Your guide to activities and fun things to do with your preschoolers, toddlers and kids in Pittsburgh, PA

Pittsburgh's rich ethnic heritage, while always a part of life in the 'Burgh, becomes clear to all when the holidays approach.  So many cultures have come together to form our city, but it's the differences between these cultures, the traditions they hold dear, that truly make this place we call home so special.  I'd like to focus on a handful of holiday traditions that I look forward to each year.  You'll be able to tell from my list that I was raised in a Christian household.  What are some Hanukkah traditions that you love?  I heard of the menorah parade last year--sounds like fun.  What does your family do for Kwanzaa?  What are some of your favorites for these winter holidays?

Window displays at Macy's (formerly Kaufmann's)

I remember as a kid nearly jumping out of my skin with excitement at the chance to see the Kaufmann's holiday window display.  I am so glad that Macy's has kept that tradition and turns the five windows along Smithfield Street into a magical Christmas display.  You can check them out until January 12, 2009.

Christmas Eve Dinners

So many cultures, so many foods to eat!  When I was growing up, our neighbor always prepared the traditional Polish dinner, which was meat free and starch heavy.  It was wonderful!  My husband's family prepares the Italian tradition of the "Seven Fishes" dinner.  I know that other cultures have similar Christmas Eve traditions.  If your family has a long standing tradition, get the kids involved in as much food prep as possible.  Perhaps they can decorate the table.  And talk to them about how the tradition is a part of the family and why.  If you don't have a family tradition, there's no reason you can't start now!

Ethnic Decorations

I love most of the holiday decorations around town, especially those with a clear ethnic root.  Recently, I am just enamored of the little szopkas, sometimes called Krakow Castles, that are part of the Polish tradition.  One of the nation's experts in constructing these beautiful gems is David Motak.  He conducts workshops around town to teach others this folk tradition.  Some are offered at the Children's Museum (sorry, 2008 classes were in November--my bad), and kids are very welcome to participate (although you'll have to provide assistance for the smallest artists as scissors are a key tool). 

Pitt's Nationality Rooms

The University of Pittsburgh's Cathedral of Learning has a collection of Nationality Rooms that were designed and sponsored by many of Pittsburgh's ethnic groups.  Each year, on the first Sunday of December, the Nationality Rooms kick off the holidays with an open house that includes tours of the rooms in full holiday regalia, ethnic music and dancing, food, and folk crafts galore.  This year's celebration is on December 7.  Check out my Thursday, December 4, post for more information.