11 weekend events for Pittsburgh families, from nature exploration to stage performances

Spring break may be over, but there’s still tons of fun to be had on the weekends in the Pittsburgh area. Warmer weather brings plenty of outdoor activities, markets and chances to explore the city’s best playgrounds. Check out some of the events happening in and around the city this weekend. There is sure to be something for everyone!

Friday, April 25-Sunday, April 27: “Escape the Deep” at KST Alloy Studios

In partnership with theatriQ, the Kelly Strayhorn Theater presents “Escape the Deep,” with four performances this weekend. This brand new production is created and performed by theatriQ, Dreams of Hope’s queer and trans youth performing arts ensemble. The story takes the audience to the year 2030 in the town of Mortimer Harbor, which is flooding. Communities are displaced, housing is scarce, and the government’s resource hoarding only make things worse. Find out what happens in this theatrical saga. Tickets are “pay what moves you,” with a suggested price ranging from $10 to $40.

Saturday, April 26: Powdermill Nature Reserve Open House, 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Did you know the Carnegie Museum of Natural History has a research center located just about an hour from the city? You can read more about it (and other local sites for conservation) in our recent guide to outdoor learning spots for kids. This weekend, Powdermill’s Avian Research Center is hosting a free open house. This portion of the reserve is typically closed to the public, but guests will get a behind-the-scenes peek at the important research being conducted right here in southwestern Pennsylvania. Find more details here.

Saturday, April 26: Cards and Cartoons with The Education Partnership, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

At The Education Partnership, volunteering is essential to their mission of giving school supplies to students and educators at under-resourced schools in southwestern PA. This volunteer day is a great way for local families to volunteer together to help with this worthy mission. During the Cards and Cartoons event, kids and their families will make different craft items that connect to the Education Partnership’s programs while watching cartoons. Snacks will be available. Find more info here.

Saturday, April 26: Pittsburgh’s Hidden History, Heinz History Center, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

This new exhibit, which runs through Oct. 5,  features a yinz-plosion of rarely and never-before-seen objects that tell stories from Pittsburgh’s past like never before. Explore objects from iconic Pittsburgh institutions like The Original Hot Dog Shop, Primanti Bros., Kaufmann’s, and Kennywood Park. Included with general admission.

Saturday, April 26: Reading Ready Pittsburgh’s Second Annual Children’s Puppet Show, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. 

The epic puppet show is back at B is for Books this year. Abby Palen and Emily Schubert will share their puppetry and performance skills with kids and adults. Two unique puppet shows will occur between 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m., so be sure to arrive on the early side to secure a seat and shop for books. Doors open at 10 a.m. for this free event. Come early to get a good spot! Find more details here.

Saturday, April 26: “Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical!”at the Byham Theater, 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.

With a script written by Mo Willems, the creator of the award-winning Pigeon picture books, this show is even more fun than staying up late and having a hot dog party! Tickets are $12-$25.

Saturday, April 26: Bark and Brunch on Hazelwood Green, 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. 

This free, family-friendly event features tons of fun for local pups and their fur-loving humans. There will be a frisbee show by DareDevil Dogs, a dog costume contest, pet portraits, vendors and more. Hungry humans can enjoy food and beverages by QuickE, Brisketburgh, New France Brewing Company, Hazelgrove Brewery, Abstract Realm, Dave’s Sno Cones, Hot Bunz Food Truck, and other local trucks. Find the full lineup and details on the costume contest here.

Saturday, April 26: Mad Science presents Detective Science at CLP, 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. 

In the world of Detective Science, children use science to crack a case! When a crime happens just before the Bustertown bakeoff, Mr. Baker’s big, fat, chewy chocolate chip cookie is sabotaged and his recipe is stolen. Analyzing all the evidence is the key to helping pinpoint the perpetrator. This event is best for kids in grades 3 through 6. Find more details here.

Saturday, April 26: Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship, 6:30 p.m. 

For one day only, Acrisure Stadium becomes a premier off-road motorcycle course. Some of the best motorcyclists in the world will be competing for a championship title. Tickets begin at $38, and children under 2 years old do not need a ticket.

Sunday, April 27: Sensory Sensitive Science Hours at the Carnegie Science Center, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. 

During these hours, exhibit lights and sound effects are adjusted and special hands-on activities are added to foster a safe, welcoming and most of all, fun environment for all visitors. This event is included with general admission, and guests are welcome to stay for the rest of the day once sensory hours have concluded.

Sunday, April 27: City Nature Challenge at the Frick Environmental Center, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m 

Join Naturalist Educator Stephen Bucklin on a walk to document and identify the biodiversity of Frick Park. A smartphone or digital camera is recommended to take pictures. Registration is free for this event. If you want to learn more about The Frick Environmental Center, check out our guide to local conservation here.

If you’re looking for more things to do this spring, check out our giant event guide. Don’t miss our newsletter either. You’ll get the city’s top family events sent to your inbox twice a week.