5 Pittsburgh-area events to keep the holiday magic going

Still trying to squeeze in some holiday magic?

Good news: Pittsburgh has no shortage of festive fun — and even better, most of it continues early into January.

Whether you’re hosting family, entertaining kids or just trying to get into the spirit yourself, here are a few activities worth checking out in the final days of 2025.

And, if your schedule’s already full? Don’t worry. All but one of these continue into the new year.

1. Ice skating at PPG Place

Glide beneath the glass castle at the UPMC Rink at PPG Place, where the glowing Christmas tree and glass towers set the perfect holiday scene. It’s the most beautiful rink in North America — officially — and a must-do for locals and visitors alike.

2. Pittsburgh’s Gingerbread House Display

Head to the City-County Building to see one of Pittsburgh’s sweetest traditions. The annual Gingerbread House Display is filled with dozens of imaginative creations from schools, families and community groups. Admission is free, and it’s open through Dec. 31.

3. Carnegie Trees & Neapolitan presepio

The Carnegie Museum of Art’s Hall of Architecture is filled with towering, ornately decorated trees — a Pittsburgh tradition since the 1960s. While you’re there, see the Neapolitan presepio, a handcrafted 18th-century nativity scene with intricate details and hundreds of figures.

4. Holiday Laser Show at the Carnegie Kamin Science Center

Skip the cold and take in a colorful, high-energy holiday laser show set to classic and contemporary tunes. Shows run multiple times daily in the Buhl Planetarium and continue after Christmas.

5. Kennywood’s Holiday Lights

With more than 3 million lights, Kennywood transforms into a full-blown winter wonderland. Stroll through the park, ride the carousel, or just sip cocoa while soaking in the atmosphere. Holiday Lights continues through Jan. 4.