PLAY Excerpt

The following post is a short excerpt from VisitPITTSBURGH's seasonal PLAY magazine. This publication keeps both locals and visitors up-to-date on city happenings, and one of my tasks during my internship was to update the fall 2015 edition.

Holiday Happenings

Tis the season! A Pittsburgh holiday favorite, Light Up Night returns to downtown on Friday, Nov. 20. Watch the lighting of the Highmark Unity Tree and enjoy free entertainment that’s fun for the entire family. The evening features musical performances, ice skating in PPG Place, and romantic city carriage rides before wrapping up with a spectacular Grand Fireworks Finale.

Find the perfect gifts for everyone on your “Nice List” at the People’s Gas Holiday Market. Inspired by the original Christkindlmarkt created in Germany, Market Square is transformed into a European-style holiday market from Nov. 20 – Dec. 23, and is complete with wooden chalets decorated with holly and little white lights. Take your pick from local, national, and international vendors as they gather in the square to showcase their authentic gifts, novelties, and collectibles. Don’t forget to visit Santa!

Even though summer is in the past, that doesn’t mean Kennywood has to be! Pittsburgh’s favorite amusement park is open every Friday through Sunday, Nov. 27 – Dec. 20. Experience the winter charm of Kennywood’s Holiday Lights, a display with over one million lights. The park also features visits from Santa, performances by carolers, Kennywood food staples, and select open rides.

The Cultural District will be abuzz with holiday spirit throughout the month of December. Pittsburgh’s CLO is performing A Musical Christmas Carol at the Byham Theater, the Pittsburgh Ballet Theater is performing The Nutcracker at the Benedum Center, and the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra is performing Highmark Holiday Pops at Heinz Hall.

Start counting down! Highmark First Night, presented by the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, promises another fun, family-friendly celebration to ring in the New Year. It’s a grand night filled with musical performances, workshops for all ages, a parade, fireworks, and more! To purchase First Night buttons, stop by an area Giant Eagle or visit the WELCOME Pittsburgh Information Center and Gift Shop at Fifth Avenue Place. Start creating your New Year’s resolutions, and get ready to party like its 2016!