Home is not a static place. People fill their homes with things that speak to them; they decorate and redecorate with the changing seasons, and once in a while things can get a little messy. Everyone has their own tastes, and organizational skills are always welcome. Tune into these shows for some inspiration regarding design and organization in your home.

Tidying Up With Marie Kondo

Image from @mariekondo on Instagram

Marie Kondo has helped millions of people reorganize their homes since her show debuted on Netflix in early 2019. Kondo’s method of decluttering isn’t easy for everyone, but it will certainly promote joy in your household. She begins by rounding up all the clothing, books, paper, “Komono” (Japanese for “small things”, Kondo uses the word in reference to kitchen, bathroom, garage, and miscellaneous belongings), and sentimental items. The next step is to go through each item and determine which ones “spark joy.” If it doesn’t spark joy, then it needs to go. It’s no easy feat, but it brings a feeling of zen to the home.

Amazing Interiors

Image from Netflix

This show reveals the elaborate interior designs of unsuspecting homes. These homes belong to real people with passions you’ll see reflected within their spaces. Among the more grandiose spectacles, you’ll see some ideas you can try for yourself without needing any renovations.

Holiday Home Makeover

Image from @holidayhomemakeoversnetflixtv on Instagram

Decorating a home isn’t always a “set it and forget it” endeavor. This show focuses specifically on holiday decor. Benjamin Bradley (Mr. Christmas) meets different families and helps transform their interiors to reflect the magic of the holidays. If you love arts and crafts, then you’ll love the DIY projects this show will teach you.

All of these shows are available to stream now on Netflix. Cozy up on your couch with a cup of hot cocoa and get inspired to tidy up and decorate your apartment so it may bring you nothing but joy.

The holiday season and giving go hand in hand. While this time of year is a joyous occasion for many, some people struggle for many reasons. Giving our time, energy, or money to just causes helps improve the lives of people all around us and promotes thriving communities. There are several volunteer opportunities right here in Pittsburgh. Determine where you may have the capacity to give back.

Snow Angels 

Image from City of Pittsburgh Snow Angels

Pittsburgh may not get as much snowfall as cities like Erie, PA or Syracuse, NY, but we get enough to transform the Steel City into a winter wonderland, if only for a few days. It’s perfect for a beautiful, brisk stroll to a nice nearby cafe like The Coffee Tree Roasters in Shadyside. However, snow can be a headache for elderly members of our community as well as people living with disabilities. This is why the City of Pittsburgh developed the Snow Angels program to help those in need deal with the aftermath of a snowfall.

To sign up, visit the official website and fill out the contact form so the organization can pair you with a neighbor in need of snow removal. You will only be paired with one neighbor within a 10-minute walk from your home unless you specify on your registration form that you are willing to help multiple neighbors. A snow shovel and salt will be provided by your neighbor in need, so all you have to do is show up and start shoveling.

Not all volunteers will be matched with a neighbor in need. Pairing will depend on whether or not a neighbor has requested help. Additionally, you may not be assigned a neighbor right away, but neighbors can request help throughout the season. The program will keep in touch via text or email to let you know if and when you receive an assignment. If you wish to volunteer, please make time to clear snow within 24-hours of the end of a snowfall. You’ll make a big difference in the day-to-day lives of your neighbors, postal workers, and firefighters. Snow Angels, we appreciate your service!

This volunteer opportunity is open all winter long.

Phone Bank to Support Isolated Seniors

Image from The Neighbor Network

The holidays typically offer an occasion to spend quality time with the people in our lives who mean the most to us. The reality of the 2020 holiday season is that not everyone will have this chance to connect with family and friends. Seniors in our communities are among those most affected by the isolation brought about by COVID-19. Simply talking with them over the phone can help immensely in easing the effects of loneliness. 

This month, Repair the World Pittsburgh is hosting a phone bank to connect isolated seniors with volunteers. This event from Repair the World is part of a larger effort by the Neighbor Network to facilitate weekly phone conversations between seniors and volunteers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Volunteers for this event will participate in 45 minutes of discussion and training before making calls. These calls are simple, introductory conversations to pre-screen seniors so they may be matched up with volunteers for weekly phone calls.

