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The Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide for Greater Pittsburgh Homeowners – Part 3

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Being new in town — especially during the holidays — can be stressful and intimidating, even for those who are hyper-social. But there’s no better time than the holidays to get out and explore western Pennsylvania!

That’s why the Weaver Homes team of Butler, Allegheny and Beaver County locals has curated some great adventures for you to give to someone in your life who might need a good reason to explore their new town and have fun while doing it!

Try your luck with one of these curated tours throughout a specific district and grab a gift (or a gift card) from each!

Historic Harmony Village:

Start with a specialty coffee and some of the most creative and delicious crepes you’ll ever try at Wunderbar (253 Mercer Street, Harmony, PA 16037). This is a perfect place to start your tour of Harmony Village and will get you warm and caffeinated for the rest of your day.

If you’re not a coffee person, or it’s a bit later in the day, The Two Fraus Bakery offers to-die-for fresh German pretzels and authentic baked goods. We think the smells alone of this local gem are enough to make lasting memories.

Once you’ve satisfied your appetite, a short stroll to Bottlebrush Gallery is in order (539 Main Street, Harmony, PA 16037) — where you can enjoy the works of a variety of eclectic artists. From photographers to glassblowers, there is something new to see every day.

Stroll through scores of classic vinyl records and enjoy the nostalgia or catch a live music concert in the evening as a perfect way to put a bow on your exciting, delicious and fun day at Historic Harmony Village.

Zelienople:

Nearby Zelienople is packed full of wonderful shops on a family-friendly main street and also offers a fantastic night out on the town. Room to Grow Toys (146 S. Main Street, Zelienople, PA 16063), is just one of the stores where kids and adults alike will enjoy shopping for unique and fun gifts. It’s one of the few remaining independent toy stores and we absolutely love its classic atmosphere.

Down the street, stop in at Little Green Bookstore (104 N. Main Street, Zelienople, PA 16063) — one of the most adorable independent bookstores you’ll ever visit, and just recently moved into a brand new space. They offer hundreds of books and dozens of genres to choose from, so you’ll have no problem finding the next favorite title for the bookworm in your life, young or old.

And when it’s time for lunch or happy hour, you won’t have to leave main street because Shubrew (205 S. Main Street, Zelienople, PA 16063) is the place to be. Their pop-up holiday bar hosted on the rooftop is an incredible experience with fabulous food and cocktails that will exceed your greatest expectations.

We hope that this guide (and ICYMI—check out part 1 and part 2) has provided you with many new favorites and plenty of ideas for gifts to give your loved ones. And from the Weaver Homes team to you and your loved ones, we wish you a very happy holiday season and a new year filled with joy and incredible memories.

The Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide for Greater Pittsburgh Homeowners – Part 2

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Welcome back to Weaver Homes’ 2022 Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide! In case you missed it, part 1 of our guide was all about restaurants, food and drink in western Pennsylvania that our team can’t get enough of. In part 2, we’re going to share some of the local experiences that we love. 

Whether it’s a trip to a boutique to pick out an unforgettable keepsake, a fun cooking class or an evening at the theater, this list will give you and your loved ones priceless memories they can look back on fondly for years to come.

Get crafty with an art, pottery or cooking class, perfect for kids, teens and adults:

Board and Brush Pittsburgh North

Aspiring carpenters and artists alike are welcome at Board & Brush, Pittsburgh’s DIY Wood Sign Workshop. These fun and creative classes fill up quickly, so book your in-person or virtual appointment and make something beautiful!

3802 Gibsonia Rd,
Gibsonia, PA 15044
https://boardandbrush.com/pittsburghnorth/

Truthful Art Studio 

A private paint party (wine, optional) is an undeniably fun occasion and Truthful Art Studio goes the extra mile to tailor your event for your unique needs, whatever they may be. Book your event, from 5 to 24 attendees, in the studio, at the venue of your choice or online via Zoom.

