It’s the most wonderful time of the year to create special holiday family traditions. December is a busy month, but don’t forget make time for friends and family. This is PMB’s guide to area events in December.
Holiday Downtown Happenings: Dec 1 – Jan 7
Start a new family tradition with a visit to downtown Pittsburgh. First, shop at the Peoples Gas Holiday Market. Located in Market Square, this German-inspired Christkindlmarket houses local vendors selling handmade holiday gifts. Look for Santa’s Workshop for a free photo op. Next, head to PPG Wintergarden for the Spirits of Giving From Around the World, a display of Santas from around the world, and the local Gingerbread House exhibit. Stop at the outdoor MassMutual Ice Rink and take a quick skate, then visit Pittsburgh’s Crèche, the world’s only approved replica of the Vatican’s Nativity Scene. Finally, jump on the free Holly Trolley or horse-drawn carriage tour of downtown decorations!
Winter Flower Show and Light Garden at Phipp’s Conservatory: Dec 1 – Jan 8
Phipp’s transforms into a winter wonderland with decorated trees, colorful poinsettas, and an artful display of LED lights. Grab a hot cocoa and take a stroll through the light garden for a perfect way to end your evening.
Carnegie Trees and Presepio at Carnegie Museum of Art Hall of Architecture: Dec 1 – Jan 9
Beautifully themed Christmas trees with handcrafted ornaments surround the vibrant and detailed 18th-century Neapolitan presepio Nativity scene, making this one of Pittsburgh’s cherished Christmas traditions.
The Music of Disney at the Oaks Theater: Dec 2
Bring the whole family out to Oakmont for a night of children’s songs with Uke Skywalker and Tuba Fett, Pittsburgh’s premier Ukulele and Tuba Band.
Kennywood Holiday Lights: Dec 2-4, 9-11, 16-18, 23
Visit Pittsburgh’s iconic amusement park for a look at over two million lights. Don’t miss the spectacular light show on the lagoon and ride the Gingerbread Express to meet Santa.
The Nutcracker by Pittsburgh Ballet at Benedum Theater: Dec 2-27
With over 150 dancers and beautiful scenery, the Pittsburgh Ballet dazzles in their version of The Nutcracker, taking the audience for a magical musical journey through the mysterious wonder of the night before Christmas.
Hands-On Handmade at David L. Lawrence Convention Center: Dec 3
Learn to make handmade locally produced arts and crafts. This day long event features demonstrations, mini-tutorials and drop in projects. Perfect timing for a creative holiday gift!
EQT Young Playwrights Festival: Dec 3-4
Support the talented work of local middle and high school students. Performances from finalists include topics ranging from unlikely friendships and lost love to little magic and fun.
Polar PJ Party at Carnegie Science Center: Dec 3, 10, 11, 18
Jump on board the Polar Express movie viewing party, including hot chocolate bar, holiday activities, selfies with Santa, story time, and train ticket to take home. Don’t forget your favorite Christmas pajamas!
Breakfast or Lunch with Santa at the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium: Dec 3-4, 10-11, 17-18
See Santa lead the Penguins on Parade, meet a few animals, decorate cookies, make a holiday craft, then enjoy a delicious buffet with Santa. Breakfast at 9:30 a.m. and lunch at 12:00 p.m.
Photos with Santa and his Penguin Helpers at The Aviary: Dec 3, 10, 17
Each Saturday in December, children have a unique opportunity to take a picture with Santa and his African penguins. Event includes coloring and craft to take home.
Family Holiday Walks with Venture Outdoors: Dec 4, 11, 17
Bundle up and enjoy the outdoors for three different family holiday holiday walks. Search for candy canes along the trail at the Candy Cane Walk, build a gingerbread dessert through a scavenger hunt at the Gingerbread Lettering Walk, and grab a warm drink at the Twinkle Lights and Hot Cocoa Walk.
A Musical Christmas Carol at Byham Theater: Dec 9-11, 16-17
Get in the spirit of the season with the musical version of this Charles Dickens classic. Follow the story of Scrooge, Bob Cratchit, and Tiny Tim as you are reminded the true meaning of Christmas.
Super Science Saturdays – Holiday Around the World at Carnegie History Museum: Dec 10
Explore holiday-themed stations as you learn the traditions of other cultures through crafts, food, and amazing specimens and artifacts.
Chatham Baroque’s PB&J Sessions – Sing We Noel at Calvary Church in Shadyside: Dec 17
Join the Christmas carol sing-along with Peanut Butter and Jam Sessions. Geared for preschoolers and caregivers, this lively 40 minute interactive performance will have you laughing, playing, dancing, and singing holiday tunes.
Muppet Christmas Carol Pajama Party at Row House: Dec 20
Wear your special Christmas pajamas, grab a popcorn, get cozy and enjoy the showing of the Muppet Christmas. Blanket donations will be accepted on behalf of Bethlehem Haven.
Holiday Family FREE Day at Children’s Museum: Dec 24
Create a new holiday family tradition and enjoy free admission from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm.
Trans-Siberian Orchestra World Tour at the PPG Paints Arena: Dec 27
This multi-platinum progressive rock powerhouse brings “The Ghosts of Christmas Eve” to Pittsburgh on their Winter Tour. The lights, videos, music and storytelling will make for a holiday “rock theater” experience.
Cirque Dreams Holidaze at the Benedum Theater: Dec 29
With over 300 costumes, 20 acts and 30 artists, Cirque Dreams Holidaze combines holiday themes with spetacular acrobatics that makes this the greatest holiday variety show this year.
First Night in Downtown Pittsburgh: Dec 31
Ring in the new year at the six-hour downtown celebration. Spanning the 14-block Cultural District, the city party is host to outdoor musical stages, galleries, magic shows, kids activities, theater performances and a fireworks show at midnight.
Happy Holidays and Happy New Year! We hope this guide gives you a few ideas to keep your family busy in December.
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