September has an abundance of exciting free things to do with your family in Pittsburgh. In fact, we’ve gathered OVER 100 of the best, free, family-friendly things happening around the city. You’ll find free museum admission days, festivals, concerts, movies as well as a few great indoor play places! Enjoy plenty of fun that won’t cost you a penny.
Please note: Some events occur over multiple days. If you see an event you’re interested in attending, always check the link for the specific date/time/details/registration. While admission is free, some activities at the events may cost extra.
Thursday, September 1 | Everyone can enjoy free admission to the Pittsburgh Botanic Gardens– don’t forget to stop by the Fairy Gardens! There’s plenty of food, agriculture and fun at the Big Knob Grange Fair in New Sewickley Township August 30 through September 3. The Annual Pittsburgh Steelers Kickoff and Rib Fest at Heinz Field – outdoor concerts and family friendly fun until September 5. FREE
Friday, September 2 | Frolick on the grass, participate in family activities and enjoy live music during the final Free Summer Fridays at the Frick for the 2016 season. FREE
Saturday, September 3 | Explore cultures and traditions from around the world at Pittsburgh Folk Festival on September 3 and 4. FREE
Sunday, September 4 | Visit the Westmoreland Museum of Art, free admission every first Sunday of the month. Bring your own mat and get your stretch on in Market Square with Yoga in the Square. Little car enthusiasts will love the Ultimate Sunday Car Cruise at Murrysview Shoppes’. FREE
Monday, September 5 | HAPPY LABOR DAY! Spend some time with the ones you love, relaxing… always free 🙂 The Pittsburgh Labor Day Parade kicks off downtown at 10am. FREE
Tuesday, September 6 | Looking for some free indoor fun? Let the little ones burn off some energy at the Ross Park Mall indoor play area. Or, head outdoors to the Wiltshire Park and Playground. FREE
Wednesday, September 7 | Get creative at the Toddler Art Class at Learning Express Bakery Square. FREE
Thursday, September 8 | Every Thursday is Free Ballocity Day at Fun Fore All in Cranberry. FREE
Friday, September 9 | Take a hike on a trail at Riverview Park or Settlers Cabin Park.
Saturday, September 10 | Happy National Grandparents, Day! Hugs are always free 🙂 Alphabet Trails and Tales presents a day of interactive reading and fun at the Blue Slide Park and Playground. Attend the 2nd Annual Chinese Cultural Festival in Schenley Plaza. Attend the celebration and Grand Opening of Frick Park Environmental Center! FREE
Sunday, September 11 | Free face painting, a balloon artist and free rides on the PNC Carousel at Kids Day in Schenley Plaza. Grandma and Grandpa get FREE admission to the Pittsburgh Zoo when accompanied by a grandchild! Accessorize shoes, hair and outfits at the Betty Spaghetti Event at Learning Express Bakery Square. FREE
Monday, September 12 | Preschoolers will love Parachute Play at Shaler North Hills Library (every Monday through December 13). Gather the family around the TV to cheer on the Steelers for their game of the 2016 regular season (game starts at 7:10pm)! FREE
Tuesday, September 13 | For the smallest book enthusiasts, Birth to 18 months and their caregivers, Shaler North Hills Library hosts Book Babies every Tuesday at 10:15 & 11:15, September 13 – December 13.
Wednesday, September 14 | Little ones will love crawling around the padded floors and soft play pieces at the play area in the Mall at Robinson. FREE
Thursday, September 15 | Bring the whole family to Family Game Night at Learning Express at Bakery Square. FREE
Friday, September 16 | Fall is just around the corner! You might not be ready to jump in a pile of leaves just yet but you can enjoy free admission to these Fall Festivals around the city, happening all weekend: Oktoberfest in Evans City, Cannonsburg Oktoberfest, Scottsdale Fall Festival, Evans City Oktoberfest. FREE
Saturday, September 17 | Little builders will love the LEGO Make and Take at Learning Express Bakery Square. More free admission to Fall Festivals: Castle Shannon Fall Festival and Green Tree Borough Octoberfest. Bring the kids Waterfront’s Fall Festival and the 7th Annual Running of the Wieners (small breed dogs running around in hot dog costumes, what’s not to love?!). FREE
Sunday, September 18 | Visit a couple epic waterfalls near Pittsburgh. FREE
Monday, September 19 | Kids will love storytime at Castle Toys and Games (first and third Monday of every month). FREE
Tuesday, September 20 | Just bring your hands and imagination to Shaler North Hills Library for their Playdough Challenge. FREE
Wednesday, September 21 | Visit the toy-box themed play area in the Monroeville Mall. Settle in for a family movie night… don’t forget the popcorn! FREE
Thursday, September 22 | Try out the new slide and zip line in Mingo Creek County Park. FREE
Friday, September 23 | Meet at dusk in Townsend Park for Family Movie Night. FREE
Saturday, September 24 | Enjoy free admission to tons of local Fall festivals around the Pittsburgh area: Cecil Township Fall Festival (September 24 – 25), Heritage Festival (September 24 – 25) and Witches Night Out. Stop by Hartwood Acres for the ultimate free family fun day, Fall Hay Day, featuring free hay rides, bounce-house attractions,petting zoo, games, face painters, magician and more. FREE
Sunday, September 25 | Visit the new August Wilson Park and Playground (it has a fantastic view of the city).
Monday, September 26 | Looking for more indoor fun? Stop by the Pittsburgh Toy Lending Library – your first visit is FREE!
Wednesday, September 28 | Preschool Drama Play and Toddler Fun at Shaler North Hills Library Wednesdays: September 14th through December 14th. FREE
Thursday, September 29 | Tour the Fort Pitt Block House (Thursdays – Sundays). FREE
Friday, September 30 | Enjoy the season, sit around the campfire with your family and watch the leaves change! FREE