Theme Weekends

During the American Civil War, the State of Ohio played a key role in providing troops, military officers, and supplies to the Union army. Camp life during the Civil War was very primitive. Housing was mostly of tents, with log insulation used in winter months. Meals were cooked outside on an open fire.  The 70th and 35^th Ohio Infantries will be setting up camp to demonstrate the life and times of the civil war.  See for yourself what it was like to be a soldier during the Civil War.

Civil War Reenactors can join us for free!  Come in full uniform and sign up prior to the weekend by emailing info@oldwestfestival.  We will keep a roster of folks joining us for free admission.  Civil War Reenactors can join the 70^th Ohio Encampment, the 35th Ohio Encampment or form their own.

Steampunk is an imaginary 19^th Century, that features brass and copper clockwork and steam powered inventions that go far beyond 1800's technology. Steam powered mechanical wonders, optimistic gear driven computers, dirigibles, clockwork firsts, and the like. (But don't forget the goggles.)

The year is 1878.  The railroad runs to the new boom town of Dodge City.  Dodge has opened up the West, and the West needs inventors!  Men and women of courage and science are desperately needed to help tame this mad wilderness and bring the benefits of modern technology to this restless new land.  Are YOU the one for the job?

* Costume contest

* Inventor's contest - bring your best invention!

* Dancing

The role of the American Frontier Scout was vital during the period of western expansion. Scouts possessed a priceless knowledge of the geography, people and characteristics of The American Frontier. This rare breed of hero had a greater influence on the pace of settlement of The American West than any other single factor.
On our Scout Weekend we will host Cub Scout Pack 452. In addition to these fine scouts securing The Old West Festival perimeter, any scout (boy, girl, brownies or cub) wearing their "Class A" uniform may enter The Festival FREE of charge.

In 1869, the Cincinnati Base Ball Club, led by Hall Of Famer Harry Wright, shocked the sporting world by becoming the first openly all-professional base ball nine. Dressed in knickerbockers with flashy crimson hosiery, the team became known as the Cincinnati Red Stockings.

The team barnstormed the nation coast-to-coast, challenging - and defeating - every base ball club it played that year. With their amazing 57-o record in 1869, the Red Stockings introduced America to the new game of base ball and put Cincinnati on the sporting map.

Come join us at The Old West Festival to see The Cincinnati Red Stockings take on their rivals The Norwood Highlanders (10/6) and The Dayton Clodbusters (10/7).  First pitch is at 1:05 each day.