Cooler fall weather means even cooler family events in Pittsburgh.
Get your gang energized with outdoor experiences. Share a laugh with silly theatrical antics. Learn about ancient and more recent history through exciting exhibits and reenactments. Plan ahead with our guide to make the most of your weekends this season.
Through Sept. 27: Summer Flower Show: Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, Phipps Conservatory. Journey down the rabbit hole for an unforgettable adventure. Beloved storybook scenes are brought to life in each room. This show bursts with colorful interactive elements, topiary creatures and unique foliage. Timed tickets are available. (Learn more here.)
Photo courtesy of Pittsburgh Botanic Garden.
Through Oct. 31: “Scraposaurs,” Pittsburgh Botanic Garden. Walk through the garden and discover 15 sculptures made entirely from recycled metal and found objects, transforming old scraps of steel into engaging works of art. Included with general admission.
Through Dec. 13: Mr. Messado’s School of Magic for the Young and Young at Heart, Liberty Magic. Sunday afternoons welcome teens and adults who will be amazed from start to finish. This 60-minute spectacular features stunning magic and clean comedy. Tickets start at $34.
Through December: Pittsburgh’s Revolution, Fort Pitt Museum. This new exhibition, part of the commemoration of the nation’s 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, brings the Western theater of the fight for independence to life through the eyes and words of those who lived it. From Fort Pitt’s frontier stronghold, American leaders defended the Ohio Country, negotiated with Native nations and ultimately waged a war that reshaped the region forever. Violent, chaotic and unfamiliar to many today, this corner of the Revolution was critical to American victory and the future of the new nation. Museum admission is $10, $8 for seniors, free for ages 17 and younger.
Photo courtesy of Heinz History Center.
Through April 4: Ice: Mysteries of the Ice Ages Planet, Heinz History Center. This immersive new exhibition uncovers how the Ice Ages shaped our world and its people. The exhibit takes visitors on an epic journey spanning 80,000 years, exploring a frozen world transformed by glaciers, a changing climate, and people who adapted to survive. Learn how the region’s earliest residents lived off the land, hunted for food and coexisted with “mega” animals like mastodon, short-faced bears and American lions that once roamed the Pittsburgh area. Come face-to-face with these Ice Age giants through full-size skeletal casts and authentic artifacts. Activities included with general admission, free for ages 17 and younger.
Photo courtesy of Pittsburgh Cultural Trust,
Sept. 9-27: “Disney’s The Lion King,” Benedum Center. Pittsburgh’s best-loved musical returns to town to engage another generation. Since opening on Broadway in 1997, this Tony Award-winning musical has delighted more than 120 million fans. Tickets start at $49.
Sept. 10: Harry Potter Night, The Plaza North Shore. Witches, wizards and muggles are invited to enjoy a free screening of “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone,” a Butterbeer and festive movie treats from SugarBird. Guests are encouraged to wear their finest robes, hats and Hogwarts House scarves. The Plaza will be awarding gift cards and prizes for best dressed according to age categories. Bring your own seating or blanket. Find details at The Plaza at North Shore.
Sept. 10-23: “Big Fish,” Little Lake Theatre Company. As Edward Bloom spins his incredible tales of giants, witches, and true love, his son sets out to discover the truth behind the legend. Best for ages 10 and older. Tickets are $25, $15 for ages 17 and younger.
Photo by All Points Images and Jim Hambrick, courtesy of Pittsburgh Irish Festival.
Sept. 11-13: Pittsburgh Irish Festival, Carrie Blast Furnaces. The 35th-annual festival celebrates all thing Irish with a great lineup of musical entertainment, dance, food and Gaelic sports demonstrations. Tickets start at $20.
Sept. 12: The Original Pittsburgh Taco Festival, The Stacks at 3 Crossings. This 10th annual festival is aimed at celebrating – and eating – tacos with live music, entertainment and family activities. General admission is $5.90 for ages 5 and older.
Sept. 12: DreamFest 2026 Block Party, The Citizens Science Lab. DreamFest is a celebration of science, culture and community hosted by Citizens Science Lab in its new Hill District headquarters. Find tickets here.
