Family events in Mid-Ohio Valley, WV

Hosted by the Wood County Prevention Coalition, this free nature scavenger hunt marks its fourth year at McDonough Wildlife Refuge. Groups can choose a short or long trail, and children receive a medal when they complete their route. Every attendee must register individually. Pre-registration is encouraged, but paper forms will be available on site, and participants should check in at the registration table upon arrival for directions. If registering multiple people, additional responses can be submitted one after another. There is no limit to how many individuals one person may register, and each person must be registered, including adults. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to accompany children, though it is not required because WCPC guides will be on the trails to help. Local agencies will be present with information, small giveaways, and activities for kids. Door prizes will be awarded frequently, so check with the DP table to see if you have won. Event photography is planned; those with safety concerns can request a special nametag at registration to opt out. Sack lunches and water will be provided to all attendees.

A Summer 2026 installment of Small Fry Tales is scheduled at the South Parkersburg Library.

Historic downtown Marietta comes alive for First Friday with shops staying open later, creative showcases by local artists and musicians, participation from community organizations, and an array of happenings throughout town. With support from Artsbridge and others, Kid Central sets up on the Armory lawn and offers fun activities for children, adding a family-friendly centerpiece to the evening.

Presented by The Company, Anne of Green Gables arrives on the Major/Riviera stage with a faithful retelling of the opening of the beloved novel. Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert request an orphan boy to help with farm work but instead meet Anne Shirley, a spirited redhead with a boundless imagination. Convinced they are not ready to raise a child, Marilla considers sending Anne back, while Matthew urges that she stay. Anne remains at Green Gables and, as she tries to make friends and settle into life on Prince Edward Island, the very challenges Marilla anticipated unfold. Even so, Anne’s wit, charm, and resourcefulness shine through. This live production shares a classic story of family, belonging, and the power of imagination aboard the Major/Riviera.

Face painting is available at no cost for kids during the beer fest and adventure expo. This activity is tailored for children and offered as part of the festival.

Join in the Mighty Muskingum River Raft Race for a fun, competitive ride down the river. Crews will check in at noon, then the race starts at 1:00 PM. The event runs from the Muskingum Boat Ramp at Indian Acres Park to the foot of the Start Westward Monument (stairs leading down to the river bank). Prizes are awarded for top finishers, and each raft requires an entry fee of $20. Rafts must be homemade and non-motorized, everyone must wear shoes or sandals, and each crew member must have a Coast Guard approved PFD during the race. Releases of liability waivers are required before entering the water. After the race and awards, rafts and parts must be removed from the premises right away.

Take in views of the American Heritage from the Ohio River Levee. Viewing is from the levee only, since boarding, guided tours, and rides on visiting boats are not available. Plans and schedules may change without notice, so check the Facebook page for the most up to date information.

Parents and caregivers can meet one another while babies explore sensory activities, enjoy stories, and engage in simple play at Baby Buddies Playgroup. It is intended for infants from birth to 18 months who attend with a caregiver. Registration is not needed. For questions, call 740-373-1057 x219.

Mid-Ohio Valley Signers’ Club and AKA Professional Services, in partnership with The Betsey Mills Club, present bi-monthly American Sign Language workshops at The Betsey Mills Club. These sessions feature interactive instruction designed for beginners and families, creating an inclusive, multigenerational setting that fosters learning and community connection. Instruction is led by community members and professionals, with classes taught by the Mid-Ohio Valley Signers’ Club. Participation is free for members of The Betsey Mills Club. Non-members pay $10 per class, which covers one adult and one child. Deaf and hard of hearing attendees are admitted at no cost.

Story Hour is designed for children ages 3 to 7 and their caregivers at the Marietta Branch Library. For questions, call 740-373-1057 x219.

Catch an away varsity boys soccer match as Herbert Hoover takes on Ripley. The game is set as a league matchup between the two schools, with kickoff scheduled for early evening.