This volunteer event will take place on December 15 from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM. Online registration is open here.

Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank

Image from Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank

For almost 40 years, the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank has worked to limit food insecurity within our community and provide widespread access to nutritious meals. The efforts of this organization are only made possible by the many volunteers and donors over the years. There are many ways you can get involved and support this organization’s mission.

Depending on your availability and time commitment, you can volunteer on a one-off basis or a recurring basis with hands-on work. Volunteering is open to whole families, so kids (ages 6-12) can participate in giving back to their communities. Some of the more common volunteer events entail rescuing produce from local farms, sorting and packaging food at the Duquesne Warehouse, and giving food directly to people in need. Everyone is unique and has their own skill sets. The Food Bank actively seeks help for a variety of tasks, so indicate your unique skill sets when signing up.

The type of volunteer work varies seasonally and the Food Bank is taking health and safety precautions to protect volunteers and the people they serve. If you are unable to volunteer this season, then consider donating to help feed families during the holidays.

You can schedule a volunteer opportunity here or make a donation here.

Celebrate this season of giving by helping those in need. Nothing better encapsulates the spirit of the holidays and warms the hearts of others.

Thanksgiving marks the time of year where both fall and winter festivities are in full swing. While some events are canceled this year due to COVID-19, some of our favorites are still happening. Don’t miss these highlights of the season Pittsburgh has to offer.

Image from Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium on Instagram

Zoo Lights

Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium has long been a family favorite destination. Strolling through the many exhibits in the summer is a great weekend outing. However, as the temperature drops and people wish to keep warm, the zoo adapts with some spectacular events.

This year’s Zoo Lights display promises a festive holiday drive-through complete with Christmas carols and thousands of environmentally-friendly LED lights. Grab a cup of hot cocoa and drive through in your car as you listen to a themed audio tour and see many of the zoo’s fascinating residents along the way.

Zoo Lights runs on select nights from November 27 – January 3, so look to their website today and plan your visit. Tickets must be purchased online in advance. Tickets cost $60 per vehicle for nonmembers and $40 per vehicle for zoo members.

Image from Phipps Conservatory on Instagram

Winter Flower Show: Home for the Holidays & Garden Railroad: Rails and Trails

Magic is always in the air at Phipps Conservatory. This year’s winter showcase features thousands of poinsettias illuminated by twinkling lights. The ‘Home for the Holidays’ theme is illustrated with living room furniture and decorations composed entirely of plants. Walk through the Victoria Room and admire the dancing reflections of the carousel on the pond below. Learn about animals’ winter habitats with trees cut to resemble foxes, groundhogs, bears, and more.

As you stroll through the illuminated glasshouse, you’ll also find the beloved miniature railroad display. This exhibit is meticulously crafted to bring to life a landscape complete with a boat gliding across a lake, and people riding horses, swimming, and camping. The touchless interactive stations allow you to activate the various scenes in the exhibit while the train chugs along its tracks.

Phipps is doing its part in curbing the spread of COVID-19, so timed tickets can be purchased online. Tickets cost $19.95 for adults, $17.95 for students (age 18+) & seniors (age 62+), and $11.95 for children (age 2 -18). Admission is free with a Phipps membership.

This display runs from November 20 – January 3, so don’t miss the holiday magic at Phipps. Masks must be worn at all times.

Image from The Rink at PPG Place on Instagram

The Rink at PPG Place

This holiday staple of downtown Pittsburgh celebrates its 20th year in 2020. The ice encircles a beautiful Christmas tree adorned with lights and ornaments. Bundle up and enjoy ice skating all season long. Bring your own ice skates or rent a pair onsite ($5). Prices (excluding skate rentals) are $11 for adults (age 13 – 49), and $10 for children, seniors, and with military I.D. Check PPG Place’s website for information on special group rates, holiday hours, and more special events. Masks are required while skating.

