12 Pittsburgh family events this weekend, from the Marathon to paddleboarding, glassblowing and tons of free fun

Photo above by Leo Rivas via Unsplash. 

On the first official weekend of Remake Learning Days, there are so many fun, free activities happening around the region. There are also family events in surrounding counties, including free historical tours and a YMCA Healthy Kids Day. It’s also marathon weekend and the Ultimate Play Day is happening, too! Before making your weekend plans, read on to see these awesome Pittsburgh family events and more. 

Friday, May 5: Remake Learning Day 2023 at the Pittsburgh Glass Center, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Come explore Glass, Galaxies & Gases with the team at the Pittsburgh Glass Center. Kids ages 5 through 18 can explore an exciting and out-of-this-world experience during this free workshop. Enjoy a galaxy of glass in the gallery and engage with local artists during live hot glass-making and electrifying gas demonstrations.

Friday, May 5: Full Flower Moon Glowing SUP (stand-up paddle) Experience, 7:30 p.m. 

Adults and kids ages 12 and up who have experience with standup paddleboarding can gather at Moraine State Park for a sunset paddle followed by after-dark paddling assisted by glowing LED lights. For kids younger than 12, the organizer recommends contacting them to plan a different excursion. The cost for this unique experience is $75 and details can be found here. 

Friday, May 5 through Sunday, May 7: “Dear Evan Hansen” at the Benedum Center, various times 

A letter that was never meant to be seen prompts a lie that was never meant to be told. Evan Hansen is about to get a chance to finally fit in. This show, which actually opens May 2 and runs all week, is best for teens to adults. Tickets start at $42.

Friday, May 5 through Sunday, May 7: “39 Steps” at the New Hazlett Theater

Prime Stage Theater presents Alfred Hitchcock’s suspenseful thriller that becomes a hilarious fast-paced experience with intrigue as four actors bring 150 characters to life. Best for middle school to adults. Tickets are $19 for students, $39 for adults. A pay-what-you-can preview is offered on May 9. This show runs through May 14.

Saturday, May 6: Pittsburgh Kids of Steel Marathon, PNC Park Riverwalk

This day is packed with tiny racers and family activities. There’s even a finish-line festival at the Point! Kids can run in the race or just cheer everyone on! G more details here about ways to participate. 

Saturday, May 6: Pop-Up Chess, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

This free event is open to any school-aged child ages 5-18 at Allegheny Commons Park. Chess sets will be provided by The Queen’s Gambit as part of Remake Learning Days. Find more details here. 

Saturday, May 6: Salamander Saturday at the Carnegie Science Center, 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Learn about the plight of the world’s salamanders, their conservation and their importance to ecosystems through themed activities, storytime and animal ambassadors. This event is free with general admission.

Saturday, May 6: YMCA Healthy Kids Day, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. 

Join the folks at the Rose E. Schneider YMCA in Cranberry Township for a free afternoon packed with vendors, food, and activities. Their playground even has a zip line! Find more details here. 

Saturday, May 6 and Sunday, May 7: Beaver County History Weekend

Interested in the history of the region along the Ohio River, tracing back to indigenous communities and charting the path through to the heyday of steel? Come to this two-day event hosted by the Beaver County Historical Research and Landmark Foundation. There are multiple events where families can tour schoolhouses, mansions, historic Log Town and Old Economy Village, as well as a model railway. Find our more information here. 

Sunday, May 7: Pittsburgh Reptile Show and Sale, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

Whether you want to buy a reptile, look around, or chat with other cold-blooded animal enthusiasts, this event is a fun way to explore the world of reptile ownership. Kids get in for free, and adult admission is only $6. Find more details here.

Sunday, May 7: Pittsburgh Marathon, Downtown and various neighborhoods

It’s time for the marathon once again. Grab a spot early and cheer on the many runners, ranging from Olympic qualifiers and paralympic athletes to zany racers in fun costumes. According to professional marathon runners, Pittsburgh is known for having more spirit than other cities and a great cheering section. Make some noisy shakers, grab your air horn, and head to a spot along the courses for the race! Find details about the race here. 

Sunday May 7: Ultimate Play Day, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. 

Join Playful Pittsburgh Collaborative and CitiParks for the Ultimate Play Day at Lower McKinley Park. Ultimate Play Day is a celebration of playfulness for people of all ages.This annual event is an opportunity for people throughout the Pittsburgh region to play together and raise awareness of the benefits of play for all people — from birth to 199 years.

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Looking for more Pittsburgh family events? Don’t miss our guide to all of May, as well as our summer camp guide. And check out our daily events calendar for even more fun.