Now that we’ve collectively weathered the latest iteration of Snowmaggedon (and endless days of online learning), it’s time for a weekend of family fun. Local meteorologists are still predicting a cold weekend, but one without significant snowfall.
If you’re bursting with cabin fever, we’ve gathered a great lineup of big and small events to get you out of the house — including indoor and outdoor fun. (Ready to brave the cold and enjoy the snow? Don’t miss our guide to winter hiking trails and guide to family skiing, as well as advice from pediatricians on keeping kids safe while playing outside.)
Here’s what’s happening around the region this weekend:
Through Sunday, Feb. 1: “Freedom House: Giving Life a Second Chance” at the New Hazlett Theater
Witness the 1967 creation in Pittsburgh’s Hill District of Freedom House Ambulance Service, which was America’s first mobile Emergency Medical Unit. This play will explore the history of ambulances and Pittsburgh’s role in national history. Tickets begin at $20, and there are group discounts available.
Freedom House Ambulance photo courtesy of the Heinz History Center.
Saturday, Jan. 31: NFL Play 60 Training Day at the Heinz History Center, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Kids can train like a pro in the mini-NFL Combine with a series of quick-hitting drills, complete physical challenges through five floors, and compete for exciting prizes and giveaways. Registration is free for ages 17 and younger.
Courtesy of the Heinz history Center.
Saturday, Jan 31: Groundhog Day Race at North Park 9 a.m.
Predict the end of winter, runner style! The whole family can get in on the shadow-watching with 5K, 1 Mile, or Kids’ Dash. All participants get a cozy race shirt, festive finisher medal, and post-race treats. Kick off February with miles, smiles, and a little weather prediction magic. Funds raised help support the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank. Registration can be found here.
Courtesy of GCXC Racing Pittsburgh.
Saturday, Jan. 31: Winterfest at Moraine State Park, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
If you’re just bursting with pent-up energy, Moraine is the perfect place to expend some of it. Explore the park like never before with delicious food, unique craft vendors, outdoor winter activities and the annual soup contest. Admission is free.
Saturday, Jan. 31: Zelienople Cocoa Crawl, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Experience the winter charm of Downtown Zelienople while sampling varieties of hot chocolate and sweet treats from restaurants and business owners. This event is free and no signup is required. Find more details here.
Courtesy of Zelienople Area Business Association.
Saturday, Jan. 31: Teen Job Shadow at the National Aviary, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Teen animal enthusiasts can spend four Saturdays with National Aviary experts learning about the dynamic world of animal care and conservation. This program offers a unique opportunity to go behind the scenes and experience what it takes to care for the more than 500 animals that call the Aviary home. This weekend is the first of four sessions; the remaining sessions are on Feb. 7, 14, and 21. Registration for four weeks is $299.
Saturday, Jan. 31 and Sunday, Feb. 1: Sensory-Friendly Weekend at the Carnegie Museum of Natural History
Families with members who have sensory-processing needs are invited to explore the museum galleries with reduced audio and visual elements. Calming spaces with support materials, including single-use earplugs, sunglasses and fidget toys will be available. Registration is free with museum admission.
Sunday, Feb. 1: Brunch with Elsa at Perrytown Tap House, 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Join the snow queen herself (after she’s done her best to blanket Pittsburgh) for food, stories, a singalong and more. The cost of this walk-in event is $5. Find more info right here.
Sunday, Feb. 1: Hike with a Naturalist at Frick Park, 1 p.m.
This session of Hike with a Naturalist will focus on tree identification. Take a walk through the woodlands of Frick Park with Naturalist Educator Stephen Bucklin to practice your observation skills as we take an in-depth look at bark and buds. The hike covers 1-2 miles with varying slopes. Registration is $5.
The Frick Environmental Center hosts many free family activities.
Sunday, Feb. 1: Pittsburgh Anime-Fest at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel
Come on out to Warrendale for a day with other anime-lovers, collectors and experts. The event includes voice actors, vendors, attractions and a huge cosplay contest. Tickets are $20 for grownups, $10 for ages 10 and younger. Each kid accompanied by an adult ticket holder is free.
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