This holiday season, Mellon Square in Downtown Pittsburgh will come alive with a new vibrant, interactive light display titled, “Aurora: Illuminating the Holiday Magic of Mellon Square.” Designed by artist Joshua Challen Ice, this enchanting installation seeks to draw more visitors to the historic park, which typically closes during winter. By bringing space to life with captivating elements, this display aims to enhance the festive atmosphere in the heart of the city.

Looking for a glimpse of nature in Downtown Pittsburgh? Head to Mellon Square to enjoy an oasis in the middle of the city.

In 1949, the city was given $4 million by the A. W. Mellon Educational and Charitable Trust, Sarah Mellon Scaife, and Richard King Mellon Foundation to build a public plaza and parking facility. Built in 1955, it became one of the very first public plazas to be built atop a parking garage, effectively making it one of the country’s first “green roofs.”