Seasonal Events at the National Aviary

This Season at the National Aviary

Embark on an exciting expedition…during Forests, our new theme, Presented by Peoples! Discover fascinating birds that live in dense and diverse forests around the world. Plan your visits during special event weekends to celebrate all things birds and fall!

Reserve Tickets in Advance!

Make your spirits bright during this season’s Holiday Happenings Presented by Baird Private Wealth Management Fleming Rodgers Group!

Season's Greetings Saturdays at the National Aviary

Season’s Greeting Saturdays

Saturdays, December 2, 9, 16, 23 | 11 am – 3 pm | Included with General Admission
Santa and his penguin helpers are coming to the Aviary! Visitors will have the opportunity to take photos with Santa AND a penguin, plus learn from an Aviary expert how their festive, tuxedoed feathers help them swim and what you can do to help save this Critically Endangered species! Book tickets.

Holiday Brunch in the Garden Room

Sundays, December 10 & 17 | Seating at 11 am | National Aviary Admission Included
As fall leaves turn to snow, be sure to visit the National Aviary to warm up in immersive habitats with tropical birds, enjoy scrumptious brunches, and continue holiday traditions with loved ones! Learn more & reserve your seat.

holiday late nights

Holiday Late Nights

Tuesday – Friday, December 26, 27, 28 & 29 | 5 pm – 8 pm | Included with General Admission 
Explore tropical immersive habitats after dark, where beautiful birds roost in lush tree canopies. Take in holiday décor while taking part in family-friendly activities and programming. Book Tickets.

Pittsburgh Penguins game vs the New Jersey Devils

It’s a Hockey Night in Pittsburgh!

Thursday, December 21, Saturdays December 30, January 6 & 27 | PPG Paints Arena
Double the penguin, double the fun! Experience the ultimate winter combo of sports and nature as you cheer on the Pittsburgh Penguins this season. $10 from every ticket purchased through this special link will be donated to the National Aviary, supporting the conservation of our beloved feathered friends. Get Tickets.

An African Penguin swimming underwater

Winter Camp

December 27, 28, or 29 | 9 am – 3 pm | Ages 6-12
Continue the fun with Winter Camp December 27, 28, or 29 from 9 am – 3 pm. Our expert educators will guide your child through immersive learning sessions, interactive activities, and up-close encounters with our birds. Learn more & register.

2023 Holiday Gift Guide

Click here for the official 2023 Holiday Gift Guide!

One-of-a-Kind Gifts

Check off all those wish lists at the National Aviary’s Gift Shop! Whether you’re shopping for kids or birds, we’ve got you covered with cool and unique items, all while supporting the Aviary’s work to save birds and protect their habitats.

Three African Penguins standing on a rock structure

National Aviary Membership

A Membership provides unlimited free admission to the National Aviary for a year, discounts on encounters, an Atria’s gift card, member-only events, and more!


Thank you to our Holiday Happenings sponsor:

Fleming Rodgers Group

In The News

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Missing Spooky Season Already? Check Out This Halloween-Inspired Wedding | Pittsburgh Magazine

The ceremony and reception were held at the National Aviary, infused with nods to Halloween!

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Have your photo taken with Santa and a penguin at the National Aviary | PennLive

The Holiday Happenings seasonal event at the National Aviary includes an opportunity you are not likely to get anywhere else.

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One Tank Trip: National Aviary | Fox8

Bird-watching is a popular activity around Northeast Ohio; one of the best places in the country to see our fine-feathered friends is only a One Tank Trip away.

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New African penguin arrives at National Aviary | Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

A new African penguin is waddling around the National Aviary.

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National Aviary welcomes new penguin to its flock | CBS News

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- The National Aviary welcomed a new African penguin to its flock.

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