Photo courtesy of Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village.
Sept. 12 and Oct. 10: Second Saturdays, Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Shelter. Kids can try their hand at chores, from seasonal tasks to everyday village work, and discover what life was really like in early America. Activities included with general admission.
Sept. 12: Allegheny County Americana Music Festival, Settlers Cabin Park. The blend of folk, country, blues and rock reflects America’s diverse musical traditions. The free concert will showcase five premier Americana artists.
Sept. 12, Oct. 10, Nov. 14, Dec. 12: Penny Arcade: Kids Comedy Show, Arcade Comedy Theater. This 60-minute show encourages children and their parents to unleash their imaginations and sense of humor. Best for ages 4-8 years. Tickets are $12.
Photo by Sally Quinn.
Sept. 12-Nov. 1: Phantom Fall Fest, Kennywood Park. The annual Halloween event features over 30 rides and attractions with family fun during the day and super scary zones after dark. Admission starts at $30.
Sept. 13: Free Admission Day, Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh and Museum Lab. On this special day, kids, parents and grandparents get in for free. Registration is required.
Sept 13: Grandparents Day, Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium. Grandparents receive free admission when accompanied by a grandchild. UPMC for Life members also receive free admission.
Sept. 18: Storytime and Crafting, Pittsburgh Botanic Garden. Kids can discover the wonder of nature through inspiring stories and engaging crafts. Read-aloud storytime will start at 10 a.m. and will be followed by a craft related to the story themes. This drop-in program is included with general admission.
Photo by Tristan Xiao, courtesy of Pittsburgh Chinese Cultural Center.
Sept. 19: Pittsburgh Chinese Cultural Festival, Mellon Park. This 11th annual festival features live performances, cultural showcases, food, and interactive experiences that highlight the richness of Chinese culture and bring the community together. Admission is free.
Photo courtesy of Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium.
Sept. 19: International Red Panda Day, Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium. Touch, feel and explore biofacts of endangered red pandas with zoo docents at the red panda habitat in Forest Passage along with other educational fun. Activities included with zoo admission.
Sept. 19: Pistons in the Park Cruise-in, Allegheny Commons Park. Rev up the end of summer with an afternoon of classic and tuner cars, trucks and street rods. Cruise into the park and enjoy car clubs, food trucks and vendors. Admission is free.
Sept. 19: Hispanic Heritage Month Spotlight, Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh. Join creatives Cathy Olivar in the Studio and La Vispera in the Makeshop to learn about their art and making styles and try to create with these media yourself. Art by the youth of Casa San José will be on display throughout the event. Activities included with museum admission.
Arts Landing photo courtesy of Pittsburgh Cultural Trust.
Sept 19: Family Fest, Arts Landing. This event features live performances, story time, family pickleball, mascot meet-and-greet and a family dance party. Other activities include face painting, food trucks, lawn games and hands-on arts activities. Best for ages 1-13 years. Free.
Sept. 19: UPMC for Kids 20th Anniversary Community Celebration, Monroeville. This family-friendly celebration will feature activities and health resources. Admission is free.
Sept. 19: RipFest, David Lawrence Convention Center. Card collectors from Pokemon to sports cards will spend the day buying, selling, trading and discovering everything from affordable singles to vintage collectibles, memorabilia, and exclusive merchandise. General admission starts at $8, early entrance is $25.
Photo courtesy of FlyBy 5K.
Sept. 19: FlyBy 5K and 2-Mile Fun Run/Walk, Pittsburgh International Airport. This unique course gives participants exclusive access to run through the taxiways of The Pittsburgh International Airport, a true behind-the-scenes look and a side of the airport few get to see. Strollers are permitted in the family-friendly 2-Mile Fun Run/Walk. Kids younger than 4 can be registered at no extra charge. Register here.
Sept. 19: Zoo Career Workshop for Teens, National Aviary. In this two-hour workshop, teens will meet current college interns and National Aviary staff to learn about how every career journey is unique. Registration is $30 and includes an adult.
