Stark County Business News: The Wilderness Center’s Enchanted Forest Returns for More Than 30 Years of Family Fun, Nature and Fall Magic

 The Wilderness Center’s Enchanted Forest Returns for More Than 30 Years of Family Fun, Nature and Fall Magic

WILMOT, Ohio — For more than 30 years, families throughout the region have stepped into the glow of The Wilderness Center’s Enchanted Forest, a beloved fall tradition that combines storytelling, imagination and environmental education along a pumpkin-lit trail. This October, the magic returns for another year of nighttime adventure and memorable encounters with some of Ohio’s woodland creatures.

The Wilderness Center will host Enchanted Forest on Friday, October 9, and Saturday, October 10, 2026, inviting families to experience the forest in an entirely different way.

Guided by friendly “firefly” volunteers, guests will travel along the trail to meet costumed woodland characters including Flying Squirrel, Mouse, Coyote and others. Through songs, stories, jokes and plenty of personality, each character introduces visitors to life in the forest and the important role nocturnal species play in our local ecosystems.

And this year, guests may encounter someone new in the forest. Whoooo could it be?

More than a fall celebration, Enchanted Forest is designed to make learning about nature fun and memorable. The experience encourages children and families to discover the interconnectedness of Ohio’s wildlife while creating lasting memories together outdoors.

TWC Member ticket sales open August 11, giving members early access to select their preferred timeslots before tickets are released to the general public on September 8. Members also receive discounted admission as part of their membership benefits.

Tickets are $12 for TWC Members and $15 for Nonmembers, with children age 2 and younger admitted free. Tickets are nonrefundable.

Enchanted Forest will take place Friday, October 9, from 6:30–8:30 p.m. and Saturday, October 10, from 4–8:30 p.m. Saturday afternoon timeslots provide an option for younger children or families who prefer to experience the forest before dark.

Those interested in becoming a member before public ticket sales open can learn more at The Wilderness Center’s website. Membership supports The Wilderness Center’s work in habitat conservation, environmental education and community engagement while providing benefits throughout the year.
Enchanted Forest also relies on volunteers to bring the experience to life. Volunteer opportunities include pumpkin carving, costumed characters, and Firefly trail guides.

About The Wilderness Center
The Wilderness Center is a nonprofit nature center headquartered in Wilmot, Ohio, whose mission is to inspire and nurture a connection between people and nature through habitat conservation, environmental education and community engagement.

Event Details
What: The Wilderness Center’s Enchanted Forest
When: Friday, October 9, 2026, 6:30–9:00 p.m. and Saturday, October 10, 2026, 4–9:00 p.m.
Where: The Wilderness Center, Wilmot, Ohio
Member Tickets: On sale August 11
General Public Tickets: On sale September 8
Admission: $12 TWC Members | $15 Nonmembers | Free for ages 2 and younger