Above photo courtesy of the Frick Environmental Center.
It’s hard to believe, but May has already arrived. It’s the last full month of school, jam-packed with activities, and it ushers in the summer season for Pittsburgh families. Whether you are looking to hit up some new playgrounds, learn more about nature, or take in a theater show, there’s an endless supply of family-friendly things to do this month in the land of Kidsburgh.
It’s also time for Remake Learning Days, with free events across the commonwealth all month long. Check out what’s happening around the Pittsburgh region during the month of May:
Now through May 31: “T. Rex (3-D),” Carnegie Science Center
If you’ve got a kid (or a grownup!) who likes dinos, this event is just for you. For the month of May, guests can embark on a Jurassic journey following the king of dinosaurs at the Rangos Giant Cinema. Those beasts look even better on that big, big screen. Tickets are $10.
Through June 1: “Laser Taylor Swift,” Carnegie Science Center
If you weren’t able to spring for tickets to her show at Acrisure Stadium last year, this may be the next best thing for local Swifties. The Laser Taylor Swift show combines hits from all the singer’s eras with dazzling laser lights and special effects. Tickets are $7.
May 1: Playful Learning with WQED and Hatch at Brentwood Library
The folks at Remake Learning Days have partnered with Hatch and WQED to bring this fun and free event for all ages. From 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., families can learn all about creating with reusable materials and contribute to a woven art piece, too. Find more details here. (And find info on all 220+ Remake Learning Days events right here.)
May 1: “Antarctic Voyage” at The Lindsay Theater
“Antarctic Voyage” is a new documentary film about a biological research expedition to the remote island of South Georgia, starring field biologist Dr. Samantha Monier. This adventure is full of both harrowing tales and important science. There will be screenings at 1:30 p.m. and 4 p.m. Tickets range from $8.75 to $11.
May 7: Terrarium Takeover at the Plum Borough Community Library
As part of Remake Learning Days, kids in grades K-4 are invited to learn how to make terrariums at this hands-on learning event. Each child will leave with a terrarium they designed themselves. While the content is designed for kids in early elementary, anyone who may enjoy the activity is welcome. Registration is required, but the event is free!
May 9-18: “The Wizard of Oz” with the PBT Orchestra
Based on the well-loved novel, this ballet performance takes guests on the adventures of Dorothy as she attempts to return home from Oz. Tickets begin at $28 and can be purchased here.
May 10: Jr. Garden Buds Story Time and Planting at the Frick Environmental Center
Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy invites families to the garden on World Migratory Bird Day for a bird-related read-aloud. Afterwards, kids can help plant vegetables in this shared space for people and birds. Registration is free.
May 10: Family Podcasting with SLB Radio
Not only is SLB Radio the home of the Kidsburgh podcast, it’s also a great place to learn about podcasting and audio engineering in general. At this free Remake Learning Days event, families can come from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. to learn about what makes a podcast work. This event is located in the lower level of the Children’s Museum. Find more details here.
May 11: Mother’s Day Celebration at the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh and MuseumLab
The day includes Mother’s Day portraits, butterfly-themed crafts, “Sing, Move, Play” with music educators, the Lullaby Project Pittsburgh’s Celebration Concert, and a chance to create mini-flower bouquets. All activities are included in general admission.
May 15: Grand Opening of the Outdoor Discovery and Sensory Nature Trail at the Frick Environmental Center
This exciting addition makes the Frick Environmental Center even better for kids and their parents. Explore a new way to connect with nature with a 1/3-mile accessible trail that features hands-on sensory discovery stations and welcoming gathering spaces for relaxation and reflection. Registration is free.
May 15: Bellevue Night Market
This casual, family-friendly event takes place on the third Thursday of every month, now through October, just off of Bellevue’s main street. There are food trucks, arts and crafts vendors, live music, and more. Don’t miss Scoops in Bellevue for a sweet treat, or Bayne Park, a great playground just two blocks from the night market. Find more details here.
May 17: Pittsburgh Pierogi Festival
Pittsburgh’s favorite food festival is back after a two-year hiatus. Celebrating its 10th festival, this year’s event at SouthSide Works will feature more than 20 pierogi vendors from four states, a bigger and butter (oops, we mean “better”) Pop-Up Pierogi Marketplace, live music, Paint Your Own Pierogi with the folks at Paint Monkey (find them in our summer camp guide), plus other kid-friendly activities. Tickets are just $7 for adults and $4 for kids 12 and under.
May 18: Day of Magic Cruise aboard the Gateway Clipper Fleet
If you’ve got a princess-loving or superhero-loving kid, this cruise will give them a chance to party alongside them as they traverse the three rivers. Entertainment includes a meet-and-greet session with favorite characters, activities, games and a themed goodie bag. Tickets are $35 for grownups, $25 for kids, and $5 for infants.
May 24: Opening Day at Sandcastle Water Park
This oasis along the banks of the Monongahela River offers scenic views and fun with more than 20 water attractions like high-speed slides, lazy river and relaxing pools. There’s a great area for toddlers and preschoolers full of slides, sprayers and more, too. Save 50% on passes during the opening sale.
May 24 and 25: RiverLife Chalk Fest
This two-day event is the most colorful way to kick off summer. Come see amazing creations, optical illusions, and try your own hand at chalk art along the Allegheny River. This event is totally free, and you can find all the details right here.
May 25: Birds and More Nature Walk at Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve
Join the experts at the Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania for this interactive nature walk to learn about the region’s birds. This hike kicks off at 9 a.m. Please register here to ensure a spot.
May 29: We Are Neighbors – Celebrating Our Community
As part of Remake Learning Days, the Baldwin-Whitehall School District will be hosting an evening to celebrate the diversity of Pittsburgh. This event will have a range of enriching educational experiences and enjoyable activities suitable for every family member, including a delightful selection of international food trucks, engaging hands-on activities for all ages, and showcase presentations of students’ impressive work. Find all the details here.
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