Sept. 19-20: Washington & Greene Counties Covered Bridge Festival at Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village. Experience the charm of Meadowcroft’s historic Pine Bark Covered Bridge during the annual festival. Admission is free. Rockshelter tours are $5.
Photo courtesy of Allegheny County Parks and Recreation.
Sept. 19 and 26: Hay Days, Allegheny County Parks. Celebrate autumn with activities like hayrides, inflatables, puppet shows, face painters and balloon twisters, an art station, a petting zoo and a sensory-friendly play area. Food and drinks will be available for purchase. Hartwood Acres plays host on Sept. 19, with South Park welcoming visitors on Sept. 26.
Sept. 19-Nov. 1: Fall Fest, Soergel Orchard. Weekends will be programmed with games and activities, tractor rides, flower picking, pumpkin and apple picking, plus great food. Friday night hayrides begin Oct. 2. Weekday afternoons include flower, pumpkin and apple picking. Admission is free with individual activities priced separately.
Photo courtesy of Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh.
Sept. 20: Slow Tech Festival, Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh. Discover strategies to slow tech your life. Explore a variety of talk and text devices that serve as alternatives to smartphones. Learn about local organizations that offer screen-free opportunities. Activities included with museum admission. (Come visit the Kidsburgh table!)
Sept. 23: Little Historians, Heinz History Center. Each month, little learners up to age 5 will explore history in engaging, age-appropriate ways while making memories and new friends along the way. This month the theme is Hispanic Heritage Month. Admission is $20 for grownups, free for kids.
Sept. 24: A Landing Celebration, Arts Landing. This fun family event will feature performances from Pittsburgh Opera, Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre, and the newly merged Pittsburgh CLO and Pittsburgh Public Theater, in partnership with the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust. Admission is free, but registered guests are eligible to win a prize pack of tickets to fall performances.
Sept. 24-Oct. 18: “Rent the Musical, Greer Cabaret Theater. Experience the passion, music and unforgettable story of “Rent,” the groundbreaking rock musical. Best for ages 14 and older due to language, sex and drugs. Tickets start at $64.
Photo courtesy of Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy.
Sept. 25: Baby and Me Nature Walk, Frick Park. Explore nature with your little one along the new Sensory Nature Trail in Frick Park. The outing includes a nature walk, story, grab-and-go lunch and giveaways. Program designed for ages 3 and younger. Registration is free.
Sept. 25: Remake Learning Assembly, Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh. The annual “come one, come all” celebration of learning is a fun-filled, high-energy day where educators, learners and partners gather to experience the joy of learning firsthand, together. Admission is free but registration is required.
Sept. 25, Oct. 16 and 30: Animal Encounters, Schenley Park Visitor Center. Stop by the Schenley Park Visitor Center for a live animal meet and greet presented by local wildlife rescues and other local partners. Free, no registration required.
Photo courtesy of the Richard S. Caliguiri City of Pittsburgh Great Race.
Sept. 26: Dollar Bank Junior Great Race, Point State Park. Kids from toddlers to age 12 can participate in the precursor to the Great Race. The Family Fun Run is designed for ages 5-12 and their parents. Ages 4 and younger can take part in the Tot Trot, a 50-yard walled path to the finish line. The Diaper Dash allows the youngest contestants to crawl across protective mats. All participating kids receive a commemorative medallion upon completion of the event. Find details and registration here.
Sept. 26: Disability Pride, Schenley Plaza. This disability-led event features inclusive family fun, including caricatures, airbrush tattoos, lawn games and plenty of resource tables filled with activities and information. Free, no registration required.
Image courtesy of Carnegie Museum of Art.
Sept. 26: Story Saturday, Carnegie Museum of Art. Kids will enjoy an in-person story time with a reading of “I Think I Think A Lot” by Jessica Whipple and illustrated by Josée Bisaillon. The reading is followed by a making activity for kids 12 and younger. Registration is free with museum admission.
Sept. 26: Discovery Time: Playful Plants, Frick Environmental Center. Kids will play with plant-related sensory bins, make seed balls and create a felt meadow. Registration is free.
