While the holidays are a magical time in Pittsburgh, we all know they can be a little overwhelming, too. That is particularly true for Yinzers with sensory needs. Thankfully, there are some special sensory-friendly performances and events with sensory accommodations that can make the holidays a bit less dysregulating.
Check out these sensory-friendly holiday activities in Pittsburgh:
Through Jan. 4: Holiday Magic at Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
This winter season, glowing gardens and festive displays make spirits soar at Phipps. From vibrant amaryllis and delicate orchids to a spectacular poinsettia showcase, every bloom is a burst of seasonal joy. Outdoors, the Winter Light Garden showcases vibrant hues and designs. As one of the local destinations that partners with KultureCity, Phipps has a great social story available to help kids before a visit. They also offer sensory-sensitive hours through a partnership with Autism Connection of Pennsylvania.
Through Jan. 4: Holiday Lights at Kennywood Park
Kennywood celebrates the sparkly season with more than 3 million lights, 25-plus amusement rides and an all-new entertainment lineup. It’s a lot of fun meeting Santa, Rudolph, and his pals from the North Pole, exploring Gingerbread Junction and riding the Gingerbread Express. But it can also be a bit overwhelming for some family members. Kennywood has a variety of accommodations for disability and special needs, and we’ve got the details right here. Kids can choose to walk around and enjoy the lights or hop on some of the rides that are open, depending on their sensory needs. Tickets start at $19.99.
Courtesy of Kennwood Park.
Nov. 28-Dec. 21: Santa at the Heinz History Center
Thanks to a donation from the Kamin family, all kids 17 and under get in free to the Heinz History Center. Recreate a photo with your family in (a replica of) that iconic Kauffman’s Santa chair. (Photos will occur between 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. on weekends beginning Nov. 28.) While you’re at the History Center, explore the museum with sensory-friendly accommodations, including sensory bags and quiet spaces for regulation, which the museum offers year-round.
Nov. 28-Dec. 21: Santa Trolley at the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum
Take an excursion on an antique streetcar this holiday season. You’ll have the chance to meet Santa Claus, chat with him on your journey, and take a picture with him before your ride concludes! After your adventure, explore our interactive exhibits, see our train display and LEGO display table from Steel City LUG, and enjoy hot chocolate and cookies. Admission to the museum on these dates requires the purchase of special tickets for $25 per person. Visitors 2 and under may attend this event for free when riding on the lap of an adult. This year’s event runs on November 28-30, as well as December 6-7, 13-14, and 20-21. There is a special sensory-friendly Santa Trolley on November 30, and the Trolley Museum has sensory accommodations available at every event.
Dec. 5-7: Sensory-friendly shopping hours at Handmade Arcade Holiday Market
This market at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center runs all weekend, but there are sensory-friendly shopping hours from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday where stimulation will be reduced for a less overwhelming shopping experience. Find information on the market here.
Dec. 7: “The Nutcracker” at the Benedum Center (show runs Dec. 5-28)
Set in turn-of-the-century Pittsburgh, “The Nutcracker” sweeps audiences into a thrilling journey with Marie and the Nutcracker Prince as they travel through sparkling snow into the Land of Enchantment. Family workshops are slated for Dec. 6 and 20. A sensory-friendly performance is planned for Dec. 7. Tickets are $33-$158.
Courtesy of Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre.
Dec. 8: A Very Yinzer Christmas at the Benedum Center
A Very Yinzer Christmas concert features performances by over 25 Pittsburgh music icons. Proceeds benefit Band Together Pittsburgh, a local organization that creates music programs for individuals on the autism spectrum. Tickets are $30-$50.
Dec. 10: Sensory-Friendly Hours at the National Aviary
The aviary is all decked out for the holidays, and they’ve created a special time for guests with sensory needs to enjoy the magic of the season with their avian buddies. There is a sensory-friendly version of the amazing “Passport to Parks” presentation designed to avoid dysregulation, a sensory guide, quiet zones, and sensory tools. Pre-registration is required.
Dec. 21: “A Musical Christmas Carol” at the Byham Theater (show runs Dec. 11-22)
Enjoy the classic Charles Dickens tale set to seasonal music, with a special sensory-friendly performance on December 21 at 10 a.m. Tickets can be purchased here for the general show and here for the sensory-friendly performances.
Photo courtesy of Pittsburgh Civic Light Opera.
Dec. 21: Holiday Pops at Heinz Hall (show runs Dec. 12-21)
The Pittsburgh Symphony, the Mendelssohn Choir and guest vocalist Blaine Alden Krauss perform in this annual offering of music for the season. The show features “Sleigh Ride” and the “Hallelujah” chorus, as well as sing-alongs and a very special guest. Tickets are $32-$125. A sensory-friendly Holiday Pops is planned for Dec. 21 with tickets priced at $15.
Looking for more sensory-friendly accommodations around the city? Check out our guide, and don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter. We’ll let you know about the stuff that matters to families in Pittsburgh, from education news to family events, twice a week.