Events in Athens, OH

This Community Weekend offers a relaxed way to connect with others outside of regular events while helping with projects that support the space. Contribute five hours of volunteer work during the event to receive free camping for the weekend, plus breakfast and dinner on the day you work. A task list will be shared on the event page and typically includes general cleanup, tidying, landscaping, and event preparation. Participants with special skills or trades experience are encouraged to share that information with organizers. A work orientation meeting will take place at the Pavilion. Those who prefer to simply camp can do so for $25 per day and should bring their own food. There are no advance ticket sales. If you plan to volunteer, please mark yourself as Going on the event page so meal planning can be organized. Camping fees can be paid at Caffeina's Cafe in the Pavilion or directly to a staff member. This is the final community weekend of the year, featuring campground shutdown tasks and a holiday celebration. Bring your own water, as onsite water may be shut off.

Haunted Hampton Trick or Treat returns to the Hampton Inn with a family-focused evening of spooky fun, sweet treats, and Halloween magic. Children are encouraged to wear their favorite costumes as local businesses and community partners turn the doorways of guest rooms into festive trick or treat stations, creating a one-of-a-kind path of stops for families. Expect plenty of candy, creative seasonal decorations, and fun surprises along the way. Costumes are welcomed, and the event is designed for all ages. Local businesses and organizations help make this community tradition special year after year.

Brave a haunted house experience in Pomeroy, Ohio, making your way through the corridors of the former Pomeroy Senior High School set beside the Ohio River. This award-winning attraction unfolds in Meigs County, a place reputed to be haunted, with startling moments waiting around every turn. Expect jump scares that might have you shouting before you reach the exit.

A festive party celebrating Halloween.

Following trick or treating in the square, warm up at the Opera House with a free movie presented by The Opera House Inc Board of Directors. Guests can also learn more about the board and how Opera House Inc helps sustain the Opera House and support the community. This screening starts later than the venue’s typical showtime.

Celebrate Halloween on wheels at United Skates with a family-friendly roller skating session filled with festive Halloween fun. Admission is $12, and skate rental is $6. Each child will receive a candy bag, and a costume contest will include prizes. Costumes are encouraged so everyone can glide into the spirit of the season. Tickets can be purchased online for savings.

An annual community fall festival featuring trunk or treat, adoptable animals to meet, carnival inspired games, a trackless train, and a hot dog meal with popcorn. Games and the eating area take place beneath the new pavilion. All activities are free.

The Hut hosts a festive Halloween celebration to mark the holiday.

Halloween gets delightfully weird with a high-energy show featuring Hellnaw and Joseph & His Ghost. Happening the same night as the Athens Halloween Block Party, it is billed as a rager. The cover charge is $10.

The 4th annual Athens Bridal & Event Expo returns at a new venue, the Ohio University Inn and Conference Center in Athens, Ohio. Wedding and event professionals from the area will gather to share ideas, showcase services, and offer giveaways, creating a one-stop experience for planning celebrations of all kinds. Vendor registration is open and the portal is live, with limited space anticipated. Guest tickets will be available soon, with more information to follow.

Mary Reed will present on reviving time-sharing, a mutual aid approach in which people exchange time and skills. The focus is on bringing this movement back into practice. The previously used meeting spot, Big Run Kava Bar, has been sold and will close before the meeting, so a new location is being arranged.

An evening crafted for musical entertainers to network, collaborate, and build meaningful connections in a relaxed, upbeat setting. This gathering is designed to be more than a typical meetup, with an emphasis on cross collaboration so participants leave with a wider circle of creative partners. Bring your music, website details, business cards, and promotional materials to share. Lite bites will be available, and drinks will be offered for purchase.

This beginner-friendly line dance class teaches three routines and welcomes everyone. Every attendee receives a new cowboy hat to take home. Registration is handled through an app, and space is limited.

Wee Be Jammin’ offers a fall and winter story time at the South Parkersburg Library for children from birth to age 3. Separate sessions are offered for children under 2 and for children ages 2 to 3. This session features The Busy Little Squirrel by Nancy Tafuri.

