Christmas is right around the corner, and communities and businesses throughout the Laurel Highlands are getting into the holiday spirit with special light-up events. Activities such as parades, visits with Santa, Christmas music and holiday food and beverages will have you ready to celebrate the season!
Winter Lights Illumination Night at The Westmoreland Museum of American Art
Friday, Nov. 18 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Grab your mittens and get ready for winter-themed entertainment and activities for the whole family. Live performances, food options, a specialty cash bar, memorable photo opportunities, and surprises will be available throughout the night. Winter lights will be on view each evening from dusk to 10 p.m. through Jan. 29, 2023. New this year, the museum will be open until 8 p.m. on Thursdays throughout December and January. To register, click here or call 1.888.718.4253.
Light-Up Ligonier!
Friday, Nov. 25 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Few places shine in the holiday spotlight like Ligonier, which has been recognized by Country Living Magazine as one of “The Most Charming Small Towns in America” and by The Washington Post as a “Small Town Charmer.” Join the countdown to light up the Diamond, enjoy a horse-drawn sleigh ride, and visit with Santa Claus.
Connellsville Light-Up Night and Parade
Saturday, Nov. 26, noon to 5 p.m.
Connellsville will host a Christmas Market on Small Business Saturday where visitors can create ornaments for the city tree in Veterans Plaza, and toy donations will be accepted to benefit needy children. After two years off, the Christmas parade is back by popular demand. It will begin at 4 p.m. on Green Street, head north onto South Pittsburgh Street, run left onto West Crawford Avenue, then cross the McCray Robb Bridge to Seventh Street on the West Side.
Light-Up Somerset and Holiday Parade
Saturday, Nov. 26 from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Make a day of it with Somerset’s Small Business Saturday, a Christmas Movie Design Contest at the Uptown Diamond, airbrush tattoos and ornament making. The Christkindlmarkt begins at 2 p.m., and the streets will close in the evening, meaning Santa’s on his way for the 5:30 p.m. parade, which starts on Rosina Avenue, heads to West Main Street and finishes on North Center. Local businesses and vendors will be selling their wares, and holiday music will fill the air.
Helen Caton Light-Up Night in Meyersdale
Saturday, Nov. 26 from 5:30 to 9 p.m.
The Maple City is ready for the prime time with this annual event named for the late Helen Caton, who was known as the “Mother of Meyersdale” for her community work. The fun begins at 5:30 p.m. at Festival Park. Admission, visits with Santa Claus and photos are free.
Braddock’s Inn Light-Up Night
Friday, Dec. 2 from 5 to 9 p.m.
Meet Mr. and Mrs. Claus while enjoying the beautiful lights, decorations and Christmas tree in Farmington. Abby Abbondanza will be playing from 5-9 p.m.
Scottdale Winter Light Celebration
Saturday, Dec. 3 from 5 to 7 p.m.
Santa’s coming to Scottdale, with a parade at 5 p.m., and he’ll be at the Gazebo to meet with good little girls and boys. Treats will be available for children while supplies last, and they can participate in games. Food and refreshments will be available for purchase, and holiday music will help everyone get into the spirit of the season.
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