11 things to do this holiday weekend with kids, including last-minute visits with Santa!

Image above by Andrew Neel on Unsplash.

Although the city slows down a little in the days leading up to Christmas, there are still events happening. Check out this lineup, ranging from family play times and quiet story walks to performances at some of the city’s music and theater venues.

Looking for things to do this holiday weekend with kids? Check out these events (and don’t miss our guide to keeping kids busy over the school break).

Friday, Dec. 22 and Saturday, Dec. 23: Santa’s House in Heinz Hall Courtyard

Didn’t get to tell Santa what you want yet? There’s still time (and Target is still open, parents!). This is the final weekend to see either a Black or white Santa at this festive Downtown location. Note that this year, Santa’s house has been moved from Market Square to the Heinz Hall Courtyard, just a short walk away. While you’re there, take some selfies in the courtyard in front of a variety of fun backdrops. Santa’s hours are listed here.

Friday, Dec. 22 – Sunday, Dec. 24: People’s Gas Holiday Market 

This is the last weekend for the holiday market in Market Square, so be sure to check it out. All of the details, including extended hours for each day, can be found here. Catch the display of Santas from around the world located in the PPG lobbies before they are stowed away for another year. Pro tip: Park at the T lot by the Carnegie Science Center and take a free ride on the T to Gateway Center. It’s the easiest way to enjoy all of Downtown’s festive displays and events without parking stress.

Friday, Dec. 22 – Sunday, Dec. 24: Storywalk at the Oakmont Library, 9 a.m to 5 p.m.

Looking for something quiet and reflective to do this weekend? The Oakmont Library has a self-guided story walk in their outdoor space along the Allegheny River. This year’s book is “Snowmen All Year.” Find more details here.

Friday, Dec. 22: Good Fridays at the Warhol, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Ring in winter break with a late night at the Warhol. Each Friday, the Andy Warhol Museum is open from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. The Warhol is part of the Carnegie family of museums, so memberships work here — and they also participate in Museums for All, which provides discounted admission to those receiving public assistance like Medicaid or EBT. Find out more here.

Friday, Dec. 22 and Saturday, Dec. 23: Holiday Pops at at Heinz Hall

It’s the last weekend to see the Holiday Pops performance by the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, with various shows on both Friday and Saturday. Tickets begin at $25 and more information can be found here.

Saturday, Dec. 23: Breakfast with Santa at Hard Rock Cafe, 9 a.m.

If you missed previous “breakfast with Santa” events, there are still a few to be had around the city — including this one at the Hard Rock. The cost is $37 per person and includes a full breakfast with sausage, eggs, pancakes, and more. Find all the details here.

Saturday, Dec. 23: Painting With A Twist all-ages event, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Looking for a last minute gift for the grandparents? Painting With A Twist in the South Side is offering an all-ages painting event this weekend. Participants will be guided through creating an adorable penguin on canvas. Pricing begins at $29. Register and get details here.

Saturday, Dec. 23: Carnegie Lab, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Every Saturday, art educators meet at the Carnegie Museum of Art to lead free creative workshops. You’ll find sensory activities, craft and art supplies, and instruction for anyone who needs a hand. This event is free to everyone with museum admission. Don’t forget the CMOA is part of Museums For All and offers discounted admission to those receiving public assistance such as Medicaid or EBT. Find the details here.

Saturday, December 23: Storytime Family Fun at CLP, 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.

If you have a kiddo who is age 5 or under, Carnegie Library Family Fun hours are a great way to interact with other kids and meet local families. This week it’s at the Knoxville location and is totally free.

Saturday, Dec. 23: Pittsburgh Public Theater Family Holiday Party, 4 p.m.

This Saturday is the final performance of “A Christmas Story: A Play” at the O’Reilly Theater (tickets can be found here). After the performance, there will be a free public holiday party called “Ralphie’s Roundup” geared towards families with young kids. There will be cookies, games, and entertainment provided by Miss Cassidy Creates. Find all the details here.

Saturday, Dec. 23 and Sunday, Dec. 24: Hard Rock REMIX Holiday Dinner

Not cooking for Christmas? The Hard Rock Cafe has a limited menu for the holiday weekend, with two- and three-course options. From fancy winter cocktails and strip steak to a good burger, there are many options that let someone else do the dishes this Christmas. Find pricing and book here.

There won’t be a Kidsburgh newsletter on Christmas day, but be sure to sign up for the new year so you don’t miss a thing in 2024! We’ve put together a quick guide of things to do over break, and if you’re planning to check out First Night, we’ve also got a guide for that here.