First Night will ring in 2026 in Pittsburgh
Courtesy of the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust
First Night, Pittsburgh’s New Year’s Eve celebration, returns to the Cultural District next Wednesday, featuring live performances, a variety of family-friendly activities, and a countdown to midnight.
Visitors will find a mix of attractions that invite attendees to chart their own course through the Cultural District based on interest-live music, magic, ice carving, a holiday market, film, hands-on activities, and more.
All events are free and open to everyone except for two indoor ticketed performances. The full lineup can be explored at TrustArts.org/FirstNightPGH.
New Year’s “Early Eve” celebration
A local student chosen by special guest judge Justin Wirick, a cast member of the “Wicked” national tour, will kick-start the New Year’s Eve festivities on the main stage.
A family dance party starting at 7:15 p.m., will keep the youngest revelers and their families on their feet. A children’s fireworks celebration is planned for 8 p.m.
Live music and performances
The Dollar Bank Battle of the Bands will be on the Highmark Stage from 10 p.m. to midnight. Black Benatar’s Community Lip Sync Spectacular at the Trust Arts Education Center starting at 7:30 p.m, will blend playful performance and audience participation.
At the Greer Cabaret Theater, the New Years Eve Cabaret Soirée with FireWALL Dance Theater will start at 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. The comedy magic duo the Harmon Brothers will be at Liberty Magic at 7 p.m., 8:30 p.m. and 10 p.m.
The Pittsburgh Samba Group and Timbeleza will perform on the Highmark Stage at 8:15 p.m. Two of Pittsburgh’s premier Brazilian performance groups – Pittsburgh Samba Group and Timbeleza – bring the rhythm and spirit of Brazil to Pittsburgh.
The Ping Pong Game Show with O’Ryan the O’Mazing will be at the Trust Arts Education Center at 9:30 p.m., and is a high-energy, immersive gameshow hosted by a despotic clown.
There will also be ice sculpting, a holiday market, cartoons show at the Harris Theater, tarot card readings and more,
All events are subject to change. Explore the full lineup of events at TrustArts.org/FirstNightPGH.