Pittsburgh showcases the holiday magic

Holiday travelers can embrace the season with Only in Pittsburgh holiday lights and events throughout the city, as well as special cultural performances, shopping and more

“Pittsburgh is ready for seasonal travelers to experience our holiday cheer,” VisitPITTSBURGH President & CEO Jerad Bachar said.

“Our region boasts endless opportunities to celebrate this magical season.”

Highmark Light Up Night kicks off the holiday season Downtown on Saturday, November 19. Produced by the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership, this family friendly, daylong event begins at noon with festivities that spotlight the City of Pittsburgh’s unique combination of traditional and contemporary holiday attractions. Musical entertainment will be presented on four stages, with rock n’ roll legend Joan Jett and the Blackhearts headlining on the Xfinity Riverside Stage that night. Tree lightings across Downtown start at 5 p.m., with the Xfinity Fireworks Spectacular to follow at 9:30 p.m.

The Peoples Gas Holiday Market returns Downtown for its 11th season and operates daily, except for Thanksgiving, starting November 18 through Christmas Eve. Inspired by the original German Christkindlmarkts, Market Square will be filled with more than 35 wooden chalets offering shoppers high-quality gifts including local and international vendors a.

After shopping, head across the street to The UPMC Rink at PPG Place and ice skate the spectacular outdoor rink around a massive 65-feet Christmas tree centerpiece. Also opening November18, this iconic spot has been a destination for locals and holiday travelers since opening in 2001. Families also will want to swing by Heinz Hall Courtyard, where they can visit with Santa in-person at his brand-new house.

Make the season sparkle at Kennywood Holiday Lights November. 18 through New Year’s Day. More than two million twinkling lights will greet guests at the tallest Christmas tree in the state, visit with Santa and ride 20 family friendly attractions.

Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens will set the Oakland neighborhood aglow with Holiday Magic! Winter Flower Show and Light Garden November 18 through January 8, 2023. This year’s theme of arctic adventure promises displays of holiday trees, topiaries and poinsettias plus a celebrated outdoor garden.

Warm up this winter at the Carnegie Museum of Art, where visitors can view seasonal exhibits like Neopolitan Presepio and Carnegie Trees: Holiday Splendor, November 19 – January 8, 2023. Additionally, experience Is it morning for you yet?, the 58th Carnegie International, currently running through April 2, 2023.

The Zoo Lights Drive-Thru (Nov. 25-Dec. 30) transforms the Pittsburgh Zoo into a winter wonderland. Guests can enjoy animal lights, all-new displays, music and festive treats all without exiting the vehicle.

No holiday line-up is complete without iconic Pittsburgh performances at theatres throughout the Cultural District. Follow Ralphie’s hijinks during Pittsburgh Public Theater’s production of A Christmas Story: The Play November 30-December 18 and battle the Mouse King with Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre’s production of The Nutcracker December 9-28. Hear the carols of the season with Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra’s Highmark Holiday Pops December 9-18 and Pittsburgh CLO’s A Musical Christmas Carol December 9-23.

To some, the holidays are all about great parties with a delicious beverage in hand. Find both at holiday pop-up bars throughout the city such as Miracle on 6th, located on 137 6th Street, featuring novelty cocktails. Miracle opens November 13 and will be serving holiday cheer through New Year’s Eve.

Learn more about these and other Only in Pittsburgh holiday events.

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