This first full weekend in November is time to pack up the spooky gear, but that doesn’t mean it has to be a boring few days. This weekend, the Pittsburgh area is filled with ways to soak up the lovely fall weather or enjoy some time indoors.
Check out this list of family-friendly fun before making any plans:
Thursday, Nov. 5–Sunday, Nov. 8: “Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical” at Byham Theater, various times
Big imagination meets a little rebellion in Pittsburgh Musical Theater’s latest Young Artist Production. Follow Matilda as she discovers her extraordinary powers and finds the courage to challenge the adults who underestimate her, with encouragement from her teacher, Miss Honey. Tickets start at $32. Find more info here.
Courtesy of Pittsburgh Cultural Trust.
Thursday, Nov. 5-Thursday, Nov. 12: Girl Scout Try-It Events
Discover Girl Scout traditions, meet new friends and try hands-on activities at these free gatherings. Events take place at Fairview Elementary School on Nov. 5, Sto-Rox Public Library on Nov. 7, Hartwood Elementary School on Nov. 9, Kerr Elementary School on Nov. 11, and Cooper-Siegel Library and Plum Borough Community Library on Nov. 12. Caregivers are invited to learn about local troops and volunteer opportunities while girls explore activities that may include crafts, songs and STEM projects. Check times and find a gathering near you here.
Friday, Nov. 6: Duo’s Treehouse with La Escuelita Arcoiris at the Kingsley Association, 9:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
Spend part of your Friday connecting with other families in Spanish and English. Hosted by Duolingo and La Escuelita Arcoiris, this free bilingual program welcomes children from birth through age 5 and their caregivers, supporting early childhood development and the grownups guiding it. RSVP through the event listing. Find more info here. (And learn more about Duo’s Treehouse here.)
Friday, Nov. 6: HOT Yam at Pittsburgh Glass Center, 6 p.m.–9 p.m.
Kick off the weekend with a little heat and a sweet treat! Families can watch live glassblowing demonstrations, sample yams cooked in the kiln and gather by the fire to make s’mores. Explore the center’s contemporary glass exhibitions during this free evening of art and autumn fun for families. Find more info here.
Friday, Nov. 6-Sunday, Nov. 8: Pittsburgh Pet Expo at the David Lawrence Convention Center
Enjoy a variety of exciting activities, including agility demonstrations, grooming competitions and educational seminars led by industry experts. Tickets are $15 for grownups, $12 for seniors and veterans, $8 for ages 13-17, free for ages 12 and younger.
Ambridge Turtle Race contestant courtesy of the Pittsburgh Pet Expo.
Saturday, Nov. 7: Experience Ellis: Beyond the School Day at The Ellis School, 9 a.m.–10:30 a.m.
Discover what happens beyond the classroom at this free event for families with kids in grades K–5. Get to know the school’s sports programs and activities, including Chess Club and String Squad, while enjoying food, coffee and family fun. Learn how Ellis gives girls opportunities to explore new interests and build confidence through teamwork. Find more info here.
Saturday, Nov. 7: Musical Storytelling with the Pittsburgh Symphony at Carnegie One Braddock, 12 p.m.–1 p.m.
Hear a story come alive through music! Narrator Tanika Harris reads Brittany Thurman’s “Fly,” while a pianist and string quartet from the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra provide a musical backdrop. Vocalist Corrie Stallings gets families moving and joining in. This free program is designed for children ages 5 and younger, though everyone is welcome. Advance registration is encouraged. Find more info here.
Saturday, Nov. 7: Who Knocked It Over? Cat Story Time and Collage Craft at Mt. Lebanon Library, 2 p.m.–3 p.m.
A mischievous cat, a counting adventure and a creative project await at this free story time. Pittsburgh author and artist Emily Krill will read her book “Things I Did Not Knock Over,” inviting little listeners to count along. Afterward, kids can create their own calico cat collages using colorful patterned paper. All supplies are included, and beginners are welcome. Find more info here.
Saturday, Nov. 7: Pirate Fun with Friends Cruise, Gateway Clipper Fleet, 1:30 p.m.–3:30 p.m.
Ahoy, families! Set sail for an afternoon of dancing, games and a special show featuring a pirate and the Heeler Sisters from Down Under. Boarding begins at 12:40 p.m. Tickets, including taxes and fees, are $36.66 for adults, $20.95 for children and $5.24 for infants. Find more info here.
Courtesy Gateway Clipper Fleet.
Sunday, Nov. 8: Royal Pumpkin Princess Party Brunch at City Winery Pittsburgh, 12 p.m.–3 p.m.
Cinderella is hosting a celebration, and her stepsisters are crashing the party! Snow White and Sleeping Beauty join the onstage fun, with comedy, playful improvisation and surprises along the way. VIP tickets include a meet-and-greet before the show. Admission is listed at $12. Find more info here.
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