Spring Cleaning 2020 = Disinfecting

The following is a guest post by Laura McHolm, Co-Founder of NorthStar Moving.

Just a few short weeks ago, “spring cleaning” meant taking advantage of the longer days to dust off your home and make it nice and shiny for the warmer months. Today, we’re living a new reality.  

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought us all together. We are sharing the collective experience of being at home, doing our utmost to stay healthy and making sure we are doing our part to flatten the curve to keep entire communities safe. Since many of us are at home full-time, it is vital that we ensure our environment is safe and virus-free. Staying home and staying clean & disinfected is how we are going to flatten the curve and keep us all safe.

The media has been sharing daily guidelines and our inboxes have been filled with long messages about what businesses and services are doing to protect us. It is overwhelming! So, let’s throw out the complicated and keep it simple. 

Here are the 5 things you can do to help keep the coronavirus from living in your home: 

1. Supplies: Before you get started, give your cleaning supplies an overhaul. Spring cleaning in 2020 requires different equipment to keep your home virus-free:

• Gloves: Disposable gloves are recommended, but if you don’t have any just be sure to wash your hands thoroughly before and after you clean. And, remember not to touch your face. Gloves should be discarded after each cleaning. Wash your hands before gloves are applied and immediately after gloves are removed.

• No more brushes & mops: Brushes and mops might spread the contagions. You can use a cloth or towel if you wash them in hot water and soap when you are finished.

• Disinfecting wipes & spray (at least 70% alcohol, most EPA-registered household disinfectants should be effective.)

2. Clean AND Disinfect: Cleaning is the act of removing contaminants from a surface. Disinfecting is the use of chemicals to kill germs on surfaces.

• First, clean surfaces by wiping them with soapy water or a cleaning spray and a hand towel.

• Second, disinfect with disinfecting wipes or disinfectant spray. DO NOT dry the disinfectant with a towel, let it air dry. This is important when fully disinfecting!

3. High-touch Surfaces: The CDC recommends cleaning and disinfecting high-touch surfaces daily in your home. These surfaces include: 

• Door knobs

• Light switches

• Refrigerator and microwave doors

• TV remote

• Electronics (keyboards, phone etc.)

• Counters and table tops where you cook and eat

• Toilet & faucet handles

4. Laundry: For clothing, towels, linens and other items that go in the laundry it is important to take these extra steps:

• Do not shake dirty laundry. This will minimize the possibility of dispersing virus through the air.

• Use the warmest appropriate water setting for the items and dry items completely.

• Clean and disinfect hampers according to guidance above for surfaces.

• Wear disposable gloves when handling dirty laundry from an ill person and then discard or launder the gloves after each use.

5. Enter with Care: Now that your home is disinfected, when you return home from  getting essentials: take off your shoes, hang up your coat (away from other clothing) and, immediately, wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water. Also, consider changing your clothes into clean ones.

Follow these 5 steps religiously to drastically reduce the risk of COVID-19 living in your home. Together, we will get through this uncertain time. Cleaning and disinfecting will help you be in control. And, the good news is we have the time at home to do it. Stay clean, stay calm and stay kind!

Laura McHolm is an organizational, moving & storage expert and co-founder of NorthStar Moving Company. NorthStar Moving Company is an award winning, “A+” rated company, which specializes in providing eco-luxury moving and storage services.

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How to Prepare for an Open House!

With warmer days in sight, you might be thinking about listing your home for the upcoming spring market.  One way that sellers can help their home to stand out is by hosting an open house. Open houses may attract everyone from nosy neighbors to motivated buyers. Either way, they generate buzz about a home—and that can be a great thing to get your home sold quickly. If you have an open house approaching, here are 10 ways you can prepare your home for success:

1. Declutter

During an open house, you want prospective buyers to be able to easily tour your home. Help them navigate through by getting rid of any clutter that could be in the way. This could include anything from overly stacked bookshelves to crammed closets. Give prospective buyers a clear view of the space your home provides.

2. Clean

Once you remove any clutter from your home, you may find some spaces that are in need of a deep cleaning. Not only should you give your home a thorough cleaning before you list it, but you also should maintain that cleanliness for the duration of your sale. This is particularly true as you’re preparing for an open house.

3. Prune

When you finish cleaning inside your home before an open house, take your diligence outdoors! Throughout your home sale, your lawn should be meticulously manicured. This means regularly mowing and trimming. To impress buyers at an open house, you also may want to add some seasonal flowers to your curb appeal. Don’t forget to water any new additions!

