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Pepperoni Roll Festival

Golden-brown, cheesy rolls with swirls of pepperoni, stacked enticingly in a pile, inviting and ready to be enjoyed.

Celebrate a West Virginia Tradition

May 08, 2027 | Event Timing Below

Celebrate West Virginia’s most iconic food at Wheeling Park—Oglebay’s sister park—during this inaugural event honoring the legacy of the beloved pepperoni roll. Enjoy live music, friendly competition, family fun, and, of course, plenty of rolls to savor.

Event Highlights

  • Pepperoni Roll Cook-Off
  • Local Food Vendors
  • Pepperoni Roll Eating Contest
  • Kids Fun Run
  • Live Music

Festival Activities

A wooden archway opens to a scenic park path lined with lush greenery and vibrant flower baskets, leading towards a tranquil body of water.

Know Before You Go

A Weekend Packed with Flavor & Fun

The Pepperoni Roll Festival is a full day of family activities, live music, cooking demonstrations, and the ultimate pepperoni roll showdown. As the day unfolds, the park comes alive with plenty to see, taste, and enjoy.

Explore vendor booths and food trucks offering delicious pepperoni rolls and other local favorites, or challenge friends and family to lawn games scattered throughout the festival grounds.

Whether you're here for the food, the fun, or the friendly competition, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. With activities for all ages and plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy the moment, the Pepperoni Roll Festival is designed to create memories that will last long after the last roll is gone.

Hands knead and shape dough on a light blue surface, surrounded by a dusting of flour, showcasing the art of bread-making.

Pepperoni Roll Taste-Off

Wheeling Park

The region’s best culinary talents will gather to compete for pepperoni roll supremacy.

Local favorites will present their signature creations as judges evaluate flavor, texture, creativity, and overall roll perfection. Each competitor brings their own style to the classic recipe, making this one of the most exciting moments of the festival.

Only one will earn the title of champion — and you’ll get to witness the moment the winning roll is crowned.

Warm, golden-brown rolls filled with layers of pepperoni and melted cheese, topped with seasoning, ready to delight pizza lovers.

Pepperoni Roll Eating Contest

Wheeling Park

Competitors step up to the table in a fast-paced pepperoni eating challenge where speed, determination, and big appetites collide. The crowd will cheer as participants race against the clock in this energetic showdown.

Pepperoni slices atop cheese and sauce spread on pizza dough, surrounded by bowls of grated cheese and sauce. A classic pizza preparation scene.

Pepperoni Roll Cooking Demo

Wheeling Park

Ever wondered what makes the perfect pepperoni roll?

Join a live cooking demonstration where skilled chefs walk you through the process of crafting this West Virginia classic. From dough preparation to the perfect balance of pepperoni and seasoning, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the techniques that make this beloved snack so special.

Follow along as the aromas fill the air and learn tips you can try at home. It’s part cooking class, part cultural tradition — and a must-see experience for pepperoni roll lovers.

Children run energetically on a sunny path, vibrant sneakers striking the ground, embodying joy and the spirit of play.

"Pep in Our Step" Kids Fun Run

Hofreuter Walking Trail

Designed especially for young runners ages 12 and under, the free “Pep in Our Step” Kids Fun Run is all about movement, smiles, and crossing the finish line with pride. The course is just under one mile—perfect for little legs ready to go the distance. Adults are welcome to accompany their child along the route, making it a shared moment of fun and encouragement.

Families can gather along the scenic Hofreuter Walking Trail as kids dash their way through a fun and supportive course. With plenty of cheers and high-fives along the way, it’s the perfect opportunity for kids to burn some energy and celebrate the joy of being active.

A musician plays a cream-colored bass guitar adorned with colorful stickers, wearing a casual maroon shirt and light jeans.

Live Music

Wheeling Park

Throughout the afternoon and evening, enjoy live performances from talented regional bands that keep the atmosphere lively and the energy high.

Bring a lawn chair, gather with friends and family, and enjoy the sounds of live music as the celebration continues into the evening.

A cluster of colorful balloon animals, prominently featuring a red balloon shaped like a dog, among other vibrant twisty designs.

Festival Fun Zone

Wheeling Park

Add a little extra color to your day. From playful face painting to creative balloon twisting, these activities bring smiles, laughter, and hands-on fun for guests of all ages. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the spirit of the Pepperoni Roll Festival together.