Crews have started preparing the plaza at PPG Place for the return of The UPMC Rink at PPG Place, recently ranked the most beautiful ice rink in North America and the ninth most beautiful in the world by hotel chain Premier Inn.
While there is still no ice covering the plaza, visitors to downtown Pittsburgh can already spot signs of the holiday season quietly taking shape. Sections of the area have been fenced off as crews begin preparing for the installation of the rink and the giant Christmas tree that will once again stand at its center.
For now, the scene is more construction site than winter wonderland. The water feature that fills the plaza during the warmer months remains visible, but workers are steadily making room for one of Pittsburgh's
most recognizable holiday traditions. The plaza is transformed each winter into an outdoor skating destination beneath the glass spires of PPG Place.
The gradual changes offer an early hint that the holiday season is approaching. In the coming weeks, the familiar outline of the rink will continue to emerge as crews prepare the site for thousands of skaters and visitors.
According to The Rink at PPG Place, opening day for the 2026-27 season is scheduled for Nov. 13, followed by the annual tree-lighting celebration on Nov. 21. Holiday events throughout the season include Skate with Santa, themed skating nights and other family-friendly activities.
Soon, the towering Christmas tree, sparkling lights and sheet of ice will replace the fencing and construction equipment. But for now, it's the quiet beginning of a Pittsburgh holiday tradition, with just enough Christmas spirit in the air to remind passersby that the season is on its way.
This story was produced by reporter Gabby Sartori, [gsartori@usatodayco.com], with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the review, editing and publishing process. Learn more at cm.usatoday.com/ethical-conduct.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: PPG Place showing early signs of iconic holiday ice rink