4. Plaster, Paint, Repeat

Did all of that decluttering and cleaning leave a few eyesores on the walls? If you have any holes, scrapes or even odd paint colors on your walls, you’ll want to give them a fresh look before you host an open house. Handle these small repairs yourself or call in a professional to help your home look its best.

5. Stage

If you’re feeling like you’ve cleaned and decluttered a bit too much and your home seems a little bare, consider staging it with appropriate furniture or décor. This is a particularly good idea if you’ve been using your rooms in less-than-conventional ways, you know like that spare room you turned into your weight room. Be sure to ask your real estate agent about home staging, they might be an expert!

6. Find a Sitter

With your home in tip-top shape before an open house, you’re going to want to keep it that way. If you have pets, you know this can be quite the task. During showings—and certainly during an open house—find a friend or relative who may be able to show your pets a little extra love.  Having your children and pets out of the house will be best for them and your potential buyers. They won’t suffer the anxiety of strangers strolling through the house and you’ll have an easier time keeping the place clean for prospective buyers.

7. Protect Valuables

Of course, you wouldn’t leave valuables sitting out during an open house or showing. But, you may want to take security measures to the next level for an all-day open house. Lock up any personal valuables or rent a storage unit while your home is on the market. This way, you’ll make sure all of your things remain yours and nothing gets broken. 

8. Self-Promote

Your real estate agent should more than cover your marketing needs, but it won’t hurt you to do a little legwork too, when it comes to selling your home. Shamelessly promote your home on your social media networks and any forums you belong to. Your home has a better chance of selling if you tell people about it!

9. Get Treats

We can’t think of any buyer that would want to turn down free food or drink! Give your open house guests something to remember by letting your home touch all of their senses! With a taste of your favorite cookies or brownies, prospective buyers are sure to feel right at home.  

10. Brighten Up

Just before you walk out the door for an open house, because—no—you will not be attending your own open house, be sure to open up all of your blinds and turn on any lights in rooms that appear a bit dark. More light in your home will make it look more spacious and inviting.

Ready to impress buyers at an open house this upcoming spring? Let me help! Give me a call today!

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How to Declutter Your Home Before You List It

Are you looking to list your home in the spring? If so, you might want to take the time now to start organizing and decluttering your home. Decluttering your home can be a big job, but will be worth it in the end.  The best way to tackle it is in stages, try to focus on one room, one space, or even one zone within a room (like your kitchen cabinets), completing the job fully before moving on to the next space. Not only will decluttering your space make your home more appealing to a potential buyer, but it will make your move go a lot smoother!

Kitchen

Some consider the kitchen to be the heart of the home, which can make it a little tricky to keep organized.  It can be easy to start throwing kitchen items in cabinets just to get them out of the way, but the key to a great kitchen is organization.  Start by taking everything out of your cabinets and drawers and get rid of any unnecessary items. After you have assessed your items you can start putting them away! Start with your powerhouse storage spaces first, such as the pantry and upper cabinets. Then move onto the lower cabinets, drawers, the space under the kitchen sink.  Making sure you put everything away in its place when you are in the kitchen will help you maintain a decluttered space!

Bathroom

Keeping your bathroom organized can be challenging, especially if you have a smaller space or limited storage.  Start with your medicine cabinet. Take everything out and discard outdated medications, makeup, and skincare products.  After you have gone through everything consider purchasing organizing bins so you can keep everything in place in a cabinet or under the sink.  Then move on to the closet and refold towels and sheets, organize cleaning products and get rid of anything unnecessary that is taking up space.  

Closet

Ok, deep breath. It’s time to tackle your closet. The easiest way to declutter a closet is to first declutter your clothing by type. That means start with shoes, then boots, then dresses, then denim, etc.  Once you have gone through your closet, try and separate your clothes into what you will fold and hang up. Any clothes that do not fit or are not your style anymore, you can donate!  

Bedroom

The first step to organizing and decluttering your room is to always make your bed, it will make your room more put together and leave you feeling less stressed.  Creating under-bed storage will help in keeping your room organized. Do a walk-through of your room and take a look at everything that is laying around. Storing unnecessary items under your bed in storage bins will help keep your bedroom clean and organized.  

The biggest reason people give for moving houses is a lack of space in their current house. They feel they have outgrown the space and are therefore looking for a home that gives them that space, and more to grow into.  If they come to your home and see that you have a lot of space, it's the biggest turn-on you could give. Another added bonus to decluttering is you will save time and have a lot less to move. Simple decluttering will really make all the difference!