519 Perry Way,
Zelienople, PA 16063
https://www.truthfulart.com/

Izabella’s Gourmet Chow 

What better way than a kid’s cooking class to sneak in a little bit of self-reliance while having a blast making something yummy with your kiddo. Plus, Izabella’s Gourmet Chow teaches kids as young as 3 years old  the origin of these foods and their cultures.

Book your online or in-person class at https://www.izabellasgourmetchow.com/

Everyone knows about Pittsburgh’s thriving arts scene — but these local theaters have fantastic talent and offer a fun evening of culture:

Comtra Theater

This holiday season, Comtra theater is presenting Miracle on 34th Street – The Musical. It’s one of our favorites — and apparently other’s too. Tickets are selling fast!

20540 Route 19,
Cranberry Twp, PA
https://www.comtratheatre.org/2022-season/

Lincoln Park Theater 

Whether you see a fun and whimsical production like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Jr., or one of the many upcoming holiday orchestral performances, Lincoln Park Performing Arts Center offers a chance to see future stars shine on stage.

1 Lincoln Park,
Midland, PA 15059
https://www.lincolnparkarts.org/

At local specialty shops and boutiques, a one-of-a-kind gift awaits for someone special in your life:

Baseball Card Castle 

You’re sure to find a great piece of sports memorabilia for the Steelers, Pens or Pirates fan in your life at Baseball Card Castle in Cranberry. Take one stroll through the nostalgia-filled aisles and you’ll know exactly what we mean.

20555 Route 19,
Cranberry Twp, PA 20555
https://www.baseballcardcastle.net/

Pisarick Flower Farm

Pisarick Flower Farm is well-known by locals for two big reasons — its stunning scenery that serves as the backdrop for events and weddings, and its gorgeous daily-harvested flowers, used to make perfect, one-of-a-kind wreaths and other gifts. Visit the Holiday Shop until December 18th!

365 Browns Hill Road,
Valencia, PA 16059
https://pisarcikflowerfarm.com/

Keffala’s Designs

Explore unique gifts, attire, and sweet treats at Keffala’s Designs, that will have you discovering new treasures every time you visit. This Butler boutique is full of personality and charm.

790 Pittsburgh Road,
Butler, PA 16002
https://www.keffalasdesigns.com/pages/brands-we-love

kat & willie 

If she’s fashion-forward, the stylists at kat & willie boutique in Wexford can put together an outfit that will make her look great. They’re a great follow on Instagram and they offer gift cards, too!

617 Warrendale Road, Suite F
Gibsonia, PA 15044
https://www.katandwillie.com/

Mainstream Boutique

This local boutique’s mission is “to love, strengthen and celebrate women through fashion.” Enough said. They’re a must-visit if you’re not a fan of fast fashion and want to look great (and feel great about the clothes you wear.

20325 Route 19, #7
Cranberry Township, PA 16066
https://mainstreamboutique.com/pages/cranberrytownship

With a list full of ideas on what to give to the special people in your life, you might be wondering what to do about those in your life that might be new to the Greater Pittsburgh area. Stay tuned for Part 3 of this gift guide, where we’ll curate fun experiences for those new to our town.

The Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide for Greater Pittsburgh Homeowners

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These are a few of our favorite things…

In addition to building beautiful new homes throughout North Pittsburgh for over three decades, Weaver Homes’ team members are residents ourselves. So you might say we know our way around town — and are experts on things to do and places to see in Butler County, Allegheny County, Beaver County and beyond.

Now that Thanksgiving is behind us, the mad dash to prepare for the rest of the Holiday season is underway. And if you’re shopping for a life-changing purchase for your family (like, say, a new home…), we know how hard it can be to check off each special person on your list and find a thoughtful, fun gift for everyone.

That’s why the Weaver Homes team is here to help! We’ve put together the ultimate gift-giving guide for our local area. You won’t go wrong with any of the local attractions below.

