Christmas Events for Kids in Pittsburgh (2026)

Christmas Events for Kids
Written by Kelsey Cecil

14 min read

The Pittsburgh area has 14 Christmas events for kids we could confirm for the 2026 season, from Nutcracker Storytime with West Point Ballet in Sewickley on November 20 to Phipps Holiday Magic: Winter Flower Show and Light Garden in Pittsburgh, which runs through January 10. 7 of them are free, and every listing links straight to the host. It is one stop on our guide to Christmas events for kids in Pennsylvania, part of our guide for every state.

The short version

  • 14 kids’ Christmas events confirmed in Pittsburgh for 2026, in Pittsburgh, Monroeville, Bethel Park, Bridgeville, Glenshaw and Sewickley
  • First: Nutcracker Storytime with West Point Ballet, Sewickley, November 20. Runs latest: Phipps Holiday Magic: Winter Flower Show and Light Garden, Pittsburgh, through January 10
  • Free: Nutcracker Storytime with West Point Ballet, Highmark Light Up Night, Gingerbread Workshop, Dance the Story featuring The Nutcracker with Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre, Gingerbread Houses Ho! Ho! Ho!, Grinchmas! Around the World and Christmas Storytime
  • Checked on each host’s own page; each listing links straight to it
Watercolor illustration: Rally the corgi stands on a red train seat looking out at falling snow, a lit Christmas tree and a white dove. Text: Choo choo! The train starting could be heard. Hello cute white bird!
Rally watching the snow and a lit Christmas tree, from the pages of Rally Takes the Train.

Below is every event we could confirm, grouped by city, with the date, time, cost and the small things parents ask about (sign-ups, ages, what is included). Looking for a Santa train instead? Those are on our Pennsylvania Christmas train rides page.

Pittsburgh Christmas events for kids at a glance

Kids’ Christmas events
14 confirmed for 2026
Cities
Pittsburgh, Monroeville, Bethel Park, Bridgeville, Glenshaw and Sewickley
Season
November 20, 2026 to January 10, 2027
Free events
7
Kinds of events
holiday story time, holiday crafts, holiday lights and Santa visit
Last checked

Plan your December

When each Pittsburgh Christmas event for kids happens

The first is Nutcracker Storytime with West Point Ballet in Sewickley on November 20; the last runs to January 10. Each bar spans an event’s dates, not every hour in them, so check the host’s page for times.

Look inside the book

Story time with Santa in Pittsburgh? Bring Rally home.

Rally Takes the Train is a five-minute rhyming picture book about a corgi’s first train ride, hand-painted in real watercolor. It makes a cozy bedtime story after a big day with Santa. Turn a few pages here.

Page 1 of 8

Rally Takes the Train book cover: a watercolor corgi peeking from a red train

Like it so far? See the full book

25 hand-painted pages, paperback, $16.99 with fast shipping from Amazon.

Buy on Amazon (opens in a new tab)

Every page is real watercolor on paper, painted by hand by Leslie Dunn. Nothing in this book was made with AI.

Christmas events for kids in Pittsburgh

8 confirmed events for kids in Pittsburgh, soonest first.

Pittsburgh: Phipps Holiday Magic: Winter Flower Show and Light Garden

Holiday lightsPhipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens · Pittsburgh

Host
Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens (opens in a new tab)
Where
Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, 1 Schenley Park, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
When
Friday, November 20, 2026 to Sunday, January 10, 2027 (daily run; timed tickets)
Cost
Admission; advance reservations required
Ages
All ages
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Phipps Holiday Magic runs from November 20, 2026 to January 10, 2027, with a theme called Botanical Brilliance. Inside the glasshouse, poinsettias, amaryllis and narcissus share space with sparkling metallic décor, a 10 foot poinsettia tree, an anthurium tree with an animated starburst topper, a gnome decorated garden tree and trees inspired by ice skating and ugly sweaters.

