‘Cheap’ lights it up

Light Up Night

Tonight

Downtown

‘Tis the season to spend much money on gifts, because… Light Up Night

Tonight

Downtown

‘Tis the season to spend much money on gifts, because as we all know, giving is better than receiving. But you can kick off this year’s holiday season for free by checking out Light Up Night tonight.

Light Up Night is a Pittsburgh tradition in which all of the lights in the buildings Downtown are lit up. The tree at Point State Park will be lit promptly at 8:45 p.m., and the night will finish with a fireworks display at 9 p.m.

Experience has shown the best place to take in all of the sights to be from one of the look out towers on Mount Washington. Viewers here get a glorious view of Downtown, the North Shore and Point State Park. Be warned, traffic will be horrendous up there, so head out early. Or you can always get to Station Square by way of bus or the T, and then take a ride up to Mount Washington via the Monongahela incline free with your Pitt ID. If you aren’t quite a pyromaniac, head out after the fireworks display when most people will be going instead of coming.

Those who choose to stay Downtown for the festivities won’t miss out on anything. Live music and activities in Market Square and the Kaufmann’s and Lazarus department stores – including their holiday window unveilings – are reasons not to traipse up the hill to a better view of the fireworks.

It’s a cheap, romantic date and a fun thing to do with your friends. Whatever your status, Light Up Night is a Pittsburgh tradition that’s a shame to miss.