NOTE: All member and nonmember tickets for Phipps Holiday Magic must be reserved in advance. Learn more about how you can join us!

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This Week at Phipps: Dec. 8  – 14
Dec 08
2025

This Week at Phipps: Dec. 8 – 14

By Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

There's always something new to see and do at Phipps! This weekly blog post provides a run-down of the latest happenings so you can plan your visit. Events listed below require no advance registration unless noted otherwise. 

Open Daily: 

  • NOW OPEN: Phipps Holiday Magic 
    This year’s playful theme, “Wild Winter,” invites you into a wonderland of whimsical topiary wildlife and enchanting scenes at every turn. Step inside and prepare to be dazzled by breathtaking new displays, brilliant décor and our signature floral masterpieces. From vibrant amaryllis and delicate orchids to a spectacular showcase of poinsettias, every bloom is a burst of seasonal joy. And the magic doesn’t stop at there! Outside, our beloved Winter Light Garden transforms the night with radiant displays in vivid, glowing hues — a dazzling spectacle sure to delight guests of every age.
  • Garden Railroad: The Age of Dinosaurs
    Garden Railroad: The Age of Dinosaurs will highlight each distinct period of the Mesozoic Era. Guests can watch a group of dinosaurs moving through greenery while listening to the powerful sound of a dinosaur roar! In addition to these features, the plant evolution through the different time periods will be on display, from ferns, cycads and conifers to the first flowering plants. Each prehistoric period will have its own train to follow along so you can learn about their unique characteristics. 
  • Tropical Forest Panama: Bridge to Biodiversity
    Embark on a spectacular journey through the lush vegetation and vibrant culture of Panama, the incredibly biodiverse land bridge connecting North and South America, in our immersive new Tropical Forest Conservatory exhibit
  • Native Plants of Southwestern Pennsylvania and Their Bird Associates and Pollinators
    In Phipps' Garden Center, plant lovers of all ages can now enjoy stunning illustrations of native plants and their pollinators symbiotic relationships. 
  • Planets Earth Virtual Exhibit
    A dynamic exhibit at the Center for Sustainable Landscapes (and now online) addresses the pressing environmental issues of our time and proposes a new way of thinking about how to solve them.

Mon., Dec. 8:

  • Magic Meets Music: Live Performance Nights |  6 – 8 p.m.
    On select weeknights during Phipps Holiday Magic, live musical entertainment lends a new dimension of splendor to your festive visit. For this enchanting Magic Meets Music performance, guest can enjoy the sounds of vocal entertainer, Michael Paul.

Tues., Dec. 9:

  • The Shop at Phipps Poinsettia Giveaway | 9:30 a.m. – 10 p.m.
    The Shop at Phipps has the perfect gift for everyone on your holiday shopping list, and on select dates during this year's Phipps Holiday Magic, there's a bonus perk! On Dec. 2, 3, 9 and 10, the first 225 customers to make purchase at The Shop at Phipps will receive a FREE 2.5" poinsettia to gift to a plant-loving friend or add a little Phipps Holiday Magic to your own home. Offer available while supplies last and applicable to in-person purchases only.
  • Magic Meets Music: Live Performance Nights |  6 – 8 p.m.
    On select weeknights during Phipps Holiday Magic, live musical entertainment lends a new dimension of splendor to your festive visit. For this enchanting Magic Meets Music performance, guest can enjoy the sounds of Olde Towne Carolers.
  • Composting for Beginners | 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
    Join us as we break down the basics of composting! In this class, participants will learn about what can go into your compost bin, how to keep your bin balanced and how to choose a setup that works for your lifestyle. Whether you're curious or ready to dive in, this class will help you start your compost journey with ease!

Wed., Dec. 10

  • The Shop at Phipps Poinsettia Giveaway | 9:30 a.m. – 10 p.m.
    The Shop at Phipps has the perfect gift for everyone on your holiday shopping list, and on select dates during this year's Phipps Holiday Magic, there's a bonus perk! On Dec. 2, 3, 9 and 10, the first 225 customers to make purchase at The Shop at Phipps will receive a FREE 2.5" poinsettia to gift to a plant-loving friend or add a little Phipps Holiday Magic to your own home. Offer available while supplies last and applicable to in-person purchases only.
  • In-Person Story Time | 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.
    Kids will love visiting Phipps to listen to our storyteller weave tales about gardens, fruits, vegetables, animals and other fun topics. Attend weekly sessions with a special child in your life.

 

Photos  © Paul Vladuchick