Kids tend to love the motion activated ice skating animal topiaries on a frozen pond beneath snowflake lights. Outside, the Winter Light Garden glows with a color changing snowflake tree, glowing orbs and a lit gazebo. The new Garden Railroad: Fairies and Gnomes display, with miniature villages and trains winding through greenery, is on view too. All tickets, for members and nonmembers, must be reserved in advance, and valet parking is $15 for nonmembers during peak times.

Parent tip: Reserve timed tickets ahead; the outdoor light garden may close temporarily in heavy rain or bad weather.

See dates and details from Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens (opens in a new tab)

Pittsburgh: Highmark Light Up Night

Tree lightingFreePittsburgh Downtown Partnership · Pittsburgh

Host
Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership (opens in a new tab)
Where
Downtown Pittsburgh (Penn Ave and Stanwix St), Penn Ave and Stanwix St, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
When
Saturday, November 21, 2026
Cost
Free
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Highmark Light Up Night returns to Downtown Pittsburgh on Saturday, November 21, 2026, as part of a larger 65th anniversary celebration. Visit Pittsburgh describes it as the official kickoff to the city's holiday season, combining long standing traditions with new holiday experiences and a supersized fireworks finale.

The full 2026 schedule had not been posted when we checked. In past years, the evening has included the City of Pittsburgh tree lighting at the City-County Building, the Highmark Christmas Tree lighting at Penn Avenue and Stanwix Street with rooftop fireworks, the lighting of the Three Sisters bridges, music stages across downtown and the Peoples Gas Holiday Market in the Cultural District. Kids have also had holiday crafts and selfie backdrops nearby. Expect big crowds, so plan transit and a meeting spot in advance and check back for this year's times.

Parent tip: The 2026 schedule was still to come when we checked, so confirm tree lighting and fireworks times before heading downtown.

See dates and details from Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership (opens in a new tab)

Pittsburgh: Santa at the History Center

Santa visitSenator John Heinz History Center · Pittsburgh

Host
Senator John Heinz History Center (opens in a new tab)
Where
Heinz History Center, Great Hall, 1212 Smallman St, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
When
Friday, November 27, 2026, 10:30 am to 1:30 pm
Cost
Included with museum admission; kids 17 and under free
Ages
Kids 17 and under get free admission
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Santa settles into the Great Hall of the Heinz History Center on the day after Thanksgiving, sitting in a replica of the Santaland chair from the old Kaufmann's department store. Kids can share their wish lists and families can take a holiday photo.

The visit is included with regular museum admission, and kids 17 and under always get in free through the Kamin Free for Kids Initiative. The museum says Santa will be in on select days this season, with November 27 the first date listed, so check the events calendar for more dates. The museum is at 1212 Smallman Street in Pittsburgh, and Santa's hours run from 10:30 am to 1:30 pm.

Parent tip: Kids are free, so only adults need admission. Bring your own camera for the photo.

See dates and details from Senator John Heinz History Center (opens in a new tab)

Pittsburgh: Zoo Lights Drive-Thru

Holiday lightsPittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium · Pittsburgh

Host
Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium (opens in a new tab)
Where
Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium, 7370 Baker St, Pittsburgh, PA 15206
When
Friday, November 27, 2026 to Sunday, January 3, 2027 (select nights; closed Nov 30, Dec 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 24, 25, 31 and Jan 1), 5 to 10 pm
Cost
$45 per vehicle ($40 members, $65 flex)
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Zoo Lights Drive-Thru returns to the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium on select nights from November 27, 2026 through January 3, 2027, from 5 to 10 pm. It is closed November 30, December 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 24, 25 and 31, and January 1. Families stay in their vehicles as they wind through thousands of eco friendly lights, twinkling illuminated animals, yuletide scenes, familiar Pittsburgh icons and an area celebrating the zoo's recent babies.

