Oh what fun—Fox Chapel Area, Mars Area, Shaler Area
- Debbie Mountain
- Nov 12
- 11 min read
Where the season sparkles—your ultimate guide to holiday happenings.
Welcoming the Season
Butler’s Spirit of Christmas Parade
When: November 29
Where: Main Street, Downtown Butler
For more info: butlerradio.com/spirit-of-christmas-parade
Enjoy a variety of fun activities to kick off the holiday season! This year’s theme is “Christmas Through the Decades.” Enjoy floats, marching bands, dance groups, and much more.
Fun Fore All Holiday Lights Mini Golf
When: November 21 through January 3
Where: 8 Progress Avenue, Cranberry Township
For more info: funforeall.com
What could make mini golf even more fun? Holiday lights, of course! Two award-winning courses turn into a walk-through holiday lights extravaganza.
Holiday Dazzle 2025
When: November 15
Where: Pine Community Center, 100 Pine Park Drive, Wexford
For more info: twp.pine.pa.us
Holiday Dazzle is a spectacular celebration offering fireworks, food trucks, carriage rides, Santa and his elves, and much more.
Light Up Bellevue
When: December 6
Where: Lincoln Avenue, Bellevue
For more info: bonafidebellevue.org/lightup
Each December, Bona Fide Bellevue presents a holiday celebration that brings neighbors together for some festive fun. The event includes an outdoor holiday market, activities for children, tree lighting, a visit from Santa, and live music.
Light Up Mars
When: November 29
Where: Downtown Mars
For more info: marsborough.com
Shop at the holiday market, enjoy great food, take horse-drawn carriage rides, and see the tree lighting as well as the Light Up Mars Parade.
Miracle on Main Street
When: December 4
Where: Main Street, Zelienople
For more info: zelieboro.org
Enjoy an annual event that features children’s activities, a parade, a living Nativity scene, Santa, and other yuletide traditions.
Saxonburg Annual Holiday Parade
When: November 28
Where: Main Street, Saxonburg
For more info: saxonburgpa.com
Kick off the season with this annual parade sponsored by the Saxonburg Area Business Association. The event starts at Dinnerbell Square and ends at the little white church.
Sewickley Light Up Night
When: December 5
Where: Beaver Street, Sewickley
For more info: sewickleyborough.org
Usher in the holidays at the annual Sewickley Light Up Night!
Shaler Township’s Annual “Lite” Up Night
When: November 22
Where: Shaler North Hills Library and Shaler Area Middle School, Mt. Royal Boulevard, Shaler
For more info: shaler.org
Welcome the holiday season with a festive parade featuring Santa, Mrs. Claus, and other seasonal characters followed by the township’s annual tree lighting.
Town of McCandless Winterfest
When: December 6
Where: McCandless Town Hall Grounds, 9955 Grubbs Road, Wexford
For more info: townofmccandles.org/438/Winterfest
A world of wintery excitement awaits at this year’s Winterfest. Bonfire and smores, hot chocolate bar, food trucks, winter crafts, character appearances, a holiday light display at Devlin Park and the ever popular name the snow plow contest all make this event lot of fun.
Wreaths Across America
When: December 13
Where: Mars VFW Post 7505, 331 Mars Valencia Road, Mars
For more info: wreathsacrossamerica.org/PA0809
Help honor and remember as many fallen heroes as possible by sponsoring wreaths to be placed on gravesites at the Mars, Mt. Olive, and West Union cemeteries. You can also volunteer to place the wreaths. There will be a ceremony at the Mars VFW.
Holiday Festivities & Fun
Breakfast with the Grinch
When: December 7
Where: Sharpsburg VFW Auxiliary Post 709, 1017 Main Street, Sharpsburg
For more info: coopersiegelcommunitylibrary.org
This Grinch-themed library fundraiser will include breakfast, crafts, a live reading of “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” and even a photo op with the Grinch!
Brunch with Santa
When: December 13
Where: Cranberry Highlands Golf Course, 5601 Freshcorn Road, Cranberry Township
For more info: cranberrytownship.org
Enjoy a delicious brunch with Santa at Cranberry Highlands!
Christmas at Old Economy Village
When: December 6 & 7
Where: 1401 Church Street, Ambridge
For more info: oldeconomyvillage.org
Walk along a candlelit cobblestone street to find unique handmade items, enjoy local choirs, and maybe even see Belsnickel (the Pennsylvania Dutch Santa Claus).
Enchanted Lights: A Magical Holiday Stroll
When: November 28 through December 30
Where: 282 Rochester Road, Freedom
For more info: enchantedlightspittsburgh.com
Enchanted Lights is an outdoor walk-through experience for the whole family and will feature festive lights, holiday decorations, dazzling displays, and illuminated pathways.
