6 fun family events in Pittsburgh this weekend, including maple sugaring, Flamingo Fest and a free Crafternoon

Looking for fun family events in Pittsburgh and the surrounding areas to keep your little ones busy? From maple sugaring to Flamingo Fest, our region has plenty happening this weekend. Check out these six events:

Friday, Feb. 25: “Return of the Jedi” at Heinz Hall, 7 p.m.

Classical music meets the ultimate battle between father and son. Led by conductor Jacob Joyce, the PSO show will feature a screening of the film with John Williams’ Oscar-winning musical score performed live. Buy tickets.

Saturday, Feb. 26:  How Sweet It Is: Maple Syrup Making, North Park, 10 a.m. 

Kids can learn how to identify and tap maple trees at the Latodami Nature Center. Rangers will lead kids through home-style methods to collect and boil the sap, eventually making it worthy of pouring over a warm plate of waffles. Kids must be registered with their grownups for this free program. A few slots remain available for the 10 a.m. session (register here), but the 1 p.m. session is now full. 

Saturday, Feb. 26: Story Saturdays: “With My Hands,” Carnegie Museum of Art, 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.

The February episode of Story Saturdays at Carnegie Museum of Art delves into “With My Hands: Poems About Making Things,” by Amy Ludwig VanDerwater. Kids ages 12 and younger will enjoy a reading from a collection of relatable maker poems, followed by a hands-on creative activity inspired by the book. Registration is free with general admission.

Saturday, Feb. 26: Tree Identification Hike at Settlers Cabin Park, 1 p.m.-3 p.m. 

Identifying trees can be a little trickier when branches are bare. This free guided hike with Allegheny County Park Rangers will provide insight into the pertinent characteristics of trees. The hike covers about 2 miles over moderate terrain. A session is scheduled for Feb. 26 at Settlers Cabin Park. Registration is free (but don’t delay — only a few slots were left as of Feb. 23!).

Saturday, Feb. 26: Saturday Crafternoon at Assemble, 1 p.m.-3 p.m.

At this free drop-in program for learners 5-11 years old, your child can join Assemble teachers and guest experts to explore the dynamic world of STEAM learning.

Sunday, Feb. 27: Flamingo Fest at the National Aviary, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Flock to the National Aviary and celebrate these fascinating wading birds! Get face-to-face with colorful flamingos in the wetlands habitat and learn all about their specialized bills and long legs during an avian talk. Enjoy a story activity, pick up a take-home craft kit and learn how you can help protect wetlands birds. Buy tickets.

Sunday, Feb. 27: Family Science Outside: Maple Sugaring, Jennings Environmental Education Center, various times

Jennings’ Family Science Outside series turns to the science and math behind maple sugaring. More than just a fun outing away from screens, the program is aligned with math and science taught at many local schools and with state and national education standards. Your group of 12 or fewer can sign up for one of the timeslots (9 a.m., 11 a.m. or 1 p.m.). The program is intended for kids ages 2 to 5, but older siblings are welcome to attend. Registration is required for this free activity.

Looking for more family events in Pittsburgh? Check out our February events guide, our guide to maple sugar season, out outdoor winter fun guide and our guide to upcoming entertainment events.