PITTSBURGH — While the city of Pittsburgh canceled its annual Light Up Night, holiday celebrations are still on in other communities.

Downtown Irwin is decked out in holiday cheer.

On Thursday, the town is kicking off the Christmas season with Light Up Night and a parade.

But some people reached out to us very concerned about the idea of gathering a lot of people together as case counts are rising.

However, some people tell us they still plan to go.

Click here for a list of holiday events and displays in the Pittsburgh area.

“I plan to go. I think the weather is going to be nice, and I think everyone is doing the best they can to respect the guidelines,” said Aubrey Worek.

Worek went last year with her son.

“It was awesome. All the local businesses were open. We got to get some hot chocolate and did some shopping,” she said.

Worek isn’t worried because it’s an outdoor event. Neither is Jeanne Pavlik, who plans to go with a friend.

“Very happy. I’m very glad they are keeping the tradition. That’s what Irwin is—tradition,” said Pavlik.

The Norwin Rotary Club is sponsoring the event with help from the Norwin Chamber of Commerce.

Officials said Irwin Borough gave them the green light to hold the event. We tried getting in touch with the borough manager, but they told us no comment.

Event organizers said they understand there are some COVID-19 concerns, and they’re encouraging people to wear face coverings and social distance to keep it a safe holiday event.

“And we can all do our part together and have fun and be joyful this season,” Pavlik said.

In the North Hills, Shaler Township still plans to hold their Light Up Night and parade this Saturday, with a list of outdoor activities including a dance party, pictures with Santa Clause, ice skating and a magic show outside the Shaler North Hills Library and middle school.

However, the township’s manager, Timothy Rogers, said they will probably cancel the event due to the recent rise in cases.

They are holding a meeting Monday at 6 p.m. to discuss the situation.

COVID-19 surging in our area just ahead of holidays

Cox Media Group