Thanksgiving break is almost here, yinz. With that, it’s nearly time for many of us to migrate to the greatest city on planet earth, Pittsburgh!
Whether you’re headed home for some turkey-fueled R&R or just trying to avoid getting asked about your post-graduation plans, we hope you find something to recharge your batteries. With that being said, we’ve cooked up a list of things to do that’ll get you off the couch, out of your PJs, and back into the real world, at least for a little while this break.
Events & Attractions
Highmark Light Up Night
Kick off the holiday season in dazzling style at Highmark Light Up Night, happening downtown from 5 to 10 p.m. on November 22.
This beloved Pittsburgh tradition transforms the city into a winter wonderland with sparkling lights, free live music, festive food, and the grand tree lighting ceremony. Wander through holiday markets, catch stunning fireworks, and soak in the cheerful energy that makes this night unforgettable. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the season with friends and family in the heart of the city! More information can be found here.
Ice Skating Downtown
Lace up your skates and glide into the holiday season at the UPMC Rink at PPG Place, now open for winter fun! Nestled in the heart of downtown Pittsburgh, this iconic rink surrounds a dazzling Christmas tree, offering a picture-perfect backdrop for your skating adventure.
Whether you’re showing off your moves or wobbling through your first laps, it’s a must-do for holiday magic in the city. So grab some hot cocoa, snap some photos, and make it a day to remember! Tickets can be purchased online or in person.
Wild Illuminations: A Holiday Lanterns Experience
Who said Thanksgiving has to be all about the turkeys?
The Pittsburgh Zoo is keeping all the other animals on our radar and the holiday spirit alive with its popular drive-through “Zoo Lights” event this season. Featuring over 150 animal-themed light displays paired with festive music and holiday treats, it’s a magical experience for all ages. Guests can also enjoy food, drinks, and gifts at outdoor kiosks throughout the event. Drive-through tickets are available online and can be purchased for a specific date or a flexible one. Tickets are available from November 22 through January 11.
Concerts & Performances
Elf In Concert
If Christmas is more of your holiday, you can relive the holiday magic of “Elf” like never before with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra at Heinz Hall. This special concert event pairs the beloved film with a live orchestra performing John Debney’s iconic score, bringing the film’s heartwarming Christmas moments to life in a spectacular new way.
With concerts on Friday, November 21, and Sunday, November 23, it’s the perfect event for families and fans alike and a chance to enjoy a timeless classic with an unforgettable musical twist. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind experience that will have you laughing, cheering, and feeling all the holiday feels! Tickets and time can be found on the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra’s website.
Omnium Circus: I’mPossible
If music is not your thing, but you’re still looking to scratch that performance itch, look no further than the Omnium Circus. Omnium is a world-renowned “inclusive and accessible” circus company that is targeted to all age groups, so no matter who you go with, you’re bound to have a ball. The circus follows a young man named Johnny on his journey to gain courage through awe-inspiring and death-defying feats. The performance will take place at 2 p.m. on Saturday, November 22, at the Byham Theater. Tickets can be purchased through their website.
Les Misérables
If you’re looking to add a little drama to your Thanksgiving break, Pittsburgh’s Benedum Center is hosting the acclaimed touring production of Les Misérables. The reimagined staging of the Tony Award-winning musical brings new life to the classic story of love, loss, and revolution in 19th-century France, backed by a score packed with iconic numbers like “I Dreamed a Dream” and “One Day More.” Having been seen by more than 130 million people worldwide, the show remains one of the most celebrated musicals ever, and it’s an easy way to level up a night out on the town. Tickets can be purchased through the Benedum Center’s website.
Sports
Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers are back in action twice over Thanksgiving break. While the first game vs. the Chicago Bears is away, fans have plenty to look forward to when the team plays the Buffalo Bills at Heinz Field Acrisure Stadium on Sunday, November 30, at 4:25 p.m.. Tickets can be purchased online through Ticketmaster, SeatGeek, or your local scalper.
WPIAL Football Championships
While the Steelers are on the road the first weekend of break, look no further than the WPIAL to get your football fix. Saturday, November 22, will see a full day of championship-caliber games at Acrisure Stadium. What better way to get together with old friends and relive your glory days than with some high school football?
Class 3A: 5 p.m. – #1 Avonworth vs. #2 Imani Christian
Class 2A: 2 p.m. – #1 Seton LaSalle vs. #3 Steel Valley
Class 1A: 11:05 a.m. – #4 Laurel vs. #2 Clairton
Pittsburgh Penguins
The Penguins will host two matchups during the break at PPG Paints Arena:
7 p.m. on Wednesday, November 26 vs. Buffalo Sabres
7 p.m. on Saturday, November 29 vs. Toronto Maple Leafs
If you’re a student planning to see the Pens, make sure to take advantage of their “student rush” tickets, which offer a deep discount to active college students. More information can be found on the NHL website.
With so much to see and do, there is no shortage of Holiday energy in Pittsburgh this Thanksgiving break. Whether you’re skating under the stars, rooting for the ‘Lers, or soaking in festive performances, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Happy Thanksgiving, yinz!
Jack is a fourth-year finance and accounting major from Pittsburgh, PA, and is one of Onward State’s visual editors. Feel free to follow his incredible Spotify playlists and make him feel good about how much time he’s spent on them. Follow him for more @jackaj_ on Instagram, and @jackaj on Spotify.