Visit your favorite animals at the Pittsburgh Zoo, revel in the beauty of Phipps Conservatory, or strap on a pair of skates at PPG Place. These local events will bring joy to all this holiday season, and they’re all within a 10-minute drive of Franklin West’s apartments in Shadyside.

We’re finding more and more workarounds for going about our lives as naturally as possible. Hand sanitizer is bountiful, wearing face masks is becoming second nature, and people have gotten the hang of social distancing. Some of the things we’ve missed for a while now are coming back, and among those things are museums. 

If you’re feeling the itch for a museum or gallery visit, these are some you should check out that are only a short walk or drive from our Shadyside neighborhood!

Pittsburgh Center For Arts & Media

Right on one corner of Shadyside where Fifth meets Shady Ave sits this organization enabling artists throughout our community. PGH Art and Media all about visual arts here, and there’s a new gallery debuting early next month. 

Creatives in the Era of COVID-19 will have its public reception on Saturday, October 3 from 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM. The event is free, but timed tickets are required and only 10 people will be allowed in at once. Come explore creations reflecting the thoughts and struggles surrounding the current pandemic.

Photo Credit: Pittsburgh Center for Art and Media via Instagram

Open Air Photography Gallery

This photo gallery is completely free and in the heart of Shadyside. Right across from the Apple store, CAPTURED::PITTSBURGH is all about community-sourced artwork, and this is exactly what you’ll find on display.

Everyone has a photo they’re proud of, and this organization wants these photos on display. Have a photo you’d like seeing on display? Post it on Instagram with #capturedpgh and consider it submitted. 

The Frick Pittsburgh

Take a step back in time at The Frick Pittsburgh. Henry Clay Frick amassed a fortune in the early days of Pittsburgh’s steel industry, and his residence is a testament. Exhibits include the car and carriage museum with an assortment of antique automobiles and carriages, plus the Maker & Muse: Women and Early 20th Century Art Jewelry. 

You will need a ticket with a reserved time slot to visit exhibits, so head over to The Frick website and choose a time. This museum also sits on a vast estate on the edge of Frick Park, which becomes a gorgeous place for a walk this time of year. 

Photo Credit: The Frick Pittsburgh via Instagram

Enjoy these exhibits as we plunge further into the new season. As always, don’t forget your mask!

Summer is winding down and Fall is making itself known. It’s the time for bouts of perfect weather between sporadic showers, and all the lovely things the season brings. Fall evokes images of pumpkin patches, apple picking, changing foliage, and even a few ghosts and ghouls later in the season.

It’s no wonder many festivals and events take full advantage of this time of year. Although options are more limited than in years past, here are some fall-themed events you can look forward to.

Phipps’ Fall Flower Show.

If you haven’t made it over to Phipps Conservatory yet, do yourself a favor and reserve a time you can wander around the displays. They host all sorts of themes and events throughout the year, and this year’s Fall Flower Show: The Poetry of Nature begins on October 10.

Photo Credit: Phipps Conservatory

You’ll see chrysanthemums aplenty here as they’ve been training all year for the event. Grab a few friends, bring a camera, and capture the beauty for your autumn photo collections. On the other hand, take a relaxing stroll by getting lost in the colors and scents of the many eloquent displays comprising Phipps. The event is going for only three weeks, so be sure to buy your tickets in advance.

The Frick

Henry Clay Frick is one of the prominent steel magnates who shaped Pittsburgh into the city it is today. Museum displays are once again open, but timed tickets are necessary. Visit his elaborate home and stroll the vast grounds.

The grounds sit on the edge of what is now Frick Park, so you’ll surely see beautiful fall colors as you make your way around the premises.

Photo Credit: the Frick Pittsburgh via Instagram

Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium

The Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium are open year-round, but if you’re planning a visit before it gets too chilly, now is the time. The Zoo always hosts fun events the entire family will enjoy, and fortunately, these events are continuing with social distancing measures in place.