Brews & Books Bookclub gathers for a relaxed session focused on conversation, connection and coffee. Attendees are invited to bring the title of a favorite book to toss into the hat for the next club selection, and to come prepared to discuss Hallowe'en Party by Agatha Christie. Bring one question you would enjoy exploring, whether it centers on themes, characters or bold theories. All club members who attend will be entered into a door prize drawing courtesy of Chelsea. Snacks will be provided by Amanda.

At the Pomeroy Library, this calm coffee-and-coloring hour centers on adult coloring. Guests can sip coffee, chat with others, and unwind using coloring books and colored pencils supplied by the library. Personal supplies are welcome too. It offers an easygoing setting to attend with a friend or to meet someone new. Everyone is welcome.

Shop with purpose at a vendor market centered on gifts that give back. Browse items from vendors at The Poston Manor & Event Barn.

Court Grill hosts a Mardi Gras themed birthday celebration for Morgan Hudson with Chris O’Leary. This gathering highlights Morgan’s birthday with a nod to the Mardi Gras theme.

This birthday celebration for Morgan Hudson features live music from Chris O’Leary.

Glouster Masonic Lodge's monthly all-you-can-eat breakfast features sausage links, pancakes, scrambled eggs, and homemade sausage gravy with biscuits, plus orange juice, milk, and coffee. A donation of $8 is requested.

At Corning Eagles, this fundraiser supports the Falcons Athletic Legacy League with a full day of activities built around an ATV and Jeep ride, live music by Bristol Blue, food, raffles, and a 50/50 drawing. Riders can register, head out on the route, then return to enjoy the concert. Admission is $15 for riders, which includes the ride, food, and the concert, or $10 for non-riders, which includes food and the concert. Drink tickets are $2. Proceeds help create opportunities for youth athletes in the community.

Experience an afternoon of cash bingo at WVU Parkersburg in the multi-purpose room. Play 20 games for $20, with raffles, a 50/50, and pull tabs available. Concessions will be on sale. Online tickets are available. Participants must be 18 or older to play bingo.

A fundraiser paired with a tailgate takes over Jackie O’s Taproom, offering food, drinks, and a place to watch football. The beer mile relay returns ahead of the festivities. More details will be announced.

Step into a medieval themed whodunit at Grand Pointe Conference Center with Game of Loans, a mystery dinner fundraiser benefiting Consumer Credit Counseling Service of the Mid-Ohio Valley. Enjoy an evening of intrigue, a full meal, live music, and themed entertainment while supporting financial literacy programs and services in the community. Guests are encouraged to wear medieval attire such as royalty, knights, nobles, jesters, or villagers for a chance to win the costume prize. As the plot unfolds, participants will gather clues, consider motives, and submit their best solution for a shot at the mystery guess prize. Dinner is included, a cash bar will be available, and the night also features a silent auction and games.

Enjoy a catered dinner with Owen Schmitt, known as the Runaway Beer Truck. The former West Virginia Mountaineer fullback went on to play five seasons in the NFL, serving as a fullback for the Seattle Seahawks and the Philadelphia Eagles, and also taking snaps at running back with the Raiders. He is also the author of The Little Full Back That Could. The meal will be provided by I Don't Care Eatery & Spirits, and a cash bar will be available. An online silent auction accompanies the event. Bidding will close and winners will be announced. Terms and details are subject to change. This fundraiser supports Parkesburg Homecoming, Inc., helping cover expenses for its annual family friendly festival with free admission.

A Very Merry Maker's Market brings together local makers, artisans, curators, and boutique owners for a festive holiday shopping experience filled with small business charm and plenty of seasonal spirit. Browse offerings from more than 100 handmade vendors, enjoy fresh hot coffee and cocoa, explore Christmas-themed photo opportunities, and keep little ones busy with kid-friendly activities. Tasty food will be available, and a permanent jewelry bar adds an extra sparkle to the day. The market takes place inside the Jack Stephen’s Gym + Field House at Parkersburg High School, with event entry at the Jack Stephen’s gym on the left side of the school by the stadium. Follow the signs outside to find the entrance. Early bird shopping is offered with a limited number of tickets that include specials like discounts, freebies, and exclusive goodie bags. General admission tickets can be purchased upon arrival for $5, and entry is free for ages 16 and under.

