Our country is approaching a complicated anniversary: On Friday, Sept. 11, 2026, a quarter-century will have passed since terrorist attacks brought down planes at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and in a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania.

In many ways, the impact of that one day has dramatically reshaped our nation during the 25 years that have passed. It’s a complicated subject for parents to talk with children about, and it’s a day that each family may find their own way of acknowledging.

In and around the Pittsburgh area, there are a number of commemorative events happening:

Flight 93 National Memorial events on Sept. 11: 

25th Annual September 11 Morning Observance, 8:30 AM, free

The Morning Observance will be held from 8:30–10:30 a.m. at the Wall of Names and includes the reading of the names of the Flight 93 passengers and crew members, followed by the ringing of the Bells of Remembrance. The public is invited to reflect on the attacks in New York City, Arlington, and Shanksville. Held rain or shine. Arrive early, allowing ample time to park and walk to the event site. All visitors on September 11 will park in designated lots and shuttle to/from the event. Accessible buses can accommodate wheelchairs.

25th Annual September 11 Afternoon Ceremony, 1:00 PM, free

The Afternoon Ceremony will be held from 1:00–2:30 p.m. and will include remarks, keynote speakers, and music. The ceremony will conclude with a public wreath-laying ceremony at the Wall of Names. Held rain or shine. Arrive early, allowing ample time to park and walk to the event site. All visitors on September 11 will park in designated lots and shuttle to/from the event. Accessible buses can accommodate wheelchairs.

Honoring the Forty Through Art: Live Chalk Portrait Event

Open at sunrise on Sept. 11 (also open Sept. 9 and 10, and through Sept. 20, or until the weather reclaims this temporary tribute). Stop by the Visitor Center from 9am to 5pm to see a unique temporary tribute to the passengers and crew members of Flight 93. Watch as 20 artists from around the country create chalk portraits of the 40 heroes.

Additional events in the Pittsburgh area: 

Closer to home on Sept. 11, visitors to Shaler North Hills Library can commemorate the 25th anniversary of Sept. 11 by viewing the “9/11 Anniversary Digital Learning Experience” from 8:00–9:00 a.m.

This free program will include a 30-minute film screening that highlights first-person accounts of the attacks and the aftermath. Coffee and pastries will be served. The program is presented by the 9/11 Memorial Museum. We’re told this event is best suited for 5th graders and older. Register here.

And later that day, the Borough of Forest Hills is hosting two events: Honoring Our First Responders at Westinghouse Lodge (799 Barclay Ave.) from 4 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and a 9/11 commemoration at the Late Bloomers Garden Club Farmers Market.

Events at the Farmer’s Market will include:

4 p.m. to 6 p.m.: Emergency preparedness information
6 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.: Awards Ceremony
6:30 to 7:30 p.m.: Concert featuring the Balmoral Highland Pipes and Drum Band and Woodland Hills High School musicians. You’ll find food trucks and picnic items available at the farmer’s market.

Families can also participate or simply cheer on the walkers and runners at these events:

Saturday, Sept. 12: Tunnel to Towers 5k Run & Walk happening at Canon-Mcmillan Stadium in Canonsburg. Details and registration information here.
Sunday, Sept. 13: Travis Manion Foundation 9/11 Heroes Run at the Youngwood Volunteer Fire Department. Details and registration information here.