September 2018 Events

This is my list of events for the greater Pittsburgh area for September 2018. At the end of the list under "Road Trips" are a few events taking place further away, in Buffalo, Erie, Maryland, Ohio,  Philadelphia, Toronto, Virginia, Washington DC and West Virginia.

Please make sure to doublecheck the details of any event you'd like to attend, in case of mistakes, typos, and cancellations. And please spread the word, if you like this list! The more people who find it useful, the more worthwhile it is to spend the time it takes to compile it.

Want to get a head start on October events before I have my 2018 list ready? Check my October 2017 list for the many annual events that are featured on it. That was my very first monthly event list for Pittsburgh! 

Venture Outdoors is still going strong with wonderful outdoor activities offered nearly every day in September: https://www.ventureoutdoors.org. Their Kayak Pittsburgh North Park and North Shore locations continue to be open daily throughout September, but their Aspinwall location will close after Labor Day: https://www.ventureoutdoors.org/kayak-pittsburgh/ L. L. Bean also continues to offer tons of amazing outdoor activities in September, especially kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, and fly tying classes. Check them out here: https://www.llbean.com/llb/ods/33?nav=ftlink&STORE_CITY_STATE=[22]&EVENT_TYPE=[0]&EVENT_LEVEL=[0]&PRICE_RANGE=[0] or find them on the Allegheny County Parks calendar: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Home#. 

“Pittsburgh New Works Festival”, now through Sunday, September 30, Carnegie Stage, 25 W. Main St., Carnegie. $17 advance, $20 at the door, or $50 for a festival pass. “Pittsburgh New Works Festival (PNWF) is dedicated to fostering the development of original one-act plays. PNWF is an annual event. Each September, 18 new one-act plays are produced by Pittsburgh region theater companies during the four weeks of the festival.” https://pittsburghnewworks.org

“Little Miss Sunshine, the Musical”, now through Saturday, September 15, Little Lake Theatre, 500 Lakeside Dr., Canonsburg. Recommended for ages 15 and up. $20.50 adults, $12 children. “Based on the hilarious Academy Award-winning film, Little Miss Sunshine is an outrageously funny and surprisingly touching musical. The Hoover family has seen better days. Richard, the father, is a floundering motivational speaker, Grandpa’s been kicked out of his retirement home and Uncle Frank’s been dumped by his lover. Moody teenager, Dwayne, has taken a vow of silence, and overextended mom, Sheryl, can do little more than slap on a smile. But, when the youngest Hoover, energetic Olive, enters a regional children’s beauty pageant, the family thinks that their luck could change and embarks on a cross-country trek, chasing the coveted title of Little Miss Sunshine.” https://www.littlelake.org/little-miss-sunshine-the-musical

“76th Annual Big Knob Grange Fair”, closing Saturday, September 1, 336 Grange Rd., Rochester. Free admission and free parking. “The showplace of Agriculture, Horticulture, Home Arts, Entertainment, Food and More!” http://bigknobgrangefair.org/index.html

“Alloy PGH: Artist-led Exhibition Tours”, Saturdays, September 1, 8, 15, and 22, Carrie Furnaces, Swissvale. $10 in advance, $15 at the gate. “Join the artists and curators of Alloy Pittsburgh 2018 for a tours of this year's temporary, site-based artworks. Tours are at 1 pm on Saturdays in September. Featured tour guides are as scheduled: September 1 - Sara Caplan and Sheila Ann Swartz ; September 8 - Chris McGinnis, Curtis Reaves, and Sophia Sobers; September 15 - Katie Rearick and Gwen Sadler; September 22 - Sean Derry, Elizabeth Fortunato, and Michael Hull. Tours on September 29 will be offered in conjuction with Rivers of Steel's Festival of Combustion.” https://www.showclix.com/event/alloy-pgh-artist-led-exhibition-tours

“Indiana County Fair”, closing Saturday, September 1, Indiana County Fairgrounds, 803 Hospital Rd., Indiana. “Admission to the Indiana county Fair is $8. 2 and under are free. Everyone is free before 2 on Monday - Friday and the opening times vary.” http://www.indianacountyfair.com