Spot the Dots Scavenger Hunt

This amusing challenge is brought to you by Chick-fil-A Pittsburgh and is inspired by the 5 new cheetah cubs at the zoo. Make your way through the zoo’s many exhibits and solve 6 riddles for prizes including Chick-fil-A meals and a mini plush cow. The six riddles will culminate in one winning word you can enter into this site when you’ve completed the hunt. The hunt ends on September 30, so get out there.

photo credit: Pittsburgh Zoo via Instagram

Pumpkin Palooza

Also at the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium, this year is the Pumpkin Palooza. It’s a true fall kickoff with pumpkin decorating, sweet treats, and a visit with the zoo’s education animal ambassadors. This event takes place on Sunday, October 4 from 10 to 11 AM. Bring your camera and watch the animals enjoy some fall treats too.

Make your way out and see the seasons change. When things really cool down, go ahead and grab a hot drink from one of your favorite Shadyside cafes before heading to your fall events.

Over the last few years, Pittsburgh’s cycling scene has blossomed. In fact, the city drafted a plan in which 120 miles of new bike paths will be added in the next decade!

There has never been a better time for cycling around town. Whether you’re interested in leisurely exploring your neighborhood, using your bike to get you to work, or trying out cycling as a new exercise routine.

Get started and join the cycling community by visiting these bike shops in and around Shadyside. Then once you’re all geared up, check out some of Pittsburgh’s best bike trails.

Bike Shops around the Shadyside Community

Trek Bicycle Pittsburgh Shadyside

If you’re partial to Trek bikes, then this is where you should shop. Be it a road bike, mountain bike, electric bike, or kid’s bike – Trek in Shadyside has it all.

They have rentals available if you’re just looking for a one-off ride or if you’re with a friend without a bike. Already have a bike, but looking for an upgrade? Trade-in a bike for store credit and just pay the difference. Are kids growing too fast? Trek has a program for trading up bike sizes according to your kids’ needs. How cool and convenient is that!

Free Ride Pittsburgh

This Point Breeze spot is another DIY oriented bike shop so you can learn your way around your bike. The Free Ride Pittsburgh shop is community-run, so hours will depend on volunteer schedules. Check their website and Facebook page for hours.

Hours may be especially limited due to COVID-19, but keep an eye out for donation drives and used bike sale events. These donation drives result in tons of donated bikes and parts people can buy when the used bike sales come around. Check it out and find some great deals.

Photo Credit: Free Ride Pittsburgh Instagram

BikeTek

This Squirrel Hill shop carries bikes from a few different brands. You’ll find bikes here in addition to your standard mountain, road, and hybrid bikes. Speaking of hybrids, BikeTek has a great selection you can find online or in-store during their hours. See their website for up-to-date info on hours of operation.

Kraynick’s Bike Shop

This shop is a Pittsburgh staple. It’s not your traditional bike shop where you find what you want, pay, and be on your way. Kraynick’s Bike Shop is a one-stop-shop for learning all about the mechanics, maintenance, and repairs of your bike.

You’ll find die-hard bike mechanics volunteering and sharing knowledge with patrons looking for new assemblies and repairs. There are 10 work stations with all the tools you need for getting your bike up and running. It’s free of charge, but patrons are encouraged to buy replacement parts from the shop.

Photo Credit: Kraynick’s Bike Shop Instagram

Healthy Ride PGH

Healthy Ride has bike-share locations all over town where you can pick up bikes and drop them off at any of the 113 designated stations. Head over to their website or download the app and register, then you can grab a bike whenever and virtually wherever you please. You can pay as you go for $2 for every 30 minutes, pay $12 per month for unlimited 30-minute rides, or pay $20 per month for unlimited 60-minute rides.

Now you know where you can get your wheels, so hit one of these excellent bike routes.

Bikeable Areas Near Shadyside and More

Frick Park Trails

If you like immersing yourself in nature, then don’t miss Frick Park’s trails. You’ll find miles of bike trails suited for different experience levels and biking styles. Try Roller Coaster Trail for thrilling downhill mountain biking or head down to the Monongahela River on Nine Mile Run Trail for a longer ride. Frick Park info and maps here.