Pricing is per vehicle, not per person: $45 for nonmembers, $40 for members and $65 for a flex ticket, covering everyone who can be safely buckled in. Each ticket is for a set date and arrival time, and the drive takes about 30 minutes. The entrance plaza is open for seasonal food, drinks and restroom breaks. It is a good choice for families with babies or toddlers, since no one has to brave the cold for long.

Parent tip: One timed ticket covers the whole vehicle; arrive at your selected time, since early or late entry is not permitted. Restrooms are at the entrance plaza.

See dates and details from Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium (opens in a new tab)

Pittsburgh: Santa Family Fun Cruise

Santa visitGateway Clipper Fleet · Pittsburgh

Host
Gateway Clipper Fleet (opens in a new tab)
Where
Gateway Clipper Fleet, Station Square Dock, 350 W Station Square Dr, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
When
Sat November 28, Sat December 5 and Sun December 6, 2026, 10:30 am to 3:30 pm
Cost
$36.66 adults, $26.19 children, $5.24 infants (all in)
Ages
Kids and families; 16 and under with an adult
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Gateway Clipper's Santa Family Fun Cruise takes families out on the Three Rivers for a two hour holiday sailing aimed squarely at kids. Santa and his friends come aboard, there is a DJ dance party, and every child gets a special treat from Santa, so the cruise line suggests kids get their Christmas lists in order before boarding.

The cruise sails on weekends from Thanksgiving weekend through December, starting Saturday, November 28, then December 5 and 6 and more dates on the live booking calendar. Each day has two sailings: boarding at 9:45 am for 10:30 am to 12:30 pm, or boarding at 12:45 pm for 1:30 to 3:30 pm. All in prices are $36.66 for adults, $26.19 for children and $5.24 for infants. A snack bar with kid favorites like mac and cheese and hot dogs, plus a full bar, are available at extra cost.

Parent tip: Board 45 minutes before sailing. Snacks are not included in the ticket price; children 16 and under must be with an adult.

See dates and details from Gateway Clipper Fleet (opens in a new tab)

Pittsburgh: Winter Wonderland: A Journey Through Ice and Time

Story time with SantaSenator John Heinz History Center · Pittsburgh

Host
Senator John Heinz History Center (opens in a new tab)
Where
Heinz History Center, 1212 Smallman St, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
When
Saturday, November 28, 2026, 10 am to 2 pm
Cost
Included with admission; kids 17 and under free; tickets required
Ages
Family friendly; kids 17 and under free
Sign-up
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

This family day at the Heinz History Center ties into the Planet Ice: Mysteries of the Ice Ages exhibition. Kids can join a campfire story time, sip hot cocoa, learn about mastodons and short-faced bears, and watch World Atlatl Association champions demonstrate a prehistoric spear thrower. The Disney film Ice Age is also on the schedule.

Santa stops by for visits and photos, so it doubles as a holiday outing. The program is included with general admission, kids 17 and under are free, and every guest needs a ticket. The museum strongly recommends reserving online in advance. Santa also visits the Great Hall the day before, on November 27, from 10:30 am to 1:30 pm.

Parent tip: Reserve tickets online ahead of time, even for kids, since tickets are required for all guests.

See dates and details from Senator John Heinz History Center (opens in a new tab)

Pittsburgh: Brunch with Santa

Breakfast with SantaPittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium · Pittsburgh

Host
Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium (opens in a new tab)
Where
Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium, Education Complex Lecture Hall, 7370 Baker St, Pittsburgh, PA 15206
When
Sat December 5 (11 am to 12:30 pm), Sun December 6 (11 am to 12:30 pm), Sat December 12 (9:30 am to 1:30 pm), Sun December 13 (9:30 am to 1:30 pm), Sat December 19 (9:30 am to 1:30 pm) and Sun December 20 (9:30 am to 1:30 pm), 2026
Cost
$45 nonmembers, $40 members, $10 under 24 months; includes zoo admission
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Santa Claus is coming to the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium for a series of December meals in the Education Complex Lecture Hall. On December 5 and 6, families enjoy a brunch from 11 am to 12:30 pm. On December 12, 13, 19 and 20, there are two sessions each day, breakfast from 9:30 to 11 am and lunch from noon to 1:30 pm.

