There is no denying it. The nights are cooler, days are shorter, and school is back in session. Fall is on its way. Take advantage of this beautiful time of year in Pittsburgh with PMB’s Guide to top family activities and events for September.
Heinz Field Kickoff and Rib Festival: Sept 1 – 5
This free Labor Day weekend five-day event at Heinz Field offers ribs from 14 vendors across the country, games for kids and two concerts each day with national country star Travis Trit headlining. Bring your Steelers pride and appetite to this Pittsburgh tradition.
Pittsburgh Folk Festival: Sept 3-4
Celebrating its 60th year, this festival showcases Pittsburgh’s rich ethic diversity highlighting 40+ cultures. Over two-days, indulge in international cuisine, shop the global marketplace of imported and handmade goods, check out cooking demonstrations and kid-friendly crafts.
Festival of Combustion at Carrie Furnaces: Sept 3
At its peak, Carrie Furnaces site produced over 1,200 tons of iron a day. This festival focuses on hot art making processes and hosts a variety of hands-on activities that range from glass flame-working, ceramics, molten lava, bronze casting and cast iron. You make it, you take it home. That’s hot!
Pittsburgh Renaissance Festival: Sept 3-5, 10-11, 17-18, 24-25
Turn back the time to the 16th Century where hundreds of costumed merrymakers live, work, and perform. Wander down village streets, watch artisans create original works, and splurge on extra large roasted turkey legs you eat with your hands.
47th Annual “A Fair in the Park” at Mellon Park: Sept 9-11
Don’t miss this opportunity to shop from over 100 regional and national artists at Mellon Park. From clay, fiber, wood, jewelry, glass, metal and mixed media, get creatively inspired with art in the park.
Pittsburgh Irish Festival: Sept 9-11
Celtic culture takes over Pittsburgh’s Riverplex at Irish Fest. Wear your green and explore the Irish marketplace, authentic Irish food, music, cultural workshops and step-dance performances. Tap into your inner Irish with cider, whiskey and beer tastings.
Family Fun Day at the Frick: Sept 10
Relax with the family for free at the Frick. Family activities for children include badminton, croquet, an obstacle course and more. Pack a picnic and join the fun at “Pittsburgh’s prettiest backyard”.
Alphabet Trail and Tales at Frick Park: Sept 10
Follow the Alphabet Trail from A to Z with this interactive storybook fun through Frick Park. This annual Citiparks literacy event is a great way for families to explore the outdoors while learning the alphabet through games, music and art. Now it’s time to sing with me…
Mermaid at Gemini Children’s Theater: Sept 10- 25
Look at this stuff? Isn’t it neat? The Pittsburgh production of Mermaid is based on the original Hans Christian Anderson story The Little Mermaid. Appropriate for children age 2 and older. You will have a blast at this show!
Grandparents Day at the Zoo: Sept 11
Happy Grandparents Day! Free admission for grandparents at the Pittsburgh Zoo when accompanied by a grandchild. That deal is no monkeying around.
Kids Day at Schenley Plaza: Sept 11
Citiparks hosts a free day for kids at Schenley Plaza. Ride the PNC Carousel and enjoy activities including face painting, balloon artists and music. Wee.
Penn’s Colony Festival: Sept 17-18 & 24- 25
History unfolds at Penn’s Colony where the mid 1700’s French & Indian era have inspired 185+ artisans to gather once a year to showcase traditional crafts. Witness historic re-enactments, artillery skills and Colonial demonstrations. Prepare thyself to step back in time.
24th Annual Heritage Festival at McConnell Mills State Park: Sept 24 – 25
Free admission and parking at this annual festival featuring bluegrass music and free tours of the historic gristmill. On Saturday, join a family-friendly hike at 11 am, and nature-focused activities for children.
City of Pittsburgh Great Race: Sept 25
This race began 39 years ago as a community fun run started by then Pittsburgh Mayor Richard S. Caliruiri. Today, over 16,0000 runners and walkers participate in the 5k and 10k Great Race. Ready, set, go!
The Waterfront’s Fall Festival: Sept 26
Cheer on 75 wiener dogs in the 6th Annual Running of the Wieners at The Waterfront’s Fall Festival. Shop at area stores for fall discounts and see live music, a performance by Josh + Gab, pumpkin painting, and eat at the fall cookout at Rock Bottom.
Fall Festivals at Local Farms: Throughout September
Fall festivals at local Pittsburgh area farms begin in September. Take the family for hay rides, apple picking, farm animals, play areas and corn mazes. See direct links for farm information and details: Simmons Farm, Soergels Farm, Trax Farm, Triple B Farms, and Shenot Farm.
We hope this guide gives you a few ideas to keep your family busy in September. Visit the Pittsburgh Moms Blog Community Calendar for events happening every day in September.
Do you have an event to add our calendar? Click here to submit.