Treat your favorite foodie to one of our team’s favorite restaurants:

Kelly O’s Diner

This local breakfast and brunch spot has been featured on Food Network’s Diners Drive-Ins & Dives and Triple D Nation. Get here early, as the “Breakfast of ChampYINZ” wraps up serving their deliciousness at 2pm daily.

100 Fowler Rd Suite 10,
Warrendale, PA 15086
https://www.kellyos.com/

Freedom Farms Farm to Fork Kitchen

At Freedom Farms, “Farming is King.” So you can expect the freshest ingredients in their “nutrient-dense” sandwiches and soups. It’s one of our favorite belly-warming lunch destinations in Butler.

759 Pittsburgh Road,
Butler, PA 16002
https://www.freedomfarmspa.com/sandwich-shop-1

Shopping for a budding chef? Give them the gift of the highest quality local meats and spices:

Rath Farms

If you’re looking to prepare a feast for your family or friends, Rath Farm’s premium, farm-raised beef, chicken and pork are a great choice. Shop with this family-owned business to experience a true farm-to-table experience!

1328 Mars Evans City Road,
Evans City, PA 16033
https://rathfarms.com/

Thoma Meat Market

For nearly 80 years, Thoma Meat Market has provided western Pennslyvanians with an authentic, old-fashioned butcher shop and meat market. In addition to the finest quality meats, Thoma also has a large variety of deli lunch meats and other treats in their retail store!

748 Dinnerbell Road,
Saxonburg, PA 16056
https://www.thomameat.com/

Oil & Vinegar Pittsburgh

Oil & Vinegar Pittsburgh in Seven Fields offers a culinary adventure and features only the highest quality products, imported from international countries and produced by local farmers and craftsmen. Whether you’re looking for a special ingredient, a staple for your pantry or a personalized gift, you’ll find it here!

522 Northpointe Circle,
Seven Fields, PA 16046
https://www.oilandvinegarusa.com/store/oil-vinegar-pittsburg/

Does your special someone have a sweet tooth? We have the answer:

Speckled Hen Chocolate Company

Open Tuesday to Saturday, Speckled Hen Chocolate Company in Saxonburg has it all—from classic fudge, caramel apples, bark, truffles and even vegan treats. While you’re grabbing a gift, pick up a chocolate-covered Twinkie for yourself. You can thank us later!

656 Saxonburg Blvd,
Saxonburg, PA 16056
https://www.speckledhenchocolatecompany.com/

Harvey’s Sweet Shoppe

This bakery in Butler offers an incredible selection of cakes, cookies and cupcakes. Though the most popular staples are a constant, Harvey’s is constantly adding new items to the menu to satisfy your sweet tooth.

148 North Monroe Street
Butler, PA 16001
https://www.harveyssweetshoppe.com/

Looking to satisfy a beer, wine or coffee connoisseur? Think local:

Kairos Coffee Roaster and Tea Company

What’s cooler than sipping a delicious espresso created inside a 1971 vintage Airstream trailer? We can’t think of anything, either.

8001 Rowan Road,
Cranberry Township, PA 16066
https://kairoscoffeeroaster.com/

Stick City Brewing Company

Pick up a gift card, a 6-pack of one of many popular IPAs, Pilsners, Ales or Stouts, and while you’re at it, grab some Stick City Brew merch to wrap up and put under the tree. We love their logo almost as much as we love their inspiring company mission.

109 Irvine Street,
Mars, PA 16046
https://stickcitybeer.com/

House of 1000 Beers

With locations in Warrenton and New Kensington, your favorite beer enthusiast will love a gift card or trip to this renowned restaurant and taphouse. Do they really have 1,000 beers on tap? There’s only one way to find out!

100 Fowler Road,
Warrendale, PA 15086
https://www.houseof1000beers.com/

Narcisi Winery

While the weather outside might be frightful, the wine and food will warm your soul at Narcisi. Stop in to purchase a few bottles or a gift card for a lovely dinner with an incredible atmosphere.

