The holiday season is officially here, and Pittsburgh is sparkling with festive fun! Whether you’re hunting for magical cocktails, local gifts, or dazzling lights, there’s something for everyone this season.
We’ve rounded up all the can’t-miss events to make your season merry and bright!
Holiday Pop-Up Bars
From cozy speakeasies to over-the-top holiday décor, these bars are perfect for gathering with friends and enjoying festive cocktails. Toast the season at some of Pittsburgh’s most festive pop-ups:
- The Aspen at Spritzery, Downtown
- North Star Tiki Hut, Imperial
- Barry’s Pub, McCandless
- Wigle Wonderland, Strip District
- Naughty & Nice Christmas Experience, Gibsonia
- A Reel Christmas Bar, Market Square
- Sippin’ Santa + Miracle on 7th, Downtown
- The Sewickley Sleigh, Sewickley Quarter
- Mt. Gordos: The Yinzer Chalet, Mt. Washington
- Jingle Bar, Eleventh Hour Brewing
- Christmas Pop-Up Bar!, Sobel’s Obscure Brewery, Jeannette
- Glitzmas at the Omni, Downtown
Holiday Markets
Find everything from handmade goods to festive treats at these holiday markets around town—perfect for gifting (or keeping for yourself!).
Peoples Gas Holiday Market
Cultural District | Friday, November 21st – Wednesday, December 24th
Pittsburgh’s holiday institution returns for its 14th season, featuring one-of-a-kind local and global artisan gifts. A beloved tradition for holiday shoppers of all ages.
Kinsey Vintage Market
Kinsey Events Warehouse | Friday, November 21st, 5pm – 9pm + Saturday, November 22nd, 10am – 4pm
Over 50 antique and artisan vendors offering everything from hand-poured candles to small-batch chocolate. Friday includes wine tasting, food trucks, and moonshine. Tickets: $10 Friday, $5 Saturday.
Handmade Arcade Holiday Market
David L. Lawrence Convention Center | Friday, December 5th + Saturday, December 6th
You can’t miss Pittsburgh’s premier handmade holiday event: 275+ makers, live art demos, hands-on activities, raffle baskets, DJ, gift wrapping, and food and drink.
Bloomfield Winter Market
5050 Liberty Ave | Saturday, December 6th, 11am – 2pm
This cozy, local favorite features farmers’ market vibes with fresh produce, cheeses, meats, coffee, hummus, and prepared foods—perfect for stocking up on holiday goodies.
Holiday Lights + Events
Pittsburgh literally shines during the holidays. From festive trolley rides to glowing animal displays, these experiences are perfect for families, couples, or anyone who loves a little sparkle.
Holiday Lights at Kennywood
Runs Select Days from Friday, November 14th – Sunday, January 4th
See three million twinkling lights, Rudolph and friends, Gingerbread Junction, family rides, festive foods, and the tallest Christmas tree in Pennsylvania.
Holiday Magic at Phipps Conservatory
Runs Most Days Friday, November 14th – Sunday, January 4th
Step into “Wild Winter,” a playful, whimsical wonderland of topiary wildlife, vibrant blooms, and dazzling outdoor light displays—pure enchantment for all ages.
Wild Illuminations: A Holiday Lantern Experience
Pittsburgh Zoo | Runs Most Days from Saturday, November 22nd, 2025 – Sunday, January 11th
See a magical lantern and light display with silk-and-steel animals, holiday icons, rides, acrobats, Santa visits, and festive treats. Plus, they have new lanterns and lowered ticket prices this year!
Dazzling Nights
Pittsburgh Botanic Garden | Friday, November 28th – Saturday, January 3rd
Immerse yourself in holiday magic with tunnels of lights, a 50-foot tree, neon forest creatures, nightly snowfall, and the Disco Snowman Escape maze.
Enchanted Lights: A Magical Holiday Stroll
Cranberry / Butler Area | Friday, November 28th – Tuesday, December 30th
Stroll through a dazzling music-and-light experience with funnel cakes, campfires, and s’mores—an immersive winter wonderland perfect for families and couples alike.
Santa Trolley
Pennsylvania Trolley Museum | Runs on Weekends Starting Friday, November 28th
Ride a restored streetcar, meet Santa and elves, explore LEGO and model train layouts, and enjoy crafts! Sip on hot cocoa and enjoy two festive trolley rides.
Overly’s Country Christmas
Greensburg | Runs Select Days from Thursday, November 20th – Tuesday, December 30th
Walk through a charitable, volunteer-driven Christmas village. Meet Henny Hemlock, the talking Christmas tree, and experience a festive holiday wonderland with community spirit at its heart.
Jingle Bell Flock
National Aviary | Daily at 11am and 2pm Starting Friday, November 28th
Get tickets for this holiday-inspired bird show featuring festive songs, live birds, and plenty of laughs. Perfect for animal lovers and little ones!
Holidays at Heinz Hall
Various Dates Throughout the Season
Live music, festive decorations, and family-friendly performances including Elf in Concert, Highmark Holiday Pops, Holiday Brass Spectacular, and Trisha Yearwood. Celebrate the season with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra!
Local Holiday Events in Pittsburgh Neighborhoods
Looking for a cozier event in a smaller neighborhood? Check out these holiday events around the city and in the suburbs!
Mt. Oliver Light Up Night
150 Brownsville Rd. | Saturday, November 29th, 4pm – 6pm
With a tree lighting at 5:30 p.m., festive food, music, Santa photos, and Small Business Saturday shopping make this a local holiday favorite.
Sewickley Light Up Night
Sewickley Village | Friday, December 5th
This is a magical, community-wide celebration with food, activities, and entertainment! Thousands flock each year for the festive spirit and small-town holiday charm.
Light Up Bellevue
Lincoln Avenue | Saturday, December 6th
This is a free annual celebration with tree lighting, outdoor market, live music, children’s activities, and Santa visits. A beloved community tradition powered by local support!
Willow Wonderland
Castle Shannon | Saturday, December 6th
Visit with Santa, plus find food trucks, photo booths, entertainment, games, and a gingerbread contest. A full day of festive fun for the whole family!
What Else is Happening?
If we missed a holiday pop-up, market, or event you love, email info@madeinpgh.com or tag @madeinpgh on Instagram. We’re always on the lookout for new ways to celebrate the season!
This content was provided by a local, independent contributor to Made in PGH, a lifestyle blog.
