For most Pittsburgh-area families, this weekend is the start of the winter break from school. We’ve got a guide full of ways to keep kids busy until 2026 (and another guide to help you ring in the new year, too!). But if you’re looking for some ways to kick off the holiday break this weekend, check out this roundup of local events:
Thursday, Dec. 18: Hanukkah Party at the Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh, 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Start the weekend off early! Come out and celebrate at the branch in the Sally and Howard Levin Clubhouse. Find all the details here about this free family celebration.
Friday, Dec. 19: “Elf” at the Kamin Science Center, 8 p.m.
In this much-loved movie, Will Ferrell stars as Buddy, a human who thinks he’s an elf, who sets out to find his real father. Screening takes place in the Science Center’s Rangos Giant Cinema. Tickets are $12, which does not include admission to the Science Center.
Friday, Dec. 19 and Saturday, Dec. 20: “It’s a Wonderful Life” at Pittsburgh Savoyards
Come out to Bellevue for a show by one of Pittsburgh’s oldest theater companies, now in its 88th season! There will be two evening showings, as well as a Saturday matinee. This intimate venue features community actors of all ages bringing a classic tale to life. Tickets are $20.
Saturday, Dec. 20: Deck the Paws at Animal Friends, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Get ready to jingle all the way to Animal Friends for our most festive celebration of the season. Deck the Paws is a full day of holiday cheer, furry friends and family fun. Meet adoptable animals and maybe even find your new best friend just in time for the holidays. Get a behind-the-scenes look at the lifesaving work you support, and treat yourself (and maybe grab a few gifts!) with delicious, homemade goodies. Their Humane Education and Enrichment Center will be open for you and your young child to explore. There are also Winter Workshops kids can enroll in for $40, though the main event is free. Find details here.
Saturday, Dec. 20: Audio Holiday Cards with SLB Radio, 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Record messages and make cards for the holidays! Your loved ones will be warmed all winter by the sound of your voice and that special handmade touch. This free event is at the SLB studio, located in the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh. It’s best for kids in grades 6 and up. Find more details here.
Photos courtesy of SLB Radio.
Saturday, Dec. 20: Grinch and Cindy Lou Who visit Mellon Square, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Meet everyone’s favorite residents of Whoville! Your heart may just grow twice as large. Enjoy a complimentary cup of hot cocoa while celebrating the season with these very special guests. Bring your phones and cameras for a delightful photo op. This event is free, and no registration is required.
Saturday, Dec. 20-Sunday, Dec. 21: “Gift of the Ice Queen” at Gemini Children’s Theater
The Ice Queen is not happy to find that a stranger has been stealing the snow from her mountain-top kingdom. Knowing she must protect her Ice Fairies, she orders help from Captain Skurk and his Goblin Army to capture the stranger and place him in the dungeon. Little does she know that she will soon learn an important lesson about snow and the act of giving to others. This highly interactive show is perfect for the holiday season and the entire family. Kids can wiggle, sing and even be involved with these family-friendly shows. Tickets are $5 for kids 2 and under, $12 for kids 3-17, and $15 for adults.
Courtesy of Gemini Children’s Theater.
Saturday, Dec. 20-Tuesday, Dec. 23: Acrisure Stadium Holiday Tours
These tours, which are two hours in length, take guests into the depths of Acrisure Stadium where they will see locker rooms, the playing field, behind-the-scenes areas, and have a chance to take a photo with Steely. There will also be seasonal hot cocoa and cookies to get guests into the holiday spirit. Tickets are $65 and can be purchased here.
Sunday, Dec. 21: Breakfast with Santa at Sewickley’s St. James Church, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
This free event is open to all ages. There will be breakfast, activities and a chance to spend time together with other local families enjoying holiday cheer. Find more details here.
Sunday, Dec. 21: Skate with Santa at the Schenley Park Ice Rink, 1:30 p.m.
Enjoy a special opportunity to take to the ice with Santa Claus just before Christmas. Skate along to great music and make happy holiday memories. Admission is $6, $5 for seniors and vets, $3 ages 17 and younger. Skate rentals are $3. Guests must purchase tickets ahead of time online here.
Courtesy of the August Wilson Center.
Start the new year off right! Sign up for the Kidsburgh newsletter to get updates on family fun all year long. While you’re at it, take our survey for a chance to win two tickets to “Wicked” at the Benedum on Jan. 30! And don’t miss these holiday guides…
Photo at top of story courtesy of Acrisure Stadium.