Sept. 26-Oct. 31: Miniature Railroad & Village Scavenger Hunt, Kamin Science Center. Miniature Jack-o’-lanterns will be hidden throughout the Miniature Railroad display. How many can your family find? The scavenger hunt is included with general admission.
Sept. 26: Butler Fall Festival, Downtown Butler. The festival features live entertainment, a car cruise, craft and food vendors, plus a Kids Zone with bounce houses, a barrel train, face painting, games and a petting zoo. Admission is free.
Photo courtesy of Kamin Science Center.
Sept. 26: SkyWatch: Discovering Planets, Kamin Science Center. Gaze upon the wonders of the cosmos with astronomy experts in an exciting one-on-one experience. SkyWatch features our cutting-edge planetarium, private observatory deck and professional telescopes. Registration is $12.
Sept. 27: Great Lawn Movie Night, Arts Landing. Director Tim Burton brought together Michael Keaton, Jack Nicholson, and Kim Basinger to create this instant classic: “Batman” (PG-13). Free.
Oct. 1: Benedum Center Tour, Benedum Center. Step behind the scenes and into the historic 2,800-seat theater to learn its history through fascinating stories. Tickets are $15.
Oct. 1: Byham Theater Tour, Byham Theater. From its stint as a vaudeville house and a movie theater to its tenure as a performing arts venue, the Byham is filled with unique features. Tickets are $15.
Oct. 1: Marley Dias, Carnegie Library Lecture Hall. The Words & Pictures series presents the girl who made headlines as a sixth grader when she started the #1000BlackGirlBooks campaign to collect children’s books featuring Black protagonists. Her debut picture book, “I Am the Dream Come true,” was written in collaboration with her parents. Registration is free.
Photo courtesy of Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership.
Oct. 1-11: Oktoberfest Pittsburgh, Downtown. Oktoberfest returns for its third year with new and returning attractions, including the Ferris Wheel on the Clemente Bridge, Weiner Dog Races and Kinderplay activities for the kiddies. Find the complete schedule here.
Oct. 2: Storytime and Crafting, Pittsburgh Botanic Garden. Discover the wonder of nature through inspiring stories and engaging crafts. Storytime read-aloud will start at 10 a.m. and will be followed by a craft related to the story themes. This drop-in program is included with admission.
Photo courtesy of Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium.
Oct. 2-Nov. 1: Jack O’Lantern Extravaganza, Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium. This family-friendly night-time event is the perfect combination of fun, the spirit of autumn and artistry. Over 3,500 hand-carved pumpkins offer a dazzling walk-through display. Tickets are $24-$26 for grownups, $18-$20 for ages 2-13.
Image courtesy of Rivers of Steel.
Oct. 3: Festival of Combustion, Carrie Blast Furnaces. Rivers of Steel hosts a celebration of industrial arts and American crafts with hands-on demonstrations, live music and tours. Tickets are $25 for grownups, free for kids.
Oct. 3: Riverview Park Day, Riverview Park Activities Building. The day of celebration, community and support for one of Pittsburgh’s beloved green spaces is hosted in partnership with the City of Pittsburgh, Friends of Riverview Parks, Northside Leadership Conference and Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy. Free, no registration required.
Oct. 3: Mars Applefest, Mars. This year Applefest will host 200+ vendors selling everything from fine jewelry, quality arts and crafts, plus foods from local farms. Kids will have fun with family-centered activities like face painting and games. Admission is free.
Oct. 3: Inclusive Story Hike, Frick Environmental Center. Enjoy a reading of the book “A Sky that Sings” by Anita Sanchez and George Steele, followed by a short hike on Frick Parks’s Sensory Nature Trail paired with an exploration of tactile objects. The book follows Mia, who is blind, as she leads her aunt on a bird-listening journey through her local park. Intended for families with kids 3-8 years of age and designed for members of the blind and low-vision community. Registration is free.
Image Courtesy of Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh.