4578 Gibsonia Road,
Gibsonia, PA 15044
https://www.narcisiwinery.com/

In the holiday spirit yet? Stay tuned for Part 2 of the Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide, where we’ll be sharing ideas for experiences and unique gifts that will be remembered for years to come!

What To Do On Your Summer Staycation in Butler County

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Forget far away summer vacations — let’s talk about staying home! In your new Weaver home in one of our carefree Lifestyle Communities or spacious Single-Family Communities, you don’t have to endure hours of travel or break your wallet to experience the fun and freedom of a vacation. 

 

Take a look at a few of our favorite ways to enjoy a summer staycation (and entertain family and friends when they visit) in Butler County.

 

OUTDOOR FUN 

Moraine State Park | Portersville

Moraine offers just about every outdoor activity: biking, boating, disc golf, fishing, geocaching, hiking, picnicking, swimming, windsurfing and more. 

Jennings Environmental Education Center | Slippery Rock

Jennings is the only protected prairie in the state and is home to the endangered Massasauga rattlesnake. Enjoy year-round hikes on the 5-mile trail system.

 

CAMPING

Lake Arthur Family Campground | Slippery Rock

However you like to camp, there’s a site for you: Full hook-up; water & electric only; a simple spot in the woods for your tent. Or ditch the tent and go for the rustic cabin! Check out the playground, game area & campground store, too. 

Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park at Kozy Rest Campground | Harrisville

From basic tents to RVs, rental cabins to yurts… this campground has it all. 170 shaded sites with electric service, a swimming pool, a bike track, a store, a playground, fire rings, a full schedule of activities and games. 

 

MUSEUMS

The Maridon Museum | Butler 

The only museum in Western PA with a specific focus on Chinese and Japanese art and culture.

Harmony Museum | Harmony, PA 

Discover the big history of a little town. Explore the 1809 main building, the Harmony Society cemetery, and the Mennonite meetinghouse and cemetery.

The Old Stone House | Slippery Rock

A historic inn and museum of rural life. The Stone House has served as a local post office, and was a muster point during the Civil War. 

The Evans City Area Historical Society | Evans City 

Artifacts and memorabilia relating to the area’s oil boom and railroads. 

 

Glasses of rose wine seen during a friendly party of a celebration.

WINERIES | BREWERIES | DISTILLERIES 

Winfield Winery | Cabot 

An award-winning winery in beautiful, rural Cabot, near Saxonburg. Sampling and tastings encouraged! 

Long Run Winery | Slippery Rock 

A small boutique winery offering a relaxing setting to sample a variety of red, white, and specialty wines.

Missing Links Brewery | Renfrew

Enjoy a variety of craft beers brewed on site, plus a brewpub with a full menu of made to order dishes. 

Stick City Brewing Company | Mars

A simple, family-friendly atmosphere to appreciate high quality and fresh modern beer styles. They support local social and environmental movements, too. 

Big Spring Spirits | Seven Fields

A community-centric craft distillery, producing locally-sourced whiskey, gin and vodka. Visit the Tasting Room and try one of their signature craft cocktails. 

DR Distillery | Slippery Rock 

Handcrafted & distilled whiskies & vodka, made with techniques handed down through generations.

Proudly bringing the craft of small batch whiskey production back to Western PA. 

5 Reasons to Live in Sarver, PA

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If you’re looking to live in a convenient location that’s close to shopping and dining yet outside the reach of city traffic, somewhere that offers outdoor recreation in beautiful surroundings, and has neighborhood hang-outs where happy hour is shared with friends, then you’ll love living in Sarver, PA! Our new luxury lifestyle community, Heritage Crossings, is located in Sarver right off Rte. 356, and residents agree that this is the best move they could have made.

 

5 Reasons to Live in Sarver, PA

 

1) Proximity to Pittsburgh

If you have family or friends in Pittsburgh, Sarver is a quick 40-minute drive away. It’s so easy to head into town on the weekends for social visits, art and cultural events, or great dining. You’ll love being close to a major city yet far enough away that you don’t have to deal with daily traffic. When you live at Heritage Crossings, you’re just minutes from Rte. 28 and can get everywhere you need to go quickly.

