things to do this weekend in Pittsburgh

4 things to do this weekend in Pittsburgh with kids

For many Pittsburgh families, this weekend will be all about gathering at home with family and friends to celebrate the Christmas season. But if you’ll be seeking some fun around town, we have some fun ideas to keep you busy.

Friday, Dec. 24: Ice Skating at The UPMC Rink at PPG Place, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

The dazzling rink is open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day and ticketing is online to guarantee your spot and avoid crowded long lines. While there, be sure to check out the Spirits of Giving display in the Two PPG Place windows to see a collection of 16 Santas representing holiday traditions around the globe. Get tickets here.

things to do this weekend in Pittsburgh
Photo courtesy of The UPMC Rink at PPG Place.

Friday, Dec. 24 and Saturday, Dec. 25: Chinese Food and Movies at Row House Cinema (various times)

There’s a movie marathon of holiday classics happening this weekend, with some films perfect for little ones (including “The Muppet Christmas Carol”) and other fan favorites that are more suited for teens and their grownups. These movies are running at various times on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, and movie-goers can order food from Zen Asian Bistro to feast on while watching. Get tickets here.

Saturday, Dec. 25: Holiday Lights Tour in Downtown Pittsburgh, 5-7 p.m.
Will you be ready for a scenic walk after a big Christmas dinner? Downtown Pittsburgh rocks the holiday season, offering everything from the world’s largest pickle ornament and a 66-foot Christmas tree with 10,000 LED lights surrounded by an ice rink toi a crèche that is the world’s only authorized replica of the Vatican’s Nativity scene. This early evening walking tour teaches families about the city’s history as you visit beautiful squares and landmark architecture. Buy tickets here.

Saturday, Dec. 25: Holiday Music and Storytelling with Rick Sebak and Jim Cunningham, 5-8 p.m.
If you’d rather stay indoors and cozy on Saturday night, tune that dial to WQED-FM 89.3 for three hours of holiday music and storytelling presented by Rick Sebak and Jim Cunningham. The pair will share their seasonal favorites and introduce audiences to some non-traditional holiday treasures, too. Details here.

Want more things to do this weekend in Pittsburgh? Check out our guides to the coolest holiday light displays in Pittsburgh, beautiful miniature railroads and more cool things happening throughout December.And don’t miss our guide to First Night