Oct. 3-4: “It’s a Beautiful Day to Be You” opening weekend, Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh. This new exhibit was inspired by Mister Rogers, Daniel Tiger and Donkey Hodie. Step into a world where kindness, curiosity, joy and creativity come to life. Kids will explore what it means to be kind, curious, persistent, creative, collaborative and brave through play and discovery. Activities free with museum admission.
Oct. 3-4, 10-11, 17-18: Autumnfest, Seven Springs. Family fun includes live musical entertainment, chairlift rides, the alpine slide, pumpkin patch and the Kids Zone of activities. Admission is free, with fees for individual activities.
Oct. 3-4, 10-12, 17-18, 24-25: Freedom Farms Fall Fest, Valencia. The fall fun includes tractor rides, a challenging corn maze, corn pit, hay mountain, the graveyard, petting zoo and pick-your-own sunflowers. Additional fees are required for activities like pony rides and face painting. Admission is $10, free for ages 3 and younger. Military Appreciation Day is Oct. 24, moms are free on Oct. 25, when the Trunk or Treat is planned.
Oct. 4: Family Fall Bird Migration, Pittsburgh Botanic Garden. Families are invited to join youth educators to learn about why birds migrate, common birds you may hear and see during fall migration and bird behaviors to look out for during this season. Bring binoculars if you have them. Spare binoculars will be provided. Best for ages 4 and older. Registration is $20 for grownups, $15 for kids.
Oct. 5-31: Laser Family Halloween, Kamin Science Center. You’re in for a ghoulish good time with the whole family, Do the Monster Mash and the Time Warp and enjoy eerie classics such as “Thriller” and “Superstition” under the lasers. Tickets are $7.
Oct. 5-31: Laser Stranger Things, Kamin Science Center. Take a trip to the upside-down in the safety of the dome. Experience the ’80s tunes and soundscapes from the entire series reinterpreted in vibrant laser light. Tickets are $7.
Oct. 6: Flight Encounter, Frick Environmental Center. Experience the grace and beauty of a raptor in flight with master class falconer and wildlife educator Crystal “Cryss” Smith of Edged Feather Experiences. Registration is $5.
Oct. 7: Happy Hikers, Pittsburgh Botanic Garden. During the monthly, family-friendly hike, kids will practice developing skills using naturalist tools and noticing the diversity of local habitats. Suitable for all ages, but kids must be accompanied by a grownup. Included with general admission.
Photo courtesy of The National Aviary,
Oct. 7, Nov. 4, Dec. 2: Early Childhood, National Aviary. Enjoy a fun and engaging experience with art activities, sensory play and books to read with your little learner exploring the vibrant world of birds. Activities included with general admission.
Oct. 8-25: “Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors,” Little Lake Theatre Company. Bram Stoker meets Mel Brooks in this hysterical fast-paced farce full of wordplay, quick changes and absurd antics. Whether your kids love spooky stories or silly comedy, this fang-tastic spoof will have you howling. Best for age 13 and older. Tickets are $25 for grownups, $15 for ages 18 and younger.
Photo courtesy of Fort Ligonier.
Oct. 9-11: Fort Ligonier Days, Ligonier. The three-day event features historic Battle of Fort Ligonier reenactments, crafts, food, local spirits, live music and a grand parade. Free. See the weekend schedule here.
Oct. 9-18: “Beauty and the Beast Bed & Breakfast,” South Park Theatre. Ever wonder what Beauty and the Beast did in their “ever after”? They open a bed and breakfast! This silly and satirical sequel is full of slapstick and witty wordplay. Tickets are $10 for grownups, $6 for kids.
Photo by Mike Faix, courtesy of the National Aviary.
Oct. 10: International Penguin Day, National Aviary. Meet a member of the Penguin Point colony after practicing your silliest penguin shuffle, attend special feedings and Expert Talks, and explore the Penguin Discovery Zone. Activities included with general admission.
Oct. 10: Story Saturday, Carnegie Museum of Art. Kids will enjoy an in-person story time with a reading of “Fix-It Familia” by Lucky Diaz and illustrated by Micah Player. A making activity follows for kids ages 12 and younger. Registration is free with museum admission.
