We’re midway through spring and Pittsburgh is in full bloom. Stop and smell the roses at these kid-friendly events throughout the city. Your little sprouts won’t forget it.
1. Disney’s “Newsies” at the Byham Theater: May 2-12
Extra! Extra! Read all about it! The Broadway musical about NYC newsboys is coming to Pittsburgh. Join Jack and his paper-peddling pals as they pursue their dreams and stand up for what’s right.
2. Pittsburgh Kids Marathon and Toddler Trot: May 4
Do your kids like to run wild? Let them focus their energy on the racecourse during kids’ events that are part of this year’s Dick’s Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon. The Sheetz Pittsburgh Toddler Trot starts at 8:30 a.m. at Point State Park, followed by the Chick-fil-A Pittsburgh Kids Marathon, a one-mile dash from the North Shore across the Roberto Clemente Bridge, at 9:30 a.m.
3. Kennywood Opening Day: May 4
Get your matching outfits ready! Kennywood opens for the season on May 4. Along with all the old-fashioned rides and Kiddieland favorites, later this year grownups will be able to take a spin on The Steel Curtain, a new Steelers-themed roller coaster that hits speeds of 76 miles per hour and soars 220 feet off the ground. Kind of like Hines Ward in his prime.
4. Royal Ball Fundraiser for Gemini Children’s Theater at the Pittsburgh Field Club: May 4
Storybook characters come to life at the Royal Costume Ball! The 13th annual fundraiser for Gemini Children’s Theater in McKees Rocks features interactive musical performances, a dance party, luncheon, games and prizes from noon to 3:30 p.m. Proceeds support discounted and free tickets to shows and events, scholarships for acting classes and summer camps and reduced rates for educational outreach performances.
5. Meadowcroft Rockshelter’s Opening Weekend: May 4-5
This historic landmark in Washington, Pa., is run by the Heinz History Center. Along with a glimpse into the deepest parts of an archaeological excavation that reaches back 19,000 years, visitors to Meadowcroft can also explore a 16th-century Native American village, an 18th-century log cabin and trading post, and a recreated 19th-century village with a schoolhouse, church and blacksmith shop. Hours for the site’s 51st season opening weekend are Saturday from noon to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
6. Remake Leaning Days and various locations: May 9-19
Summer vacation is right around the corner, but there’s still time to soak up some knowledge. More than 300 educational events will be held throughout the region from May 9 through May 19, during Remake Learning Days. The festival connects kids in Pre-K through high school with a network of learning facilities — including schools, museums, libraries, parks, businesses, churches, nonprofit organizations and community centers — where they can let their imaginations run wild.
7. Kindness Event and Art Show at Animal Friends: May 10
The Ohio Township animal shelter will transform into a crafting zone from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Visitors can make toys and treat dispensers for the homeless residents, take a guided tour of the facility and get tips on caring for their own pets. Portraits of adoptable animals made by local students will be available for purchase with proceeds benefiting Animal Friends.