The holiday season in Pittsburgh is always a special one. Here are the dates for seven must-see events in Pittsburgh every year (with some just in 2018 only).

1. Light Up Night 2018

This year’s Light Up Night begins on Friday November 16th. Enjoy fireworks on opening night, tree lightings throughout the day and more for the official kickoff of the holiday season. For more information on Light Up Night this year, stay tuned to this page.

2. The Peoples Gas Holiday Market

The annual holiday extravaganza also begins on November 16th. There are over 35 vendors that carry unique gifts that are perfect for everyone on your list. You can also take a photo with Santa. For more information on the People’s Gas Holiday Market this year, stay tuned to this page.

3. See the Highmark Holiday Pops

From Friday December 14th through Sunday December 23rd at Heinz Hall, partake in the annual Pittsburgh tradition. See Daniel Meyer conducting, Doug LaBrecque on vocals, Jenny Oaks Baker on violin, special guest Christopher Sanders, the Mendelssohn choir of Pittsburgh, pre-professional dancers at Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre and—of course—the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra. For more information and to get tickets for the Highmark Holiday Pops this year, visit this site.

4. Visit Phipps’ Holiday Show

Phipps annual holiday show this year is from November 23rd through January 6th. This year’s theme is “Holiday Magic: Let it Glow!” Member pre-sale for the show begins Monday Oct. 29th and the general public Monday November 12th. For more on Phipps’ Holiday Show this year, stay tuned to this page.

5. Visit the Kennywood Holiday Lights Opening

Kennywood’s holiday lights return this November. Decked halls (and rides) are adorned with millions of twinkling lights and the tallest Christmas tree in the state of Pennsylvania. Santa, light shows and more will be around for holiday fun. For more information on the Kennywood Holiday Lights this year, stay tuned to this page. 

6. See “Home Alone” Performed at Heinz Hall 

Home Alone has been around for 28 years enchanting families every holiday season. Enjoy the movie Thursday December 20th at Heinz Hall on a giant screen in high def with John Williams’ score performed by the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra and choir. For more information on performance, visit this site.

7. Visit the annual “Miracle” holiday pop-up bar

Every year, a local bar transforms into “Miracle on (whatever bar is chosen that year).” A cut of the profits go to charities and the pop-up bar is the same nationwide. For more on where Miracle will be in Pittsburgh this year, visit this site.