German Christmas Market
When: November 8 & 9
Where: Harmony Museum, 218 Mercer Street, Harmony
For more info: harmonymuseum.org
The Harmony Museum’s annual WeihnachtsMarkt, a Christmas market in the German tradition, has become a major regional attraction. It offers handcrafted and German imports for sale, with artisans and vendors chosen based on the quality of their products. The event also features entertainment, food, and refreshments.
Gingerbread House Making at the Cooper-Siegel Community Library
When: December 13
Where: Program Room, 403 Fox Chapel Road, Fox Chapel
For more info: coopersiegelcommunitylibrary.org
Graham crackers, icing, and candy will be provided to build a gingerbread house at the library! This activity is for kids ages 5-11; younger kids are welcome but might need an adult to help. Register online.
Meet & Greet with Santa
When: December 13
Where: Blueberry Hill Park Activity Center, 1604 Blaine’s Way, Franklin Park
For more info: franklinparkborough.us
Spend some time with the Big Guy at this fun event!
Milk and Cookies with Santa
When: December 6 & 7
Where: Cranberry Township Municipal Center (Grange Hall/Senior Center), 2525 Rochester Road, Cranberry Township
For more info: cranberrytownship.org
Leaving cookies and milk for Santa is a family tradition. At this event, you can also enjoy milk and cookies with Santa! He will visit with the children for a great photo opportunity, and there will be special holiday crafts too. Pre-registration is required.
Pet Photos with Santa
When: December 7
Where: Cranberry Township Municipal Center (Grange Hall), 2525 Rochester Road, Cranberry Township
For more info: cranberrytownship.org
Pets love Santa too! Get a photo of you and your pet with Santa Paws (bring your own camera). Each 10-minute session is reserved for one to three domestic animals.
Recreation Alliance of North Pittsburgh Holiday Dance
When: December 19
Where: Blueberry Hill Park Activity Center, 1604 Blaine’s Way, Franklin Park
For more info: ranp.recdesk.com
Enjoy music and light refreshments at this holiday-themed dance.
Santa’s First Stop
When: November 21
Where: Cranberry Township Municipal Center, 2525 Rochester Road, Cranberry Township
For more info: cranberrytownship.org
This free event brings area residents together to enjoy games, crafts, music, food trucks, live reindeer, and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Santa’s Village & Visit
When: December 13
Where: Mars Area Public Library, 107 Grand Avenue, Mars
For more info: marsarealibrary.org
Get your wish list ready—Santa is stopping by to meet little ones and take photos. There will also be fun activities for the kids.
Silvester New Year’s Eve Celebration
When: December 31
Where: Harmony Museum, 218 Mercer Street, Harmony
For more info: harmonymuseum.org
A pork and sauerkraut dinner, music, a ball drop, fireworks, and lots more are part of this annual event in the heart of Harmony!
Spirits, Cheers, and Beers
When: November 22
Where: Freedom Farms, 434 Overbrook Road, Valencia
For more info: freedomfarmspa.com
Enjoy holiday cheers with Santa, hanging out by the fire, and trying local brews while enjoying live music.
Western PA Model Railroad Museum Holiday Train Display
When: November 8 through January 11
Where: 5507 Lakeside Drive, Gibsonia
For more info: wpmrm.org
Visit the holiday train display of one of the oldest model railroad organizations in the nation.
Winter Wonderland Tours
When: Weekends, November 30 through December 22
Where: Old Economy Village, 401 Church Street, Ambridge
For more info: oldeconomyvillage.org
Visit the historic 19th century village decorated for Christmas! Enjoy the festive atmosphere and holiday lights while learning about the history of the Harmony Society.
Yule Log Ceremony
When: December 17
Where: The Harmony Inn, 230 Mercer Street, Harmony
For more info: northcountrybrewing.com/events
A beloved annual tradition, the Yule Log celebration is the opportunity to cast your cares into the flames with a sprig of holly, make a wish for the new year, and share in the Toast to the Trees.
Zelienople Christmas House Tour
When: December 13
Where: Harmony-Zelienople United Methodist Church, 123 North Pittsburgh Street, Zelienople
For more info: zeliehistory.org
Visit local homes decorated beautifully for the holidays. A delicious lunch plus door prizes and a quilt raffle are included.
Seasonal Shows
A Community of Music 2025
When: December 5 & 6
Where: The Block Northway, 8013 McKnight Road, McCandless
For more info: northhillscares.com
A Community of Music, North Hills Cares’ largest annual fundraiser, showcases music from local school districts, holiday cheer, and fun for all ages.
