From a sensory-friendly concert to a snowy hike, here are 10 things to do this weekend

Photo above courtesy of Allegheny County Parks.

While the weather forecasters are calling for another chilly weekend, there are still some fun activities happening around the city — indoors and out. Whether you’re up for a quiet library event or snow tubing, there’s an activity to meet every need and budget.

Your weekend planning starts here:

Now through February: Penguins on Parade, Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium

Line up early to watch the penguins waddle along the path from the upper entrance of the aquarium at 11:30 a.m. sharp on Saturdays and Sundays. The penguins typically spend about 20 minutes exploring outside, depending on the weather (check the website first.) This event is free with zoo admission.

Saturday, Jan. 20 and Sunday, Jan 21: Guided Hikes with Park Rangers, Allegheny County Parks

Explore the trails at eight area parks throughout the month, with two walking tours this weekend. Each hike is about two miles with some elevation. Registration is free, but hikes do fill up so be sure to register.

Friday, Jan. 19 – Sunday, Jan. 21: 2024 World of Wheels Custom Car Show at the David Lawrence Convention Center

Car lovers will want to cruise down to the 63rd annual World of Wheels. You will see five generations of Batmobiles, FMX Freestyle Motocross performances and loads of custom cars. Admission is $24 for grownups, $8 for ages 6-12, free for ages 5 and younger. You can find discount tickets at O’Reilly Auto Parts stores.

Friday, Jan. 19 – Sunday, Jan. 21: “Rosa Parks and the Montgomery Bus Boycott,” New Hazlett Theater

Prime Stage Theatre continues its Prime Stage Sprouts series with this civil rights story. Tickets are $14 for students, $24 for grownups. Look for pay-what-you-want preview tickets on Jan. 19, as well as sensory-inclusive and audio-described performances. This play runs this weekend as well as next weekend, closing on Jan. 28.

Saturday, Jan. 20: Virtual Tour of Andrew Carnegie’s birthplace, 10 a.m.

Looking to stay warm at home this weekend, but still increase your knowledge of local history? The Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh is hosting a virtual event where participants can tour the birthplace of its benefactor, Andrew Carnegie. This event is free, but registration is required.

Saturday, Jan. 20: Azure Family Concert (sensory-friendly!) at CLP, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. 

Azure Family Concerts once again presents an interactive, sensory-friendly live music program at the Lawrenceville location of the Carnegie Library. This time, they will be celebrating African American musicians and composers. This event is open to all ages and abilities, and any kind of sensory expression is welcome during the concert, from dancing to stimming. Find more details here.

Saturday, Jan. 20: Attack Theatre Dance Company workshop at CLP, 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.

If you aren’t familiar with Attack Theater yet, their arts education programs use the power of creative play to reach kids. They focus on reflection, investigation and imagination. Dance movements are used to emphasize emotional and physical wellness and to teach self-regulation skills. This event is at the Downtown branch of the library. It’s for ages 0-5 and is free. Find all the details here.

Saturday Jan. 20 – Sunday, Jan. 21: “Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire” in concert at Heinz Hall

Kids can rediscover the magic of “Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire” while the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra does a live performance of Patrick Doyle’s unforgettable score. Tickets start at $55.

Sunday, Jan. 21 : Bird Photography Workshop Series at the National Aviary

Teens ages 13 through 18 can refine their bird photography skills with a two-part course taught by National Aviary Educator and photographer Mike Faix. The course begins this weekend and the second session will be Jan. 28. This class is best for photographers with basic to intermediate skills. Those younger than 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is $299.

Sunday, Jan. 21: Mini Pop Kids Live presents The Good Vibes Tour at The Oaks Theater

This touring pop concert is by kids and for kids. The show features popular songs by Taylor Swift, Beyonce, Olivia Rodrigo and Ariana Grande. Tickets start at $29.

And if you’re looking for more fun, check out our January events guide and big winter fun guide!