The holiday season is a special time anywhere, but the residents of Pittsburgh know how to sprinkle a little extra magic in the air during November and December. With so many events across town for families to enjoy, you’ll want to start planning your outings now!
Here are five ways to get into the holiday spirit that your whole family will love. All of them will let you experience the warmth and generosity of Pittsburgh that shines this time of year.
Downtown Holiday Fun
Kick off the holidays downtown with Highmark Light-Up Night on Nov. 19. You’ll see the tree lighting and fireworks, hear from spectacular local bands, and eat from delicious local vendors. Even after the night’s fun is over, head back downtown all season for one of the quintessential holiday experiences in Pittsburgh: the Peoples Gas Holiday Market.
This annual market is located in the heart of downtown and runs from Nov. 18–Dec. 23. This dazzling display resembles the Christmas markets of Europe and is the perfect spot to spend time with friends and shop with local vendors. Be on the lookout for this year’s Black Market, a pop-up event featuring local Black vendors!
While you’re in the area, stop by the PPG Place windows along 4th Avenue to see the “Spirits of Giving,” life-size Santa displays depicting holiday traditions from around the world. Of course, you’ll also need to make time for ice skating at the UPMC Rink, so it’s best to make a day of your downtown festivities.
Make Something Memorable
If the local wares you’ve seen in holiday markets around town inspire you, why not create some of your own? Many shops and studios host holiday-themed events this time of year. Head over to Rockler Hardware to make your own Christmas ornament. With sessions for all levels, you’ll learn to create something lovely for your friends and family.
If painting is more your speed, head to Kiln N Time and choose a holiday-themed canvas or piece of pottery and support a locally-owned Black business.
Volunteer with Your Family
Many families find that volunteering is a wonderful holiday tradition. Giving back is an excellent way for kids to see the importance of community engagement and involvement. For families with older kids (14+), head to the annual Pittsburgh Holiday Banquet held on Dec. 10 this year. You can sign up to volunteer and help decorate, serve food, greet guests, and more. You’ll be joining business owners and community leaders in giving back to our vibrant community this season.
Shop Local
If the hustle and bustle of the downtown market isn’t for you, head out to the Handmade Arcade Holiday Market Dec. 2-3 to shop from dozens of local artists and groups. Many of these makers are sharing their work for the first time with the help of this organization.
Plan to spend several hours to take advantage of the demonstrations and community art projects before you fill your shopping bag. This is an excellent event for the whole family. In fact, some vendors are kids themselves, so your young ones will leave inspired!
Enjoy Live Performances
Many years during the holiday season, the August Wilson African American Cultural Center hosts an AWCCommunity Day full of food, fun, and entertainment. The whole family can enjoy browsing local artists’ creations, sampling treats, and participating in various performances and demonstrations. It’s the perfect way to get in the holiday spirit!
For another chance to celebrate the season, the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra and the Westmoreland Symphony feature holiday concerts in early December. With family-friendly pricing available (and the chance to wear festive outfits!), the whole crew will love these classical nights out.
Whether your family loves to spend an entire weekend browsing local shops or reserve one special night for a performance, Pittsburgh has it all to get you in the holiday spirit.
About Post Author