An opportunity for past and present military families and friends to honor veterans and pay tribute to the sacrifices made for our freedoms. A dinner will be provided afterward.

Experience ASL activities that celebrate Deaf culture along with games, snacks, and more. The event is open to all ages and all levels of signing experience.

Broadway star Mandy Gonzalez appears at Templeton-Blackburn Alumni Memorial Auditorium alongside the Ohio University Choirs. Her acclaimed career includes originating Nina Rosario in Lin-Manuel Miranda’s In the Heights, a role that earned her a Drama Desk Award. She has also taken on Angelica Schuyler in Hamilton and Elphaba in Wicked, and most recently completed an eight-month stretch of weekly guest performances as Norma Desmond in the Tony Award winning Broadway revival of Sunset Boulevard.

Miss Meghan leads a LEGO Engineers session at Sylvester Memorial Wellston Public Library for ages 12 to 19. All LEGO bricks are provided, and participants tackle a themed build with the topic revealed right before they start. Builds will be judged, and honorable mentions along with the top entry will be displayed on the bookshelf near Miss Meghan’s desk in the children’s room. First, second, and third place receive prizes at the next LEGO Engineers, and winners must be present to claim them. Registration is not required.

Designed for people who lift, this heated 60-minute active recovery class helps you move well and feel prepared for your next workout. Expect practical mobility work that targets the joints that take the most load in training. You will ease tight, overworked areas with massage balls and foam rollers, guide each joint through slow, controlled rotations to explore and improve your range of motion, then reinforce those gains with strength work at your end ranges. It is purposeful recovery that keeps you moving on rest days, supports circulation, and avoids adding extra fatigue. This session is offered as a bonus opportunity to try Mobility Lab ahead of an upcoming four-week series.

An annual fall consignment auction offers a varied selection of wood items, agricultural equipment, tools, antique pieces, baked treats, and additional finds. This is the last consignment auction of the season, providing a final chance to bid.

Santa marks his arrival at Grand Central Mall with a full day of holiday fun. Families can begin with a special Breakfast with Mrs. Claus that features seasonal treats, playful activities, and chances for keepsake photos. A Nutcracker ballet performance brings the beloved story to life through music and dance. Marching bands from the community add festive energy with sounds of the season throughout the mall. The day also includes the Red Kettle Kickoff, signaling the start of the holiday giving season and highlighting community support. Expect a celebration filled with classic traditions, lively entertainment, and plenty of holiday spirit.

Messy STEAM Day invites curious minds to the Museum for a playful experience that celebrates learning through a little untidiness. The focus is on discovery and fun, with an easygoing atmosphere where making a mess is part of the process. Cleanup is taken care of afterward so participants can explore freely.

Explore the storied grounds of the Athens Asylum on an outdoor walking tour led by George Eberts, a longtime staff member and local expert. Along the route, hear about patient care across the institution’s 150-year history, enriched with personal recollections, engaging stories, and stops at lesser known sites around the property. Discover the Kirkbride building and other structures, the carefully designed landscape, historic cemeteries, and how approaches to mental health treatment changed from the asylum’s early days to its closure about a quarter century ago. The tour lasts roughly two hours. Due to Ohio University restrictions, interior access is limited, though the main entryway and the Kennedy Museum are included. The meeting point is the front entrance of the Kennedy Museum of Art. Parking in the dark green lots is free on weekends if parked in valid, non-metered, non-restricted spaces near the museum entrance. Availability is not guaranteed and spaces often fill first during large events, so early arrival is advised. This is a fully outdoor experience that covers the complete loop of the grounds, so plan for the weather and distance. Families with small children may want to bring a stroller. Preregistration is required. Tickets are $10 for students, $15 for Southeast Ohio History Center members, $20 for general admission, and free for children 12 and under. Tickets can also be purchased in person at the History Center. If online booking is unavailable, it may be past the cutoff or the group may be at capacity. Refunds are offered only for prepaid requests made at least 48 hours in advance, for inclement weather at the discretion of the Southeast Ohio History Center, or during a Level 2 or higher snow emergency.

