Thanksgiving is behind us. Whew, you survived. But if you thought you were in the clear, think again.
Hold up. We have a crazy idea. How about you do something you actually *want* to do this month? Yeah, you deserve it. Ditch the mandatory and mundane holiday happenings and check out these 10 events happening in Pittsburgh this December.
Lawrenceville Cookie Tour
Here’s your chance to explore Lawrenceville’s local businesses while eating as many holiday cookies as possible. That’s basically how the cookie tour works. You do a little shopping while sampling the shopkeepers favorite cookie. If you get tired, there are “break spots” along the route where you can enjoy a meal, coffee, or a cocktail before returning to the cookies. December 3-6
Handmade Arcade
Be honest, you’d love giving and getting one-of-a-kind gifts. Trouble is, unless you’re under 7 years old or super artsy, you can’t get away with making gifts for everyone on your list. Don’t embarrass yourself. Here’s a better idea. Head to the Convention Center for the Handmade Arcade. With more than 150 vendors, you’re guaranteed to find unique, locally made gifts you can feel good about gifting. December 3
Crafts and Drafts
Arts and crafts are cool. But crafts and drafts are better. Fact. You can thank East End Brewing for this brilliant idea. They’re teaming up with the Children’s Museum, local makers, and some of our favorite food trucks to offer a day of, you guessed it… crafts and drafts. Shop, snack, sample the Snow Melt Winter Ale, and do some family-friendly crafting of your own. December 10
4th Annual Holiday Book Sale
Are you a bookworm? Maybe you have a bibliophile on your shopping list. Either way, you’ll want to clear your calendar for this awesome book sale. It’s your chance to check out some of Pittsburgh’s best indie book vendors all in one place. Be on the lookout for new and used works from local publishers and national bestsellers lists. December 4
Lawrenceville Bar Crawl
Bust out your best ugly sweater, friends. It’s time to hit every bar along Butler Street while celebrating the holiday season. While no one would blame you for popping into your favorite spot, this particular pub crawl is stopping at Bierport, Industry, New Amsterdam, and Belvederes. There you’ll find deals on beers from Sam Adams, giveaways, and prizes. Cheers to that! December 10
Muppet Christmas Carol + Pajama Party
This one just might be too good to pass up. Row House Cinema is showing the Muppet Christmas Carol (can you say classic?). You get to wear your pajamas and save a dollar on snacks if you do. Plus, they’re hosting a blanket drive to benefit Bethlehem Haven and their mission to assist homeless women and those at-risk of homelessness. December 20
Holiday Party 21+ @ Carnegie Science Center
The Science Center has three words for you, no kids allowed. Now we’re talking. Rock an ugly sweater while you party and play your night away. There will be a cash bar, live music, and snacks to go along with four floors of hands-on (kid free) exhibits. December 9
Holiday Hootenanny @ Stage AE
Celebrate the holiday season with WYEP and a talented lineup of local artists at Stage AE. Join the Holiday Hootenanny House Band and a ton local musicians in singing along to all of your holiday favorites. Say, “hey” to Brooke Annibale, LoFi Delphi, Meeting of Important People, and DJ Selecta. Get into the holiday spirit by bringing a gift card to donate to the Veterans’ Leadership Program of Western Pennsylvania. December 8
Pittsburgh Record Fest @ Spirit
Stopping by Spirit is always a good call. Especially if you like pizza, booze, and partying. Won’t have to twist your arm, we know. But wait, there’s more. Spirit is playing host to Pittsburgh Record Fest. It’s your chance to buy, sell, or trade any and all kinds of vinyl. That, plus live DJs and drink specials. December 2
First Night
Ready or not, 2017 is right around the corner. Celebrate a new year by partying the night away in Downtown Pittsburgh. This art-focused New Year’s Eve party features 150 events at nearly 50 indoor and outdoor locations within the 14-block Cultural District, culminating with the Countdown to Midnight and fireworks display. December 31
This content was provided by a local, independent contributor to Made in PGH, a lifestyle blog.