11 things to do in Pittsburgh this weekend

It’s the last weekend before the holidays, and that means there’s plenty to do across the area. Here are 11 things to do this weekend.

Highmark Holiday Pops

Various Times - Heinz Hall

There’s nothing quite like hearing your favorite Christmas songs performed by a live orchestra. This weekend the PSO will be joined by a number of special guests, too. The Mendelssohn Choir of Pittsburgh, Broadway star Ashley Brown and the Three Rivers Ringers are just some of the highlights. Tickets start at $22.

‘The Nutcracker’

Various times - The Benedum Center

It’s Christmas even in turn-of-the-century Pittsburgh when a mysterious gift sparks a wonderful adventure! Dozens of dancers and hundreds of costumes, plus all of that memorable Tchaikovsky music makes this a tradition not to be missed. The show continues through Dec. 29 if you can’t get there before Christmas. Tickets start at $28.

Pittsburgh Lights and Legends

Various times - O’Rielley Theater

Rick Seback hosts this unbelievable night of entertainment as part of the Yinzer Yuletide celebration. The evening includes everything from a juggling clown to a ukelele serenade and one exceptional tiny opera singer. Tickets start at $31.

Trans Siberian Orchestra

Sunday, 3:30 p.m. & 8 p.m. - PPG Paints Arena

The legends of holiday rock 'n' roll will be take the stage here in the 'Burgh not once, but twice on Sunday for their Christmas Eve and Other Stories performance. The band covers classics like Carol of the Bells and O Come all Ye Faithful with a twist. You can also here some of their guitar-heavy originals.

Santa at the Aviary

Saturday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. - National Aviary

Santa Claus is all over this weekend, but one truly unique opportunity to visit with the jolly old man is at the Aviary. He’ll be joined by a real live penguin to give your holiday pictures a little extra pep. The meet and greet is included with regular admission to the aviary.

Shadrack Christmas Wonderland

All weekend - Big Butler Fairgrounds

This beautiful display of colorful lights is sure to enchant everyone in your family. More than 2 miles of custom displays all in perfect synchronization with the music playing through your car radio. You can also visit Santa’s Village to check out Elf Training School, write a letter to Santa enjoy some hot cocoa and play some yuletide games.

Holiday Lights Mini Golf

All Weekend - Fun Fore All, Cranberry

Play through 36 holes of award-winning mini golf all while the two courses are decked out in brilliant holiday lights. It’s $10 per person for one round, or $15 if you want to tackle both courses. A portion of each admission goes to the Highmark Caring Place.

Overly’s Country Christmas

All Weekend - Westmoreland County Fairgrounds

Celebrate the season at this Christmas village filled with an array of old-fashioned traditions and treats. Sing carols around the bonfire, revel in the model train display or ride a horse drawn carriage. Plus pictures with Santa! Admission is $20 per car, cash only.

‘The Sound of Christmas’

Friday, 7:30 p.m. - The Palace Theater, Greensburg

Singers, the Christmas Belle Dancers and the Latshaw Pops Orchestra take the stage in this heartwarming and fanciful celebration. It’s a musical journey that encompasses all of your favorite songs and carols. Tickets start at $25.

Yinzmas

Saturday, 5 p.m. - Mr. Smalls

An evening of Pittsburgh talent that’s sure to enthrall and intrigue. There will be 10 different acts from many genres performing original songs and some Christmas standbys. There will also be visual artists and poetry readings to round the night out. Tickets cost $20.

Little Beaver Creek Riverwalk

Saturday, 10:30 a.m. - Little Beaver Creek, Darlington

The Wampum Chapter of the North Country Trail Association will be leading people looking for some outdoor enjoyment on a 4-mile hike along Little Beaver Creek. The group will be meeting at the Arsenio Hall Farmers Insurance Trail Head parking area before trekking through the beautiful winter scenery.

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