10 things to do this weekend around Pittsburgh, including sensory-friendly holiday events and lots of free fun

Photo of dancers prepping for “The Nutcracker” at PBT by Yu-Ling Cheng.

With just three weekends left in 2023, Pittsburgh has no plans to wind down any time soon. From big performances to quiet story hours, there is so much going on this weekend for families to enjoy. Along with all the holiday light displays and opportunities for family volunteering, we’ve got two sensory-friendly events for little Yinzers who need a bit of extra support.

Before you plan your weekend, read on:

Friday, Dec. 15: Science of Sports Day Camp at Assemble, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For kids in grades 3-5, this day camp will teach all about the science behind one of Clemente’s killer hits. Sports will be used as the framework to teach about physics at this camp, which is free to Garfield residents.

Friday thru Sunday, Dec. 15- 17: The Factory at The Andy Warhol Museum

Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., the staff at the Warhol open up space for families to create and learn together. Screenprinting is available from 12-4 p.m. and is free to try on paper. Other materials such as bags and shirts can be purchased and screen-printed. Please check the museum website before attending, as sometimes staff changes will affect The Factory’s schedule.

Saturday, Dec. 16: Christmas Bird Count Workshop, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

It’s time for the Christmas Bird Count at Powdermill Nature Center. Hear the rich, long history of the Bird Count, which now spans nearly 3,000 areas throughout the Western Hemisphere. Learn about different types of bird feeders and seeds that help attract birds in the winter. If you’re participating in the Bird Count for other areas of southwestern PA, this will be a helpful practice run. Find more details here.

Saturday, Dec. 16: South Side Kids Breakfast with Santa, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

You’re invited to South Side Kids Breakfast with Santa at Cupka’s Cafe 2. Families and children are welcome to enjoy a free yummy breakfast and visit with Santa! This event also includes toys and games, cookie decorating, pictures with Santa and a holiday dance party. For questions, please email southsidekidspgh@gmail.com.

Saturday, Dec. 16: Sensory-Friendly screening of “The Grinch” at The Lindsay, 10:30 a.m.

“The Grinch,” a 90-minute animated movie voiced by Benedict Cumberbatch and Pharrell Williams, will be presented as a sensory-friendly screening at The Lindsay Theater & Cultural Center in Sewickley. Sensory friendly screenings are geared to families and individuals who are impacted by autism or other special needs, and enables the entire family to participate in the cinematic experience. No trailers are shown to reduce “sit time,” dim house lights remain on throughout the screening and volume is lowered. Also, doors exiting the screening room remain open, allowing guests to easily walk into the lobby if they wish. Find all the details here. Get tickets (discounted to $8.75) here.

Saturday, Dec. 16: Play Date at CLP Woods Run, 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.

For kids ages birth through 5 years old, this play date is a chill, relaxed way to interact with other kids and meet fellow local parents. CLP play dates are free and do not require registration. They can be found on the Carnegie Library events page.

Saturday, Dec. 16: AWCommunity Day: Holiday Edition, August Wilson African American Cultural Center, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The lineup of family-focused activities includes vendors selling jewelry, art and clothing. Enjoy live performances from Alumni Theater Company, Flow Band and Kwanzaa dancers and drummers. Families will be able to learn about Kwanzaa, engage in hands-on activities, and take pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Registration is free.

Saturday, Dec. 16: “Super Science Saturday – Tales from the Field” at Carnegie Museum of Natural History, 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Museum scientists have been working hard all year, traveling near and far to conduct field research and contribute to the newest science. Follow your “Tales of the Field Passport” to meet participating scientists and claim a goodie bag of field work essentials like a notebook, pencil, and compass. Add your dream research destination to a map and see where other explorers want to travel. Find the details here.

Saturday, Dec. 16: Crafternoons at Assemble, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. 

Each Saturday, Assemble hosts a free afternoon of crafting for elementary-aged kids.  Work with a variety of mediums, explore different crafting supplies, and make some friends. Check out their website for more details and to register. Even though it’s free, registration is required.

Dec. 17: Pittsburgh Ballet Theater Sensory-Friendly Nutcracker

This special performance, which will occur at 4:30 p.m., is for guests of all ages who are autistic, have sensory sensitivities, or other unique needs. The performance is relaxed, so guests can move around, stim and engage with the performance however they feel comfortable. Tickets range from $15-50. Find more information here.

Don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter so you don’t miss a thing! We’ve also got a full calendar of daily events, so find the perfect fit for your family (or add your organization’s event!)