Organizers and major sponsors of the Party on the Plaza music festival recently announced its highly anticipated lineup. The 6th annual event is scheduled for July 11th in downtown Wheeling.
According to Party on the Plaza founder and Chairman Paul Smith, this year’s festival features three regional acts known for their infectious energy and high levels of crowd participation.
“We built this year’s lineup with the continued focus on delivering exactly what this event is known for: keeping the energy high from the first downbeat to the final encore,” Smith said. “These three powerhouse regional bands from Columbus and Pittsburgh are unmatched when it comes to getting a crowd on their feet. It’s an immersive, all-day party experience that people won’t want to miss.”
The festival is co-headlined by award-winning Columbus party bands, The Martini Affair and Shucking Bubba, with special guest, Pittsburgh 80s cover band, Ridgemont High.
The Martini Affair has been recognized by The Knot and 614 Magazine, described as an explosive dance party band that entertains and engages audiences throughout the Midwest with radio-quality sound and an unmatched energetic stage show.
Shucking Bubba is known for their high-energy, crowd-pleasing covers ranging from old school hip-hop to funk to alternative rock. They were voted the Best Cover Band in Columbus by readers of 614 Magazine in 2024, 2025, and 2026.
Ridgemont High has been billed as Western Pennsylvania’s ultimate 80s tribute band, channeling the decade’s wild energy with big hair, neon style, and a high-octane party that packs the dance floor and has the crowd singing along to every word.
Beyond the stage, the festival will feature food trucks from The Gringo gourmet tacos, Izzy’s Smashburgers and Fries, Chick-fil-A, and Dupe’s Scoops ice cream.
“We have been thrilled to support Party on the Plaza since day one,” said Bob Contraguerro, Jr., Vice President of presenting sponsor Panhandle Cleaning and Restoration. “It is for a truly great cause, and we are so proud to see it grow into one of the premiere summer events in Wheeling.”
Early-bird discounted tickets are available at https://PartyOnThePlaza.org. Tickets are $30 and include a $10 beverage credit. Doors open at 5:00 pm.
The Party on the Plaza is organized by the Circus Saints and Sinners and benefits WVU Medicine Golisano Children’s hospital.
It is supported by several local and regional businesses. In addition to platinum presenting sponsor, Panhandle Cleaning and Restoration. Other major sponsors include Glessner Snodgrass Wealth Management, Gumby’s/Geno’s, Kalkreuth Roofing and Sheet Metal, Lowe’s, RE/MAX Broadwater, WesBanco, WVU Medicine, and Generations Restaurant & Pub.