Baby, It’s Cold Outside
When: November 29
Where: The Strand Theater, 119 North Main Street, Zelienople
For more info: thestrandtheater.org
Direct from Las Vegas, two of the best in the business return to The Strand with an unforgettable yuletide concert: A Christmas Toast to Dean Martin & Marilyn Monroe.
Christmas with The Brave Collide
When: December 7
Where: The Strand Theater, 119 North Main Street, Zelienople
For more info: thestrandtheater.org
The Brave Collide, with Irish contemporary folk-pop duo Chloe Agnew and Brian McGrane, visit The Strand for a special seasonal concert.
‘Holiday Traditions’ Presented by the Butler County Symphony Orchestra
When: December 6
Where: Butler Intermediate High School, 551 Fairground Hill Road, Butler
For more info: butlersymphony.org
Celebrate the magic of the season with this annual performance of lots of festive favorites.
January Ice Jam
When: January 16 & 17
Where: Ramada by Wyndham Beaver Falls, 7195 Eastwood Road, Beaver Falls
For more info: bluegrassrelieffund.org
Bands will be playing traditional, contemporary and gospel bluegrass music, with proceeds donated to efforts to keep this kind of music accessible.
River City Brass: Christmas Brasstacular
When: December 12 & 13
Where: Carson Middle School, 300 Hillvue Lane, McCandless
For more info: rivercitybrass.org
Embrace the spirit of Christmas with this seasonal fan favorite. The show will feature new arrangements of music from “Home Alone,” “A Christmas Carol,” and Duke Ellington’s “The Nutcracker Suite.” This concert will entertain audiences of all ages.
Handcrafted for the Holidays
Avonworth Band Craft Show
When: December 6
Where: Avonworth High School, 304 Josephs Lane, Ohio Township
For more info: facebook.com/events/1166966114992202
More than 150 crafters and vendors sell their wares at this annual craft show. There will be something for everyone including holiday decorations, baked goods, blankets, jewelry, spices, pet toys, local honey, paintings and more.
Butler Downtown Holiday Market
When: December 13
Where: Diamond Park, 277 South Main Street, Butler
For more info: experiencebutler.com
Celebrate at this seasonal market featuring a selection of homemade crafts, unique gifts, and festive finds.
Christmas on the Farm
When: December 7 & 8
Where: Freedom Farms, 434 Overbrook Road, Valencia
For more info: freedomfarmspa.com
All the handmade product vendors are back plus many new artisans. Christmas trees and wreaths will be available for purchase, while food, face painting, a corn pit, Santa, and access to the animal barn will make it fun for the whole family.
Farkleberry Craft Show
When: November 1
Where: Cranberry Township Municipal Building, 2525 Rochester Road, Cranberry Township
For more info: cranberrywomensclub.org
This show will feature more than 80 vendors selling pottery, jewelry, handcrafted wreaths, baby items and more!
I Made It! For the Holidays North Hills
When: November 15
Where: The Block Northway, 8013 McKnight Road, McCandless
For more info: imadeitmarket.com
I Made it! For the Holidays will feature more than 100 local artisans, small-batch food sellers and more.
Mars Fall Craft Show
When: November 22
Where: Mars Area Middle and High Schools, 520 PA-228, Mars
For more info: facebook.com/share/19tkUJx8f3
Support the Mars International Student Association at this show featuring 250 talented crafters located throughout both schools. You are sure to find something unique for everyone on your shopping list. Shuttle buses are provided between schools and parking areas.
Plains Church Annual Craft Fair
When: November 8
Where: Fellowship Hall of Plains Presbyterian Church, 326 Plains Church Road, Cranberry Township
For more info: experiencebutler.com/events
Crafters, vendors, food, refreshments and basket raffles will all be part of this year’s fair.
Treats and Treasures Holiday Pop-Up Market
When: November 9
Where: Downtown Perrysville
For more info: facebook.com/share/16yrSAM1eA
Shoppers can find treasures from local artisans, makers, and bakers at this holiday market. Beauty services and seasonal drinks will also be available from participating vendors.
Winter Wellness & Whimsy
Butler ‘Carved in Ice’ Winter Festival
When: February 20
Where: Diamond Park, 108 South Main Street, Butler
For more info: butleramrotary.com
Ice sculptures will be displayed through the park and there will also be live ice carving demonstrations during the festival. Hot cocoa and great food and drink from some of the area’s best food trucks and breweries will add to the fun.
Harmony Silvester 5K and Fun Run
When: December 31
Where: Harmony Museum Grounds, 218 Mercer Street, Harmony
For more info: experiencebutler.com
Get ready for the new year with a refreshing run or stroll through Harmony!
Run Santa Run 5K
When: December 13
Where: 260 Graham Park Drive, Cranberry Township
For more info: runsanta5k.com
Join hundreds of runners and walkers at this year’s Run Santa Run 5K. The event sells out every year so register early. Don’t forget your Santa gear and holiday cheer!
