We asked local parents what must-dos they have for each holiday season. Here’s what they say families shouldn’t miss in the Pittsburgh area:
Light displays
• Zombeck Christmas Light Display in Elizabeth (Don’t miss opening night! The display kicks off at 6 p.m. Nov. 29.)
• Etna Light The Night in Pittsburgh’s Etna Borough (Classic, free and family-friendly; 2025 dates TBA)
• Dazzling Lights at Pittsburgh Botanic Garden in Oakdale (Nov. 28, 2025-Jan. 3, 2026; has a 50-foot-tall tree where you can enjoy warm beverages and holiday treats; live entertainment each night)
Family Decorating
• Decorate the first day of Advent and take down decorations on Epiphany!
Community events
• Highmark Light Up Night at Market Square (Christmas tree lighting Nov. 22) with Santa
• Ride to meet Santa at on the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum’s Santa Trolley in Washington, Pennsylvania (2025 dates TBA).
Christmasland
• Explore Santa’s Christmasland at Kraynak’s in Hermitage, Pennsylvania.
Holiday Day Trip
Take a holiday day trip to places like Oglebay Park Resort in Wheeling, West Virginia. Its Festival of Lights package includes breakfast, a pass for drive-thru lights, full access to holiday activities and amenities, a Holiday Rewards Book with $200+ in savings and a keepsake ornament when you book a one-night or two-night stay at Oglebay Lodge.
