By 1812Blockhouse
Get ready for a weekend of history, crafts, and family fun as the 47th Annual Ohio Heritage Days Festival returns to Malabar Farm State Park on September 28 and 29. This beloved event runs from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM each day and offers something for everyone—whether you’re a history buff, craft enthusiast, or just looking for a fantastic way to spend a fall weekend with the family. The festival is free to attend, making it an accessible and enjoyable outing for visitors of all ages.
Step Back in Time with Traditional Crafts and Historical Demos
One of the festival’s highlights is its wide array of traditional crafts and historical demonstrations. Visitors can watch skilled artisans at work, showcasing time-honored crafts such as weaving, blacksmithing, and quilting. These hands-on demonstrations offer a unique glimpse into the past, allowing you to appreciate the artistry and dedication involved in these traditional skills.
In addition to the crafts, the festival features 18th-century demonstrations that bring history to life. These displays are complemented by the presence of living history camps from both the Civil War and World War II, where reenactors in authentic period costumes create an immersive historical experience.
Family-Friendly Fun and Educational Activities
The Ohio Heritage Days Festival is designed with families in mind, offering a variety of activities that are both fun and educational. Kids will be thrilled by the opportunity to take a ride in a horse-drawn cart, a perennial favorite at the festival. For those interested in animals, a visit to the barns housing cows, goats, and horses is a must. Children can feed the animals and observe them up close, adding an interactive element to the day.
The living history camps provide an educational experience that’s as entertaining as it is informative. Young festival-goers can interact with reenactors, ask questions, and learn about the daily lives of people from past centuries. This direct engagement with history is a rare opportunity that makes the festival a standout event in Ohio’s fall calendar.
Special Events to Enhance Your Festival Experience
Beyond the crafts and history, the festival boasts a lineup of special events that add to the festive atmosphere. Live music performances will keep the energy high throughout the weekend, providing the perfect soundtrack to your day at the park. For those interested in archaeology, Sunday’s archaeological displays offer a fascinating look at historical artifacts and the practices used to uncover them.
An Antique and Primitive Show will also be part of the festival, featuring a variety of historical items that provide further insight into the region’s rich past. These displays are not only interesting to browse but also offer an opportunity to purchase unique pieces of history to take home.
A Taste of Local Flavor and Community Spirit
No festival is complete without delicious food, and Ohio Heritage Days does not disappoint. Local vendors will be on hand, offering a selection of tasty treats that highlight the region’s culinary heritage. From smoked ham to freshly pressed cider, there’s something to satisfy every palate. This year, the festival also celebrates the 250th birthday of Johnny Appleseed, a beloved figure in Ohio’s history, with fresh cider made on-site.
After a day of exploring and activities, festival-goers can unwind and enjoy a lively square dance in the barn on Saturday evening. This traditional dance is a fantastic way to experience community spirit and join in the fun, making it a perfect end to a day at Malabar Farm.
Don’t Miss Out on This Unforgettable Fall Event
The Ohio Heritage Days Festival at Malabar Farm State Park is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of Ohio’s rich cultural and historical heritage. With its blend of crafts, history, live performances, and family-friendly activities, it’s an event that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a local resident or visiting from out of town, this festival provides a unique opportunity to step back in time and enjoy the best of what Ohio has to offer.