After the buffet, kids can write letters to the North Pole, do holiday themed activities and crafts, visit with the zoo's ambassador animals and pose for photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Tickets are $45 for nonmembers, $40 for members and $10 for children under 24 months, and they include zoo admission, so families can explore the zoo afterward. The zoo noted limited tickets for December 5, and it says tickets book quickly.

Parent tip: Tickets include zoo admission for the day, so plan time to visit afterward. Book early; the zoo says these sell quickly.

See dates and details from Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium (opens in a new tab)

Pittsburgh: Breakfast with Santa

Breakfast with SantaCarnegie Museums of Pittsburgh · Pittsburgh

Host
Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh (opens in a new tab)
Where
Carnegie Music Hall Foyer, 4400 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
When
Saturday, December 19, 2026, 9 am to noon
Cost
$60 adults, $40 ages 3 to 17, $10 ages 0 to 2
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Carnegie Museums hosts its Breakfast with Santa in the private, historic Music Hall Foyer in Oakland on the Saturday before Christmas. The morning includes a breakfast buffet and a photo opportunity with Santa.

The ticket also covers free admission to Carnegie Museum of Art and Carnegie Museum of Natural History from 10 am to 5 pm that day, plus 15 percent off in the museum stores, so families can turn breakfast into a full day of dinosaurs and art. The museums suggest checking out the Carnegie Trees, decorated each year by the Women's Committee of Carnegie Museum of Art. Tickets are $60 for adults, $40 for children 3 to 17 and $10 for children 0 to 2. The museum notes that it cannot offer menu substitutions because of the nature of the breakfast.

Parent tip: No menu substitutions are available. Your ticket includes museum admission from 10 am to 5 pm the same day.

See dates and details from Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Monroeville

2 confirmed events for kids in Monroeville, soonest first.

Monroeville: Grinchmas! Around the World

Holiday craftsFreeMonroeville Public Library · Monroeville

Host
Monroeville Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Monroeville Public Library, Children's Room, 4000 Gateway Campus Blvd, Monroeville, PA 15146 (near Pittsburgh)
When
Saturday, December 5, 2026, 1 to 2:30 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Monroeville Public Library's fan favorite Grinchmas party is back for another year, this time with a travel theme. Kids journey around the world with the Grinch, collecting passport stamps as they move between Grinchy activities.

Along the way there is a craft to make and a treat to enjoy. The event runs for an hour and a half on a Saturday afternoon in the library's Children's Room and is listed for all ages, from preschoolers and school age kids to the adults bringing them. The library calendar shows no registration requirement, which makes it easy to drop in for part of the afternoon. It is a good fit for families who want something playful and a little silly rather than a traditional Santa visit.

Parent tip: Plan about 90 minutes to collect all the passport stamps.

See dates and details from Monroeville Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Monroeville: Christmas Storytime

Holiday story timeFreeMonroeville Public Library · Monroeville

Host
Monroeville Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Monroeville Public Library, Children's Room, 4000 Gateway Campus Blvd, Monroeville, PA 15146 (near Pittsburgh)
When
Tuesday, December 22, 2026, 10:30 to 11:15 am
Cost
Free
Ages
Children and preschool (birth to 5)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Monroeville Public Library hosts a Christmas Storytime in its Children's Room just a few days before the holiday. The library promises a jolly morning filled with festive Christmas stories, songs and a craft for kids to take home.

The library notes up front that this storytime focuses on secular Christmas traditions. It is aimed at young children, including the preschool crowd from birth to age 5, and lasts about 45 minutes. The event is free and no registration is required, so it is an easy option for families looking for something cozy to do during the first days of winter break. The same Children's Room also hosts a Christmas Music and Movement session on Wednesday, December 16 at 10:30 am.

Parent tip: No registration needed. A Christmas Music and Movement storytime is also offered Wed, Dec 16 at 10:30 am.

