Every winter, Peoples Gas Holiday Market brings the merry bustle of traditional holiday shopping to the very heart of Pittsburgh. Dozens of Alpine-style wooden chalets are brimming with holiday ornaments, gifts, and lights. Visitors will be treated to the smell of strudel drifting across the Market Square—just like at the original German Christkindlemarkt. Alongside the vendors and artisans, the Christmas market features a centerpiece stage providing daily live entertainment. The visitors can partake in a karaoke contest, watch community acts, and of course, meet with Santa.
When to visit
The holiday market usually opens on Friday after Thanksgiving and is over by Christmas Eve. Throughout the season, the market opens daily at 11 am, but closing hours vary depending on the day of the week. Plan your visit on Monday–Thursday before 8 pm. On Friday & Saturday, the market operates till 9:30 pm, and on Sunday through 6 pm. Closings are possible due to inclement weather.
Some of the funds raised at the market will go to the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank to feed hungry children in the area.
More things to do in Pittsburgh during the holidays
Combine the Peoples Gas Holiday Market experience with seasonal skating at The Rink at PPG Place, just next to the market. Plus, go to the U.S. Steel Tower and see Pittsburgh's Creche, renowned as the world's only approved copy of the Vatican's nativity scene. Finally, immerse yourself in some of the largest Christmas light displays across The Burgh.