Demolition derby action comes to Midway Speedway in Crooksville with hard hits and smashups on the track. General admission is 10 dollars, pit passes are 20 dollars, and children five and under are admitted free. Driver entry is 40 dollars, and Power Wheels entry is 5 dollars. Classes include Power Wheels, Bone Stock Mowers, Pro-Stock Mowers, Lawn Stock Mowers, Youth FWD Compacts, Stock FWD Compacts, Mild Weld Compacts, Stock V8, Mild Weld V8, and compact SUV and truck divisions. Pit rules include no alcohol, a waiver and armband required for entry, and officers on site. For questions, contact Dusty Dady at 740-868-7370.

Enjoy live performances by local musicians.

Katie and the RED HOTS return to Hunter Street Saloon in Logan, Ohio with a set of rock and dance favorites from the 70s, 80s, and 90s. The night centers on familiar songs that keep the dance floor moving. Cold drinks and a Hocking Hills backdrop round out the experience.

A gripping portrayal of the clash between the virtues known as the Fruits of the Spirit and the vices called the Seven Deadly Sins. At its heart is an inner struggle for one soul, framed by a single, pivotal question.

Miracle League of the Mid-Ohio Valley's board of directors convenes for its regular monthly meeting to share updates and advance plans for a full-time league with a dedicated field in the area. This open meeting takes place in the downstairs board room at the Parkersburg & Wood County Public Library.

A monthly after-school art club offers an open-studio setting for young artists throughout the school year. Each session is $25 per student, with an option to purchase a nine-class bundle that includes one class free. Participants can follow their own ideas with the supplies provided, choose a project from a binder of creative prompts, or bring an in-progress piece from home to continue using the studio’s materials. Available supplies include acrylic and watercolor paints, fabric paint, brushes, markers, colored pencils, crayons, assorted papers, glues and tapes, cardboard, craft sticks, straws, pipe cleaners, pom poms, beads, string, twine, ribbon, scissors, hot glue guns, clay, recycled items, magazines, decoupage glue, stencils, canvas, and balloons. Some materials are limited to one per class. The club emphasizes creative exploration, problem solving, and building confidence one project at a time.

This monthly distribution provides services to registered families. A photo ID and proof of Hocking County residence are required. Registration can be completed while in the distribution line. Plan to be in line before the line closes. If a distribution is missed, plan to return on the next scheduled date. Scheduling details are posted on the marquee at the front of the facility.

Hosted by the Wood County Prevention Coalition, this free community bowling event at Pike Street Lanes centers on striking out drugs with a focus on youth and student-aged participants. Attendees can enjoy complimentary bowling, pizza, drinks, and T-shirts while supplies last. Prizes will be awarded to the highest scoring elementary, middle, and high school bowlers. Each lane accommodates four to six bowlers, with a limit of two adults per lane. Registration is required for all participants and guests, including bowlers and non-bowlers, and online registration is requested. A QR code for registration is available on the event flyer.

The event offers an evening of dinner and dancing, with proceeds supporting children in Fairfield and Perry Counties. Admission is $50 per person, and a reserved table is $600. Semi formal attire is requested, and Trotters Catering will provide the meal. Activities include cash games, live auctions, and a 50/50 raffle.

Reed Masterson returns to the stage with Theatrical Deceptions after seven months performing at sea for more than 60,000 guests and headlining Momentous, one of the largest illusion productions ever created aboard a ship. This fully staged experience blends large-scale illusions, daring escapes, comedy, and interactive moments with the crowd, all presented through his contemporary style of magic and crafted for the theater. Nearly two decades of touring, from historic theaters and performing arts centers across the country to some of the biggest stages at sea, shape this latest evolution of the show that launched his journey. Expect spectacle, mystery, laughs, and moments that feel impossible, designed to be experienced live at Twin City Opera House in McConnelsville.

Fall Fika at the South Parkersburg Library is an adult program centered on a relaxed mid-day coffee break with friends. Tea is available as well. It especially appeals to fans of the library’s Hygge Club. No registration is required.