Oct. 14, Nov. 11, Dec. 9: Sensory-Friendly Time, National Aviary. Kids can explore the Aviary during a sensory-inclusive experience, designed for those with sensory processing needs to make the most of their trip. Register by calling 412-258-9439.
Photo courtesy of Carnegie Museum of Art.
Oct. 15, Dec. 10: Art Starts, Carnegie Museum of Art. This new program for newborn to 18-month babies will explore a monthly theme through studio and gallery exploration specifically designed for the earliest learners. Registration is $15.
Oct. 16: Storytime and Crafting, Pittsburgh Botanic Garden. Kids will discover the wonder of nature through inspiring stories and engaging crafts. Storytime read-aloud will start at 10 a.m. and will be followed by a craft related to the story themes. This drop-in program is included with admission.
Photo courtesy of Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus.
Oct. 16-18: Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, PPG Arena. The Greatest Show on Earth combines jaw-dropping moments, world-class performances and incredible sights, carrying the legacy of the classic circus that has toured the globe for over 100 years. Tickets start at $15.
Photo by Nika Zhorzholiani, via Pexels.
Oct. 17: Community Campfire, Lower Frick Park. Campfire and sticks will be provided for your own roast-ables and toast-ables. Bring blankets and chairs as seating is limited. The evening will feature lawn games, pumpkin painting for kids and live music. Registration is $5 for ages 4 and older.
Oct. 17: Punkin Chunkin at Hartwood Acres Amphitheater. Join the Allegheny County Parks Department and SHARP Robotics from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. to watch as pumpkins are launched across the amphitheater field at Hartwood Acres Park by a full-size trebuchet. Free and open to all ages, with fun and games for the whole family, even furry friends! (Bring pups in their best costumes to celebrate Howl-o-Ween at the free Bark or Treat event, noon to 2 p.m. at the Hartwood Acres dog park, next to the amphitheater. Expect treats, tricks and tennis balls.) Registration is recommended for Punkin Chunkin and Bark or Treat to ensure there are enough supplies.
Oct. 18, Nov. 15, and Dec. 13: Sensory-Sensitive Hours, Kamin Science Center. Enjoy a relaxed and low-stimulus morning at Kamin Science Center. Offerings include early entry, adjusted lighting and sound effects, and flexible science shows. A Quiet Room and sensory aids are available. Activities included with general admission.
Photo courtesy of Oliver Miller Homestead.
Oct: 18: Children’s Harvest Festival, Oliver Miller Homestead. Harvest time in the 18th century wasn’t all work, no play. It was an opportunity for communities to get together and enjoy each other’s company. This family-friendly event places an emphasis on children’s games, crafts, music, and a giant leaf pile. Admission is $2.
Oct. 22: Kelly Yang, Carnegie Library Lecture Hall. The Words & Pictures series presents this New York Times bestselling, award-winning author of the “Front Desk” series and other middle grade school and young adult novels. Registration is free.
Oct.22-25: Campfire Ghost Stories, Allegheny County Parks. Fall nights and spooky season set the scene for family-friendly ghost stories and songs by the glow of a roaring campfire. Halloween costumes are encouraged. Head to North Park, Settlers Cabin Park, Boyce Park or Harrison Hills Park. No registration required.
Oct. 23-Nov. 1: Fall Fest, Point Park University. This community street festival with food, crafts, and games. Grab a bite or a drink, paint a pumpkin, and win prizes at this fun-filled fall outing perfect for all ages. Admission is free.
Oct. 23-Nov. 1: “Boo’s Halloween House Party,” Pittsburgh Playhouse. This frightfully fun family musical is filled with music, dancing, laughter and Halloween thrills for little monsters, grown-up ghouls, and everyone in between. Tickets start at $23.
Oct. 24: Sensory Nature Walk and Caregiver Event, Frick Environmental Center. Individuals age 14 and older with intellectual and developmental disabilities, along with their families and caregivers, are invited to spend an hour connecting with nature in a welcoming, inclusive environment this summer and fall. Registration required.