Great Allegheny Passage

Want an even longer ride? The Great Allegheny Passage is a 150-mile path stretching from Pittsburgh to Cumberland, Maryland. From there you can connect to the C & O Canal Towpath which stretches another 184.5 miles until you find yourself in our nation’s capitol. Much of the Great Allegheny Passage follows what were once railroad routes, so you can count on mostly flat riding. This picturesque trail takes you through many of Pennsylvania’s scenic gems. For a nice day-ride, park on the Waterfront and take the trail down to Boston, PA. Explore to your heart’s content before heading back. Great Allegheny Passage info and maps here.

Three Rivers Heritage Trail

For Pittsburgh city-centric cycling, check out this series of trails lining the three rivers. You’ll see superb views of the point from various angles as well as spectacular sunsets if you time it right. Ride for leisure or as part of your work commute on the 24 miles this trail offers. Three Rivers Heritage Trail info and maps here.

Our Shadyside Community

We can’t forget to mention our very own neighborhood. This scenic, tree-lined community is one of the most bikeable areas in Pittsburgh!

Plus, with hundreds of local shops and eateries, there’s always a unique place to stop for rest or to grab a bite to eat. Here at Franklin West, many of our apartments have bike storage available for our residents, too.

Whether you’re looking for bikes used or new, road or mountain, for rent or for sale, you’ll surely find a nearby shop or trail that fits your needs. Visit BikePGH’s website for a comprehensive map of biking trails throughout Pittsburgh.

By now you have probably exhausted a lot of your regular hobbies, so why not tap into some new ideas! With the weather warming up, get fresh air with a short walk (and practice social distancing, of course), try your hand at painting, or start your own herb garden to pass the time.

We put together a few ideas to help you inject some creativity next time you are feeling a bit bored.

Painting

Watercolors or acrylics? Painting can be the perfect hobby to pick up right now. If you are a beginner look up some instructional videos on YouTube. Don’t have paint around the house? Places like Michael’s and Target are doing curbside pickup, plus you can also check out Amazon.

Not interested in the mess of painting. There are several great paint by number apps to try like Happy Color.

Reading

We always talk about how we never have time to read. Well, with this newfound free time, we can all pick up a good book.

Learn a new skill or get lost in another land instead of staring at Netflix for hours. Can’t decide? Do a quick google search for some best sellers or even check to see if your favorite celebrity has a go-to list out there.

Needlepoint

While needlepoint might seem a bit old fashioned, it is the perfect craft to keep your mind moving and leave you with a fun little home accessory.

From Amazon to Target, and even little local shops, you can buy needlepoint kits with everything you need. After you finish, put it into a picture frame for a great accent to a gallery wall.

Gardening

While you probably don’t have tons of land to garden on, there are a variety of ways you can grow fresh produce or herbs right in your own place.

If you don’t have access to an outdoor space, try an indoor herb garden kit, or even tomatoes if you get enough sun. Those with a small patio space but no grass, go for a raised garden bed in your outdoor area.

Still not confident of where or how to begin, visit the Shadyside Nursery new online store. If you’re new to plant life, this team can get you started the right way.

Tie Dying

Remember tie-dying as a kid? Find some white clothes and order a kit because this trend is back! Like the other crafts we discussed, you can look at places like Michael’s and Target who are offering fast delivery or curbside pick. Also, check Amazon (who seems to sell everything) for a non-toxic tie-dye kit!

Try something new this week! You never know what you, and even your family, might enjoy and pick up as your new go-to during this extra time at home.

The holidays have come to a close. Valentine’s Day is in the rearview mirror and now we wait for spring, which we all know how long that can take in Pittsburgh. Give yourself something to look forward to. Treat yourself to a salon or spa appointment right in your Franklin West neighborhood.

