WHEELING — Now that the holidays are in full swing that often means gatherings of friends and family in the home.

But after the dinners and desserts are eaten some may be wondering what to do next. There are plenty of activities and sights to see with loved ones across the Ohio Valley.

A tradition for many this time of year is going to see the Winter Festival of Lights at Oglebay Park. The outing for many includes cups of hot cocoa or coffee for the ride which can involve waiting in line to see one’s favorite displays. Go a little early, perhaps before dusk, if that’s an issue. The lights stay on until midnight nightly through Jan. 8.

For those who are looking for a more active outing, the ice skating rink at Wheeling Park may do the trick. People can rent skates there if they do not have their own.

Skating hours during the Thanksgiving holiday week and weekend include 1-4 and 7:30-10 p.m. Nov. 25-26 and 1-4 p.m. Nov. 27.

If one is looking for a warmer active outing, the Highlands Sports Complex offers open basketball courts for people to shoot hoops at or play a pick-up game from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 27, and 3 p.m,-8 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays. The cost is $5 per person. The sports complex also features a rock climbing area and an arcade.

For many going to the movies is a holiday tradition. The Ohio Valley boasts two theaters to choose from: the AMC theater at the Ohio Valley Mall and Marquee Cinemas at The Highlands in Triadelphia. Some of the movies being shown at both theaters include “Wakanda Forever,” “Black Adam,” “Devotion,” “Lyle, Lyle Crocodile” and “Strange World.”

For those who don’t feel like driving anywhere, a simple walk in the neighborhood can be both entertaining and healthy after eating a big meal. It can also give one a chance to browse other people’s Christmas light displays.

And if all else fails, board games are often a hit with children and adults. Some oldies but goodies include Monopoly, Scrabble and any card game one can remember how to play. The littlest kids often enjoy the card game War or a lively round of hot potato.