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Salute to Patriotism

Vibrant fireworks burst over a tranquil lake, reflecting their colors in the water, while soft lights twinkle along the shore.

Stars, Stripes & Celebration

Jul 03 - Jul 05, 2026 | Event Timing Below

Join us for a memorable America 250 celebration — an action-packed weekend filled with nonstop entertainment, unforgettable fireworks, and classic American festivities, presented by Community Bank and the Schenk Charitable Trust.

Event Highlights

  • Lakeside Fireworks
  • Live Music
  • Firecracker 5K Fun Run
  • All-American Eats
  • Pool Party
  • Patriotic Experiences

Festival Activities

A grand yellow mansion features tall white columns, surrounded by numerous American flags on manicured grassy grounds under a clear sky.

Know Before You Go

Oglebay Park Resort

Kick off Fourth of July weekend at Salute to Patriotism on Friday, July 3, with lakeside entertainment, family fun, and a patriotic sky spectacle. Enjoy a full weekend of live music, all-American eats, poolside parties, fireworks, and festive experiences—ending with a lively finale of brews, bites, and entertainment. Salute to Patriotism is presented by Community Bank and Schenk Charitable Trust.

Friday, July 3
Kick off the celebration lakeside with live music, family fun, inflatables, a skydiving demonstration, foam party, and a spectacular fireworks display over the lake.

Saturday, July 4
Keep the celebration going with a full day of festive fun, including a Firecracker 5K, lakeside activities, poolside music and games, and live evening entertainment overlooking the lake.

Sunday, July 5
Close out the weekend with Red, White & Zoo: America 250 Brews & Bites, featuring curated tastings, live music, and a Sunday Funday Concert with a Beach Boys Tribute.

A young girl in a star-patterned dress watches vibrant fireworks illuminate the night sky, surrounded by an audience in a park.

Salute to Patriotism

Schenk Lake

Friday, July 3 | 3 - 11 PM

The celebration begins at Schenk Lake on Friday, July 3 with an unforgettable evening of lakeside activities. Enjoy live music, a high-energy inflatable fun zone, and classic American cookout concessions alongside interactive experiences for all ages. As the evening builds, jump into the foam party before settling in for the Independence Day Concert with MSM. The night concludes with a spectacular fireworks extravaganza over the lake—an unforgettable start to an epic weekend.

A grand yellow mansion with white columns illuminated at night, set against a vibrant display of colorful fireworks in the sky.

Fireworks Extravaganza

Oglebay Park Resort

Friday, July 3 | 9:45 PM

Experience a fully choreographed fireworks spectacular over Schenk Lake, designed to dazzle from start to finish. For the first time ever, fireworks will launch from multiple locations across the park—creating a one-of-a-kind, immersive display that is bigger, brighter, and more exciting than ever before. 

A person descends gracefully under a vibrant red parachute against a bright blue sky dotted with fluffy white clouds.

Americana Skydiving Demonstration

Schenk Lake

Friday, July 3 | 5 PM

Look to the skies as expert skydivers descend over Schenk Lake in a breathtaking display of precision and patriotism. Watch in awe as they make a dramatic landing carrying a massive American flag — an unforgettable moment that sets the tone for the evening’s celebration.

Runners in colorful attire pound the pavement, showcasing vibrant red shoes and patriotic patterns, as they race along a marked line.

Firecracker 5K Fun Run

Oglebay Park Resort

Saturday, July 4 | 10 AM

Start your Fourth of July strong with a festive Firecracker 5K run/walk at 10 AM . Whether you’re racing or strolling, bring the energy and come dressed in full USA spirit — think Uncle Sam, Lady Liberty, your favorite era of American history or classic red, white and blue. The more patriotic, the better.

Registration Opens in May.

A girl smiles while floating in a colorful inflatable ring by a pool, with a stylish building and trees in the background.

All-American Pool Party

Oglebay Crispin Center

Saturday, July 4 | 12 PM

Celebrate poolside with an afternoon of high-energy fun, food, and friendly competition:

Noon – 5 PM | DJ Daner Pool Party
High-energy summer soundtrack all afternoon.

Noon – 5 PM | Poolside BBQ
Fresh-off-the-grill favorites and cold drinks.