Photo courtesy of Pittsburgh Botanic Garden.
Oct. 24: Flutter and Float: Family Butterfly-Making Workshop, Pittsburgh Botanic Garden. This creative workshop will explore the art of making butterflies from a variety of papers. Tickets are $20 for grownups, $15 for kids.
Oct. 24: Halloween Fun Cruise, Gateway Clipper Fleet. Calling all ghosts, ghouls, and goblins to come aboard for an afternoon river cruise and a ghostly good time. Admission is $37 for grownups, $26 for ages 3-12, free for ages 2 and younger.
Oct. 24: SkyWatch: Life on Moons, Kamin Science Center. Gaze upon the wonders of the cosmos with astronomy experts in an exciting one-on-one experience. SkyWatch features our cutting-edge planetarium, private observatory deck and professional telescopes. Registration is $12.
Oct. 27-Nov. 1: “Hadestown,” Benedum Center. This Tony Award-winning musical intertwines two mythic tales — that of young dreamers Orpheus and Eurydice, and that of King Hades and his wife Persephone — as it invites you on a hell-raising journey to the underworld and back. Best for ages 8 and older. Tickets start at $49.
Oct. 28: Disney Descendants, ZOMBIES & Camp Rock: Worlds Collide Concert Tour, PPG Arena. Fans will experience a night packed with hit songs from all three franchises brought together in a brand-new production with fresh mashups and fan-favorite songs. Come dressed as your favorite character and sing along all night. Tickets start at $53.
Image courtesy of Pittsburgh Symphony.
Oct. 30-Nov. 1: “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1”: In Concert, Heinz Hall. With the full film shown on the big screen, the Pittsburgh Symphony performs the iconic score live. Rated PG-13. Tickets start at $43.
Nov. 5-8: “Roald Dahl’s Matilda, the Musical,” Byham Theater. The story of an extraordinary girl who dares to take a stand and change her own destiny. The Young Artist Production comes from Pittsburgh Musical Theater. Tickets start at $32.
Nov. 5-22: “The Wolves,” Little Lake Theatre Company. This sharp, funny and deeply human portrait of a girls’ indoor soccer team captures the raw, unfiltered energy of young womanhood with humor, honesty and heart. This Pulitzer Prize finalist is best for ages 14 and older. Tickets are $25 for grownups, $15 for ages 18 and younger.
Photo courtesy of the Pittsburgh Pet Expo.
Nov. 6-8: Pittsburgh Pet Expo, 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 vets, $8 for ages 13-17, free for ages 12 and younger.
Nov. 7: Pirate Fun with Friends Cruise, Gateway Clipper Fleet. Kids will enjoy a DJ dance party and a special show along with games and activities. Admission is $36 for grownups, $21 for ages 3-12, free for ages 2 and younger.
Nov. 10-15: “The Notebook,” Benedum Center. Based on the best-selling novel that inspired the iconic film, this musical tells the story of Allie and Noah, both from different worlds, who share a lifetime of love despite the forces that threaten to pull them apart. Best for ages 10 and older. Tickets start at $49.
Nov. 11: Happy Hikers, Pittsburgh Botanic Garden. During the monthly, family-friendly hike, kids will practice developing skills using naturalist tools and noticing the diversity of local habitats. Suitable for all ages, but kids must be accompanied by a grownup. Included with general admission.
Nov. 12: Erin Estrada Kelly, Carnegie Library Lecture Hall. The Words & Pictures series presents the acclaimed, two-time Newberry medalist, who will discuss her latest book, The Second Life of Snap,” a futuristic book for middle graders that is grounded, full of heart and humor. Registration is free.
Nov. 13-22: “North Pole Musical,” South Park Theatre. Auditions are underway for the 400th anniversary of the North Pole Musical, and everyone is in a panic. Tickets are $10 for grownups, $6 for kids.