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Valentines Day Date Ideas in Pittsburgh

Dinner and a movie is a tried and true date, but this Valentine’s Day, why not do something a little different? Pittsburgh is full of fun, romantic ways to spend an evening with the one you love.  Whether you want to try a fun new restaurant or visit one of Pittsburgh’s famous museums there are so many options right in the city! 

Andy Warhol Museum

Try something different this Valentine’s Day and visit the Andy Warhol Museum, a Pittsburgh staple.  This is the perfect date spot if you are looking for something unique that you and your date will love! The museum features seven floors of Warhol’s art and the artists that he inspired.  Make sure you visit the Silver Clouds exhibit and then create your own short film!   

Altius

If you are looking for a fine dining experience with an amazing view of the city Altius is the place.  Located on Mt. Washington, Altius highlights the views of the city while offering some of the best food in Pittsburgh.  Make sure you try the black forest cake for dessert- the waiter pours hot fudge over it when served!  

Top Golf

Take a swing at love this Valentine’s Day at Top Golf! Located in Bridgeville, Top Golf is the perfect place for food, drinks and a lot of fun! Rent a bay with a group of friends or you and your date and enjoy a night of friendly competition.  

Pittsburgh Zoo

Head to The Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium for the Waters Edge Valentines Day Dinner.   The night will include small animal visits, hors d’oeuvres, a served dinner, dessert, and a cash bar. Tickets are $70 for members and $75 for non-members. 

Poulet Bleu

Poulet Bleu is located in Lawrenceville.  This French-inspired restaurant is an American bistro featuring classic dishes that make it the ultimate neighborhood spot.  While you are there, try the french onion soup! Poulet Bleu is the perfect date night spot for a romantic dinner with your loved one. 

Off The Hook

Enjoy a bottle of wine and a fresh seafood with your sweetheart at Off The Hook in Warrendale, PA!  Expand your taste buds at the region’s premier fresh fish restaurant, serving over twenty kinds of fresh fish in an array of original, delicious styles.

Arsenal Bowling

Gaining some friendly bragging rights feels good in any relationship. If you think you can beat your partner in a game of bowling, get to Arsenal Bowling Lanes in Lawrenceville. Head over to the full-service bar before your game and grab a beer to drink as you bowl. Afterward, get ready for a different kind of bowl: Take a short walk down Butler Street to Ki Ramen and enjoy a specialty ramen bowl prepared with house-made noodles.  

Night In 

If going out isn’t really your thing, try staying in for the night and cooking dinner at home and renting a movie.  Head down to the Strip District to grab some fresh fish from Wholey’s and maybe some popcorn from the Pittsburgh Popcorn Company for dessert.  

With so much to do in and around the city of Pittsburgh, you and your Valentine will need more than just one day to enjoy everything. My advice? Get started this Valentine’s Day, but let your date-night fun in Pittsburgh continue throughout the year!

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The Best Weekend Winter Getaways Around Pittsburgh

Does cabin fever have you itching to get out of the house this winter?  Pittsburgh has some of the best spots for a weekend getaway. From skiing to wine tasting, here are the best winter day trips from Pittsburgh all under a two-hour drive. 

Nemacolin Woodlands Resort

Located in the Laurel Highlands, this five-star resort is the ultimate weekend getaway! The resort features adventure, fine dining, wine tastings, spa services, activities for kids and more.  Spend the afternoon or the day at our Wildlife Academy, home of the Equestrian Center, animal nursery, animal habitats and educational programs. Black bears, zebra, buffalo, tigers and hyenas are just some of over 100 animals that currently call Nemacolin home. 

As the seasons change, the ski facilities at Mystic Mountain offer both downhill and cross-country skiing enthusiasts, snowboarders and snow tubers a variety of snow sports. For a different winter experience, enjoy snowshoeing or dog sledding on the property’s winter trails. 

Seven Springs

If you are a thrill seeker you might want to check out Seven Springs for a weekend Ski Trip! Located only an hour from the city in Somerset, Seven Springs is the perfect place to explore, relax and get away for a few days.  For the avid skier, the mountain features over 33 trails and terrain parks for you to enjoy. If you would rather relax indoors, the Trillium Spa is the perfect place to unwind for the day.