1 PM | Best Patriotic Swimsuit Contest
Red, white, and WOW—prizes for bold American flair.

2 PM | Dads Belly Flop Competition
Legendary. Loud. Possibly painful.

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A close-up of a hand playing an electric guitar, showcasing vibrant colors and detailed focus on the instrument's body and strings.

Live Music All Weekend

Multiple Locations

Live music fills the park all weekend long with an all-American soundtrack that carries from one experience to the next. From the laid-back energy of Route 88 Burgers & Brew to the scenic setting of Lakeview Patio, you’ll find live performances that bring classic summer sounds to life.

On Friday, July 3, the celebration takes center stage at Schenk Lake with a high-energy performance by MSM, setting the tone for an unforgettable night of music, community, and lakeside celebration.

The weekend concludes with Sunday Funday on July 5, featuring a Beach Boys Tribute Band—bringing feel-good, nostalgic summer hits to close out the celebration in true American style.

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A joyful group interacts with an adorable alpaca on a sunny day, showcasing a moment of connection and fun.

Red, White & Zoo: America 250 Brews & Bites

Oglebay Good Zoo

Sunday, July 5 | 12 - 5 PM

Close out the weekend with an elevated celebration inside the Good Zoo. This ticketed event blends craft tasting with immersive storytelling for a one-of-a-kind experience.

During the event guests will experience Brews by Era, a journey through American history in a glass featuring:

  • Colonial-inspired ales
  • Prohibition-era cocktail features
  • Modern craft IPAs
  • Storytelling with each drink

Sip, stroll, and explore as you discover how American brewing has evolved across 250 years.

From 1 to 4 PM, enjoy live music on the Zoo Patio, providing a laid-back Americana soundtrack as guests mingle and take in the experience.

A modern hotel room featuring two neatly made twin beds, elegant wooden accents, soft lighting, and patterned curtains.

A Patriotic Summer Escape

Oglebay Lodge

Settle in for a Fourth of July weekend filled with celebration, connection, and classic American experiences. From vibrant events across the park to peaceful spaces to relax and recharge, Oglebay offers the perfect balance of excitement and comfort. Come for the celebration, stay for the experience, and make yourself at home all weekend long.

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A decadent sundae features scoops of ice cream, chocolate sauce, bananas, cookies, and cherries, presented in an elegant glass dish.

Sip, Savor & Celebrate

Oglebay Park Resort

Savor the flavors of the season with patriotic-inspired dining across the park. From special feature items at Trace Chophouse and Skyline Kitchen & Bar to festive lattes and pastries at Sarita’s Coffee & Goods, there’s something to enjoy at every turn.

For a classic summer experience, head to Route 88 Burgers & Brew, where great food meets a lively, laid-back atmosphere. Or unwind at Garden Bistro, where relaxing views and thoughtfully prepared dishes come together for a dining experience that’s as memorable as the weekend itself.

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Vibrant hanging baskets of red, white, and blue flowers contrast beautifully with a backdrop of blooming gardens and charming rooftops.

Red, White & Bloom Flower Show

The Hilltop

America 250 in Bloom

Celebrate the beauty of the red, white, and blue as vibrant blooms take center stage throughout the Hilltop and Bissonnette Gardens. Stroll through thoughtfully curated displays inspired by the colors of our nation, and take in a landscape that invites you to slow down, explore, and appreciate the natural beauty of an American summer.

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A collection of decorative glass pieces includes a blue vase, a pink bowl featuring star patterns, and a clear pitcher, set against a display.

America 250 Glass Show

Glass Museum

June 14 - January 3 | 10 AM - 5 PM

Located inside the Glass Museum at Carriage House Collections on the Hilltop, this special exhibition — presented in partnership with Oglebay Institute from June 14 through January 3, 2027 — celebrates the artistry and tradition of American glassmaking.

Discover pieces inspired by the colors and spirit of our nation, alongside artifacts from Wheeling’s pioneer days — when this region served as a gateway to the West. From commemorative flasks honoring Lafayette and Washington to early pewter, stoneware, and handcrafted goods, this collection reflects the everyday objects that shaped American life and legacy.

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