 

2) Dining

In Sarver, you’ll never have to go far for great dining options. Within walking distance of Heritage Crossings is South Pike Square Plaza, where you’ll find casual eateries like Tony’s Pizza and Rock-a-fellas Sports Bar. Just up Rte. 365 in neighboring Saxonburg you’ll find the always-popular Kelley’s Family Restaurant, and for fine dining, Hotel Saxonburg. Here are more of the Top Restaurants in Butler County PA.

 

3) Golfing

We know the importance of golfing, which is why we made sure there was an 18-hole golf course within driving distance of Heritage Crossings! Buffalo Golf Course is 5 minutes away by car, or if you’re feeling energetic, just a 1.5-mile walk away. Enjoy the natural beauty and excellent course of this popular golf destination, followed by a delicious meal in the clubhouse.

 

4) Wine and Beer 

Whether you prefer wine or beer at happy hour, you’re covered when you live in Sarver! La Vigneta is a family-operated winery on a 17-acre farm that makes over 35,000 bottles a year and over 20 varieties. There is a tasting room coming soon but in the meanwhile you can pick up a bottle of local wine for every occasion. When you’re in the mood for brews, head over to Cellar Works Brewing Co. where you’ll find small batch, handcrafted beers made from locally sourced ingredients. 

 

5) Blackberry Meadows Farm

A beautiful place to purchase locally grown, organic produce AND to learn how to grow your own, Blackberry Meadows Farm in close-by Natrona Heights focuses on providing nutritious, quality food and sustainable growing methods to the entire community.

 

If you’re looking for the best Pittsburgh suburb to enjoy your next exciting phase of life, take a look at the premier lifestyle community in Sarver, Heritage Crossings. With villa-style homes and amenities such as a clubhouse, fitness center, and heated outdoor pool, it’ll be the best move you’ve made yet! 

Location, Location, Location…Be Close to Everything at The Villas at Forest Oaks!

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Designing a home that’s right for you is only half of the building process. The other half is all about location, location, location! At our newest Lifestyle Community, The Villas at Forest Oaks, we know you’ll love where you live as much as you love your new home. 

 

Located in Butler, Pennsylvania, The Villas at Forest Oaks is located on one of Butler County’s most sought-after 18-hole golf courses, Aubrey’s Dubbs Dred. It is also minutes away from shops, restaurants, healthcare centers, and recreation. 

 

Butler County has a thriving downtown shopping and restaurant district, not to mention a renovated Farmers’ Market where residents shop for fresh local foods in season and attend community events. From seasonal fairs and festivals to museums and historical sites, wineries and parks, Butler County offers something for everyone. For outdoor enthusiasts, the area’s wide variety of lakes, trails, nature reserves and campgrounds mean that recreational adventures are just a short drive away.

 

As the county seat, Butler is also the hub of government and commercial activity. Just 25 miles from the city of Pittsburgh and its world-class education medicine, arts and sports, Butler County offers residents big city convenience and small-town living. Named by Smithsonian Magazine in the top ten best small towns in America, Butler is a great place to live, work, and play!

 

The Villas at Forest Oaks is close to quality healthcare facilities, such as Butler Memorial Hospital and VA Butler Healthcare, as well as colleges, including Butler County Community College, and Slippery Rock University. With a number of local businesses, both corporate and entrepreneurial, Center Township is the site of the largest retail centers in the area. 

 

Your family deserves the very best quality in a community that’s close to it all! For more information on The Villas at Forest Oaks or the Butler County area, contact us today!

Family Fun: Holiday Lights and Tree Farms

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The holidays are always fun and festive in Pennsylvania. The Pittsburgh area has no shortage of holiday revelry for your family to enjoy… especially when it comes to Christmas tree farms and holiday light displays. Here are a few of our favorites! 

