Weekend fun guide for Pittsburgh-area families, April 18-21

Above photo of PNC Carousel by Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy.

Many Pittsburgh families are on spring break this week. Whether you’re celebrating the Easter holiday or just enjoying family togetherness during the long weekend, there are fun events happening all across the region. From egg hunts to spring flowers, check out these upcoming events to keep your kids happy and engaged.

Start the weekend early (especially if kids are on spring break this week):

Thursday, April 17: Easter Egg Painting and Play Time at Vintage Max, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. 

Looking for a way to keep the kids busy? The Vintage Max Kids Maker Series has a variety of crafts and creative activities. This week, it’s egg painting. Lunch will also be provided, and parents are welcome to stay or drop off. The cost is $60 for one child, $100 for two children, and registration is required.

Through April 20: Spring Flower Show: A Bloom for Every Room, Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

Vibrant colors will wow visitors at the Spring Flower Show. Expect tens of thousands of blooms, from daffodils and tulips to fragrant hyacinths and lilies, in this glorious exhibit. Each room is dedicated to a different bloom. And be sure to wander through the new Tropical Forest Panama to explore the plants, history and culture of the land bridge connecting North and South America. Tickets are $22.95 for grownups, $20.95 for seniors, $19.95 for students, $13.95 for ages 2-18, and free for those younger than 2.

Tuesday, April 15-Sunday, April 20: “Some Like It Hot” at the Benedum Center

The hit Tony and Grammy Award-winning Broadway musical comedy follows two musicians who take up new identities and go on the run after witnessing a mob hit. Best for ages 12 and older. Tickets are $36-$125.

Friday, April 18: Little Artists at CLP, 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Designed for kids from birth to age 5, this laid-back session allows little learners to explore art supplies and create something beautiful. This free event will be held at the Lawrenceville branch of the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh. No registration is required. Find more details here.

Saturday, April 19: Sensory-Friendly Morning at the Pittsburgh Zoo, 8 a.m. to 9 a.m.

Families with members who have sensory processing needs are invited to explore the Zoo early on these quiet mornings from 8-9 a.m. This program is included with general admission, and guests are welcome to stay beyond 9 a.m. Find tickets here.

Saturday, April 19: Natural Egg Dyeing Workshop at Pittsburgh Botanic Garden, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

There are so many ways to dye eggs that don’t involve those fizzy little tablets. At this event, participants will choose between dyes made from beets, cabbage, onion skins, turmeric or blueberries to decorate eggs. Then you will create and decorate a basket to carry your eggs home. Registration is $20 for grownups and $15 for kids.

Saturday, April 19: Grand Opening of PNC Carousel at Schenley Plaza, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Kids can choose to ride their favorite beast from the likes of a sea dragon, dolphin, and giraffe. And on opening day, riding the carousel is free! Each ride during the season will cost $3, an unlimited day pass is $12, a family day pass is $25, and a family season pass is $75 (save $15 if purchased before May 1). Buy passes online here.

Saturday, April 19: Teen Time at CLP, 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.

This free and casual session offers teens a chance to connect, create and grow. This week at the East Liberty branch of the Carnegie Library, it’s Teen Choice. Teen Choice is a time to continue working on the activity from the previous week’s Teen Time or explore something new using the supplies and games on hand in the Teenspace. This event is for kids in grades 6 through 12.

Saturday, April 19: Earth Day 2025 at McKinley Park, 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. 

The Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy invites families to a community Earth Month celebration packed with good vibes and fun. This event is free and open to all. Find more details here.

Saturday, April 19: Bunny Fun Cruise and Tour on the Gateway Clipper Fleet

This kid-focused event includes a magic show, meet-and-greet with the Easter Bunny, games, a DJ dance party and a themed goodie bag. Tickets are $35 for grownups, $25 for kids, $5 for infants.

Looking for more family fun? Check out our big spring guide with more than 75 activities! Sign up for our newsletter so you are the first to know about affordable, local family fun, too.