pittsburgh parks conservancy presents

Aurora: Illuminating the Holiday Magic of Mellon Square

Pittsburgh's Newest Light Installation to Transform Mellon Square During the Heart of the Holiday Season

Aurora
Aurora Poster Artwork Only
About the Installation

About the Installation

Aurora Dark Tagline

This holiday season, Mellon Square transforms into a radiant wonderland with Aurora: Illuminating the Holiday Magic of Mellon Square. Coming November 23, experience Pittsburgh’s newest holiday tradition as thousands of twinkling lights bring Mellon Square to life, creating a magical atmosphere for families, friends, and visitors of all ages.

Partnering with renowned public art specialists Shiftworks and acclaimed light installation artist Joshua Ice, the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy has curated a breathtaking spectacle. Aurora features hundreds of diamond-shaped panels, which shift their hues as they catch the breeze or respond to the touch of passersby. Arranged in an argyle pattern, these panels echo the terrazzo design of the park’s ground, as though the iconic diamonds have come to life, lifting off and floating in the air. The installation rises and dips as it bounces across pathways, stretches over the central fountain, and weaves through landscaping and gathering spaces, soaring more than two-stories high at its peak. 

Whether you're taking a stroll through the glowing surroundings or sipping hot cocoa in a cozy heated igloo, Aurora offers something for everyone. From live music to "Jolly Trolleys," this is a celebration of light, joy, and community that you won’t want to miss.

With the generous support of The Benter Foundation and Eden Hall Foundation, Aurora is set to be the marquee holiday attraction in downtown Pittsburgh, offering a unique blend of art, light, and festive cheer.

Additional support for Aurora comes from the Richard King Mellon Foundation.

Experience the Magic

Schedule of Events and Seasonal Attractions

Enjoy Mellon Square this holiday season by exploring the FREE programs below!

Light Up Night 2024

Light Up Night 2024

Start the holiday season in Downtown Pittsburgh with an unforgettable evening of family fun! Meet enchanting princesses from the frosty realms of northern Europe, and watch as skilled ice sculptors transform blocks of ice into breathtaking masterpieces. Festive carols will fill the air, and Talia’s “Cannoli and Cocoa Stand” will offer a sweet taste of the season. Plus, be among the first to preview Aurora before the illuminated sculpture officially lights up the Mellon Square district later in November!

Date: November 23

Time: 7:00 PM

Cello Fury

Cello Fury

Cello Fury's original music combines cinematic, symphonic sounds driven by a rock beat. This high-energy performance features three cellos and drums from this internationally acclaimed Pittsburgh-based group.

Date: November 26, 2024 and November 27, 2024

Time: 7:00 PM

Pittsburgh Festival Opera

Pittsburgh Festival Opera

Enjoy an enchanting evening of operatic voices performing songs from film, Broadway, and opera. This winter-inspired performance features award-winning stars of the Pittsburgh Festival Opera.

Date: November 30

Time: 7:00 PM

High Tea Happy Hour

High Tea Happy Hour

Ritual House is taking over the Mellon Square to launch the newest and chicest winter happy hour event in Downtown Pittsburgh this holiday season. Dress in your warmest and most stylish Après-Ski apparel as Ritual House hosts this festive high-tea party under the AURORA. Celebrate with hot beverages, cool cocktails, and live music.

Date: November 30

Time: 5:30 - 7:30 PM

Best Bites

Best Bites

Experience the festive flavors of the holiday season with Best Bites Downtown! This self-guided food and drink tour invites you to explore Downtown Pittsburgh’s vibrant food scene, featuring 15+ deliciously festive tastings from local restaurants, bars and more.

Have a jolly time walking around Downtown and indulging in seasonal beers, themed cocktails and warm, comfort-food bites. Plus, delight in the magical sights of Mellon Square's radiant light installation, creating a perfect blend of culinary exploration and holiday cheer in the heart of the city.

Date: December 7

Registration coming soon!

Downtown Holiday Hop!

Downtown Holiday Hop!

Join us for the Downtown Holiday Hop, a festive celebration where families can explore charming local establishments and enjoy a variety of holiday happenings. This interactive event features activities for all ages, from crafts and games to seasonal treats, ensuring a memorable experience filled with joy and holiday spirit. Don't miss the chance to make cherished memories together in the heart of downtown!

Date: December 21

Registration coming soon!

Duke Ellington's Nutcracker

Duke Ellington's Nutcracker

Jazz legend Duke Ellington's 1960 interpretation of "The Nutcracker" was arranged with Pittsburgh jazz artist Billy Strayhorn. This one-night-only event features a 17-piece big band offering three performances of this iconic holiday classic, including stories and commentary on the creation of the work and its Pittsburgh connection.

Date: December 21

Time: 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM

The Deryck Tines Gospel Singers

The Deryck Tines Gospel Singers

Pastor Deryck Tines leads a high-energy, spiritually-energizing, and soul-stirring musical performance. The show features dynamic singers and a medley of gospel songs, spirituals, and hymns celebrating Black history, spirituality, and soul.

Date: December (TBD)

Time: TBD

Meet the Artist 

Joshua Challen Ice is a sculptor and installation artist known for transforming public spaces with immersive, interactive artworks that engage both the environment and the people who encounter them through light, movement, and interactive design. Inspired by the built environment and everyday objects, Ice reimagines these elements to create engaging public sculptures that invite viewers to see their surroundings in new ways. His installations encourage interaction and exploration.

With a background in lighting design and entertainment technology, Ice’s work blends artistic creativity with technical precision, resulting in immersive environments that connect people to the space around them. His installations are carefully crafted to respond to their surroundings, often incorporating architectural features or responding to natural elements.  Ice’s work has been exhibited in a wide range of settings, from galleries like SPACE Gallery and The Sculpture Center to public spaces in Pittsburgh and beyond.

Artist Statement

"Aurora transforms public space into a dynamic, interactive experience that invites people to engage directly with light and movement. Public art is an opportunity to reshape the way we experience everyday environments, making the familiar feel new and unexpected. By encouraging interaction, whether through touch or simply walking through the space, the aim is to blur the line between the artwork and its audience, allowing people to influence the piece and, in turn, be influenced to continue to seek out wonder and spectacle."

Share Your Aurora Moments

As you experience the magic of Aurora at Mellon Square, we want to see your journey! Capture the glowing lights, the festive fun, and your favorite moments as you explore this one-of-a-kind installation.
 
  • Tag @PittsburghParks on Instagram, Facebook, and X
  • Use #AuroraMellonSquare

You may be featured on our social media channels!

Whether you're sipping cocoa under the lights, strolling through the glowing arches, or enjoying a cozy igloo, share your story and be part of the holiday magic in downtown Pittsburgh.

 
Light up your feed with #AuroraMellonSquare and join us in celebrating this vibrant holiday season!

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