“Taste of Greece”, now through Sunday, September 2, 11AM-9PM, Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 985 Providence Blvd., Pittsburgh. Free parking. “It's a long-time Holy Trinity Church tradition at new Holy Trinity Church location! For over 40 years, Pittsburghers travelled to the North Side for great Greek food at the Holy Trinity Festival. We are now in our fourth year at new neighborhood in the North Hills at the corner of Babcock Boulevard and Cumberland Road, across from UPMC Passavant Hospital, and have we got a Festival for you! Join us in our new home for the biggest-ever "Taste of Greece." Great food, dancing, company and Greek tradition.” http://www.holytrinitypgh.org/festival/

“Audacious Pioneers; The Ladies of Section 14”, Saturdays and Wednesdays, 1PM-2:30PM, Homewood Cemetery, 1599 S. Dallas Ave., Pittsburgh. $10. Preregistration required; call 412-421-1822. “Audacious Pioneers; The Ladies of Section 14 is a walking tour of The Homewood Cemetery that will introduce stories from the Distaff side of Pittsburgh History. Centering the tour on women will allow for a wider discussion of Pittsburgh society, one that crosses lines of class and race in ways our traditional tour of Section 14 has yet to attempt. Some of the ladies featured on the tour include: a world famous opera singer; a palm reading Countess from Coshocton Ohio; a politically minded widow with a fondness for cars; the proprietor of a successful African American ‘Tourist House’ in The Hill; and a Pittsburgh socialite who may or may not have changed the succession of England’s Royal Family.”  https://www.facebook.com/events/371467786690315/

Exhibit, “The Art of the Brick”, now through January 7, 2019, Carnegie Science Center, One Allegheny Ave., Pittsburgh. Timed tickets are being sold with a discount for members: http://www.carnegiesciencecenter.org/exhibits/the-art-of-the-brick//?utm_source=links&utm_medium=home&utm_campaign=CSC%20Slider “Heralded by CNN as a ‘Global Must-See Exhibition,’ The Art of the Brick exhibit by artist Nathan Sawaya is a critically acclaimed collection of inspiring artworks made exclusively from one of the most recognizable toys in the world: the LEGO®brick. From child’s toy to sophisticated art form and beyond, The Art of the Brick features original pieces as well as re-imagined versions of the world’s most famous art masterpieces like Van Gogh’s Starry Night and Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, as well as a gallery showcasing an innovative, multimedia collection of LEGO brick-infused photography produced in tandem with award-winning photographer Dean West. The exhibit is an adventure for adults, children, art enthusiasts, and anyone who has ever picked up a LEGO and let their imagination run free!” 

“Vastly Vital Vultures”, Saturday, September 1, 9AM, Keystone State Park, Derry. “Celebrate International Vulture Awareness Day at Keystone State Park. Meet the park naturalist at the spillway (40.373566, -79.390895) to learn about nature's vastly mystical clean up crew, who are often vehemently misunderstood. Learn about their migration, their behavior, and more all while looking for them soaring over the lake. You may bring binoculars or some will be available to borrow. Participants are encouraged to bring a chair or blanket.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/treerific_tree_trek#.W4CL-C3Myi4

Pittsburgh Shakespeare in the Parks Presents, “The Two Gentlemen of Verona”, Saturdays and Sundays, September 1 through September 23, 2PM, various venues. Free. http://pittsburghshakespeare.com/index.html

“Music in the Mountains”, Saturday, September 1, and Sunday, September 2, 12PM-6PM, Ohiopyle State Park. “Our annual Music In the Mountains festival featuring music, crafts, food and interpretative programming is a fun time for all. So bring the whole family and enjoy a relaxing day by the river.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/music_in_the_mountains_2723#.W4CMsS3Myi4

“Venomous Snakes of PA”, Saturday, September 1, 2PM-3:30PM, Moraine State Park, Pavilion #7, McDaniel’s Launch Area, North Shore. “Join the park naturalist to learn about all the snakes we have in Pennsylvania. Don’t let their scales and appearance fool you…snakes play an important role in the environment. Find out what’s real and what’s not, from the venomous to the perfectly harmless and much, much, more. Live snakes will be on hand, so don’t miss out on this grand opportunity.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/venomous_snakes_of_pa_1074#.W4CNHi3Myi4

