Where are my tickets?
When you purchased your tickets online from WV State Parks, you received an email with your confirmation information, including your confirmation number, date and boat departure time. You must present that email in order to board.
What is the GPS address of the boat departure location/Why don’t you use your usual departure point?
2137 Blennerhassett Avenue, Belpre, OH
In order to accommodate 700 ticketholders, transport them, and give them time to enjoy the entire event, we move the departure point closer to the park.
Is the time on my ticket my dinner reservation time or my boat departure time?
There are no meal reservation times. The time on your ticket is your scheduled departure time. Arrive at the boat landing at least 20 minutes ahead of your scheduled departure time. We recommend you enjoy the Harvest Dinner upon arrival.
Are Photos Allowed?
Photos are not only allowed, they are encouraged! Post them to your social media page and tag #BlennerhassettIsland and #Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park!
Are pets allowed?
Service animals are welcome.
What Should I Bring With Me?
This is an outdoor event. Watch the weather and bring or wear appropriate clothing like a poncho or sweater. Also consider bringing a flashlight since you will be returning in the dark. Also bring the confirmation email with you.
What do I need to know about meals?
Separate from your event admission ticket, a Harvest Dinner is available for separate purchase up until 10 days before the event, the date by which we confirm headcount with our food vendor. The dinner is a served buffet. If you would like to add a meal ticket to your admission ticket, you can do so on the website until September 30.
What does my admission ticket include?
Your event ticket includes reserved boat transportation at a designated time, a trip around the park in a covered wagon with a group, the servant’s party (storytelling and dancing), live music in at least 5 locations, admission and tour of the mansion, study, and kitchen – and of course, candlelight everywhere!
Is the dinner served in the mansion?
The meal is served outdoors.
Where is the event held?
The event is held at Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park. To access the park, you must arrive by boat. Your ticket includes passage on the Island Belle sternwheeler. Boats depart from Civitan Park in Belpre. Set your GPS for this address which should lead you to the parking area: . 2137 Blennerhassett Avenue, Belpre, Ohio. Note that the embarkation venue is different from normal park boarding. Note also that the boat departs from Civitan Park, not the City of Belpre boat dock. There is no refund for guests who not go to the correct departure point.
Is It Dark?
Boats that depart at 6 pm and 6:30 are generally in the daylight. After 7 pm, guests can expect twilight and then full-on darkness. When you return, it will be dark. The parking lot is gravel and does not have lighting. Bring a flashlight, wear footwear appropriate for outdoor walking, and watch your step.
When Is MBC in 2026?
Mansion By Candlelight will be held October 9 and 10, 2026.
When Do Tickets Go on Sale?
Tickets go on sale August 1 each year.
Who Sponsors the Event?
This event is hosted by WV State Parks with support from The Blennerhassett Historical Foundation, Inc. and approximately 200 volunteers.
Why Can’t I Buy Tickets/ Why Aren’t There More Tickets Available?
Mansion By Candlelight sells out almost every year. Since the event is held on Blennerhassett Island, boat transportation is required. There are approximately 1,500 tickets available over the two-day event and they go on sale more than 2 months ahead. The number of tickets available is related to the number of passengers that are permitted to be transported on the boat by regulation. Both nights, boats depart the landing every half hour from 6 pm – 8:30 pm with a maximum of 149 guests aboard each boat. When the tickets are sold out, we are sold out.
How Are Ticket Prices Set?
Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park and The Blennerhassett Historical Foundation, Inc. underwrite the cost of the event which includes fees paid to entertainers, staff and various support contractors who provide services, supplies and special items like tents and chairs. Ticket prices are set based on the costs associated with the event. The meal vendor sets the price on the meal.
Is Free Parking Available?
Yes! Set your GPS for 2137 Blennerhassett Avenue, Belpre, OH and look for the signs in the park. It will be dark when you return. The parking lot is not paved and lighting is limited. A flashlight (or the flashlight on your phone) is recommended.
What If I Miss My Boat Departure Time?
Come anyway. After all other guests have boarded, we will do our best to board you as soon as possible. You’ll still have plenty of time to enjoy the entire event although we recommend you eat as soon as you arrive, no matter what time you arrive.
What is the Dress Code?
Dress comfortably to keep yourself dry and warm and wear shoes conducive to a lot of walking. Period costumes are invited! Pirates, mermaids, ghosts, masks and muskets (real or fake) are not permitted.
Can I Smoke or Vape? No.
Can I Bring My Own Food?
Yes. It’s a lovely evening for a picnic! Note that food nor beverages are permitted in the mansion.
Is Wine or Beer Served?
No. Alcohol is not permitted.
Where Can I Stay Overnight and Eat in the Area?
There are several very nice hotels and restaurants in the area. The local Convention and Visitor’s Bureau may have some information for you: Visit Greater Parkersburg
