11 Pittsburgh-area weekend events, from nature hikes to an NFL training camp for kids

Above photo courtesy of the Heinz History Center.

While it may feel like the new year has just begun, the first weekend of February is already approaching. Get ready for a fun one: There are so many wonderful and affordable family activities happening in and around Pittsburgh this weekend. Make the most of the chilly days during indoor fun, including story times, science workshops and performances. And if you’re up for braving the weather, there are also tons of chances to get outside, including local skiing and other winter sports.

Start your weekend planning right here:

Saturday, Feb. 1: Little Kids Dance Fusion at Los Sabrosos, 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.

This dance class is designed for kids ages 3 to 6 who want to move and groove while making new friends. The cost for a single class is $20, with discounts for multiple classes. Find more information here.

Saturday, Feb 1: Ice Cream for Breakfast at Jeni’s, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Come on out to Bakery Square in your jammies this weekend and grab a spoon. To celebrate Ice Cream For Breakfast Day, Jeni’s will be open for breakfast. It’s a sweet way to start a weekend morning before heading off to even more family activities around the region. Find details here.

Saturday, Feb. 1: The Citizens Science Lab Mini Lab, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

This free event, which is a drop-off event designed for kids ages 5 to 7 years old, gives kids a hands-on and engaging look at various scientific principles. While this event is free, registration is required and space is limited. Find more information here.

Saturday, Feb. 1: NFL Play 60 Training Camp at the Heinz History Center, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 

Kids are invited to lace up and level up their game with a day of fun and fitness. Five floors of activities include mini-NFL training with a series of quick-hitting drills, physical challenges found throughout the Sports Museum. You can also get creative in the touchdown celebration contest and compete for prizes and giveaways. Admission is free for ages 17 and younger.

Saturday, Feb 1: Squonking in the Library, 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.

What is squonking? Come to the Wilkinsburg Public Library this weekend to find out. This event is a lively workshop where young minds will learn the joy of musical expression! Through rhythmic games, instrument building and sound connection, kids in grades K through 8 can experience making music with Squonkers Lindsay Herring and T-Funk Tony Thomas. Find more info here!

Saturday, Feb. 1: B is for Books Children’s Author Series with Helen Smith, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Children’s author Helen Smith comes to B is for Books on this weekend to read her book, “My Hair Ain’t Nappy.” There will be a book signing, read-aloud, giveaway, snacks and more. “My Hair Ain’t Nappy” portrays a young girl who loves her natural beauty and embraces a variety of looks that she achieves with her hair. Find details about this event and other events at B is for Books here.

Saturday, Feb. 1: SnowFest 2025 at Boyce Park, 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. 

This annual event promises a full day of snowy fun. Compete in the Mini Junior Olympics for skiing and snowboarding or put your engineering skills to the test 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 for competitors is $10 per event, plus a lift ticket.

Saturday, Feb. 1: Family Hike at Powdermill Nature Center, 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. 

The Carnegie Museum of Natural History also manages Powdermill Nature Center, which is always bursting with fun and creative family activities. All ages will enjoy this invigorating winter hike. Registration is free.

Saturday, Feb. 1: Brigid Celebration of Irish and Celtic Music, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Come to the August Wilson Center to celebrate Irish and Celtic music as performers honor this deep and rich culture. There are two showings, with tickets beginning at $45. Find more info here.

Sunday, Feb. 2: Pittsburgh Reptile Show, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Come to Pittsburgh Mills Mall for all things slimy, scaly and cute. You’ll find a wide range of reptiles, including snakes, lizards, turtles, frogs, and more. Vendors also showcase exotic pets like amphibians, arachnids, birds, fish, exotic cats, Feeder animals, and small mammals. The cost is $6. Find more details here.

Sunday, Feb. 2: Guided Hike: Groundhog Day with the Park Rangers at Deer Lakes Park, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. 

How much wood would a woodchuck chuck if a woodchuck could chuck wood? Find out this and more about the groundhog, also known as a whistle pig or a woodchuck. The guided hike will be about two miles with moderate elevation changes. Bring water and dress for the weather. Registration is free.

If you’re looking for even more family events, check out our guide to the winter months and sign up for our newsletter!