Wee Be Jammin’ Story Time at the South Parkersburg Library is designed for children from birth to age 3. This session features "A Bear, a Fish, and a Fishy Wish" by Daniel Bernstrom. Separate story times are available for little ones under 2 and for children ages 2 to 3.

Enjoy Thanksgiving at Glenlaurel, A Scottish Inn & Cottages, with a relaxed four-course lunch or a refined six-course dinner. Smaller parties are welcome, and guests ages twelve and older may attend. The holiday meal is intended as a shared gathering open to all. Pricing is $59 per person for the four-course lunch and $85 per person for the six-course dinner.

Davey brings a solo set of acoustic music to Bremen, with food and chilled beverages available alongside the performance.

Small Business Saturday in downtown Parkersburg offers a full day of shopping, dining, and activities while supporting the local businesses that call this area home. Explore distinctive finds, enjoy bites and fun experiences, and look for specials and promotions happening throughout the day.

Neighbors, families, and visitors gather in Hamden for a festive celebration that highlights traditions, friendships, and small-town charm. Enjoy nostalgic horse-drawn wagon rides while taking in the decorated streets. Children can meet Santa Nick, share their wishes, and pose for photos that become treasured keepsakes. Local and regional artisans showcase handmade gifts, ornaments, and holiday décor, offering a chance to support makers while finding special presents. Food trucks serve seasonal treats and easy meal options so there is time to explore everything happening throughout the day. Fresh Christmas trees are available to take home, adding a meaningful tradition to the experience. Whether the goal is shopping, entertainment, a visit with Santa, or simply soaking in the welcoming atmosphere, this celebration aims to create lasting memories and highlight the community’s pride and hospitality.

Celebrate the season with a six-course Dickens Dinner that pairs a thoughtfully crafted culinary journey with live readings from A Christmas Carol. Actor Seth Argabright brings Charles Dickens’ classic to life between courses, creating an evening that blends nostalgic storytelling with gourmet flavors. The experience is priced at $99 per person. Attendees also receive a 25 percent lodging discount for the night of the event, with no other discounts or promotions applicable.

At the South Parkersburg Library, the Small Fry Tales story time welcomes children ages 4 to 5 for a reading of The Snowy Nap by Jan Brett. The session is designed for preschoolers and focuses on sharing the story together.

A community effort is gathering Christmas decorations to illuminate Lake Alma with festive lights on weekends leading up to Christmas. Plans may change depending on interest, available volunteer help, and the number of decorations on hand.

Downtown comes alive for a festive celebration of the season at Winterfest. This free, family-friendly gathering welcomes everyone to enjoy music, live performances, museum tours, a visit with Santa, train rides, and a variety of kid-friendly activities, all outdoors at Bicentennial Park. The evening culminates with an official ceremony, the City’s tree lighting, and a fireworks finale lighting up the sky. Support is provided by title sponsor WVU Medicine Camden Clark, with activity sponsors Grogg's Home Services, United Bank, and West Virginia Federal Credit Union.

Celebrate the season with a festive concert by Dallas Brass at Templeton-Blackburn Alumni Memorial Auditorium. The ensemble brings the holidays to life through the rich sound of brass, long associated with joyful occasions, presenting beloved carols and winter favorites alongside its signature range of styles. Expect familiar tunes such as Deck the Halls, Carol of the Bells, Sleigh Ride, The Christmas Song, Frosty the Snowman, and selections from The Nutcracker Suite, with more seasonal pieces rounding out the program. Recognized as one of America’s leading brass ensembles, Dallas Brass blends traditional brass instruments with a full array of drums and percussion to create performances that appeal to all ages. Their concerts span classical masterpieces, Broadway, Hollywood, and American music, and over more than four decades they have appeared at venues like Carnegie Hall and the Kennedy Center, performed on the CBS Early Show, and toured widely across the United States and internationally. Committed to education, they frequently collaborate with local high school musicians, and their current offerings include American Musical Journey and A Merry Christmas with Brass. The group has earned praise from The Washington Post. Ticket access follows a phased rollout, beginning with subscription renewals, then new subscriptions, followed by single tickets.