See dates and details from Monroeville Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Bethel Park

1 confirmed event for kids in Bethel Park, soonest first.

Bethel Park: Gingerbread Workshop

Holiday craftsFreeBethel Park Public Library · Bethel Park

Host
Bethel Park Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Bethel Park Public Library, 5100 West Library Ave, Bethel Park, PA 15102 (near Pittsburgh)
When
Saturday, November 28, 2026, 1 to 3 pm
Cost
Free, registration required (bring a bag of candy to share)
Ages
All ages (registrants up to 17)
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The tradition continues at Bethel Park Public Library with its festive Gingerbread Workshop on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. Whether your kids are beginners or master decorators, the library's set up provides everything needed to build and decorate a mostly edible gingerbread masterpiece.

The library asks each family to bring a bag of candy, cereal, marshmallows, pretzels or similar toppings to share with the group, along with plenty of holiday spirit. The workshop runs from 1 to 3 pm and is billed for all ages, with registration open to children and teens up to 17 and their families. Registration is required; it opens November 1 and closes at 1 pm on the day of the event. Library staff may take photos at programs, so let them know before the event begins if you prefer not to be photographed.

Parent tip: Register in advance and bring a bag of candy or cereal to share for decorating.

See dates and details from Bethel Park Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Bridgeville

1 confirmed event for kids in Bridgeville, soonest first.

Bridgeville: Dance the Story featuring The Nutcracker with Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre

Holiday story timeFreeBridgeville Public Library · Bridgeville

Host
Bridgeville Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Bridgeville Public Library, Community Room, 505 McMillen St, Bridgeville, PA 15017 (near Pittsburgh)
When
Monday, November 30, 2026, 11 am to noon
Cost
Free, registration required
Ages
Ages 4 to 10
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Bridgeville Public Library hosts Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre for Dance the Story, an interactive program that explores a story through movement and dance. This session features The Nutcracker. Kids ages 4 to 10 hear the story, get to see a real costume and learn a dance set to music from the ballet.

The library calls it a perfect way to kick off the holiday season on a day off from school, and it runs for one hour on Monday morning, November 30, in the library's Community Room. Registration is required because space is limited, so sign up early through the library calendar. It is a nice choice for families planning to see the Nutcracker later in the season, since kids will recognize the story and music.

Parent tip: Registration is required and space is limited.

See dates and details from Bridgeville Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Glenshaw

1 confirmed event for kids in Glenshaw, soonest first.

Glenshaw: Gingerbread Houses Ho! Ho! Ho!

Holiday craftsFreeShaler North Hills Library · Glenshaw

Host
Shaler North Hills Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Shaler North Hills Library, Community Room, 1822 Mount Royal Blvd, Glenshaw, PA 15116 (near Pittsburgh)
When
Saturday, December 5, 2026, 11:30 am to 2 pm
Cost
Free, registration required
Ages
Children and families
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Shaler North Hills Library invites families to decorate their own graham cracker gingerbread houses, either for display at home or for nibbling. The library provides all of the fixings, and families bring the imagination.

There are two one hour sessions on Saturday, December 5, a morning session at 11:30 am and an afternoon session at 1 pm, both in the library's Community Room. Space is limited, so the library asks each family to sign up for just one session. Bring a shoebox so your creations make it home in one piece. The program is listed for children, and it is a good hands on activity for families with kids of different ages working together on the same house. Choose the session that best fits nap or lunch schedules.

Parent tip: Register the family for one session only, and bring a shoebox to carry your house home.

See dates and details from Shaler North Hills Library (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Sewickley

1 confirmed event for kids in Sewickley, soonest first.

