This weekend is smack dab in the middle of a long holiday school break for most Pittsburgh-area families, and there are lots of ways to fill the winter days and enjoy some time together. We’ve also got a guide to First Night activities Downtown, so you can make the most of that bustling event with kids.
If you’re looking for more ideas, check out our guide to keeping kids busy over the holiday break. And check out this lineup of weekend events:
Through Dec. 28: “The Nutcracker” at the Benedum Center
This is the last weekend to see this classic tale on the big stage. Set in turn-of-the-century Pittsburgh, Terrence S. Orr’s dazzling version of “The Nutcracker” highlights the city’s beloved landmarks, sports teams and history. Join Marie and the Nutcracker Prince on an unforgettable adventure through sparkling snow into the dreamy Land of Enchantment. Tickets begin at $33 and can be purchased directly from the Cultural Trust.
Courtesy of Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre.
Friday, Dec. 26-Sunday, Dec. 28: Holiday Light Tours
Don’t miss our guide to the holiday lights in the Pittsburgh region. Nearly all of the displays are open through this weekend (and beyond). So many possibilities: Stop by Phipps Conservatory, the Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium, or take a trip to Oglebay. There are 12 options open this weekend, so check out the full lineup here.
Courtesy of the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden.
Friday, Dec. 26: The Harlem Globetrotters 100 Year Tour at PPG Paints Arena, 1 p.m.
100 years of laughs. 100 years of joy. From gravity-defying dunks to game-changing tricks, experience the team that redefined basketball! This is history you can feel and a celebration of 100 years of over-the-top fun with all-new surprises like the Golden Basketball by Spalding. This is a fan celebration from the moment guests arrive with epic new pre-game magic, unforgettable post-game interactions, and the most fan-fueled experience in sports. Tickets begin at $42.
Courtesy of the Harlem Globetrotters.
Saturday, Dec. 27: Christmas Bird Count at North Park Rose Barn, 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Celebrating its 126th year, Audubon’s Christmas Bird Count is an annual winter bird census where thousands of volunteers across North America go out to count birds. No previous experience necessary; each registrant will be in a group led by an experienced birder as they carpool/caravan to document assigned areas of the park. Binoculars are highly recommended, but not required. Call for more information: 724-935-2170. Registration is required.
Courtesy of Allegheny County Parks.
Saturday, Dec. 27: Maker Lab at Penn Hills Library, 11:30 a.m.
Calling all young makers to the Penn Hills Library for a free hands-on class. Learn how to use different machines and supplies to create something completely new! This month, you can get creative with Perler Beads and Party Props. This event is designed for children in grades K through 5th.
Saturday, Dec. 27: Super Science at CLP Main, 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Come to the Main (Oakland) branch of the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh for a free one-hour workshop for kids in grades K to 5. Attendees will have a chance to get excited about a science topic. A read aloud is paired with hands-on, high quality STEM activities promoting scientific inquiry and wonder about science. Find more details here.
Saturday, Dec. 27: “Frozen Sing-Along” at the Kamin Science Center, 10 a.m. and 12:15 p.m.
Your kids already know all the words – here’s their chance to sing it loud! Screening takes place in the Rangos Giant Cinema. Tickets are $12, in addition to Science Center admission.
Sunday, Dec. 28: Teen Zine Hangout at CLP Main, 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Calling all zine and book-makers! It’s time to get together, share stories, build community, and make a zine. This workshop will allow guests to work on their zine page, comic, or art book while chatting with other creators. Staff will have staplers, trimmers, drawing supplies, paper, adhesives, scissors, scraps, scanners, photocopies and more on hand. This program will take place in the Oversized Books Room on the 2nd floor of the Main Library, and is geared toward teens and adults.
Sunday, Dec. 28: “Frozen II” in 3D at the Kamin Science Center, 10 a.m. and 12:15 p.m.
Because one “Frozen” just wasn’t enough! This screening takes place in the Rangos Giant Cinema. Tickets are $12, in addition to Science Center admission.
Sunday, Dec. 28: Community Empowerment Association’s Annual Kwanzaa Celebration, 3 p.m. to 9 p.m.
This year’s Kwanzaa theme is right on time! Kujichagulia stands for Self-Determination — the power to define ourselves, speak for ourselves, and choose our own path without others deciding for us. Click here to get details and RSVP for this celebration.
Start the new year off right by signing up for our email newsletter and giving us a follow on Instagram!
Photo at top of guide courtesy of Carnegie Library Super Science Saturday.