Pittsburgh Holiday Event Roundup Part 1

The Thanksgiving feast hasn’t hit the table, but Pittsburgh already has plenty of events perfect for holiday merrymaking. Over the next few weeks, we’ll keep you updated on all of the festive occasions we can find for every December celebration. Have a favorite that you think should make our list? Email MaraFlanagan@HerCampus.com with your name, year, and a link to the event. You may be credited in an upcoming article!

Handmade Arcade for the Holidays

Date: Saturday, Nov. 12, 2011
Time: 11 AM—7 PM
Location: David L. Lawrence Convention Center (Downtown)
Admission: Free
Why Go?
If you’ve ever been to “Pittsburgh’s Largest Indie Craft Fair,” you know it is worth a chilly trek to the bus stop. With more than 150 vendors hawking everything from cozy apparel to screenprints to stuffed animals, it is fabulously easy to find gifts for everyone on your list. There always seem to be a number of products priced for a Ramen noodle budget, so you might just be able to walk away with a few treats for yourself!
Don’t Miss: Hands-on Handmade—from a pizza-making relay to an interactive art installation, there are plenty of ways to leave an impression (and make some memories) before you leave.
Tip: Going to any Handmade Arcade event is a great networking opportunity. It’s packed with artists from Pittsburgh and beyond; most are wonderfully approachable, have great stories to tell, and are usually willing to give you their card if you ask with a smile.
Before You Go: Consider bussing to the Strip District for a colossal plate of scrumptious pancakes; you’ll need the energy.

51^st Annual Duquesne Light Light Up Night

Date: Friday, Nov. 18
Time: 5—10 PM
Location: Downtown (Various Locations)
Admission: Free (specific exhibits or attractions may have associated fees)
Why Go?
Ice skating, concerts, a parade, a dance party on the Roberto Clemente Bridge, and thousands of twinkling lights: it’s a major Pittsburgh tradition and a ridiculously fun way to gear up for December. For complete info on the awesomeness, be sure to check out the event website (linked above).
Don’t Miss: The fireworks. 9:38 PM.
Tip: Bring friends. Downtown is packed on Light Up Night; sticking together is a good way to ensure you don’t get lost in the crowd.
P.S. Lines can get crazy. If there’s something specific you want to see, try to get your spot early. 
Before You Go: For a moment as sweet as a candy cane, head to the City-County Building at noon for the Tree Lighting Ceremony. See the mayor, enjoy live performances and be dazzled by all of the pretty ornaments. 

Annual Horse-Drawn Candlelight Carriage Parade (Light Up Night Day 2)

Date: Saturday, Nov. 19
Time: Parade at 6 PM, other events beginning as early as 11 AM
Location: Downtown
Admission: Free (specific exhibits or attractions may have associated fees)
Why Go?
Along with a parade, this second day of Light Up Night festivities features plenty of opportunities to take your own carriage ride. While you’re in town, gaze in awe at the Macy’s holiday window displays, go ice skating at PPG Place and enjoy live music in Market Square.
Don’t Miss: Vanessa Campagna’s performance at 3 PM in Market Square. Pittsburghers know her as a hard-working, endlessly dedicated, extraordinarily talented young singer. She just released her first Christmas album (stunning); definitely one to watch.
Tip: Catch the free Fifth Avenue Place Holley Trolley; it’ll be looping through Downtown Saturdays from November 19 to December 17. Adorably festive and excellently convenient.
Before You Go: This is a great time to try some of the restaurants in Market Square—there are plenty of places to grab a quick and delicious bite. Low on dough? Stop by Prantl’s—perfect for a sweet treat on any budget.

 
Pittsburgh Jazz Orchestra: Holiday Performance

^Above: the preview for last year’s concert
Date: Sunday, Dec. 18
Time: 6 PM
Location: August Wilson Center for African American Culture
Admission: $20–$40 for tickets
Why Go?
It’s the end of the semester and you’re packing up to go home. Whether you’re looking for a last hurrah with your Chatham ladies or something festive to do with your family, it’s sure to be a magical night of jazz takes on holiday classics by some of Pittsburgh’s best.
Don’t Miss: The August Wilson Center—the museum part isn’t usually open on Sundays, but it’s definitely worth stopping by earlier in the week to explore the exhibits.
Tip: When ordering tickets, ask about student discounts—many local venues offer them.
Before You Go: Swing by the William Penn Hotel and sip a peppermint mocha from the Starbucks in the lobby. Only a few blocks away, the hotel has some of the best decorations in the city.

Cover Photo Credit: Liz West
 Handmade Arcade Photo: from Handmade Arcade website