Cleveland, Ohio

Cleveland is a great place to visit if you live in Pittsburgh because it’s only a little over two hours away. This is an ideal destination for craft beer lovers because of all the great breweries in town. Some craft brew spots to check out include Bad Tom Smith Brewing, Bookhouse Brewing, and the Great Lakes Brewing Company. Cleveland Metroparks is a fun place to get some outdoor time and exercise, and there are some interesting museums to check out here too.

Holiday Valley Resort

Located just over the New York-Pennsylvania border, Holiday Valley Resort in Ellicottville is the ideal place to visit year-round. If you’re a skier or snowboarder, you’ll appreciate the evening slope hours. The resort’s snow tubing course is a popular option if you don’t ski or snowboard or need a break from the slopes. Other winter activities include cross-country skiing and the Sky Flyer Mountain Coaster.

Omni Bedford Springs

The Omni Bedford Springs Hotel is located a few miles from the Pennsylvania Turnpike and is the perfect weekend getaway!  Built in 1806 to take advantage of the natural springs on the property, the original Bedford Springs Hotel greeted guests from around the world, including multiple U.S. presidents. Today, the national historic landmark includes 216 guest rooms and suites that offer the ultimate in luxury and pampering.

Make the most of the winter season by taking a weekend trip with your friends and family. Whether you are looking for a weekend of luxury or a time of adventure to break up the winter blues, the surrounding areas have plenty to offer.  Pittsburgh has some of the best spots for a long weekend or quick getaway! 

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4 Reasons to Upgrade to Granite Countertops!

Are you dreaming of making upgrades to your kitchen in the new year? When you are thinking of what upgrades to make, you might want to consider adding granite countertops to your kitchen or bathroom.  From the durability of the countertops to their gorgeous design, there are so many reasons to pick granite for your home! 

Increases the Value of Your Home

For many people, the kitchen is one of the most important rooms in a house.  Having granite countertops will make a great first impression on any potential buyers.  The kitchen is also an important room when it comes to the market value of your house. When you remodel a kitchen with features such as granite countertops, you often will not only recoup your investment but also boost the value of your house in the process. 

Great Investment

Granite countertops will last your lifetime—and beyond. Over the next 30 years, comparably priced countertops and even those that are significantly more expensive than granite will most likely have to be replaced twice.  You can comfortably put granite in any part of your home and have the peace of mind that it won’t fade, stain, or scratch. Whether it is outdoors or in a kitchen or bathroom, granite is a solid investment for your home.  

Heat and Scratch Proof 

After each meal, wiping down kitchen countertops with a soft cloth and gentle cleanser is all you need to do to keep your granite looking beautiful. Granite is tough, resistant to staining, etching, and won’t scorch if you happen to place a hot pan on it. Homeowners who want an extra level of protection, can quickly seal their countertops in about 10 minutes and have a lifetime warranty against staining.  

You can also think about installing granite in your bathroom.  It’s heat resistant qualities are great for someone who frequently uses a curling iron! 

Every Piece is Unique 

A big reason that granite is so popular is not only because of its durability, but each piece of granite is unique.  When you choose to install granite countertops, you have the freedom of previewing entire slabs of natural stone and selecting the one you want in your home. Viewing the whole slab allows you to make an informed decision based on the innate color variations and veining, which may vary widely from slab to slab.  If you are installing a large island, you will be able to pick a large enough piece so there is no visible seam in your countertops! 

Thinking of replacing your countertops in 2020?  Whether you want an updated kitchen or a fresh look in your bathroom, there is no better time than now to make new upgrades and enjoy your new space this year!

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Money Resolutions to Help You in 2020!

New year, new financial goals. If you’re starting off the new decade with a list of resolutions, consider adding some financial to-dos to your list! Follow these steps to achieve your financial goals in the new year.  

Make a Budget 

Now is the time to start thinking of making a budget and getting your finances in order.  If you have had trouble in the past sticking to a budget, try something different this year.  Use an app like Mint or create a spreadsheet that will allow you to track your spending and get a good picture of your finances.  Don’t forget that a budget can be flexible as well. If you overspend in one area, you can balance it by cutting back in another area.

Pay Off Credit

Having credit card debt will not only hurt your credit but cause unneeded stress and anxiety over your financials.  This year, make it a goal to start paying off your credit card debts. After you pay all of your bills should set aside a portion of your paycheck to go towards credit card debts.  

Start an Emergency Fund 

The start of the new year is a good time to set a goal to build your emergency fund. This account can be stocked with money for unexpected events, you will reduce the chances that you will go into debt trying to cover inevitable surprise costs, like a flat tire or medical bill.  Consider setting up automatic transfers to a savings account, either from your paycheck or from your checking account.  

