Phipps Holiday Magic

Phipps Holiday Magic opens at Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens on November 20, 2026, and runs through January 10, 2027. It's the Conservatory's winter flower show paired with an outdoor light garden, and this year's theme is Botanical Brilliance. The whole thing is designed to be a warm, indoor alternative to the city's Christmas markets, so it's a good bet if you're looking for something to do when the weather turns.

Inside the glasshouse, the show celebrates plants through sparkling metallics, rich jewel tones and imaginative topiary. Poinsettias, amaryllis and narcissus fill the space, and the centerpiece is a 10-foot-tall poinsettia tree crowned with a gold-leaf arrangement. There are also motion-activated ice-skating animal topiaries on a frozen pond and the Garden Railroad: Fairies and Gnomes display. The design comes from Associate Director of Exhibits Jordyn Melino.

Outside, the Winter Light Garden transforms the grounds after dark, with elements by Exhibit Lighting Project Manager Gregory Messmer. The Conservatory notes that all the display lights are energy-efficient LEDs. The glasshouse itself was gifted to the City of Pittsburgh by Henry Phipps in 1893, so it's been a part of the city for over 130 years.

Tickets must be reserved in advance and timed entry is required, so you'll want to book your slot before you head over. Members get in free. The Conservatory is located at One Schenley Park in Oakland.