Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
November 25—January 8
Various times
One of Pittsburgh’s most cherished local traditions for officially ushering in the holiday season and providing a warm glow during the gloomy months is gearing up to open at Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.
Bigger than ever, the spectacular Winter Flower Show and Light Garden will be open to all ages from November 25 through January 8.
Dubbed “Days of Snow and Nights Aglow,” this year’s whimsical theme will transport visitors to the wintery nostalgic days of childhood play—from friendly snowball fights and outdoor ice skating to cozy blanket forts.
Step into Phipps’ ever-changing exhibit rooms to encounter topiary penguins, bears and reindeer frolicking amidst artful LED lights, festively decorated fir trees, and playful props. Continue on your wondrous winter trek to bask in the vibrant aura of colorful poinsettias, paperwhites, amaryllis and much more.
Wander into Phipps’ newly expanded Winter Light Garden where your surroundings will sparkle with luminous orbs, trees and fountains. Brand new this year is an immersive tunnel of lights designed to imitate the twinkling, nighttime winter sky.
This year’s Winter Flower Show was designed by Terra Design Studios, LLC, while the Winter Light Garden was created by Phipps Exhibit Coordinator Jordyn Melino.
Experience even more winter magic after-hours during Phipps’ tranquil Candlelight Evenings. From November 25 through January 8, Phipps will stay open until 11 p.m., inviting visitors to explore the Winter Flower Show and Winter Light Garden by evening light. Candlelight Evenings will also feature live musical performances, and attendees can enjoy a relaxing meal at Café Phipps and peruse handmade wares in Phipps’ festive gift shop.
Enhancing the holiday spirit will be Phipps’ acclaimed Garden Railroad which takes visitors on a tactile trip throughout 200 years of Pittsburgh history. Showcasing 10 snapshots of different time periods, the railroad features five interactive stations, exquisitely detailed props, miniature worlds, and a lush backdrop of tiny living plants, shrubs and trees.
View a complete list of winter hours and events.
Looking for more events? Check out our 10 Pittsburgh events not to miss in November and 10 great family adventures in Pittsburgh this November feature stories.
