See all Pittsburgh Christmas happenings this year!
Pittsburgh launches Christmas 2025 around neighborhood hotspots and the Point, where rivers meet twinkling lights and festive programming. Light displays, holiday markets and tree lighting ceremonies invite families to enjoy concerts, artisan stalls and seasonal gatherings throughout December.
Find the best Pittsburgh Christmas happenings this year!
Top Christmas Events In and Around Pittsburgh
- The UPMC Rink at PPG Place
- Downtown Pittsburgh Holiday Season
- Wild Illuminations: A Holiday Lantern Experience
- Season's Greetings Saturdays at the National Aviary
- Phipps Holiday Magic: Winter Flower Show and Light Garden
- Holiday Brunches in The Garden Room at National Aviary
- Holiday Lights and Late Nights at National Aviary
- Christmas Celebrations at the Franciscan Church (Kafr El Dawwar)
- Breakfast or Lunch with Santa at Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium
- The Nutcracker
See even MORE Christmas events below!
Pittsburgh Christmas Events
Pittsburgh Christmas Light Displays
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Step into a winter wonderland at Wild Illuminations, a dazzling holiday lantern experience at the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium. This spectacular event transforms the zoo into a magical landscape with over a million twinkling lights and colossal, intricately crafted lanterns. Wander through themed areas like the Secret Forest, featuring mythical creatures, and marvel at festive displays of snowflakes, candy canes, and Santa Claus. Enjoy unique activities such as a scavenger hunt, a festive VR sleigh ride, and enchanting live performances. It's a perfect new holiday tradition for the whole family.
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Phipps Holiday Magic transforms the conservatory into a breathtaking winter wonderland. Explore whimsical topiary wildlife, enchanting floral displays, and a dazzling Winter Light Garden. This beloved Pittsburgh tradition offers a magical experience for all ages with vibrant blooms and captivating light installations.
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Step into a winter wonderland at the National Aviary's 'Holiday Lights and Late Nights' event. Experience the magic of the aviary after dark, surrounded by festive decorations and the enchanting calls of exotic birds. This special event offers extended evening hours, allowing visitors to explore the immersive habitats and enjoy unique animal encounters in a magical holiday setting. It's a perfect opportunity to create lasting memories and embrace the holiday spirit.
Pittsburgh Christmas Markets and Shopping
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Experience the magic of the holiday season in Downtown Pittsburgh! This vibrant celebration features the beloved Peoples Gas Holiday Market™, offering a European-style shopping experience with unique gifts and artisanal crafts. Kick off the festivities with Highmark Light Up Night®, a spectacular event that illuminates the city and officially welcomes the holiday spirit. Discover festive treats and a truly enchanting atmosphere.
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Discover Pittsburgh's premier handmade holiday shopping event, the Handmade Arcade Holiday Market. This vibrant market showcases over 290+ local makers offering unique handcrafted clothing, accessories, art, home decor, and jewelry. Engage in hands-on art-making, witness captivating live demonstrations, and find the perfect gifts while supporting the creative economy.
Pittsburgh Christmas Food, Drink and Parties
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Indulge in a delightful culinary experience at the National Aviary's Garden Room. Enjoy specially crafted seasonal menus, featuring autumnal flavors for Friendsgiving Brunch and festive holiday dishes for December events. Savor your meal with views of the historic Rose Garden, and enhance your experience with optional specialty beverages. After dining, embark on a fun scavenger hunt to learn about the aviary's avian residents.
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Experience the magic of the holiday season with a delightful breakfast or lunch alongside Santa at the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium. This cherished annual event offers a festive buffet meal, opportunities to meet ambassador animals, and a chance to write and deliver a special letter directly to Santa.
Pittsburgh Christmas Movies, Theater and Entertainment
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Experience Pittsburgh's cherished holiday tradition with The Nutcracker, presented by the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre. This dazzling production transports audiences to a magical Land of Enchantment, featuring iconic dances, shimmering snowflakes, and Tchaikovsky's beloved score. Set in turn-of-the-century Pittsburgh, the ballet highlights local landmarks and history, making it an unforgettable festive adventure for all ages.
Pittsburgh Other Christmas Activities
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Glide across the ice at The UPMC Rink at PPG Place, Pittsburgh's premier outdoor skating destination. This expansive rink, larger than the famous Rockefeller Center rink, offers a magical winter experience surrounded by the city's iconic skyline. Enjoy special themed nights, skate rentals, and the festive ambiance of the holiday season.
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Discover the wonders of the National Aviary, America's only indoor nonprofit zoo dedicated to birds. Wander through lush, free-flying habitats and get closer than ever to over 500 birds from more than 150 species. Engage in unique animal encounters, hand-feed colorful lorikeets, and experience the thrill of flight with Birdly® VR. Learn about vital conservation efforts to save endangered species and protect their homes.
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A high-level delegation from the Beheira Governorate visited the Franciscan Church in Kafr El Dawwar to extend Christmas greetings. This event highlights the spirit of unity and coexistence among Egyptians during the festive season.
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Step into a world of cultural celebration at the Nationality Rooms Holiday Open House. Explore beautifully decorated rooms representing diverse ethnic communities, participate in traditional crafts, and enjoy festive treats. It's a wonderful opportunity to experience global heritage right in Pittsburgh.
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Set sail on a magical Santa Fun Cruise & Tour, a beloved Pittsburgh holiday tradition. This festive riverboat journey offers a delightful experience for the whole family, featuring a lively DJ dance party with special guests and a chance to meet Santa Claus himself. Children will receive a special treat and a fun coloring activity, making it a memorable outing on the water.
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Get into the holiday spirit by crafting your own festive masterpiece at the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium's Nature's Wreath workshop. Talented horticulturists will guide you in creating a stunning 24-inch wreath, with all materials and light refreshments included. Bring your personal touches to make it uniquely yours.
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Create lasting holiday memories at the Santa Photo Experience at Ross Park Mall. This beloved tradition offers families the chance to capture magical moments with Santa Claus. Special 'Caring Santa' sessions are available for children with special needs, ensuring a comfortable and joyful experience for everyone. Reservations are highly recommended to guarantee your visit.
Christmas Events Near Pittsburgh
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