things to do with kids in Pittsburgh

5 free things to do with kids in Pittsburgh this weekend

Photo above courtesy of the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership.

We’re guessing you have a busy weekend ahead, whether you’ll be preparing to celebrate Chanukah or kicking off the Christmas season or just enjoying Thanksgiving leftovers. But if you are looking for some entertainment this weekend, there’s plenty of cool things to do with kids in Pittsburgh this weekend.

Friday, Nov. 26: Virtual Stories with Santa

Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens hosts Santa Claus, who will read bedtime stories on select evenings from Nov. 26 through Dec. 23. Featured books include “The Mitten: A Ukrainian Folktale” and the magical “Snowmen at Night.” Register for free for a select date and time, and you’ll receive a Zoom link.

Photo courtesy of Phipps Conservatory.

Friday, Nov. 26-Sun. Nov. 28: PPG’s Spirit of Giving from Around the World

Pittsburgh’s life-size Santas from folklore and ethnic traditions representing 16 countries are now on display. View the exhibit in the exterior windows of Two PPG Place along Fourth Avenue, Downtown, now through Jan. 1. Free.

Photo courtesy of Pittsburgh Symphony.

Friday, Nov. 26-Sun. Nov. 28: Holiday KidsPlay Selfie Garden, Downtown

Heinz Hall Courtyard has been redesigned as a little kid’s TV fantasy. Families can explore the space at their own pace, stopping to snap selfies with some of their favorite characters. Check out the sidewalk games, too. Characters and cutouts include favorites from “Odd Squad,” “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood” and “Peg + Cat.” The Selfie Garden is now open daily through Dec. 28 (except Thanksgiving Day) and it’s free.

Friday, Nov. 26-Sun. Nov. 28: Peoples Gas Holiday Market

Market Square has been transformed once again into a bustling European shopping district, filled with chalets and vendors. It’s a fun place to window shop, plan a visit with Santa and savor delicious treats. Live entertainment is planned for lunchtimes concerts, happy hour merriment and all-day music on the weekends. The Peoples Gas Holiday Market is open daily (except Thanksgiving) through Dec. 23. Free.

Photo courtesy of the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh.

Friday, Nov. 26-Sun. Nov. 28: Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood Sweater Drive

Doing good deeds is a terrific way to help kids understand and emulate the spirit of Fred Rogers. The Children’s Museum in Pittsburgh has hosted the Sweater Drive for 22 years, collecting more than 42,000 sweaters. This weekend, gather with family members and donate new and gently worn sweaters in adult and children’s sizes in the bins at the museum from 7 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Donations are accepted through Dec. 15.

Looking for more things to do with kids in Pittsburgh? Check out our roundup of great miniature railroads in the Pittsburgh area. And to keep your little ones busy through the end of the year, check out our big, beautiful guide to 32 kid-friendly holiday things to do in Pittsburgh