Reduce Student Loans

Tired of student loans holding you back from other goals? Take the time next year to make a big dent on them — or even pay them off completely.  If your interest rates are high, consider consolidating your loans to get a lower interest rate and more manageable monthly payments.

If financial resolutions are on your list this year, make sure to follow these easy steps! There are many ways to track financial success, but making a budget and tracking your spending is a great way to start! 

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The Top Reasons to Buy Appliances this Holiday Season

This holiday season there is no better gift you can get yourself or a loved one than a new home appliance! From scoring a good deal to making your kitchen more efficient for a big dinner party, there are many reasons to purchase upgrades for your kitchen!

Hosting A Large Dinner Party

Are your kitchen appliances old or not working as well as they could be?  This holiday season is the perfect time to purchase a new appliance, especially if you are planning on hosting a large get-together with friends and family.  Hosting a ton of people to your house for a dinner party can be stressful, especially if you have unreliable or small kitchen appliances. Having a larger refrigerator will help you keep your food organized and makes it easy to find ingredients.  You could also consider purchasing a double-oven to save time and make your cooking more efficient! 

Outdated Appliances

Is your kitchen in need of an upgrade? This holiday season is a great time to replace your outdated kitchen appliances.  January is usually the time when manufacturers roll out new models and retailers are eager to move last year's inventory. You might even stumble across a good deal if you decide to buy during the holidays.

Putting Your Home on The Market

Updating your appliances is also a good idea if you are considering putting your house on the market.  If you will be selling your house this winter or even in the spring market, replacing your appliances can help the overall aesthetic and make your home more appealing to potential buyers which could garner a faster offer and/or higher selling price.

Want to Reduce Energy 

With winter weather on the way, the cost of your utility bills might be at the forefront of your mind. Has your energy bill been higher than normal recently? You might want to consider upgrading some of your current appliances with new ones. The majority of appliances on the market today are more energy-efficient and designed to save you money.  If you swap out old appliances for more energy-efficient new ones, you'll not only save money on your utility bills but also help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Updating your appliances is one of the best ways to reduce your energy bill.  

Safety Concerns 

Have you noticed that your baking times have been significantly off when making cookies or roast? Are your dishes coming out of the dishwasher just as dirty as you put them in? Appliances that are not functioning properly can be potentially hazardous to your health and your home. Undercooked food and dirty dishes can be a breeding ground for bacteria to grow while electrical shortages or water leaks can start a house fire or damage the structure of the home.

Want an Updated Kitchen

When you are going through a remodel, this is the perfect time to consider replacing your kitchen appliances. This is the perfect time to think about styles, colors and what kind of appliances you want in your new space.  Whether you are looking to purchase a new dishwasher, refrigerator, toaster, oven, microwave, or coffee maker you will find that you have an unlimited number of appliances to choose from. 

This year if you have a tough person to shop for, you might want to add an appliance to the list! From safety concerns to having outdated appliances, there are so many reasons an appliance is a great gift.  You might even be able to find some great deals around the holidays!

Have you heard about our New Neighbor Program?  Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices The Preferred Realty can offer its clients exclusive discounts from area vendors, including Don’s Appliance, through our New Neighbor Program.  Want to know more? Ask me for more information!

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices does not endorse any of the products or vendors referenced on this material.  Any mention of vendors, products, or services are for informational purposes only.  

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Why Winter Might be The Best Time to Put Your Home on the Market!

Winter is not only known for cold when it comes to the weather. Most home buyers and sellers would agree that there are hotter times for the real estate market too, but this season you might actually be able to take advantage of the cold weather in the real estate market.  

There Are Fewer Homes To Compete With

There typically are more homes for sale during warmer seasons like spring and summer. But that does not mean a buyer cannot find the right home during winter. Inventory could be lower, but sellers have plenty of reasons to list during the winter. So, the right home for a buyer absolutely could be available – even during the coldest season of the year.  

The Winter Might Help Boost Curb Appeal

If you’re willing to use a shovel or snow blower whenever snow covers your sidewalks and driveway with snow, you could be giving yourself the prettiest curb appeal out there! When you sell in winter, there is no need to remember to regularly mow your grass, trim your hedges or even water your potted plants. Mother Nature can take care of boosting your curb appeal—the natural way. 

