As the temperatures drops faster than the leaves did, the holiday season is officially upon us. For many RMU students, the greater Pittsburgh area is brand new, and it may be daunting to try and find things to do. Look no further, as I have compiled a list of 10 great holiday-themed events around campus!
Light Up Night (Nov. 18th): If you want to celebrate the holiday season the right way, then the annual Highmark Light Up Night is for you! Enjoy an evening full of activities for family and friends, such as an exclusive concert line-up, firework displays, the opening of multiple Pittsburgh winter attractions, and the famous lighting of the Golden Triangle! The tree lighting will commence at 5 p.m., with events scheduled thereafter until 9:30 p.m.
The Peoples Gas Holiday Market: Feel the holiday spirit with a holiday market! Check out Market Square to enjoy nonstop shopping, with unique gifts and trinkets housed in wooden chalets. There will be live music, holiday vibes, and even visits from Santa himself! Dates are to be determined, but the festival notoriously runs throughout the end of the year.
The UPMC Rink at PPG Place (Nov. 17th – January 7th): What’s a better holiday activity than ice skating? The UPMC Rink allows guests to skate around the city’s large Christmas tree! Since 2001, this attraction has been a Pittsburgh staple and is one you don’t want to miss.
The Pittsburgh Crèche (Nov. 18th – Epiphany [January 6th]): Pittsburgh houses the only Vatican-approved nativity scene in the U.S. Steel Tower! This gorgeous piece is an amazing sight for the holidays.
“Holiday Magic!” Winter Flower Show and Light Garden (Nov. 17, – Jan. 7): The Phipps Conservatory “Holiday Magic!” winter flower show holds 1,600+ flowers and sights, as well as tens of thousands of lights to glow with holiday joy! Enjoy this amazing exhibit this winter!
GLOWLAND (Nov. 20 – Jan. 2): Looking for a different kind of interactive exhibit this holiday season? Then check out the Pittsburgh neighborhood of Oakland as they hold their GLOWLAND festival! Accompanied by live music and lights throughout, this exhibit allows guests to interact with a family-friendly playable seesaw that creates changing sound and light shows!
Zoo Lights Drive-Thru (Nov. 24 – Dec. 30 [Select Dates]): There’s no better way to create fun memories with friends than to see Christmas lights! Bask in the holiday spirit at the Pittsburgh Zoo Lights Drive-Thru! Enjoy unique animal-themed lights with brand new displays, festive music, and even holiday treats!
Kennywood’s Holiday Lights (November 24th – January 1st): Who can name a more iconic Pittsburgh locale than Kennywood? Celebrate the holidays with over 2 million lights, and the tallest Christmas tree in the state! With family-friendly treats and rides, as well as special events and foods, this festival is sure to bring about the holiday mood.
The Town of Harmony: Yes, I know a town in totality isn’t a festival, but the German town of Harmony provides all the small-town holiday spirit one could ask for! With a comforting atmosphere, horse-drawn buggies, and wonderful German foods and drinks, this town is sure to provide comfort and joy!
Nationality Rooms Holiday Open House (Dec. 3rd from 12-4 pm): The Cathedral of Learning houses the Nationality and Heritage rooms, which will be decorated again for the holiday season! Enjoy how different cultures celebrate, and even indulge in cultural crafts and demonstrations! Saint Nicholas may also make a special visit!
