Weekend fun guide: Light Up Night, plus so many other family activities

Above photo courtesy of Fun Fore All.

This weekend kicks off the holiday season in the land of Kidsburgh. It’s Light Up Night, as well as the opening of the holiday market in Market Square. So Downtown will be bustling and full of fun. We’ve got a guide to all of the holiday fun all season long right here.

If you’re in the mood for something more low-key, there is also a great lineup of shows, library events, and more for families with kids of all ages. Here’s what’s on tap:

Thursday, Nov. 21- Sunday, Nov. 24: Big Balloon Build with United Way of Indiana County

The weekend starts a bit early with this four-day event at the S & T Bank Arena in Indiana, Pa. There will be many events going on throughout the event, including breakfast with Santa, trivia, and tours. The main attraction, though, is displays made from thousands of balloons (check out some images of past events here!). Tickets for adults are $20, teens are $10, and kids are free! At the end, there’s even a popping party.

Friday, Nov. 22: Opening of People’s Gas Holiday Market, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. 

If you’re looking for unique ornaments, delicious treats, or to just take in some festive cheer and live music, the Holiday Market is a great way to spend a few hours. The opening day has many events, including a free ornament and a chance to win a gift card. Stop by PPG Place to skate around the tree, which is also open for the season.

Friday, Nov. 22: Sparkle Night at Settlers Ridge, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

If the Light Up Night events Downtown feel like too much for your family, many smaller communities also host their own kickoffs to the season. This weekend, Settlers Ridge is having a “Sparkle Night” that includes a visit from Santa, a tree lighting, prizes and more. Find all the details about this free and festive event here.

Friday, Nov. 22: Teen Time at the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh, 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Most parents know that libraries have tons of story times and events for younger kids, but did you know there are also special times teens can come hang out? This week, Teen Time is at CLP Lawrenceville. Teens can make friends, read, work on art, or listen to music at this free event. Find more details here.

Friday, Nov. 22: Fun Fore All Holiday Lights Mini Golf, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

This Friday kicks off more than a month of festive putt-putt at Fun Fore All in Cranberry Township. This event runs every evening from Nov. 22 through Jan. 4 and is perfect for all ages. Both golf courses are transformed with thousands of twinkling lights. Tickets begin at $15 and a portion of the proceeds is given to The Caring Place. Find more details here.

Saturday, Nov. 23: Beaver County Model Railroad and Historical Society Model Train Sale, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

This event is perfect whether you’re looking to buy trains and accessories for your own display, or just want to view other train displays and talk to experts from local model railway clubs. This event is $5 for those 13 and up; everyone else is free. This event will be held at the Monaca Turners near Beaver Valley Mall, and more details can be found here.

Saturday, Nov. 23: Stories Like Me Holiday Pop-Up Storytime, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Come down to Bakery Square for a special holiday story time led by the team at Stories Like Me, a local bookshop dedicated to making sure all children see themselves represented in literature. Kids will learn about holiday traditions around the world and get to make a craft, too. This event is free, but registration is required.

Saturday, Nov. 23: Light Up Night, 4 p.m. 

While the whole day is made for celebrating, most Light Up Night events begin at 4 p.m. or later on Saturday. The Holiday Market and ice skating will be open earlier, and some other events around town will occur through the afternoon. Check out our Light Up Night guide for more specific details. There will be food, a selfie garden, a chance to view gingerbread houses and craft activities. With the wide range of things happening Downtown, there is something that is a fit for every age and personality. The full lineup of events can be found here.

Saturday, Nov. 23: “A Christmas Story” at the Carnegie Science Center, 5:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. 

You’ll shoot your eye out! Watch Ralphie and his unconventional family experience the holidays at the Rangos Giant Cinema to get in a festive mood. Every movie is better on the giant Rangos screen, and that’s particularly true for classics like this one. Tickets are $12 and can be purchased here.

Saturday, Nov. 23: Free Holiday Lights Drive-Thru at Alameda Park, 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. 

At Alameda Park in Butler, this Saturday kicks off their free holiday light event. This event will run every evening through Christmas, and families are welcome to drive through as many times as they want. The park requests that no one get out of their cars to touch the displays. Find more details here.

Don’t miss our big guide to the whole holiday season here, and sign up for our newsletter so you’re always in the loop!