Though grownups might want to do bar crawls on East Carson Street, family-friendly Pittsburgh Halloween events are just as important to make spooky season fun for everyone. Halloween is a big holiday for children as they pick out costumes and prepare for trick-or-treating. But, throughout October, families can participate in all sorts of events to make this fun holiday last longer than just a day.
Family-Friendly Halloween Events in Pittsburgh
Owl-O-Ween
October 19-20 and 26-27 – Included with General Admission
If you’ve been wanting to visit the National Aviary, here is a chance to do it spookily. Kids are encouraged to wear their costumes and participate in the parade. Then, they’ll make an owl craft before trick-or-treating in the facility. The best part about this event is the chance for an owl meet-and-greet in the theater for no additional cost.
Coco Cereal Cinema at Row House
October 19
Or should we say Coco and Cocoa Puffs?? Bring your whole family to enjoy a cereal bar of childhood classics and watch the wonderful (and seasonal!) film Coco. Plant based and gluten free options will be available. Doors open at 10:30 am and the film will begin at 11 am.
Zoo Boo
October 21, 22, 28, 29 – Included with General Admission
Trick-or-treat through the zoo and visit animals that will be enjoying their own Halloween treats. On top of the regular zoo activities this special Halloween event includes contests and fun for the family. There are crafts, a dance party, a costume contest, and a parade to end the day.
Sensory-Friendly Trick or Treat
October 25 – $16
Carnegie Museum of Natural History provides an opportunity for trick-or-treating and museum exploration all in sensory-friendly conditions. Guests can attend a seasonal story time or meet live animals with reduced audio and visual elements. This is an all-ages event, so it’s not just for children either.
Pumpkin Palooza, an East Liberty Halloween Adventure
October 26, Pay What You Can
Kelly Strayhorn Theater (KST) is excited to host this year’s Pumpkin Palooza, An East Liberty Halloween Adventure, on Saturday, October 26. Families can enjoy candy, crafts, and eerie-fun activities with KST’s community partner organizations in the KST lobby from 1:00pm – 4:00pm. The spirited performances at 2:00pm are set to enchant kids and grown-ups alike.
Monster Mash Family Bash Halloween Party
October 28, Free Entry
Join the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh in Lawrenceville for dancing, tricks, treats and spooky fun. Also, check your local branch of CLP to see what programming they offer, as each one has a number of family-friendly events for all of spooky season.
Halloween Fun Cruise
October 28 – $32 for Adults, $20 for Children
Your family can explore all of Pittsburgh right from the Three Rivers for two hours. Board the Gateway Clipper for an afternoon of dancing, meeting characters, winning prizes, and trick-or-treating. A snack bar and additional activities will be available for an additional cost.
Story by Kylie Thomas
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