More than 2,000 turn out for Pine's annual Holiday Dazzle festivities

The Pine Community Center was packed on Nov. 15 forthe township’s annual Holiday Dazzle celebration.

The family-friendly event kicked off the holiday season with festive lights, live entertainment and activities for all ages.

More than 2,000 attendees joined the festivities.

Families enjoyed everything from train rides and horse-drawn carriage rides to special visits from Santa and the Grinch. A festive tunnel of lights and other decorations from Enchanted Lights Pittsburgh adorned the outside of the community center. The magic continued with ice carving demonstrations and plenty of sparkling seasonal cheer.

Along with the seasonal fun, guests had their pick of fare from local food trucks and vendors. There also were children’s activity booths and animal visitors — including appearances from live reindeer and a capybara.

The inside of the community center was lined with an assortment of decorated trees that attendees could vote on, with $1 counting for one vote. Each organization that decorated a tree selected a charity, and the proceeds from their votes will be donated to that charity. There were trees displayed by Armstrong, Wexford Volunteer Fire Company, Pine Community Center, Pittsburgh North Chamber of Commerce and more. Among the causes up for consideration are Breaking Bread, Friends of Pine Community Parks and the Wexford Volunteer Fire Company. The voting period will last until the end of the year.

Also inside Pine Community Center, kids crafted, bounced, decorated cookies and explored the impressive train display put on by the Pittsburgh Hi-Railers.

The event drew to a close with the lighting of the Dazzle Tree and a fireworks display.

“Events like Holiday Dazzle show the heart of Pine,” said Pine Supervisors Vice Chair Audrey Mackie. “The turnout, the smiles, the support — it all speaks to how committed our residents and staff are to building a strong, connected community.”

The festive cheer continued Nov. 16 with Pine’s Carols, Crafts and Cocoa event. Attendees sipped on cocoa as they enjoyed classic carols performed by the Pittsburgh Youth Chorus. The Pittsburgh Youth Chorus was formed in 1983 to provide children 6 through 18 with the opportunity to connect musically and socially.

Kids younger than 12 participated in holiday crafts, face painting and games. Adults had the opportunity to do some early Christmas shopping with a selection of local vendors.

“Holiday Dazzle was truly magical this year,” said Tyler Walker, director of Pine’s Parks and Recreation. “Welcoming more than 2,000 residents to celebrate, connect and make memories together perfectly reflects our mission of growing community through wellness, connection and play. We were especially thrilled to partner with the Pittsburgh Youth Chorus for Sunday’s Carols, Crafts and Cocoa event, which added a warm and festive touch to the weekend. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, and we’re grateful to our sponsors, volunteers, vendors and everyone who helped make it all possible.”