Invite a friend, a parent or even enjoy some alone time. Shadyside offers an array of salons and spas with services like hair styling, manicures and pedicures, massages, facials, and so much more. Here are ten establishments you can explore next time you need some self-care.

Evolve Wellness Spa Shadyside

Evolve has a passion for making people look and feel their best. Whether you desire freedom from skin concerns, relief from pain or just an increase in your level of happiness, Evolve can help. Some of their treatments include acupuncture, facials, massage therapy, self-improvement counseling, and even yoga!

Where to find them: 228 S Highland Ave Pittsburgh, PA 15206

Centre Ave Massage & Spa

The team at Center Ave Massage & Spa is highly trained to address muscular imbalances and postural problems, chronic pain, stress management, inflexibility, and the enhancement of athletic performance. Their specialists can help with providing a little relaxation or even specialized treatment to help with pain and discomfort. Don’t forget to check their website for current specials!

Where to find them: 5701 Centre Ave / Pittsburgh, PA 15206

Anna Skin Care

No matter what your skin type is, Anna Skin Care can meet your facial needs. Begin with a deep cleansing facial followed by a customized skincare treatment. Looking for extractions or a hot stone massage? Look no further than this lovely salon right on Walnut Street.

Where to find them: 5541 Walnut Street Pittsburgh, PA 15232

Pittsburgh Float

Find balance and release tension with this trend-setting treatment located right in Shadyside. Sensory deprivation tanks contain a warm, shallow pool of highly dense saltwater. The tank is light and sound-proof, and the water is maintained at a constant skin temperature. Experience the benefits of this treatment that has been around since 1970.

Where to find them: 5850 Ellsworth Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15232

Capristo Salon & Wellness Spa

Experience a day of pampering at this family-owned salon located in the East End of Shadyside. As the official salon of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Penguins, your stylist certainly won’t disappoint you. They also offer services like laser hair removal, massages and facials. Book a day dedicated just to you!

Where to find them: 5850 Ellsworth Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15232

Whitehouse Salon

For a fashion-forward, boutique salon, look no further than this hidden gem. This bright, sun-filled salon (at least on those sunny Pittsburgh days) is the perfect place to unwind after a long day or slip away on a Saturday for that haircut you have been dying to have.

Where to find them: 731 Filbert Street, Pittsburgh,15232

Brush Nail Studio

Looking for a fresh manicure and pedicure? Stop by Brush Nail Studio and enjoy a little bit of luxury in your day. We recommend making an appointment, but feel free to pop in and see if they have time to fit you in. Yelp users give this great little spot 4 stars, which should definitely seal the deal on your decision to try it out.

Where to find them: 731 Filbert Street Pittsburgh, PA 15232

AEY Nail Bar

AEY sets a standard for nail salons in the area. Owner, AEY, has been a consultant across the country but finally decided to settle down and open her own salon to make clients feel relaxed and pampered. They also offer pedicures in reclining chairs for an elevated level of comfort.

Where to find them: Address: 5501 Walnut Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15232

GLAM-Nail Salon

The next day you need a little time for yourself head over to Glam-Nail Salon on S. Aiken Ave. Looking for the perfect pedicure or a manicure that can make your day? Schedule both at this adorable Shadyside salon. They also offer haircuts, extensions, makeup, and skincare. Afterward, head over to Walnut Street for some shopping.

Where to find them: 816 S Aiken Avenue Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15232

 

Feeling good doesn’t come just from pampering yourself, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle too. Check out these healthy eateries and fitness studios too!

It is hard to believe February is right around the corner. Do you have plans for Valentine’s Day yet? Today, Valentine’s Day is more than just spending it with one special person. You can spend it with friends, family or even your favorite neighbors from our Franklin West community. 

Here are a few places to help organize the perfect plans for your Valentine’s Day, no matter who you spend it with. 

Trader Joe’s

Trader Joe’s on Penn Ave is a great place to pick up your weekly produce, but they also have an affordable selection of flowers and cards for anyone you might want to make feel extra special this year. Not interested in dining out? Pick up items for the perfect meal and enjoy a night in. 

