This weekend welcomes in August and the final weeks of summer in Pittsburgh, which may make some parents feel both wistful and relieved about that school bell ringing soon (it’s totally normal to feel both of those feelings at once!).
We’ve got some tips on making the most of the remaining summer, as well as a bevy of activities to usher in August. Check out the family fun happening around the Pittsburgh area:
Friday, July 31: Cranberry Township Town Square Market, 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Spend this Friday at Cranberry Township’s Town Square Market, a family-friendly outdoor market featuring farm-fresh produce, homemade crafts, artisan goods, food vendors and more. The July 31 market also includes live music from Mike Chutz from 4-7 p.m., making it an easy summer stop for dinner, browsing and kid-friendly wandering on the Armstrong Great Lawn. Find info here.
Courtesy of Cranberry Township.
Saturday, Aug. 1: Opening Day of Science of Speed at the Kamin Science Center
Kidsburgh kids (and their grownups!) have been waiting for this moment since Science Center updates were announced last year. This immersive experience combines high-performance racing, science and adrenaline-pumping fun in a unique setting. The 21,000-square-foot experience, housed in the former SportsWorks building, features four signature attractions: a multi-level, all-electric kart track; high-end racing simulators; vintage and modern race cars along with interactive science exhibits; and a racing-inspired lounge known as the “Pitt Stop.” Tickets and more information can be found here.
Saturday, August 1: Summer Explorer Series at The Frick Pittsburgh, 1o a.m. to 1 p.m.
Explore The Frick Pittsburgh with a free drop-in family activity in the Education Center Classroom every Thursday and Saturday. This weekend’s theme is “paper beads,” inviting kids to draw, roll and string their own handmade beads. Families can also pick up a Summer Explorer passport and earn a prize after completing five activities during the series. Find more details right here.
Saturday, August 1: Keepin’ It Hill Dance Fest, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Families are invited out to celebrate movement, music, Black history and community at Keepin’ It Hill Dance Fest in Pittsburgh’s Hill District. This free festival from Hill Dance Academy Theatre features dance performances, children’s activities, vendors, food and music throughout the day. Families can stop by for live entertainment, kid-friendly fun and a joyful celebration of the neighborhood’s arts and culture, as well as find out about classes at the academy. Find more details here.
Saturday, August 1: Squonkapalooza, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
If you’re up for a drive, head to Johnstown for Squonkapalooza, a free, all-ages festival celebrating Pennsylvania’s legendary Squonk and other creatures from Appalachian folklore. Families will have the chance to browse the work of artist vendors, hear speakers, enjoy live music and entertainment, and take part in Squonk Quest, a challenge-based activity with prizes. This year’s event also features a cosplay contest hosted by Erica Fett of Camp Cryptid, with trophies and cash prizes for standout costumes. It’s a great day trip for kids and grownups who love folklore, costumes, handmade art and oddball Pennsylvania history. Find more info here.
Courtesy of Squonkapalooza.
Saturday, Aug. 1: Reggae in Riverview, 12 p.m. to 9 p.m
There are so many opportunities in Pittsburgh to learn about other cultures and ways of life without ever leaving the region. Enjoy this day of live reggae music, DJs, Caribbean food, local craft beer, vendors and art. See the schedule here. This event is free and no registration is required.
Saturday, Aug. 1-Sunday, August 2: Moraine State Park Regatta
Head up north to Lake Arthur where water games, eco-recreational and nature-themed activities fill two fun days. Kids and their grownups will have the chance to try standup paddleboarding, kayaking or a learn-to-sail session. Other family activities include a classic boat show, car cruise and butterfly release. Hang out after dark for fireworks over the lake on Saturday night. Regatta admission is free.
Courtesy of Experience Butler County PA.
Saturday, Aug. 1-16 and August 22: Fall Fantasy at Kennywood Park
Beginning this weekend and running throughout the month, this 76-year tradition includes more than 130 local marching bands, and a Mardi Gras theme that once again extends beyond the parade floats with live music on the midways, specialty food and drinks, and a decked out French Quarter block party. Admission starts at $40.
Sunday, Aug 2: Pittsburgh Reptile Show, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
If you’re looking for a new pet, or just want to window shop, meet the local reptile community at Pittsburgh Mills Mall for the Pittsburgh Reptile Show & Sale, featuring snakes, geckos, bearded dragons, frogs, invertebrates, bioactive plants and more. The show also includes enclosures, lighting, heating, decor, feeders and other supplies, along with education tables and photo opportunities. It’s a good stop for curious kids, first-time reptile keepers and families who want to learn more about responsible care before bringing home a new pet. Find more info on the event here.
Sunday, Aug. 2: Soul Line Dancing at the Highland Park Reservoir, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
If you’ve got a kid who wants to get their groove on, these Sunday sessions incorporate R&B music in free, all-level classes that begin with basic steps and finish with more advanced moves. This event runs every Sunday in August and is totally free. No registration is required.
Courtesy of the City of Pittsburgh.
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