As backpacks get filled and first day outfits laid out, summer seems to be winding to a close. That doesn’t mean, though, that there aren’t plenty of chances to spend time together as a family each and every weekend in Kidsburgh.

This weekend, we’ve got the opening of the Renaissance Festival, a group sing-along, and a throwback ball game. Finish out summer break on a high note with these family-friendly activities:

Through Aug. 23: “The Tempest” at Carrie Blast Furnace

This is the last weekend to see Quantum Theatre present Shakespeare’s “The Tempest” outdoors at the Carrie Blast Furnaces, turning the historic industrial site into an unexpected island world of magic, music and storms. Directed by founding Artistic Director Karla Boos as her final show with the company, the production marks Quantum’s 12th Shakespeare work and runs through Sunday, Aug. 23. Performances are Tuesday through Sunday at 7:30 p.m. at Carrie Blast Furnaces in Rankin. More info can be found here.

Carrie Blast Furnace courtesy of Rivers of Steel.

Through Aug. 30: Kids Fest at Idlewild Park and Soak Zone

The celebrations at Idlewild include meeting special characters and the return of the popular Wild Foam Parties every Saturday and Sunday through the end of the month. Activities are included with general admission.

Saturday, Aug. 22: Opening of the Pittsburgh Renaissance Festival

Running during the weekends through Sept. 27 and on Labor Day, this family-friendly festival features food, performances, shopping, cosplay, and so much more medieval fun. There are events for little kids and big kids alike. Ticket prices vary by package (kids under 5 are free!), find more information here.

Photo courtesy of Pittsburgh Renaissance Festival.

Saturday, Aug. 22: Community Sing with Lilly Abreu at Shadyside Presbyterian Church, 10 a.m.

Pittsburgh Girls Choir hosts its annual free Summer Community Sing event with guest artist Lilly Abreu. Families will have the chance to explore Brazilian jazz through singing and simple dance steps, with Abreu supported by a trio of guitar, bass and percussion performers. The hour-long event is open to all ages, and registration is not required (though advance sign-up helps organizers plan for popsicles afterward!).

Saturday, Aug. 22: Vintage Base Ball Game at Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

Watch as the Somerset Frosty Sons of Thunder take on the Addison Mountain Stars, playing by authentic 1860s rules and customs. Bring a blanket, pack a picnic and enjoy an afternoon of classic competition. Game access included in general admission.

Saturday, Aug. 22: Kamin Science Center presents “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off,” 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Kamin Science Center’s Rangos Giant Cinema is showing all the classics right now. This weekend, the 1986 classic “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” can be seen on Pittsburgh’s largest screen. Families with older kids and teens can revisit Ferris, Cameron and Sloane’s legendary day away from school, complete with a little ’80s flair. Guests are encouraged to dress in their ’80s best, and doors open an hour before showtime for photos, concessions and seat selection. The film is rated PG-13, and tickets are $12.

Saturday, Aug. 22: SkyWatch: Saturn Deep Dive at the Kamin Science Center, 9 p.m. 

If you’re coming to the Kamin Science Center for the movie, stay for the stars afterwards. Learn about the Ringed Giant through data collected from missions set to explore the planet. You can even create your own version of Saturn’s Rings through a take-home demo, and design your own Pocket Solar System. Viewing targets from the observatory deck (weather-permitting) include Saturn, the Moon and the binary star Albireo A and Albireo B. Tickets are $12.

Courtesy of the Carnegie Science Center.

Saturday, Aug. 22: Fall Fantasy Parade at Kennywood Park, 7:30 p.m.

This 76-year tradition includes more than 130 local marching bands, and a Mardi Gras theme that once again extends beyond the parade floats to include live music on the midways, specialty food and drinks, and a decked out French Quarter block party. This weekend is the final performance of Fall Fantasy, so don’t miss it! Admission starts at $40.

Sunday, Aug. 23: Yoga in the Square at Market Square, 10:30 a.m.

Families can stretch into Sunday morning this week with a free outdoor yoga class in Market Square, led by ALLORA Health and Wellness instructor Amanda Chirumbolo. The class is part of the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership’s twice-weekly Yoga in the Square series and is open to all levels. Bring your own yoga mat and plan to arrive a few minutes early. If weather interferes, it’s not a problem: Class moves indoors to Etage Athletic Club at 422 Stanwix St. Find all the info right here.

Sunday, Aug. 23: Breakin’ for Kids at Los Sabrosos, 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Kids ages 7 to 12 can learn the first steps of breakdancing at Los Sabrosos Dance Co. in Bloomfield. This beginner-friendly class breaks down each movement gradually, beginning with a warm-up and ending with time for open questions. The goal is to help kids build confidence, try new movements and have fun while learning the basics of breaking.  Tickets are $20, with discounts on a series of sessions.

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