10 weekend events in Pittsburgh: astronomy, performances and delicious festivals!

Above photo of Schenley Plaza courtesy of Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy.

This weekend is a busy one for little Yinzers. With several food festivals, astronomy events, and kid-friendly performances for all ages, there’s no shortage of options to meet every need. Whether your family is looking for a way to pass a quiet afternoon or a jam-packed day, the perfect weekend begins here:

Monday, Aug. 5 – Saturday, Aug. 10: Butler Farm Show

While the Butler Farm Show began on Aug. 5, there are still five fun-filled days left! Come out for animal petting, tractor pulls, carnival rides, great food and more. This event has been happening since 1948. Admission is $11.25. Find all the details here.

Friday, Aug. 9 and Saturday, Aug. 10: Amateur Astronomers Association of Pittsburgh Star Party, 8:30 p.m.

The Amateur Astronomers Association of Pittsburgh will conduct Star Parties at the Nicholas E. Wagman Observatory in Deer Lakes Park, weather permitting. Visitors will have an opportunity to view the moon, star clusters, double stars and many celestial wonders. Please contact 724-224-2510 or trcassiopeia@aol.com with questions.

Saturday, Aug. 10: Family Food Truck Festival at Glade Run Lutheran Services, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

Head to Glade Run on Aug. 10  to enjoy some of Pittsburgh’s tastiest food trucks. Cold beer, refreshing drinks and sweet treats will be for sale as well. The event also features a car cruise, vendors, mini golf, bake sale, kids zone, raffles and live performances featuring the Sun King Warriors. Admission and parking are free. Proceeds benefit children with autism and individuals served through mental health programs at Glade Run. While you’re there, check out their playground, which made Kidsburgh’s top playground list. Find details about this event here.

Saturday, Aug. 10: Pittsburgh VegFest in Allegheny Commons Park, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

This showcase of some of the best vegetarian and vegan foods will be on display along with cooking demonstrations. Hosted by the non-profit Justice for Animals organization, VegFest includes live entertainment, wellness vendors and family-friendly activities. Admission is free.

Saturday, Aug. 10: Story Saturday presents “Who Left the Light On?”  at the Carnegie Museum of Art, 11 a.m. 

Enjoy a story time reading of “Who Left the Light On?” by Richard Marnier, followed by a making activity for ages 12 and younger. Story Saturday is free with general admission.

Saturday, Aug. 10: Penny Arcade Kids Comedy Show, 2 p.m. 

A watch-and-play comedy show 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 at 2 p.m. This experience is great for children 4-8 years old – but everyone can enjoy the interactive improv, uncontrollable giggles and free vintage arcade games. Find details here.

Saturday, Aug. 10: Skywatch at the Carnegie Science Center, 9 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Reconnect with the night sky through a featured planetarium performance and, weather-permitting, live views of night sky objects in stunning telescopic detail. Tickets are $12.

Sunday Aug. 11: Kids Day at Schenley Plaza, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

Kids Day, which happens on the second Sunday of each month, features free carousel rides, interactive activities and live performances. This event is free, with no registration required.

Sunday, Aug. 11: “Mr. Messado’s School of Magic for the Young and Young at Heart,” 2 p.m. 

Every Sunday through August 25, Mr. Messado brings a fresh new take on the age-old art of prestidigitation to Liberty Magic. This event is open to all ages, but the organizers note that children under age 5 will likely not be able to follow the storyline. Tickets are $25-$40. (And check out our podcast interview with Mr. Messado himself!)

Sunday, Aug. 11: Summer Soul Line Dancing at Highland Park, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

These all-ages sessions incorporate R&B music into free classes that begin with basic steps and finish with more advanced moves. This event will occur after the evening jazz concert, and will also occur Aug. 18 and 25. Find all the details here.

Looking for more family fun? Check out our local guides to mini golf courses, swimming pools, spray parks — and also indoor play places for those days when the weather just won’t cooperate.