Summer may be winding down, but there’s still time to make memories right here in friendly, beautiful Belmont County. Whether it’s enjoying a festival, paddling a quiet lake, dancing to polka music, or discovering scenic trails, our communities are alive with adventure, culture, and connection.

This weekend, head to Martins Ferry for Betty Zane Days, a tradition hosted by the Martins Ferry Volunteer Fire Department. Named after the legendary Revolutionary War heroine, this multi-day celebration blends history and hometown pride with live music, amusement rides, a 5K race, food vendors, and more.

Prefer to dance the day away? Make your way to Barton for the annual Barton Polka Festival–the oldest and largest of its kind within a 60-mile radius! Enjoy traditional music, Polish food, raffles, and fun for all ages as this beloved cultural celebration marks three decades of joy.

If peaceful moments in nature are more your style, Belmont County offers countless ways to unplug. Zion Retreat & RV Park in Flushing is a nature lover’s paradise, with 1,300 acres of rolling hills, a 27-acre lake perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding, and even an aqua zip line for thrill-seekers. Or explore Barkcamp State Park in Belmont–a favorite for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, plus opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing, there’s no shortage of ways to reconnect with the outdoors.

As we enjoy these local experiences, let’s also take a moment to reflect on the powerful role tourism plays in our region. It’s more than leisure and sightseeing–tourism fuels local economies, supports jobs, and strengthens the fabric of our communities. It also shapes how we present ourselves to the world and to those considering calling our corner of Appalachian Ohio home.

Tourism in Belmont County and across the region is diverse and dynamic. Whether it’s hiking our scenic trails, exploring our rich cultural heritage, savoring local cuisine, or experiencing the arts, Appalachian Ohio offers world-class experiences with small-town charm. And here’s the real magic: visitors don’t just come for a weekend–they fall in love. They return. They stay.

At Belmont County Tourism, we believe every summer memory made here is also an investment in our future. That’s why we’re committed to telling our story–boldly, authentically, and strategically. Tourism doesn’t just reflect who we are–it helps shape who we’re becoming.

So, whether you’re traveling across the state or just across town, I invite you to explore, connect, and make the most of these final days of summer–right here in Belmont County.

To discover upcoming events, attractions, and outdoor adventures, visit visitbelmontcounty.com. And if you’re planning an event, don’t forget to share it with us using our calendar submission form–we’re here to help spread the word and share our love for this vibrant community.

Once each month this space will be devoted to a column written by Jackee Pugh, executive director of the Belmont County Tourism Council. She will provide information about the tourism office, local attractions, upcoming events, and other local finds in Belmont County. She will share information about the travel and tourism industry and how it impacts our local economy.