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LIGHT UP NIGHT 2022: Plans set for this year’s celebration in Pittsburgh

PITTSBURGH — The city of Pittsburgh is preparing for its 61st annual Light Up Night, with huge crowds expected in downtown Pittsburgh.

This year’s event will be on Saturday, Nov.19, which is just two and a half weeks away.

The youngest members of the cast of “A Christmas Story” will kick off this year’s Light Up Night.

Organizers are expecting to put a 10-foot-tall leg lamp outside the O’Reilly Theater to celebrate the show.

“It’s going to be bigger and better than ever. We’re starting festivities a little earlier this year at noon. You can join us on Stanwix Street, where Highmark’s going to be having the community festival. The Pirates are going to be there, with a bunch of activities,” said Jeremy Waldrup with the Downtown Pittsburgh Partnership. “That really kicks off off for a great evening of music, celebrations, lighting Christmas trees throughout downtown, and of course, our Zambelli fireworks finale,” said Waldrup.

City and event leaders are saying this year’s celebration will include beloved traditions and brand-new events.

“We will get tens of thousands of people into downtown Pittsburgh, because I think this region is the best region in the country to welcome in the holiday season,” said Waldrup. “We’ve had decades of experience celebrating Light Up Night. This year we are expecting huge crowds with Joan Jett rocking the house.”

“This year, the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership is making it possible for in-person visits with Santa at his new house at Heinz Hall Courtyard. I think we can be excited for that for kids and families,” said Andrea Stanford, BNY Mellon Pittsburgh regional manager.

On Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday, you can take a photo with Santa for free with an optional donation to the Greater Pittsburgh Food Bank.

Festivities will also start at noon, instead of during rush-hour traffic.

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