Sewickley: Nutcracker Storytime with West Point Ballet

Holiday story timeFreeSewickley Public Library · Sewickley

Host
Sewickley Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Sewickley Public Library, Community Room, 500 Thorn St, Sewickley, PA 15143 (near Pittsburgh)
When
Friday, November 20, 2026, 3 to 4 pm
Cost
Free, registration required
Ages
Ages 4 to 8
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Sewickley Public Library teams up with West Point Ballet for a special Nutcracker Storytime that blends the classic holiday tale with movement and dance. Kids hear the enchanting story of the Nutcracker and then get up and move, with the chance to meet and dance with Clara and the Sugar Plum Fairy as the story comes to life.

The program is designed for ages 4 to 8 and runs for an hour on a Friday afternoon in the library's Community Room. The library asks families to register in advance and to dress kids in clothes they can move in. It is a lovely introduction to the ballet for young children before the holiday performance season, and a great pick for kids who love to dance.

Parent tip: Registration is requested; dress kids to move.

See dates and details from Sewickley Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Looking further afield? Our Pennsylvania Christmas events for kids guide lists every confirmed event in the state, and we have city guides for Philadelphia. The national search sorts every event by distance from your town.

A story for the drive home

A morning with Santa or an evening of holiday stories tends to end the same way: tired kids, a long drive and one more book before bed. Our picture book follows Rally the corgi on his first train ride to see his grand-paw-rents, and every page is painted by hand. If your family is spending December missing someone, it was written for that too. For the car, print our free corgi and train coloring pages.

Rally Takes the Train book cover: a watercolor corgi peeking from a red train

A bedtime story after seeing SantaRally Takes the Train is a five-minute rhyming picture book about a corgi’s first train ride, hand-painted in real watercolor by Leslie Dunn. $16.99 on Amazon, ages 0 to 8.

Buy on Amazon (opens in a new tab)

Pittsburgh Christmas events for kids: questions parents ask

What Christmas events for kids are in Pittsburgh in 2026?

We confirmed 14 Christmas events for kids in Pittsburgh for 2026 on each host’s own page: Nutcracker Storytime with West Point Ballet in Sewickley (November 20), Phipps Holiday Magic: Winter Flower Show and Light Garden in Pittsburgh (November 20), Highmark Light Up Night in Pittsburgh (November 21), Santa at the History Center in Pittsburgh (November 27), Zoo Lights Drive-Thru in Pittsburgh (November 27), Gingerbread Workshop in Bethel Park (November 28), Santa Family Fun Cruise in Pittsburgh (November 28), Winter Wonderland: A Journey Through Ice and Time in Pittsburgh (November 28), Dance the Story featuring The Nutcracker with Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre in Bridgeville (November 30), Brunch with Santa in Pittsburgh (December 5), Gingerbread Houses Ho! Ho! Ho! in Glenshaw (December 5), Grinchmas! Around the World in Monroeville (December 5), Breakfast with Santa in Pittsburgh (December 19) and Christmas Storytime in Monroeville (December 22). Every one is listed below with times, cost and a link to the host.

What Christmas events for kids are in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania?

For families in and around Pittsburgh, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Phipps Holiday Magic: Winter Flower Show and Light Garden (Nov 20 to Jan 10, admission; advance reservations required); Highmark Light Up Night (Sat, Nov 21, evening, free); Santa at the History Center (Fri, Nov 27, 10:30 am to 1:30 pm, more select dates to come, included with museum admission; kids 17 and under free); Zoo Lights Drive-Thru (Select nights, Nov 27 to Jan 3, 5 to 10 pm, $45 per vehicle ($40 members, $65 flex)); Santa Family Fun Cruise (Weekends late Nov to Dec, starting Sat, Nov 28; sails 10:30 am and 1:30 pm, $36.66 adults, $26.19 children, $5.24 infants (all in)); Winter Wonderland: A Journey Through Ice and Time (Sat, Nov 28, 10 am to 2 pm, included with admission; kids 17 and under free; tickets required); Brunch with Santa (Dec 5 and 6 (brunch 11 am), Dec 12, 13, 19 and 20 (breakfast 9:30 am or lunch noon), $45 nonmembers, $40 members, $10 under 24 months; includes zoo admission); Breakfast with Santa (Sat, Dec 19, 9 am to noon, $60 adults, $40 ages 3 to 17, $10 ages 0 to 2). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Pittsburgh section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Monroeville, Pennsylvania?