Nov. 13-Nov. 22: “Girls Just Want to Have Fun: The Musical, Pittsburgh Playhouse. Experience the world premiere of this high-energy musical inspired by the beloved 1985 film, featuring iconic ‘80s hits, unforgettable dance, humor and nonstop fun. Tickets start at $25.
Photo courtesy of Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra.
Nov. 14: Fiddlesticks: Once Upon a Melody, Heinz Hall. Fiddlesticks loves a good fairytale and has a big question. Can music tell a story all by itself? With help from his orchestra friends, he invites young listeners to help build a brand-new fairy tale through sound. Hear how music brings heroes, villains, magical moments and, of course, a happily ever in this imagination sparking concert. Tickets start at $24.
Nov. 14: Discovery Time: Fun with Senses, Frick Environmental Center. Stop by for kids activities related to the senses. Conduct a fragrant experiment in the smell lab, explore different nature textures with your hands, or view nature through a kaleidoscope. Registration is free.
Photo courtesy of Pittsburgh Cultural Trust
Nov. 19: DRUMline Live Holiday Spectacular, Benedum Center. The festive sounds of holiday cheer combine Gospel, Jazz, Soul, Motown rhythm and “The Nutcracker Suite” with a hip-hop beat and the driving force of a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) marching band. Tickets start at $29.
Photo courtesy of Dreamworks.
Nov. 20 and 22: “How to Train Your Dragon” in Concert, Heinz Hall. The screening features this acclaimed film presented in HD, with composer John Powell’s Academy Award-nominated score performed live to picture by the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra. Tickets start at $43.
Nov. 21: Story Saturday, Carnegie Museum of Art. Kids will enjoy an in-person story time with a reading of “Pa, Me, and Our Sidewalk Pantry: A Picture Book” by Toni Buzzeo and illustrated by Zara González Hoang. A making activity follows for kids ages 12 and younger. Registration is free with museum admission.
Photo courtesy of Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village.
Nov. 21: Taffy Pull & Fall Finale, Meadowcroft Rockshelter & Historic Village. This lively seasonal send-off combines hands-on history with sweet traditions. Create corn husk crafts, watch hearth cooking and make old-fashioned candy to take home. Programming is free with admission, but taffy pulling is $5.
Nov. 24: SkyWatch: Stars for All – Growing Up With Stars, Kamin Science Center. Gaze upon the wonders of the cosmos with astronomy experts in an exciting one-on-one experience. SkyWatch features our cutting-edge planetarium, private observatory deck and professional telescopes. Registration is $12.
Photo courtesy of Pittsburgh Cultural Trust.
Nov. 24-29: “Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical,” Benedum Center. Magnificent sets and costumes inspired by Dr. Seuss’ original illustrations help to transport audiences to the whimsical world of Whoville and helps remind us of the true meaning of the holiday season. Tickets start at $43.
Dec. 2: Happy Hikers, Pittsburgh Botanic Garden. During the monthly, family-friendly hike, kids will practice developing skills using naturalist tools and noticing the diversity of local habitats. Suitable for all ages, but kids must be accompanied by a grownup. Included with general admission.
Dec. 3: Elizabeth Acevedo, Carnegie Library Lecture Hall. The Words & Pictures series presents the National Book Award-winning, New York Time-bestselling author and poet whose new book, “Anger is Only a Shadow,” is a white-knuckle journey to self-understanding and doing the right thing. Registration is free.
Dec. 12: Story Saturday, Carnegie Museum of Art. Kids will enjoy story time with a reading of “Stockingopolis” by Tatyana Feeney. A making activity follows for kids ages 12 and younger. Registration is free with museum admission.
Dec. 16: “It’s a Wonderful Life” in Concert, Heinz Hall. The film comes to life with Dimitri Tiomkin’s timeless score performed by a live symphony orchestra while the full film is shown on the big screen. Tickets start at $43.
Dec. 16-20: “A Lyrical Christmas Carol,” Gargaro Theater. The classic story of Scrooge has become a beloved Pittsburgh tradition filled with favorite holiday carols. This Young Artist Production comes from Pittsburgh Musical Theater. Tickets start at $22.