Light Up Night returns for its 60th year in Pittsburgh, but with a new date.
Traditionally held the Friday before Thanksgiving, the celebration this year will be held on the Saturday before the holiday.
The date will be Nov. 20, the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership announced Thursday.
What is being called a refresh will include a new presenting sponsor – Highmark. Light Up Night is regarded as the annual kickoff to the holiday season.
The event was canceled last year because of the pandemic.
It will still feature Downtown buildings illuminated, tree lightings, live music, craft foods, shopping, music and, of course, a fireworks finale, according to the PDP.
More details will be announced.
“We believe the move to Saturday night will allow us to expand on the experiences we can offer the community,” said Jeremy Waldrup, president and CEO of the PDP in a statement. “We know that this 60th anniversary will provide an especially significant year of holiday spirit. The community is really seeking out immersive experiences that can evoke happiness and joy, and help you find that ‘wonder’ you can only get at the holidays – and we’re confident they’ll find that in abundance Downtown this year.”
Light Up Night is back for its 60th anniversary celebration! Join us as the official kickoff to the holidays moves to a new day ????
— Downtown Pittsburgh (@DowntownPitt) September 16, 2021
Read up on the first details on @Highmark Light Up Night, happening Saturday, November 20 ➡️ https://t.co/MB2sQlUWer pic.twitter.com/BoKK0INcEl
The move to Saturday came about after discussions with city and public safety offices, the PDP said. It hopes the Saturday date will help lessen traffic issues from a Friday rush hour as well as street closing challenges.
The PDP plans to launch a Friday night restaurant and retail promotion to coincide with the grand opening of the 10th anniversary Peoples Gas Holiday Market in Market Square.
“Pittsburgh’s annual Light Up Night is a tradition for our community,” said Dan Onorato, executive vice president and chief corporate affairs officer at Highmark Health. “We‘re excited that the move to Saturday will now make this signature event even more family focused and welcoming to all.”
The PDP said outdoor experiences such as Light Up Night and the Holiday Market offer the safest and most responsible way for visitors to enjoy the holidays while still supporting Downtown businesses.
