The soldiers who endured the cold and snow at Fort Steuben back in 1786-87 could never imagine the kind of activity that would be held on these grounds over 230 years later. What would they have thought of the lights, the music, the decorations, and enthusiasm that are Christmas at the Fort today!
But we are thankful that with the help of so many in the community we have been able to create an event that brings so much joy – and is a major source of funding to maintain the Fort and support the many historical, educational, and cultural programs offered here.
As it is the tenth year for Christmas at the Fort, we are marking the occasion by enhancing the many attractions, photo opportunities, displays, and entertainment. From Friday, November 29 to Sunday, December 29, Fort Steuben Park will be a wonderland of lights and music, smiles and laughter.
The Holiday Market will run every weekend, on Fridays and Saturdays from 3pm to 8pm and on Sundays from 1pm to 6pm. Depending on weather and scheduling, some of the vendors will open additional days and hours. There are over 20 vendors offering locally made crafts, gifts, food, and beverages. Not only will you meet remarkable crafters, but you might be able to get a candy cane from St. Nicholas as he strolls the grounds. Movies, puppet shows, and rides on the Holly Trolley throughout the downtown will also be happening.
The Visitor Center will be open daily with a curated collection of gifts and books in the Christmas Shoppe and a display and sales of original work by the Steubenville Art Association.
With the technical assistance of the students at Steubenville High School, we have added new lighting and projection displays in addition to the Singing Trees in Fort Steuben Park. Watch for the many photo opportunities with cut-out figures in the Kids Zone (Land Office Park) and the beautiful sleigh and reindeer. Speaking of reindeer, Santa himself will welcome guests from 10am to 2pm on Saturdays in the 1801 Land Office.
Special entertainment will be presented in the Berkman Amphitheater on Saturday, November 30, when the popular Pittsburgh band Jeff Jimerson and Airborne will be performing their Christmas Show at 5pm followed by the George Kokus and K Band.
Additional entertainment will be offered each weekend at the Christmas Tree Plaza as well as in the Christmas Pavilion – a 30’x60’ heated tent – located on the grounds beside the Visitor Center. Among the many performers will be Mark Eddie and Dueling Guitars, Déjà Vu Band, the Traveling Witkowskis, and the Wheeling Symphony On the Go Brass Quintet.
Check the Holiday Schedule to see all the performers, dates, and times. And be sure to thank all our Major Sponsors listed in the program for this joyful family-friendly event.
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