For families in and around Monroeville, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Grinchmas! Around the World (Sat, Dec 5, 1 to 2:30 pm, free); Christmas Storytime (Tue, Dec 22, 10:30 to 11:15 am, free). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Monroeville section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Bethel Park, Pennsylvania?

For families in and around Bethel Park, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Gingerbread Workshop (Sat, Nov 28, 1 to 3 pm, free, registration required (bring a bag of candy to share)). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Bethel Park section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Bridgeville, Pennsylvania?

For families in and around Bridgeville, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Dance the Story featuring The Nutcracker with Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre (Mon, Nov 30, 11 am to noon, free, registration required). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Bridgeville section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Glenshaw, Pennsylvania?

For families in and around Glenshaw, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Gingerbread Houses Ho! Ho! Ho! (Sat, Dec 5, 11:30 am or 1 pm sessions, free, registration required). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Glenshaw section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Sewickley, Pennsylvania?

For families in and around Sewickley, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Nutcracker Storytime with West Point Ballet (Fri, Nov 20, 3 to 4 pm, free, registration required). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Sewickley section of this page.

Are there free Christmas events for kids in Pittsburgh?

Yes. 7 of the 14 events here are free: Nutcracker Storytime with West Point Ballet in Sewickley, Highmark Light Up Night in Pittsburgh, Gingerbread Workshop in Bethel Park, Dance the Story featuring The Nutcracker with Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre in Bridgeville, Gingerbread Houses Ho! Ho! Ho! in Glenshaw, Grinchmas! Around the World in Monroeville and Christmas Storytime in Monroeville. Some free events still ask you to register, so check each listing.

Where can kids see Santa in Pittsburgh this December?

Santa appears at Santa at the History Center in Pittsburgh (November 27), Santa Family Fun Cruise in Pittsburgh (November 28), Winter Wonderland: A Journey Through Ice and Time in Pittsburgh (November 28), Brunch with Santa in Pittsburgh (December 5) and Breakfast with Santa in Pittsburgh (December 19). Times and booking rules are in each event’s listing above.

Where are there Christmas story times for kids in Pittsburgh?

Holiday story times on this page: Nutcracker Storytime with West Point Ballet in Sewickley, Winter Wonderland: A Journey Through Ice and Time in Pittsburgh, Dance the Story featuring The Nutcracker with Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre in Bridgeville and Christmas Storytime in Monroeville. Library story times are usually free; story times with a meal or show are ticketed.

Where can we have breakfast or a meal with Santa in Pittsburgh?

Meals with Santa confirmed for 2026: Brunch with Santa in Pittsburgh (Dec 5 and 6 (brunch 11 am), Dec 12, 13, 19 and 20 (breakfast 9:30 am or lunch noon)) and Breakfast with Santa in Pittsburgh (Sat, Dec 19, 9 am to noon). These usually sell out, so book as soon as you pick a date.

Which Pittsburgh Christmas events are best for toddlers?

These are aimed at babies, toddlers and preschoolers: Christmas Storytime in Monroeville (Children and preschool (birth to 5)).

Are there kids' Christmas events in Pittsburgh on Christmas Eve or after Christmas?

Yes: Phipps Holiday Magic: Winter Flower Show and Light Garden in Pittsburgh (through January 10) and Zoo Lights Drive-Thru in Pittsburgh (through January 3).

How much is Nutcracker Storytime with West Point Ballet in Sewickley?

Free, registration required. Nutcracker Storytime with West Point Ballet is on Friday, November 20, 2026, 3 to 4 pm at Sewickley Public Library, Community Room. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Phipps Holiday Magic: Winter Flower Show and Light Garden in Pittsburgh?

