10 Pittsburgh family events this weekend, from theater performances to festive celebrations!

Above photo by Nathan Lemon on Unsplash

For most families, this will be the last weekend before winter break begins. If you’re looking for ideas to fill the long, chilly school break, we’ve got a guide to winter break camps and events. And if you’re looking to squeeze in a few more fun activities before the last week of school for 2024, check out this weekend’s guide:

Friday, Dec. 13-Sunday, Dec. 15: Pittsburgh CLO’s “A Musical Christmas Carol” at the Byham Theater

Charles Shaughnessy stars as Scrooge in this production, with dazzling special effects, treasured holiday carols and ticket prices even Scrooge can’t resist. This show also runs all week, through the following weekend. On Saturday, Dec. 23 at 12 p.m., families can visit for a sensory-friendly show (adjusted with lower sound levels and limited special effects) in partnership with Autism Connection of PA. Tickets are $18-$84.50.

Saturday, Dec. 14: “Run Santa Run” in Cranberry Township, 8:45 a.m. 

Join hundreds of runners and walkers from all over Western Pennsylvania to fill Cranberry Township’s Graham Park with Santas and elves. This event sold out in 2023. But it looks like there are still spots available this year, if you want to register. Runners are encouraged to dress “festive” and the top three holiday outfits will earn prizes. Choose to run the shorter “Jolly Mile” or go for the full 5K. And don’t miss the Kids’ Reindeer Ramble, a fun and festive race just for the little ones. Find more details here.

Saturday, Dec. 14: South Side Kids Free Breakfast with Santa, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

At Velum Fermentation in the South Side, kids and their families can come to enjoy a free meal with Santa this weekend. There will be toys and games, a dance party and tons of delicious food. No registration is required. Find more details here.

Saturday, Dec. 14: Gingerbread House Decorating at CLP, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

At the South Side location of the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh, you can decorate a gorgeous gingerbread house without creating a mess at home. And you can decorate for free! This event is for kids in grades 5 and under.

Saturday, Dec. 14: Festive Family Tour Package at The Frick Pittsburgh,  various times

Take in the cheerful atmosphere of a home decked for the holidays on a specialty tour of Clayton, followed by festive, family-friendly art projects and treats in the Education Center classroom. Admission is $30; $27 for seniors, military and students; $20 for ages 17 and younger. There are tours at 10:15, a.m. 12 p.m., and 2 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 14: Holiday Community Day at the August Wilson Center, 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Join the educators at the August Wilson African American Cultural Center for a free holiday event. At this festive event, you can discover a diverse array of vendors offering one-of-a-kind gifts, as well as pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Enjoy lively performances that capture the spirit of the season and engage in enriching Kwanzaa activities that highlight cultural traditions and values. It’s a wonderful occasion for family and friends to come together, celebrate, and make lasting memories. Find details here.

Saturday, Dec. 14: “Elf” at the Kamin Science Center, 8 p.m. 

Buddy the Elf can’t help but feel out of place in Santa’s workshop at the North Pole. When Buddy discovers he is not an elf, he ventures to a magical land called New York City to meet and save his father from Santa’s naughty list. Tickets are $12.

Sunday, Dec. 15: Skate with Santa, Schenley Park Ice Rink. 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. 

Enjoy a special opportunity to take to the ice with Santa Claus just before Christmas. Skate along to great music and make happy holiday memories. Admission is $5, $4 for seniors, $3 for vets and ages 17 and younger. Skate rentals are $3.

Sunday, Dec 15: CKids Pre-Chanukah Wonderland, 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. 

The Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh is hosting an afternoon of Chanukah fun for the whole family. This event, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., will be at Chabad of the South Hills’ new building, located at 1700 Bower Hill Road. Find details here.

Sunday, Dec. 15: Noche de Familia Wellbeing Fair, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. 

The folks at Los Sabrosos Dance Company and the Pittsburgh Metropolitan Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce are hosting an evening of community connection and family fun. This free event will feature community organizations sharing information and important resources, dance lessons for the whole family, an open dance floor, and on-site childcare. This event is free, and while walk-ins are welcome, pre-registration is suggested.

Like what you’ve read here? Kidsburgh publishes a newsletter twice a week full of events and resources for families in Pittsburgh. We won’t spam you, but we will make sure you’re connected to all of the info Pittsburgh parents need to know. While you’re at it, give us a follow on Instagram, too!