10 can’t-miss events and activities for families this Valentine’s Day/Presidents Day Weekend

Above photo courtesy of Art in Motion and Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh.

While keeping kids busy on a long weekend during a Pittsburgh winter may feel like a daunting task, this weekend is packed with events to run off steam, learn a new skill, or just spend time together. From free library events to shows and expos, there are a ton of choices to fill the days until school resumes on Tuesday.

Check out what’s happening in Kidsburgh this Presidents’ Day Weekend:

Friday, Feb. 14-Sunday, Feb. 16: “Into the Woods” at New Hazlett Theater

Come join ACT ONE Theatre’s High School program as they venture deep “Into the Woods.” When a childless couple tries to start a family, they are thrust into a fantastical tale that looks at what “happily ever after” really means. Tickets begin at $15.

Friday, Feb. 14-Monday, Feb. 17: Pittsburgh Auto Show

Whether you’ve got a kid who’s a gearhead or you’re just looking to check out a new activity, the Pittsburgh Auto Show at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center is a great spot to get out of the cold and explore. With balloon artists, demonstrations, face painting and a kids’ activity area sponsored by CCAC, there is a ton happening during the auto show. Tickets range from $7 to $12, with Monday being half-priced.

Friday, Feb. 14: Intro to Ballet and Jazz at CLP, 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 pm.

Join the folks from Art in Motion at the Carnegie Library’s Brookline location for a free introduction to dance where kids can wiggle, groove, and learn some new steps. This event is designed for kids in elementary school. Check out the details here.

Friday, Feb. 14: Love is in the Air Learning Party at Assemble, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. 

Come join the folks at Assemble for a fun and interactive event where kids will learn all about love and relationships. They will have games, activities and discussions to help navigate the world of love. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to connect with others. Sign up here for this free event.

Friday, Feb. 14: Dependable Drive In Valentine’s Day Under the Stars, 6 p.m. to 11 p.m.

While outdoor movies are typically more of a summer event, the big screens at Dependable Drive In will open this Friday for a love-themed event with giveaways, merch, food and more. The first movie will be Captain American: Brave New World,” which is rated PG-13. The second movie is geared towards grownups. Adult tickets are $10, kids 5-11 are $4, and kids under 5 are free. Find more details here.

Saturday, Feb. 15: Mr. McSlithers at CLP Mount Washington, 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Allegheny County Park Rangers will be at the Mount Washington branch of the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh this weekend with Mr. McSlithers, an Eastern Black Rat Snake. Families will learn about his habitat, diet, and everyday life. Get up close to learn about his unique adaptations. This event is free.

Saturday, Feb. 15: Monster Jam at PPG Paints, 7 p.m. 

Are you ready for crushing, tearing, and crashing? It’s time to cover that ice with some dirt and bring in the monster trucks. Monster Jam is in town for a 7 p.m. show. Tickets begin at just $18.

Saturday, Feb. 15 and Sunday, Feb. 16: Teddy Bear Trolley at the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Kids can bring their favorite teddy (or any stuffie) for a day of activities that are included with general admission. Admission is free for everyone under 18 for the month of February, and no advanced tickets are needed. Visitors are welcome to wear their pajamas (shoes are required). Find more info here.

Saturday, Feb. 15 and Sunday, Feb. 16: Black History Month Spotlights at the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

Every Saturday and Sunday in February, Natural History Interpreters will help guests of all ages celebrate Black History Month. Learn about Black naturalists past and present, such as Harriet Tubman, birder and conservationist J. Drew Lanham, and urban ecologist Christopher Schnell. Explore Pittsburgh’s steel history and the role of Black steelworkers. Plus, see mineral, bird, and mammal specimens up close. Spotlights will vary throughout the month, and each experience will be unique. This event is included with admission. Find details here.

Monday, Feb. 17: Vintage Max Kids Maker Series: Air Dry Clay Critters, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. 

No school? No problem. Vintage Max Mercantile in Bellevue is hosting a maker event (parents can drop off or stay) and a pizza party. This event is open to attendees under the age of 14, but is geared towards early elementary-aged children. The cost per child is $30 or $40 for two children. Purchase tickets here.

If you’re looking for more family fun, don’t miss our guides to Black History Month and the whole winter season! Sign up for our newsletter so you never miss a thing in Kidsburgh.