Discover 16 verified christmas lights in Pittsburgh and nearby areas.
Welcome to your guide for Pittsburgh Christmas lights and holiday displays. Whether you’re a local or visiting, Pittsburgh sparkles with festive cheer, offering a mix of dazzling light displays, cozy neighborhood favorites, and iconic city sights.
Signature experiences include the Wild Illuminations at the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium, where animal-shaped lanterns and thousands of lights transform the grounds, and Dazzling Nights at the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden, featuring immersive walking trails and interactive installations. Downtown Pittsburgh also shines bright, with Market Square and PPG Plaza hosting some of the city’s most beloved holiday lights.
This guide covers everything from free neighborhood displays to ticketed drive-through and walkable events. Discover the variety of holiday lights near Pittsburgh and make the most of your seasonal adventures.
Global Christmas folklore and fantasy display
Immerse yourself in a world of holiday traditions with the 'Spirits of Giving From Around the World' exhibit. This enchanting display features life-size Santas and original paintings that capture the essence of Christmas folklore and fantasy from diverse cultures. It's...
BYOB trolley tour of Pittsburgh's holiday lights
Hop aboard a festive BYOB trolley for a magical journey through Pittsburgh's most dazzling holiday lights and landmarks. Starting at Tom's Watch Bar, this 3-hour tour offers a unique way to experience the city's yuletide spirit, complete with music, trivia,...
Evening hours at a renowned bird zoo
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...
Whimsical topiary wildlife and enchanting floral displays
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...
Drive-in laser light show with synchronized holiday music.
Experience the magic of the holidays with a spectacular drive-in laser light show at North Park. This unique event features a dazzling 40-minute display of lights and synchronized holiday music, all enjoyed from the comfort of your own vehicle. Multiple...
Holiday light mini golf with charitable donations
Experience the magic of the holidays at Fun Fore All's Holiday Lights Mini Golf. This beloved event transforms two award-winning miniature golf courses into a dazzling walk-through light display, recognized as one of the best in the region. It's a...
Magical walk-through light display with campfires.
Step into a winter wonderland at Enchanted Lights Pittsburgh, a magical holiday stroll through dazzling music and light displays. Enjoy a unique walk-through experience in festive woods, perfect for creating unforgettable memories. Gather around crackling campfires for s'mores and hot...
World's largest collection of life-size Nutcrackers.
Step into a winter wonderland at The Steubenville Nutcracker Village, showcasing the world's largest collection of over 200 life-size Nutcrackers. This enchanting display transforms historic downtown Steubenville into a festive spectacle. Complementing the Nutcrackers, enjoy special events like the Advent...
Zoo transformed into a winter wonderland with light shows.
Step into a glowing winter wonderland at Oglebay's Christmas at the Zoo. This enchanting event transforms the zoo into a festive spectacle with dazzling light and laser shows synchronized to holiday music. Ride the Arctic Express train through illuminated landscapes,...
Millions of lights in a renowned West Virginia holiday spectacle.
Immerse yourself in the magic of Oglebay's Festival of Lights, a premier seasonal event in West Virginia. This spectacular celebration features millions of dazzling lights, festive displays, and unforgettable holiday cheer for all ages. Enjoy a captivating drive-through light show,...
North Pole-inspired holiday wonderland with diverse activities.
Step into a North Pole-inspired holiday wonderland at Santa's Village, located at Levenson Shelter. This festive destination offers a magical escape with cheerful entertainment, delightful artisan shopping, and enchanting activities for all ages. Experience the joy of ice skating, a...
Animated Mansion Light Show and 70-foot Welcome Tree.
Experience the magic of Oglebay's Hilltop Holiday Walk & Wonder, a dazzling display of festive cheer. Marvel at the animated Mansion Light Show, illuminated pathways, and a towering Welcome Tree. Explore the enchanting Gardens of Light and a life-sized Nativity...
Drive-through holiday light show with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Experience the enchantment of The Joy of Christmas Light Show, a dazzling drive-through holiday spectacle in Columbiana. Beyond the sparkling lights, visitors can enjoy festive treats, capture memories with Santa, and delight in Mrs. Claus' captivating story time. Explore charming...
Annual holiday light display and ceremony
Experience the magic of the holiday season at Light Up Nemacolin, an annual tradition that transforms the resort with spectacular lights. The festivities commence with holiday cheer at 4 PM, culminating in the official lighting ceremony at 5:45 PM. Guests...
Drive-thru holiday lights with synchronized music
Boardman Park transforms into a magical winter wonderland with a free drive-thru holiday light display. Over 21 dazzling light creations illuminate the park, synchronized to festive Christmas classics broadcast on 88.9 FM. Visitors can also enjoy community activities like decorating...
Nostalgic holiday displays from Christmases past
Step into a nostalgic holiday wonderland at the 'Memories of Christmas Past' exhibit. This cherished annual event at the Arms Family Museum showcases heartwarming displays and decorations that transport visitors to Christmases of yesteryear. It's a perfect opportunity to create...
See the location of all christmas lights around Pittsburgh and nearby areas
Open Map →Pittsburgh’s standout displays include Wild Illuminations at the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium, Dazzling Nights at the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden, and the festive lights at Kennywood Park, which features the tallest Christmas tree in Pennsylvania. Downtown Pittsburgh, Market Square, and PPG Plaza also offer impressive light displays.
You’ll find both options: drive-through experiences like the Pittsburgh Zoo Lights and walkable trails such as Dazzling Nights at the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden. Downtown Pittsburgh’s holiday lights are best explored on foot, while some neighborhoods offer drive-through or stroll-friendly displays.
Downtown Pittsburgh officially kicks off the season with Light Up Night on the Saturday before Thanksgiving. Most major displays, like those at Kennywood and the Pittsburgh Zoo, begin in mid- to late November and run through early January.
Yes, downtown Pittsburgh offers several free light displays, especially around Market Square and PPG Plaza. Many neighborhood displays are also free to enjoy, making it easy to soak in the holiday spirit without a ticket.