10 things to do this weekend in Pittsburgh, including Toypalooza, the Pet Expo, free library fun and more

Photo of Fiddlesticks performing courtesy of the Pittsburgh Symphony.

This weekend is not short on fun! From a variety of exciting performances by local theater, comedy and musical groups to crafty pop-ups and story times, there are so many ways to spend time together as a family this weekend. Check out this list of affordable and family-friendly activities:

Friday, Nov. 8: Hill District Walk-In Food Distribution, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

This Friday, the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank is offering a food distribution site in the Hill District. No income verification is required. Find more information about this event here and check out a list of other distribution sites here.

Friday, Nov. 8- Sunday, Nov. 10: “The Hobbit” at the O’Reilly Theater, various times

This show is open and runs through Nov. 10. There’s still plenty of time to snag a ticket. This fantastical performance takes the audience right to Middle Earth without ever leaving the Steel City. Tickets begin at $40, with various times and price points still available.

Friday, Nov. 8-Sunday, Nov. 10: “Great Expectations” by Prime Stage Theater, various times

The shows at the New Hazlett Theater put on by Prime Stage Theater are family-friendly and welcoming. This show, which runs for two weekends, features sensory-sensitive performances and audio-described performances. You can get details and tickets right here.

Friday, Nov. 8- Sunday, Nov. 10: Pittsburgh Pet Expo, various times

Did you know Pittsburgh hosts the largest pet expo in the country? For three days, come down to the Convention Center and see pet products, training tips, and more. Kids can even meet famous pets from shows like America’s Got Talent. Tickets begin at $7, and kids under 6 are free. On Friday night, all admissions are half price. Vaccinated and leashed pets are welcome to attend, too.

Saturday, Nov. 9: Poodle Doodle Cafe and Crafts Pop-Up Event, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Come out to Larimer to enjoy some low-key fun crafts with friends at this crafty pop-up. There will also be cafe drinks and sweets available for purchase. Find more details here.

Saturday, Nov. 9: Playdate at the Library, 10:30 a.m.

At the West End branch of the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh, kids age birth through 5 and their grownups are welcomed in for an hour of play, reading, fun, and new friends. Find more details about this free event here.

Saturday, Nov. 9: Story Saturday at the Carnegie Museum of Art, 11 a.m. 

Kids ages 12 and younger will enjoy story time as Alyssa Velazquez reads “Ray” by Marianna Coppo. The story will be followed by a creative making activity. Registration is free with museum admission.

Saturday, Nov. 9: “Fiddlesticks: Nature’s Soundtrack” at Heinz Hall, 11:15 a.m.

Got a kid who is curious about live music, but is too wiggly for a typical orchestra show? The Pittsburgh Symphony created Fiddlesticks concerts to introduce kids to the wondrous world of orchestral music in a welcoming and low stress environment. Tickets are $19-$31.

Saturday, Nov. 9: Penny Arcade Comedy Show, 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

This watch-and-play comedy show is designed for kids. The Arcade Comedy Theater brings together talented improvisers, actors and comedians to provide family-friendly content on the second Saturday of every month. This experience is great for children 4-8 years old, but everyone can enjoy the interactive improv, uncontrollable giggles and free vintage arcade games. Tickets are $12.

Sunday, Nov. 10: The Toypalooza Toy Show, 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

At the AHN Sports Complex at Cool Springs, the entire 50,000 square feet will be filled with toys, games, and pop culture references. This event runs all day and admission is $10. Kids 12 and under are free. There will be food trucks on site, as well. Purchase tickets here.

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