From an ‘oddities expo’ to a musical version of ‘The Lightning Thief,’ check out these 9 fun weekend events around Pittsburgh

Photo above courtesy of the Westmoreland Performing Art’s Student Council.

It’s gearing up to be a cold — but fun — weekend in the Steel City. There’s International Lego Day, an “oddities expo,” and several free library events for kids. Read on to find the perfect events around Pittsburgh for your family this weekend.

Friday through Sunday, Jan. 27-29: “The Lightning Thief – The Percy Jackson Musical,” various times

This musical, based on the popular books by Rick Riordan, will be put on by the Westmoreland Performing Art’s Student Council and features 55 local kids in the show. Join Percy, his family, and all of his friends on this epic adventure. Tickets start at $10 for kids and $18 for adults. 

Saturday, Jan 28: Steel City Throwers Yo-Yo Competition, 10 a.m.

Come out to this second annual event to show off your yo-yo skills — or just cheer on everyone else. There’s even a novice division for folks who want to try their hand at becoming a professional yo-yo’er. Find out all the details about how to register or watch right here. 

Saturday, Jan. 28: Guided Hike: Winter Birds with the Park Rangers, 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Head to Harrison Hills Park to learn about our year-round and winter resident birds. Binoculars are recommended but not required. This hike will be approximately one mile with moderate elevation changes. Registration is free for this all-ages activity.

Saturday, Jan. 28: International Lego Day at Ross Park Mall, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Join the brick-buiding pros from Steel City LUG in the center court below the food court. Guests can check out some amazing displays, watch a live build, and engage in general LEGO-loving fun. Don’t miss their photo station for some zany pics. Check out Steel City LUG for more details. This event is free.

Saturday, Jan 28: Ice Sister Party at Bakery Square, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Head down to Bakery Square to join your favorite frozen sisters for sweet treats, face painting, balloon art and more. Tickets are $20 for kids,  but the grownups are free. Details can be found here. 

Saturday, Jan. 28: Education Options School Fair, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Come to the David Lawrence Convention Center to learn about the varied options available in Pennsylvania for schooling, ranging from public to charter to homeschooling. This event features music, free snacks, and kid activities. Find out more details at their Eventbrite listing. 

Saturday, Jan. 28: World Oddities Expo, 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.

It’s time for Pittsburgh’s first World Oddities Expo. Come to the David Lawrence Convention Center to check out weird taxidermy, art, and more. There are even classes on butterfly pinning and dissecting owl pellets. Tickets start at $20

Sunday, Jan. 29: Story Time at Stories Like Me: 10:30 a.m. to 11:15 p.m. 

Come join Elsie for a weekly story at Stories Like Me, an indie bookstore that focuses on diverse and representative children’s books. This week, storytime is in Spanish and the theme is Be You! Masks are required at this event, which is free. Find more details on the Stories Like Me website.

Sunday, Jan. 29: Animal Friends Therapet Visit at Carnegie Libary of Pittsburgh, 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Have you always wanted to meet a pet that is specially trained to help you feel calmer and more regulated? Stop by CLP Lawrenceville to meet the folks from Animal Friends and some of their most loveable “thera-pets.” This event is free, and more info can be found here. 

Along with outdoor fun, we’ve got you covered if you’re looking for winter fun happening indoors in the Pittsburgh area. Check out our guide to 24 indoor pools and indoor waterparks and our guide to indoor playspaces, plus our guide to this winter’s Children’s Theater Festival and our Big Winter Guide to indoor and outdoor events.