What’s new for the 2024 Undo’s Upper Ohio Valley Italian Heritage Festival?

WHEELING, W.Va. (WTRF) — After more than 40 years, you might think it would be difficult to surprise those who attend Wheeling’s Undo’s Upper Ohio Valley Italian Heritage Festival.

But this year organizers are finding the new by returning to the old, emphasizing the traditions we’ve held on to for decades and even centuries.

Sunday’s religious ceremony in particular is seeing an expansion, with the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston holding a community rosary before the 10 am church service.

The St. Joseph Society will even be handing out rosaries for those who attend.

And just to complete the picture of a Sunday tradition, Undo’s is preparing a meal after mass, including spaghetti, meatballs and wine.

“You say, ‘well, I’ve been here before.’ Well, you have been here before and you know what a good time that you’ve had. But every festival is unique. There’ll be other people that you might not have seen since last year. There’ll be vendors that you may not have seen before, entertainment that you may not have seen before.”

Tony Filberto, Chairman, Undos Upper Ohio Valley Italian Heritage Festival

And if you know where your heritage lies in Italy—
Be sure to stop by “Roots in the Boot,” where you can find out the wine, cheese and food your region contributed to the world.

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