Enjoy ASL activities, explore Deaf culture, and take part in games, with snacks on hand. This friendly get-together welcomes people of every age and any skill level.

Celebrate the season with a six-course dinner paired with live readings from Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, performed by Seth Argabright. Priced at $99 per person, this culinary experience blends festive flavors with storytelling for a nostalgic, literature-inspired evening. Attendees also receive a 25 percent discount on lodging for the same night, and this offer cannot be combined with other discounts or promotions.

Unified Bank teams up with OhioMeansJobs Athens County to offer a quarterly financial literacy series designed to help you manage your money with confidence. Sessions cover the benefits of having a bank account, core banking basics, how credit works, and ways to spot and avoid scams. You can attend any number of sessions, from a single class to the full series, it is your choice. Registration is requested.

The final Saturday at the CPA brings a holiday auction alongside weekend offerings of fresh produce and livestock. Shoppers can explore handcrafted wood pieces and festive gift items, with livestock sales included as part of the day. It is an opportunity to find locally sourced goods and holiday-ready presents while supporting area producers.

A free full body strength workout led by Liz welcomes all fitness levels. During the session, children can decorate cookies and make reindeer food. A one day membership special offers 50 percent off new memberships for six months.

North Star Night Out 2026 will be held at the Parkersburg Art Center as a fundraising gala supporting the mission of helping and healing abused children in the local community. The celebration includes an after-party featuring Cleveland Keys Dueling Pianos. Attendees can dress up a little for an evening that combines meaningful support with lively entertainment.

Celebrate an ugly sweater theme with music from the Poverty String Band Trio. Bring out your most over the top sweater and enjoy good tunes.

Shake off the winter chill with an evening of rock this December. A lively option for anyone looking for something fun to do when it is cold outside.

The annual Winter Solstice gathering features a shared potluck in the Pavilion and an evening fire at Heart Hearth. Attendees should bring a dish to share and their own drinking water, as the campground water will be turned off. Experienced winter campers may bring a four-season tent. If it snows, park at the Shower House up top and walk down. Please take all trash and recyclables with you when you leave. RSVP so organizers can gauge attendance.

Logan Moose Lodge welcomes the Travis Brown Band for a high-energy night that blends classic rock anthems, timeless country hits, and rock 'n' roll soul. The set is built for singing along, with dynamic performances, crowd favorites, and a nostalgic feel throughout. Food and drinks are available from the lodge, creating an easygoing setting for fans of rock and country to enjoy a lively night with friends.

Plan a New Year’s Eve escape that welcomes 2027 in a calm, refined setting. Wear your kilt or add a touch of sparkle and savor thoughtfully crafted cuisine, away from the hustle of large crowds. This immersive two-day celebration aims to delight the senses, captivate the eyes, and set the tone for a memorable New Year’s Eve. Pricing for the two-day package varies and certain restrictions apply. For details, please call.

Celebrate New Year's Eve with AMIX bringing high energy live classic rock and roll to The Athens American Legion Post 21 in Athens, Ohio. Enjoy a festive night of music to welcome the new year.

Rhonda Vincent and The Rage return to the historic stage at Stuart’s Opera House for a bluegrass performance. Seating is available in box sections for $48, on the floor and in ADA areas for $40, and in the balcony for $35. Service fees are additional, and prices increase by $5 when purchased at the door. A member presale will be offered, followed by a general on-sale. Raised in Greentop, Missouri, Rhonda Vincent comes from a long line of family musicians and began performing as a child with The Sally Mountain Show. An early appearance at Silver Dollar City led to a Grand Ole Opry invitation for her family, and her path continued with guidance from Nashville professionals after being discovered by Jim Ed Brown. Her album Back Home Again marked a key return to bluegrass, and the Wall Street Journal later recognized her as the New Queen of Bluegrass. Honors include a Grammy Award for Best Bluegrass Album, Entertainer of the Year and Song of the Year accolades, and a notable streak of International Bluegrass Music Association Female Vocalist of the Year wins. She is a member of the Grand Ole Opry, and her range includes collaborations such as a contribution with Dolly Parton to the Elton John and Bernie Taupin tribute collection Restoration.