Saxonburg Truthahntrab 5K
When: November 29
Where: 147 North Rebecca Street, Saxonburg
For more info: runsignup.com
The Truthahntrab (Turkey Trot in German) will capture the essence of Saxonburg’s roots dating back to 1832 when the town was settled by German immigrants. There will be unique turkey-themed awards, raffles, and post-race snacks.
Sewickley Turkey Trot 2025
When: November 27
Where: War Memorial Park, 811 Blackburn Road, Sewickley
For more info: sewickleyymca.org/5k
Open to everyone, the trot takes runners and walkers on a 5K path through the quaint town of Sewickley. The event is a joint project of the Heritage Valley Health System Foundation and the Sewickley Valley YMCA. Proceeds benefit the Faith in Action program at the YMCA.
Turkey Trot in Butler
When: November 1
Where: Butler YMCA (start and finish), 339 North Washington Street, Butler
For more info: bcfymca.org/events/turkey-trot-1
This annual 1 mile and 5K race will be hosted by the Butler YMCA. Those taking part in this family-fun event will run through downtown Butler.
Holidays in the Burgh
‘A Musical Christmas Carol’
When: December 13–23
Where: Byham Theater, 101 Sixth Street, Downtown Pittsburgh
For more info: pittsburghclo.org
This show is the spirit of the season, wrapped up with your favorite yuletide melodies and some holiday magic. See Scrooge, Bob Cratchit, Tiny Tim, and a host of other colorful characters in this classic story.
Highmark Holiday Pops
When: December 12–21 (Check the website for specific performance dates.)
Where: Heinz Hall, 600 Penn Avenue, Downtown Pittsburgh
For more info: pittsburghsymphony.org
Celebrate the holidays with the Pittsburgh Symphony, the Mendelssohn Choir, and guest vocalist Blaine Alden Krauss in this annual offering of seasonal music.
Highmark Light Up Night
When: November 23
Where: Downtown Pittsburgh (various locations)
For more info: visitpittsburgh.com
This official kickoff to the Pittsburgh holiday season combines long-standing traditions and new holiday experiences with a supersized fireworks display as the big finale.
Holiday Brass Spectacular
When: December 16
Where: Heinz Hall, 600 Penn Avenue, Downtown Pittsburgh
For more info: pittsburghsymphony.org
Join the symphony’s brass musicians for a festive holiday concert featuring timeless masterpieces, thrilling premieres, and renowned guest artists.
Jingle Bell Run–Pittsburgh
When: December 6
Where: Federal and Isabella Streets, Pittsburgh’s North Shore
For more info: events.arthritis.org/jbrpittsburgh
Be part of this festive race for charity and signature Arthritis Foundation event! Wear your favorite holiday attire and bring a team of family, friends and co-workers to run, walk, or stroll to help raise funds to support research for arthritis treatments and a cure.
Kennywood Holiday Lights
When: November 14 through January 4 (Check the website for select dates.)
Where: Kennywood Park, 4800 Kennywood Boulevard, West Mifflin
For more info: kennywood.com
Take a stroll among more than 3 million twinkling lights and marvel at “the tallest Christmas tree in the state.” Savor the flavors of festive foods and holiday drinks while enjoying rides for the kids and special entertainment for all.
Phipps Holiday Magic
When: November 14 through January 4
Where: Phipps Conservatory, 1 Schenley Drive, Oakland
For more info: phipps.conservatory.org
The holiday season isn’t complete without a visit to Phipps for festive displays and glowing gardens. This year’s theme, “Wild Winter,” invites you into a wonderland of whimsical topiary wildlife and enchanting scenes. Prepare to be dazzled!
The UPMC Rink at PPG Place
When: Check the website for this year’s dates.
Where: PPG Place, between Third and Fourth Avenues, Downtown Pittsburgh
For more info: ppgplace.com
PPG Place comes alive every holiday season where thousands enjoy ice skating in the open air around a huge Christmas tree on a spectacular one-of-a-kind rink.
Wild Illuminations: A Holiday Lantern Experience
When: November 22 through January 11
Where: Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium, 7370 Baker Street, Highland Park
For more info: pittsburghzoo.org
Wild Illuminations, presented by UPMC Health Plan, will feature new silk-and-steel lanterns to spark the imagination, including amazing animals, beloved holiday characters, and traditional Asian icons.
We love to inform our readers about fun events happening in our local communities. Send an email message to d.mountain@icmags.com if you have details about a future event in the area.
We kindly ask that before attending an event, please check the website provided. We do our utmost to make certain the information we provide in this section is accurate; however, events are subject to change.
Comments