10 family-friendly events in Pittsburgh this weekend (some of them free!)

This weekend, you can walk the woods in search of wildflowers, find magic on stage and celebrate the season with the Easter Bunny in multiple locations. Here’s a snapshot of the family-friendly events in Pittsburgh this weekend:

Friday, April 15 and Saturday, April 16: sensory-friendly adaptation of “The Little Prince”

This weekend, Gemini Theater will perform a unique adaptation of “The Little Prince”. The production, created by one of Gemini’s acting workshop students, was inspired by the beloved book, “Le Petit Prince” by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. Kids who need extra attention paid to lighting, sound and other special effects will enjoy the sensory-friendly, immersive experience. They’ll be seated on the floor among planets and stars as characters move around them. Feel free to bring cushions or blankets. Chairs will be provided for accompanying grownups. “The Little Prince” will be performed on April 15 and 16. Tickets are $14-$15.

Saturday, April 16:  Bunny Fun Cruise, 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Hop onboard the Gateway Clipper Fleet’s 2-hour Bunny Fun Cruise and meet the Easter Bunny. A DJ dance party includes the “Bunny Hop” in the energetic playlist. All kids receive a special treat from the big bunny, too. Face painting, photos and snacks will be available for purchase. Tickets are $20 for ages 1-12, $32 for grownups and $5 for infants.

Saturday, April 16: Eggstravaganza at the National Aviary, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

The National Aviary hosts kids at the spring-themed Eggstravaganza, where they’ll participate in a scavenger hunt and storytime, and receive prizes to take home. It’s a fine day to explore the habitats and free-flying birds, too. Eggstravaganza is included in general admission.

Saturday, April 16: Super Science Saturday: Eggstravaganza, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Eggstravaganza at the Carnegie Museum of Natural History will give kids a scientific look at all things egg-related. They can compete in the annual springtime scavenger hunt for eggs and nests from tiny insects to mega-sized dinosaurs. Following egg-themed clues, they’ll search for specimens, collect stamps along the way and collect a goodies bag of springtime treats. Eggstravaganza activities are included in general admission. (Arrive at 8:30 a.m. for sensory-friendly hours.)

 Saturday, April 16: ‘Planting Beans from Seeds” at McKinley Park, 12:00 p.m.

The Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy and Soil Sisters are looking for participants to join them as they kick off planting season and demonstrate how to plant beans from seeds. Participants of all ages are welcome to join this hands-on activity in McKinley Park. You’ll learn gardening tips from the Soil Sisters, the perfect way to celebrate Earth Month. Register for free right here.

Saturday, April 16: Charlie Chaplin’s “The Kid” at 100 at the Harris Theater, 7:30 p.m.

Today marks 133 years since the birth of one of the film industry’s most iconic figures. Pittsburgh’s teens and grownups can celebrate actor, filmmaker and composer Charlie Chaplin during this one-night event. Watch a beautifully restored print of Chaplin’s groundbreaking 1921 film, “The Kid,” then hang out during an illustrated talk and discussion presented by Pittsburgh-based mime artist and comedy choreographer Dan Kamin. (Your kids might be impressed to hear that Kamin trained Robert Downey Jr., better known as Iron Man, for his Oscar-nominated performance in the movie “Chaplin.”) Buy tickets here.

Sunday, April 17: Virtual Spring Festival of The Egg, various times

Searching for family-friendly events in Pittsburgh, but don’t want to leave home? Dive into spring with the Cathedral of Learning’s Nationality Room Committees. This free virtual family festival is packed with interactive videos and an egg marketplace exploring a wide range of cultural traditions. You can check out video demonstrations spotlighting egg decorating, palm weaving, ethnic cooking, butter lamb carving, Easter customs, cookie baking, spring crafts, jelly bean games and more.

Sunday, April 17: Spring Mushrooms in Frick Park, 10-11 a.m.

Have fun with fungi during this free Earth Month event hosted by the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy. Join the two-mile hike led by Western Pennsylvania Mushroom Club’s Stephen Bucklin to discover different species found in spring, how to identify them, and what these fascinating fungi are up to. Register for free.

Sunday, April 17: Opening Day at Kennywood, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

Kennywood’s open! Or will be on Sunday. Celebrating its 125th anniversary this year, Kennywood Park has been working on beautifying improvements and service upgrades that will enhance your family’s visit. The Old Mill, in operation since 1901, sports a new facade. Color-changing lights line the midway. Best of all, the beloved Kangaroo returns on May 28 with modernizations. Kennywood will be open weekends from April 17 to May 22 for the Swing into Spring festival that promises lots of surprises. Buy tickets here and learn more about what’s new at Kennywood right here.

Looking for more family-friendly events in Pittsburgh? Check out our April kid-friendly events guide, comb through our roster of Earth Day events and our big guide to spring events, and checkout this lineup of sensory-friends events and hours. Also, don’t forget to explore our regularly updated events calendar.