You Might Get A Better Offer

If you decide to list your house in the winter you might end up getting a better offer on your home.  There are fewer homes on the market in the winter than in the spring so you might end up with a better offer.  You also will get more attention on your home! When there are not as many homes for sale, your home has a greater chance of being noticed by the right buyer. When the market is saturated in spring, that simply means you’ll have more competition. Avoid the rush and list in winter instead.

You Will Have More Motivated Buyers

There may be fewer buyers searching for homes in winter, but when it comes to buyers, it may be more about quality than quantity. Spring weather tends to draw out less serious buyers, who may just enjoy browsing available homes. Those buyers are less likely to peruse homes in winter. But, the buyers who are touring through homes? They’re looking to for good reason. Whether they’re relocating for work or another reason, buyers seem more eager to place offers in winter—and, a motivated buyer works in a seller’s favor, every time!

Are you ready to sell your home in 2020? Let me help you tackle that resolution this winter! If you have any questions about the next steps in the selling process reach out to one of our agents.  

You could also say something along the lines of don’t be concerned about less people being able to look at the house due to hectic schedules. The internet doesn’t experience seasons and people actually tend to have some extra time off in the winter that is great for house hunting.

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The Best Holiday Activities Around Pittsburgh

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, especially in Pittsburgh. The city and surrounding areas are filled with holiday activities for all ages to participate in! 

Go Ice Skating in Market Square 

This holiday season, make sure you stop by market square and go ice skating at the MassMutual Ice Rink!  The ice rink is open from November 22nd - March 1st. Admission is $10 for adults and $9 for children. Ice skates are also available to rent for $4 a person.  While you are in Market Square make sure to stop by the Holiday Market and Santa’s House to shop around or for a cup of hot chocolate! 

Visit Phipps Conservatory’s Holiday Light Show

One of Pittsburgh’s favorite holiday traditions is back from November 23rd- January 6th.  The holiday lights at Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. For 126 years, Phipps has been a family favorite holiday tradition for families in Pittsburgh.  This year, Phipps will feature over ten acres of gardens and lights to explore! Tickets are $19.95 for adults and $11.95 for children. Be sure to purchase your tickets in advance, you won’t want to miss out on the holiday lights!  

Have a Drink at Miracle on Liberty

It’s back again for the 2019 holiday season! Pittsburgh’s favorite Christmas pop-up bar will be back in two locations.  The first location will be Miracle on Liberty, located at 717 Liberty Avenue, in the Clark Building. And the second location will be Miracle on Carson, located in the former Lava Lounge at 2240 East Carson Street.  Miracle on Liberty will open on Friday, November 29th, and will be open every day (including Christmas!) through Tuesday, December 31st from 5:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m with a holiday-themed cocktail menu.  

Show off your Trivia Skills at a Holiday Trivia Night

Do you love The Office? Are you a Home Alone expert? Now is the time to show off your trivia skills at Zone 28.  On Tuesday, December 17th you can partake in Dunder Mifflin's legendary Christmas parties. So keep your eye on the iPod, don't get your Benihana waitresses confused, and be good for Belsnickel. On Tuesday, December 10th, Home Alone trivia night will be in full effect.  Grab your friends this holiday season for a fun night of trivia! 

See the Lights at Lumaze 

Experience one of the largest light shows in Pittsburgh this season.  Lumaze will wow you with interactive light gardens, illuminated structures, delicious food, festive drinks and daily live entertainment all under the twinkle of a million lights. Be sure to buy your tickets in advance, it is expected to sell out! Lumaize is open from November 23rd- January 4th with tickets 20% off now!

Check Out Taste of Lawrenceville’s Miracle on 41st Street

On Sunday, December 8th head over to Lawrenceville for Miracle on 41st Street.  Taste of Lawrenceville is throwing a celebration of all things Lawrenceville to celebrate the holiday season! Tickets are free, just register via Eventbrite and pay for what you wish to try at each vendor booth. There will be food, a live band, photos with Santa and more! 

Go See The Nutcracker at The Benedum Center

A winter wonderland awaits at Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker! This Christmas favorite features five lavish scenes, dozens of dancers and over 150 costumes making The Nutcracker one of Pittsburgh’s most cherished holiday traditions. Tickets for The Nutcracker start at just $28.

There is something for everyone to do this holiday season in Pittsburgh.  Whether you want to test your trivia knowledge or enjoy the botanical gardens at Phipps Conservatory there are so many ways to spread Christmas cheer and have fun this winter!

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