HOLIDAY LIGHTS

Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland | Big Butler Fairgrounds, Butler, PA

2 miles of custom-built light displays dancing in perfect synchronization with festive music. Tickets required. Open through January 2. 

Holiday Laser Show | North Park, Allison Park, PA 

A dazzling, one-of-a-kind drive-in laser show featuring a 45-minute light show synchronized with holiday music. Tickets required. Open December 1 – 22. 

Fun Fore All’s Holiday Lights Mini Golf | Cranberry Township, PA

Named one of Kidsburgh’s and KDKA’s BEST holiday light displays! Two award-winning miniature golf courses become a fully playable, walk-through holiday light extravaganzas. Tickets required. Open through January 3.

Dasher’s Light Show | Pittsburgh

Experience the magic of acres of lights and drive-through tunnels synced to favorite holiday tunes. 

Tickets required. Open through January 2. 

CHRISTMAS TREE FARMS

Cypher’s Tree Farm | Butler, PA

From a lovely selection of firs, blue spruce and white pine, to fresh cut holly branches and site-made wreaths, to candles and sweet treats, it’s the perfect Christmas experience 

Grupp’s Christmas Trees | Harmony, PA

Offering U-Cut and pre-cut trees, this local favorite has been voted best tree farm by Pittsburgh Magazine. Handmade ornaments available in the Christmas store.

Dambaugh’s Pine Hill Farms | Evans City, PA 

Choose from a variety of cut Christmas trees in all shapes and sizes, balled and burlapped trees, wreaths and tree stands. 

Goldscheitter Christmas Tree Farm | Sarver, PA 

Enjoy free coffee and hot chocolate while you browse a seemingly endless rows of trees. Named Best Christmas Tree Farm in the Best of Sarver Award, as well as Best Christmas Tree Cutting Experience In the Pittsburgh Area.

Introducing The Villas at Forest Oaks in Butler, PA

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A stunning new home that’s modern in every way, the best location for golfing, dining, and shopping, and a close-knit community where neighbors become friends — it’s all here for you at The Villas at Forest Oaks, the newest active adult community in Butler, PA from Weaver Homes!

The Area

Butler is just north of Pittsburgh, but it’s got everything you want and need for a life well lived. With a number of golf courses nearby (including one directly across the street from the community), dining options ranging from casual to world-class, wineries, theaters, and tons of things to do in every season, it’s one of western Pennsylvania’s most attractive places to live. 

The Community

The Villas at Forest Oaks is located at the crossroads of happiness and convenience. This boutique community surrounded by lush green landscapes was designed for neighbors to come together. When you feel like getting out, head over to the clubhouse to catch up with neighbors, or get your daily dose of exercise in the community pool or fitness center.

When you need to run errands or want to grab a bite to eat, shops and restaurants are only four minutes away off of I-422. Best of all, Aubrey’s Dubbs Dred Golf Course is literally across the street! Walk over to play a round of golf, have dinner at the onsite restaurant, or enjoy a spot of afternoon tea. 

The next exciting phase of life should be carefree, allowing you all the freedom and flexibility you deserve. That’s why The Villas at Forest Oaks is a low-maintenance community — we take care of lawn care and snow removal for you. Enjoy your newfound time!

The Homes

The villa-style homes in The Villas at Forest Oaks are all single-level, open-concept plans, making them exceptionally easy to live in. Choose from two or three bedrooms and up to 1,816 square feet of thoughtfully-designed living space. High ceilings and plenty of windows in every room let in lots of natural, mood-boosting sunlight. Kitchens have ample counter space and both a pantry and closet for maximum storage. And the luxurious owner’s suite is made for rest and relaxation, with views of your beautiful yard outside and spa-like bath with walk-in shower. These homes have everything you need to enjoy the life you’ve worked so hard for. 

The first homes in The Villas at Forest Oaks will be released soon. If you’re interested in this limited opportunity to live in such a special 55+ community in Butler, PA, please join our VIP list.