Christmas in Pittsburgh: 10 Must-Do’s
Disclaimer: We are not paid to promote any restaurant, hotel, activity, product, or attraction. All opinions are subjective and based on our personal experience. Your experience may be different.
6. Enjoy a budget friendly drive-thru light show
You will find a number of drive-thru light shows throughout the metro, almost all of them overpriced in my opinion. I prefer old-school walk through light displays, unfortunately, drive-thus seem to be more prevalent here. In terms of value, the Clinton Park drive through show is your best bet. Priced at just 10 bucks (as opposed to $30-40), this festive 1 mile light extravaganza features over-the-top holiday cheer. It’s located just 30 min west of the city. Note that there is a lot of religious advertising and bible quotes along the course.
A free option for all is the Moon Park drive-thru show in Moon Township, located about 20 minutes from the city. This show is fairly small, although nicely displayed and super festive. I lived in this area and took a drive anytime I was out doing errands. Small local displays like this really make the season special for all. On a side note, the Pizza Hut in Moon is so old-school. I always see all these Facebook posts where people say they wish they could go back to the 90’s Pizza Hut. Well, I found one that has not been updated in Moon and it’s a fantastic throw back to the past!
- Location: Clinton Light Up (600 Clinton Park Dr) Moon Park Lights (1350 Ewing Rd)
- 2024 Dates: Clinton (TBA). Moon (Dec. 6th-January 7th, 5-10pm).
- Pricing: Clinton show is $10 per car (cash only). The Moon show is free.
7. Ice skate at South Park
Skating at South Park is a great alternative to the pricey downtown rink. Admission is just $5 ($6 for non residents) and skate rentals $3. Although it is not as festive with the lights at night, the beautiful natural landscapes make it the perfect skating destination the entire winter season. I skate downtown just once or twice and then come here all winter to enjoy the more affordable skating and rustic park setting. It’s easier to park, less crowded, and the scenery is more natural.
Special events include: Skating with Santa. The NHL sized rink is very spacious compared to the downtown rink. It was built in 1958, giving it more historical significance. The skating ribbon is a fun bonus. I’ve always wanted to skate on one of these but was too scared of having no railings – I managed to do just fine. Extra amenities include an outdoor firepit and a food/cocoa stand. This metro is home to the best ice rinks I’ve found in any city I’ve lived in thus far.
- Location: 30 Corrigan Dr, Bethel Park
- 2025 Dates/hours: Check the website for the public skating sessions
- 2025 Pricing: Residents $5, non residents $6. Skate rentals $2 residents ($3 non residents)
8. View the gingerbread display at the City Council building
2025 marks the 23rd anniversary of the Gingerbread competition, held annually in the lobby of the City Council building. The official city tree is also located here – it’s also lit on Light up Night. Last year’s tree was a 60 foot tall Blue Spruce planted at St. Alphonsus Church in Springdale.
- Location: 414 Grant St
- 2025 Dates: Nov. 21st to Dec. 31st
- Hours: 10am-6pm (5pm Sat & Sun and Christmas/NYE)
- Admission: Free
9. Take in the gorgeous decor at Omni William Penn resort
The Omni William Penn is the most gorgeously decorated hotel anywhere in the city. The beautiful Christmas tree, garland, and gingerbread houses in the lobby make it feel super festive in comparison to other lodging options in the area.
Even if you are not staying at the hotel, you can enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet in The Terrace Room or even just enjoy a cup of coffee in the festive lobby. The beautiful hotel is located within walking distance of the Cultural District, so a great place to stay if you intend on seeing a holiday production. I really was impressed with the gorgeous wreaths!
- Location: 530 William Penn Pl
- Dining & attractions at the Omni
10. See the Perry Como statue
One unique roadside attraction to add to your bucket list is the Perry Como statue in downtown Canonsburg. The iconic singer was born in the area and there is a fun statue dedicated to him downtown. The Perry Como Christmas album is one of my personal favorites, so I had to plan a quick daytrip. After viewing the statue, take a walk down Main St. and enjoy local shopping and dining. There is lots of festive decor to enjoy while shopping.
Location: 68 E Pike St, Canonsburg
More holiday fun throughout the ‘Burgh!
See a show – From The Nutcracker, to Holiday Pops, to A Christmas Story, there is something for everyone. Check out this year’s lineup of holiday productions.
Museum holiday events – Most museums offer some type of special holiday event. The Carnegie Science Center screens The Polar Express on the Giant Screen and also displays a holiday train set. The Carnegie Museum of Art displays 5 gorgeous Christmas trees (the tradition started in 1961) in the stunning Hall of Architecture. Not only is the display gorgeous, but both the Museum of Art and Natural History are worthy of a visit.
Holiday craft fairs – A number of small towns around the city offer festive craft fairs, typically held anywhere from late November through mid December. Joy of Christmas, an annual extravaganza held at St. Louise de Marillac School and LeGras Parish Center is your best bet. I have found that family members always appreciate these handcrafted gifts more than anything from the mall.
Christmas trees at Station Square & The Strip District – Both areas look extra festive with holiday decor. Plus, there are many restaurants and coffeehouses to enjoy. In Station Square, I recommend Hard Rock Cafe, Tupelo Honey, and Grand Concourse. In the Strip, I recommend enjoying a cup of joe at Defer.
Holiday Shopping & Dining
Holiday shopping – The Mall at Robinson and South Hills Village both look festive this time of year and offer a nice mix of mid and upscale shops. These are my go to malls for Christmas shopping.
Holiday pastries – Treat yourself to a festive holiday pastries at one of a number of local bakeries and coffeeshops. Mediterra (Sewickley & Mt. Lebanon) bakes a delicious Eggnog danish and offers all sorts of specialty holiday drinks this time of year. The coffee and ambiance are both great too!
Holiday dining – I love dining at Chinatown Inn this time of year. They serve the best Chinese food in the city and the space is gorgeously decorated with lights and garland all across the ceiling.
Pop up bars – There are a number of festive holiday pop up bars to choose amongst including the very popular Miracle on 6th.
Downtown Sewickley – Out of all the small cities in the metro area, Sewickley is the most festive. Stop by Mediterra Cafe for a delicious cup of hot cocoa. Special seasonal treats include Christmas Tree Zebra Cakes. If you are in town, Light Up Night (taking place on Dec. 5th in 2025) is a fun night with lots of live entertainment, food trucks, and festive fun.
Winter recreation
Boyce park – Home to the only downhill skiing snow tubing in Allegheny County.
Ice rinks – Both North and South Park, as well as Schenley Park offer fabulous ice rinks.
Also any area park is especially beautiful and wintry this time of year. A few of my favorites include: Frick, Moon Park, and Robin Hill Park. Winter hiking is so peaceful as you can enjoy nature in a totally isolated setting. For more frosty fun in the Burgh, be sure to take a look at my winter fun guide.
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