BRGR

This burger joint on Centre Ave is great for date night or a group outing. Enjoy the variety of apps they have to offer or try customizing your own burger. Who doesn’t love a sweet treat on Valentine’s day? Finish off your meal with one of their deliciously crafted milkshakes. 

Prantl’s Bakery

Cupcakes, cookies, pies – oh my! Prantl’s Bakery over on Walnut Street has nothing short of every sweet you would desire. Treat someone else (or yourself) to a delicious dessert like their famous Burnt Almond Torte or a decorated cupcake. 

Casbah

Nothing says love like sharing a few plates of pasta. With sunset hues and tables gathered close together, Casbah’s interior exudes warmth and coziness perfect to share with close friends or a special someone. Plus, it’s a short walk over to S Highland Ave.

Phipps Conservatory

This Valentine’s Day enjoy hundreds of orchids, plus their cosmic collection of tropical bonsai at the Orchid and Tropical Bonsai Show: Out of This World! Finish the visit with something special from the gift shop or a visit to Phipps Cafe. 

Noodlehead

This neighborhood hotspot on S. Highland Ave always seems to have a line out the door but it is worth the wait. Bring a bottle of wine and enjoy a dish of Pad Thai or one of their other specialties. In addition to a menu with a ton of delicious options, it is also extremely affordable and a BYOB establishment. 

Millies Homemade Icecream

Tempted to splurge on some dessert after dinner or maybe even second dessert? Stop by Millies on S Highland Ave. Whether you grab a bite at Noodlehead, Casbah, or BRGR, make sure to save room for the most delicious ice cream!

Enjoy these delicious places with someone (or a few people) you love.

Go ahead. Dream of that roasted Turkey and sweet pumpkin pie. Thanksgiving is a short week away and that traditional dinner is the only thing getting us through the day. 

This gratitude inspired holiday also means spending time with family and friends. Plan a wonderful weekend with the fun activities and events happening in our community from holiday shopping to enjoying museum festivities. 

We gathered local events happening that you can enjoy with your favorite people during the rest of November. 

Phipps Magical Holiday Show

Here in Pittsburgh, the holidays don’t truly begin until Phipps opens its doors to their Holiday Magic Winter Flower and Light show! This indoor and outdoor exhibit opens the day after Thanksgiving but tickets are on sale now. 

As a family event, Phipps pulls out all the stops! Your eyes will gaze among millions of twinkle lights and gorgeous flowers. Phipps will also have Santa visits, family fun evenings, and musical entertainment on select dates. 

Photo Credit: Phipps Conservatory via Instagram

Sloane Street Truck Show

You won’t have to wait very long to enjoy the shopping season. Henne Jewelers on Walnut Street is introducing a new collection, Sloane Street Trunk Show, on Friday, November 22nd and Saturday, November 23rd. 

If you’re looking to get something incredibly special as a gift, visit one of Pittsburgh’s oldest and best jewelers. You can’t go wrong with their selection. 

Pittsburgh Pickers Vintage Market

Get your shopping on! After all, it is the shopping season for big deals and discounts. Instead of taking the fun out of the holidays and using Amazon, Ace Hotel is hosting one awesome holiday event called Pittsburgh Pickers Vintage Market.

Pittsburgh Pickers is an event series that highlights the local vintage community. The event is totally free with over 20 different vendors. Visit the Facebook Event page to see specific vendors and other details. 

Clayton Tour at Your Own Pace

The Frick Pittsburgh is another locals tradition during the holiday season. See a grand Victorian home decorated for the season as almost all items and furniture are original.

You’ll also discover local history and hear stories about one of Pittsburgh’s wealthiest families. Holidays at the Frick begins on November 21st. Visit the official site to learn more about ticket details. 

Photo credit: The Frick Pittsburgh via Instagram

Of course, Small Business Saturday is on November 30th this year, and many of our favorite local shops on Walnut Street are set to participate in all the fun! Shop local, give thanks, and enjoy the best time of the year.