein Garden and more.

For frequently updated information on all the activities see our Facebook Page!