Yinzer Christmas: A Pittsburgh Holiday Tradition

The holiday season is upon us, and for Pittsburghers, that means it's time to get into the spirit of things with a uniquely Yinzer Christmas. If you're not familiar with the term "Yinzer," it's a colloquialism used to describe people from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and the surrounding areas. The term is derived from the Pittsburghese pronunciation of "yinz," which is a contraction of "you ones." So, if you're looking to experience a holiday season like no other, keep reading to learn more about the traditions and customs that make a Yinzer Christmas so special.

For many Pittsburghers, the holiday season begins with the lighting of the Christmas tree in Market Square, a tradition that dates back to 1998. The event is usually attended by thousands of people and features live music, food, and activities for kids. But what really sets a Yinzer Christmas apart is the unique blend of cultural and ethnic traditions that have been passed down through generations.

Polish and Slovakian Influences

Pittsburgh has a rich history of immigration, and nowhere is this more evident than in the city's holiday traditions. The city's Polish and Slovakian communities have had a significant impact on the way Pittsburghers celebrate Christmas. For example, many families still observe the traditional Polish Christmas Eve dinner, known as Wigilia, which features 12 courses to represent the 12 apostles.

In addition to traditional foods like pierogies and kielbasa, many Pittsburgh families also celebrate with unique holiday treats like kolaczki, a type of Slovakian cookie that's filled with nuts or fruit.

Italian and German Influences

But Polish and Slovakian traditions aren't the only ones that have shaped the way Pittsburghers celebrate Christmas. The city's Italian and German communities have also had a significant impact on holiday customs. For example, many families still celebrate with traditional Italian holiday treats like struffoli and panettone.

And when it comes to holiday decorations, many Pittsburghers take their cue from German traditions, adorning their homes with festive wreaths and garlands.

Steel City Santas

But what really sets a Yinzer Christmas apart is the unique take on holiday icons like Santa Claus. In Pittsburgh, you're just as likely to see a Santa in a Steelers jersey as you are to see one in a traditional red suit.

And it's not just Santa who gets a Steelers makeover – many Pittsburgh families also celebrate with Steelers-themed holiday decorations and treats.

Yinzer Christmas Traditions

So, what are some other unique traditions that make a Yinzer Christmas so special? Here are a few:

• Lighting the Tree in Market Square: This annual event is a Pittsburgh tradition that dates back to 1998.
• Polish Christmas Eve Dinner: Many families still observe this traditional holiday meal, which features 12 courses to represent the 12 apostles.
• Steel City Santas: In Pittsburgh, you're just as likely to see a Santa in a Steelers jersey as you are to see one in a traditional red suit.
• Kolaczki and Pierogies: These traditional Slovakian and Polish treats are a staple of many Pittsburgh holiday celebrations.

Getting into the Holiday Spirit

So, how can you get into the holiday spirit like a true Yinzer? Here are a few ideas:

• Attend the Lighting of the Tree in Market Square: This annual event is a great way to kick off the holiday season.
• Try Some Traditional Holiday Treats: Kolaczki, pierogies, and struffoli are just a few of the many delicious treats you can try this holiday season.
• Decorate Your Home with a Steelers Twist: Why settle for a traditional Christmas tree when you can decorate your home with Steelers-themed decorations?

Conclusion

A Yinzer Christmas is a unique and special holiday tradition that's steeped in the cultural and ethnic heritage of Pittsburgh. From traditional Polish and Slovakian foods to Steelers-themed decorations, there's no shortage of ways to get into the holiday spirit like a true Yinzer. So, whether you're a lifelong Pittsburgher or just visiting for the holidays, we invite you to join in the fun and experience a Yinzer Christmas for yourself.

What's your favorite holiday tradition? Share your thoughts in the comments below!