City Cast Pittsburgh
🌟 Ultimate yinzer gift guide
December 8, 2025 · — Francesca Dabecco
Good morning! We’re kicking off our year-end membership campaign, and I’d be so grateful if you’d consider becoming a City Cast Pittsburgh Neighbor.
We’re declaring 2026 the “year of local” because we believe that being deeply engaged where you live is the best way to build connection in an increasingly disconnected world.
We know there are thousands of Pittsburghers who want to laugh together, argue together, and root for this place and each other.
If you believe in a connected, curious, compassionate city, become a City Cast Pittsburgh Neighbor and help us build it.
City Cast Neighbors is designed to help you get — and give — more to your city, with perks like members-only events, the chance to shout out the people and places you love and more. Join us for $10/month or $100/year.
What's CITY Talking About
U.S. Steel Pays Up for Mon River Pollution
The corporation reached a settlement with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection and agreed to pay a $135,000 fine, with up to $7,500 per day for further infractions. U.S. Steel will also install cameras at its West Mifflin plant to monitor discharge into the Monongahela River. [Allegheny Front]
PA Medicaid Tightens Belt on Weight Loss Drugs
Beginning in January, state Medicaid will no longer cover GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy when used strictly for weight loss, part of an effort to curb rising medication costs. Coverage will continue for patients who use the medications for other conditions like diabetes and those under 21. [WESA]
Snyder of Berlin Closes in Somerset
The longtime Western PA snack manufacturer is closing up shop by the end of the year, leaving this side of the state without a local chip maker. [WPXI]
- PA is considered the “Potato Chip Capital of the World.” Learn about the snack boom across the state and what PA-made chips you should try. [📝 City Cast Pittsburgh]
Cultural Trust Announces NYE Plans
Pittsburgh is ringing in 2026 with First Night celebrations in the Cultural District, starting at 7 p.m. While there won't be a parade this year due to Downtown construction, the festivities will include roaming performers, a battle of the bands, ice sculpting, and of course, fireworks. [TribLive]
Sponsored Content
City Cast Pittsburgh’s Local Gift Guide
If you've been putting off your holiday shopping, we're here to help you find the perfect Pittsburgh gift. Check out our picks for presents that go beyond the requisite black and gold.
Sinkhole Bus Suncatcher by Stratford Studios
What better way to immortalize this surreal (and extremely memeable) event than with a beautiful stained glass replica? If you prefer a less chaotic design, you could opt for an incline, pierogi, or Campbell's soup can suncatcher. — Executive producer Mallory Falk
Accessories by Jenna Vanden Brink
I have both earrings and a necklace made by Jenna, and I always get a ton of compliments on them. Her dainty ceramic designs are chic and charming, perfect for either a simple or statement look. — Newsletter editor Francesca Dabecco
Popcorn from Pittsburgh Popcorn Company
Get the hardcore snacker in your life a gift set with the company's five most popular flavors, including chocolate caramel and Wisconsin cheddar, or give them a gallon-sized tin decorated with a Steelers logo. There are so many giftable options to choose from, and it never hurts to grab a few extra bags to set out on your own holiday table. — Host Megan Harris
Carnegie Museums Membership
I will forever maintain that this is one of the best deals for arts and culture in Pittsburgh. You get access to four museums in one pass, plus discounts for gift shop items and events. Get the dual membership and ask your loved one to take you on a visit, and it's a gift for you, too ;) — Producer Sophia Lo
Sponsored Content
It’s Time to Export Pittsburgh’s Best Brunch.
We turned Grandma’s sourdough starter into a $4MM+ Pittsburgh institution with six locations. Now, our Central Kitchen is ready to feed 20+ locations—targeting expansion into Cleveland and beyond. Don’t just eat local; join in on our growth on Honeycomb.
What To Do
Monday, Dec. 8
- 🎀 Wreath Making at Armful of Flowers (Mt. Washington)
- 🎄 A Very Yinzer Christmas at Benedum Center (Downtown)
- 🎶 Holiday Music Bingo at Cinderlands (Strip District)
- 🧅 Fermenting Veggies with Community Cultures (Shadyside)
- 🎤 Yinz Are Good Christmas Special at Greet Cabaret (Downtown)
- 📖 Author Talk with Beth Macy at Point Park CMI (Downtown)
Tuesday, Dec. 9
- 🎶 Straight No Chaser at Benedum Center (Downtown)
- 🥔 Latke Board Class at Third Space Bakery (Garfield)
- 🪡 Hand Quilting at Contemporary Craft (Lawrenceville)
- 🌲 Holiday Magnets at Over The Bar Bicycle Cafe (South Side)
- 🪡 Pour Your Own Epoxy at Southern Tier Brewing (North Shore)
- 🍫 Hot Chocolate Party at Nafasi on Centre (Middle Hill)
Sponsored Content
Experience Pittsburgh’s Most Magical Holiday Celebration
Make unforgettable memories with Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker. Featuring dazzling dancing, gorgeous costumes, sparkling snow and Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, this spectacular production is a must-see for families. Tickets are selling fast — grab your seats now and experience the wonder live at the Benedum Center.
Buy someone a gift that keeps on giving with a City Cast Pittsburgh Neighbor membership 🎁
They’ll get exclusive event recommendations, invites to members-only events, and more perks — like this ✨ exclusive beanie ✨
Or TREAT YOURSELF so you can snag one of these cozy hats, only available only during our year-end membership campaign.
Free · Daily