Pittsburgh’s holiday season officially gets underway in November, with several beloved traditions returning throughout the city. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a downtown evening with friends or a festive weekend, here’s a look at what’s coming.
LIGHT UP NIGHT: THE CITY COMES ALIVE
Saturday, November 21, 2026
The 65th Annual Highmark Light Up Night takes center stage Saturday, November 21, transforming downtown Pittsburgh into a holiday celebration filled with music, lights, tree-lighting ceremonies and fireworks.
The evening’s featured events include:
5 p.m. — City-County Building tree lighting
5:30 p.m. — Yuletide preview
6 p.m. — UPMC tree lighting
7 p.m. — Highmark tree lighting and Daya
8 p.m. — Three Sisters Bridges illumination
8:30 p.m. — Daya performance
9:30 p.m. — Fireworks
From the first tree lighting to the fireworks finale, downtown will be filled with holiday energy.
MORE WAYS TO CELEBRATE THE SEASON
PEOPLES GAS HOLIDAY MARKET
November 20–December 24
Downtown Pittsburgh
The Holiday Market returns with its festive European-inspired setting, featuring decorated vendor chalets, seasonal gifts, food and holiday shopping.
UPMC RINK AT PPG PLACE
Opening November 13
Downtown Pittsburgh
One of Pittsburgh’s favorite winter traditions returns. Lace up your skates and enjoy the outdoor rink beneath the towering Christmas tree.
PHIPPS HOLIDAY MAGIC
November 20, 2026–January 10, 2027
Phipps Conservatory
A seasonal favorite, Holiday Magic brings elaborate holiday displays, sparkling lights and festive botanical scenes to the conservatory.
KENNYWOOD HOLIDAY LIGHTS
Select nights, November 13, 2026–January 3, 2027
West Mifflin
Kennywood gets a holiday makeover with millions of lights, seasonal attractions and family-friendly entertainment.
HOLIDAY KIDSPLAY AND SANTA’S HOUSE
Families can also look forward to seasonal activities and opportunities for children to enjoy the magic of the holidays.
MAKE IT A HOLIDAY WEEKEND
With Light Up Night kicking off the festivities on November 21, Pittsburgh offers plenty of reasons to make a weekend of it. Visitors can shop the Holiday Market, take in the downtown lights, enjoy a skate at PPG Place or plan a family outing to one of the region’s seasonal attractions.
The holiday season is about more than decorations. It’s a chance to reconnect, support local businesses, create memories and enjoy the traditions that make this time of year special.
PUM Holiday Tip: Check individual event websites before heading out for schedules, admission, parking and weather-related updates.
Pittsburgh is getting ready to shine. Let the holiday season begin!