Admission; advance reservations required. Phipps Holiday Magic: Winter Flower Show and Light Garden is on Friday, November 20, 2026 to Sunday, January 10, 2027 (daily run; timed tickets) at Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Highmark Light Up Night in Pittsburgh?

Free. Highmark Light Up Night is on Saturday, November 21, 2026 at Downtown Pittsburgh (Penn Ave and Stanwix St). Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Santa at the History Center in Pittsburgh?

Included with museum admission; kids 17 and under free. Santa at the History Center is on Friday, November 27, 2026, 10:30 am to 1:30 pm at Heinz History Center, Great Hall. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Zoo Lights Drive-Thru in Pittsburgh?

$45 per vehicle ($40 members, $65 flex). Zoo Lights Drive-Thru is on Friday, November 27, 2026 to Sunday, January 3, 2027 (select nights; closed Nov 30, Dec 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 24, 25, 31 and Jan 1), 5 to 10 pm at Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Gingerbread Workshop in Bethel Park?

Free, registration required (bring a bag of candy to share). Gingerbread Workshop is on Saturday, November 28, 2026, 1 to 3 pm at Bethel Park Public Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Santa Family Fun Cruise in Pittsburgh?

$36.66 adults, $26.19 children, $5.24 infants (all in). Santa Family Fun Cruise is on Sat November 28, Sat December 5 and Sun December 6, 2026, 10:30 am to 3:30 pm at Gateway Clipper Fleet, Station Square Dock. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Winter Wonderland: A Journey Through Ice and Time in Pittsburgh?

Included with admission; kids 17 and under free; tickets required. Winter Wonderland: A Journey Through Ice and Time is on Saturday, November 28, 2026, 10 am to 2 pm at Heinz History Center. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Dance the Story featuring The Nutcracker with Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre in Bridgeville?

Free, registration required. Dance the Story featuring The Nutcracker with Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre is on Monday, November 30, 2026, 11 am to noon at Bridgeville Public Library, Community Room. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Brunch with Santa in Pittsburgh?

$45 nonmembers, $40 members, $10 under 24 months; includes zoo admission. Brunch with Santa is on Sat December 5 (11 am to 12:30 pm), Sun December 6 (11 am to 12:30 pm), Sat December 12 (9:30 am to 1:30 pm), Sun December 13 (9:30 am to 1:30 pm), Sat December 19 (9:30 am to 1:30 pm) and Sun December 20 (9:30 am to 1:30 pm), 2026 at Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium, Education Complex Lecture Hall. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Gingerbread Houses Ho! Ho! Ho! in Glenshaw?

Free, registration required. Gingerbread Houses Ho! Ho! Ho! is on Saturday, December 5, 2026, 11:30 am to 2 pm at Shaler North Hills Library, Community Room. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Grinchmas! Around the World in Monroeville?

Free. Grinchmas! Around the World is on Saturday, December 5, 2026, 1 to 2:30 pm at Monroeville Public Library, Children's Room. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Breakfast with Santa in Pittsburgh?

$60 adults, $40 ages 3 to 17, $10 ages 0 to 2. Breakfast with Santa is on Saturday, December 19, 2026, 9 am to noon at Carnegie Music Hall Foyer. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Christmas Storytime in Monroeville?

Free. Christmas Storytime is on Tuesday, December 22, 2026, 10:30 to 11:15 am at Monroeville Public Library, Children's Room. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

Are there Christmas train rides for kids in Pittsburgh?

Yes, but they have their own guide. Santa trains and holiday train rides are listed in our Pittsburgh Christmas train rides guide, so this page sticks to story times, Santa visits and other events off the rails.

How do you confirm these events?

We list an event only after we find this season’s date on the host’s own website or an official city or tourism calendar. We last checked every listing on November 2, 2026. Hosts change details, so always confirm on the host’s page before you go.

Event names belong to their hosts. Rally Takes the Train is a family picture book and is not affiliated with, sponsored by or endorsed by any host listed here. Confirm dates, times and prices on each host’s own site before you go.

Kelsey Cecil
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