16 February events for Pittsburgh families, from Carved in Ice and SnowFest to a magical cruise

Image above courtesy August Wilson African American Cultural Center.

While it’s the shortest month of the year (though it’s one day longer this leap year!), February isn’t short on fun in the Pittsburgh area. It’s Black History Month, with many local organizations celebrating all month long (stay tuned for our Black History Month family events guide, coming soon).

There are also classes, workshops and festivals throughout the region. Read on to plan your February family calendar:

All month: Free admission for North Side parents at the Children’s Museum 

North Siders from zip codes 15212, 15214 and 15233 can get one free adult admission on all weekdays in February with proof of residence. Tickets must be bought in person. The Museum also offers several free admission days every year as well as various discounts. Visit pittsburghkids.org for details. They also participate in the RAD Pass program and Museums for All.

Feb. 1: City of Pittsburgh Black History Month: Freedom House Ambulance Service Presentation

Did you know the very first ambulance service with trained paramedics began in Pittsburgh’s Hill District? From 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the City-County Building, guests can learn about this incredible part of local history. Black History events sponsored by the city will be available for viewing at the City-County Building as well as online through the end of the month. Find all of the details here.

Feb. 3: NFL PLAY 60 Training Camp at the Heinz History Center

Come out to the History Center for a day of sports-themed fun sponsored by Dick’s Sporting Goods. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Feb. 3, you’ll find tackle-and-blitz contests, prizes and more Steelers-related fun. It’s a great day to explore the museum, which is free this day to anyone under age 17. NFL PLAY 60 is included in general admission.

Feb. 3: Pittsburgh Irish Festival’s Brigid

This musical event, which will have various showtimes at the August Wilson Center, features Irish folk music and performers to celebrate Brigid, a goddess in Irish and Celtic mythology. Tickets begin at $35.

Feb. 3: Moraine Winterfest

From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., the conservationinsts at Moraine State Park are hosting an amazing event with guided hikes, chainsaw carving demonstrations, music, food, and more. This event is free with food and drink vendors on site.

Feb. 3: SnowFest 2024 at Boyce Park

Compete in Mini-Junior Olympics for skiing and snowboarding, or test your engineering skills in the Cardboard Box Snow Tubing Derby. Prizes will be given to the top three participants in each category, and the whole family can enjoy live music and free hot cocoa at the Lodge. Registration is $10.

Feb. 2-3: “Moby Dick,” Byham Theater

According to the Cultural Trust, this adaptation of the classic novel is presented by “seven actors, 50 puppets, video projections, a drowned orchestra and a whale-sized whale.” Tickets start at $25.25.

Feb. 3: Winterfest, Ohiopyle State Park

This day of fun in the snow centers on the sledding hill. Bring your own sled and take advantage of free cross-country ski and snowshoe demos. This year’s tropical theme will include prizes for tropical costumes and sled decorations. Registration is not required.

Feb. 7-8: National College Fair, David Lawrence Convention Center

It’s never too early to  begin to think about college. Representatives from colleges and universities across the country will present their educational options. Admission is free.

Feb. 9-11: Monster Jam, PPG Pains Arena

The world’s best drivers and their 12,000-pound monster trucks tear up the dirt in intense competitions of speed and skill. Every year these massive trucks cover the Penguin’s ice with tons of dirt so they can tear it up for your enjoyment. Tickets start at $24.

Feb. 9-10: Carved in Ice Festival

Each year, Butler hosts an amazing event with ice carvings, family activities, food and drink and more. This year Carved in Ice has a family fun day on Saturday, with plenty of events for kids. Find out more details here.

Feb. 10: Mascot Madness, Schenley Ice Rink

While the ice rink isn’t working right now for the regular Mascot Skate, local mascots will still be available for a massively fun hangout. Online tickets will be available in mid-January: $6 for adults, $4 for seniors and veterans, $3 for ages 17 and younger.

Feb. 10 and 17: Youth Writers Camp, August Wilson African American Cultural Center

Kids with a passion for writing will explore various forms with a focus on August Wilson’s inspiration and legacy. The curriculum integrates current events, including social justice topics. Open for ages 10-16. Registration is $25 per session. There are also two sessions in March.

Feb. 11: Princess Valentine’s Ball and Cruise on the Gateway Clipper

Looking for an excuse to dress up and cruise the three rivers? This family-friendly event is a perfect way to celebrate Valentine’s Day with your children. There will be characters in costume, snacks, and plenty of dancing. Tickets begin at $5 for babies, $20 for children and $35 for adults.

Feb. 24: Fiddlesticks at the PSO

Fiddlesticks is a great introduction for young kids to the world of live symphony music. Feel free to move, dance, and bop along through this family-friendly show. Tickets start at $18.

Feb. 24-25: Flamingo Fest, National Aviary

Families can don their finest pink attire and head to the return of Flamingo Fest. Make a fun flamingo craft, learn about all things flamingo and meet the flock in Wetlands habitat. Activities included with Aviary admission.

Looking for more fun around the city? Check out our calendar of events and sign up for our twice-weekly newsletter. We won’t flood your inbox, but we will deliver the top stories and events parents need to know about each week.