“PGH 101: An Intro to Innovation”, September 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 22, 23, and 29, Rivers of Steel Dock, adjacent to the Carnegie Science Center at 1 Allegheny Ave., Pittsburgh. Advance tickets $23 adults, $18 seniors and college students, $12 kids under 17. Recommended for ages 8 and up. “Get onboard Pittsburgh's newest sightseeing tour and explore the region's legacy of innovation. Known as a modern tech and robotics hub, the 'Burgh has been on the vanguard of industrial revolution for over 250 years! During this meticulously researched 90-minute tour, you'll discover how Pittsburgh's challenging landscape, its wealth of natural resources, and the character of its residents and workers have shaped neighborhoods and industries - creating the dynamic city it is today! All the while, you'll be taking in the beauty of the skyline and riverbanks!” https://www.showclix.com/event/pgh-101-an-intro-to-innovation

Exhibit, “Heroes and Sheroes: The Art and Influence of Ruth E. Carter in Black Cinema”, now through December 2, Heinz History Center, 1212 Smallman St., Pittsburgh. “Black Panther.” “Selma.” “The Butler.” “These epic films come to life through powerful storytelling and eye-catching design as they tell the inspiring stories of both fictional and historical heroes alike. Academy Award and Emmy-nominated costume designer Ruth E. Carter is the visionary behind the striking styles found in these films and many more. Making its international premiere at the History Center, Heroes and Sheroes: The Art and Influence of Ruth E. Carter in Black Cinema is a multimedia exhibition showcasing costumes designed by Carter for critically acclaimed films over the past three decades, including ‘Roots,’ ‘Malcolm X,’ ‘The Butler,’ ‘Selma,’ ‘Shaft,’ ‘Marshall,’ and ‘Black Panther.’ Presented in partnership with FashionAFRICANA, Heroes and Sheroes explores Carter’s African-influenced costume designs, providing a master class in her use of color, textiles, and functionality. Visitors will get an up-close look at Carter’s process, passion, and imagination as they discover a costume’s journey from sketch to silver screen. The exhibit, in the fifth floor Barensfeld Gallery, will embark on a worldwide tour following its debut in Pittsburgh.” https://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/exhibits/heroes-and-sheroes-ruth-e-carter

“Annual Autumn Hawk Watch”, Daily through December 15, Hawk Mountain North Lookout, Kempton, PA. Adults $10, seniors $7, kids 6-12 $5, free for kids 5 and under. “An average 18,000 hawks, eagles and falcons pass Hawk Mountain each autumn, and each year we tally the number and type of birds that pass. An official counter and interpreters are on hand to point out and identify birds. Bring binoculars (or rent at Visitor Center), something soft to sit on, water and snacks, and carry in a convenient daypack. Plan to relax at the lookout and spend at least an hour. Many people spend the morning, afternoon or even the entire day. A waterless, compositing restroom is located near the lookout. All trash must be carried in/carried out.” http://www.hawkmountain.org/visit/programs-amp-events/autumn-hawk-migration/page.aspx?id=233

“Living History Weekend”, Saturday, September 1 and Sunday, September 2, 9:30AM-5PM, Fort Ligonier, 200 South Market St., Ligonier. $12 adults, $10 seniors and students 17-21, $6 youth 6-16, free for ages 5 and under, members, and active military, veterans and law enforcement. “Fort Ligonier comes to life with costumed interpreters, living history demonstrations, musket firings, and 18th century games! Living History Weekend at Fort Ligonier features top-notch interpreters that illuminate life during the French and Indian War era,” said Fort Ligonier’s Director of History and Collections Dr. Erica Nuckles. “This event provides an exceptional experience where visitors get to step into history in a multi-sensory way by seeing, hearing, touching, and even smelling the past!” https://www.fortligonier.org/event/living-history-weekend/

“Pittsburgh Renaissance Festival”, September 1, 2, 3, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, and 23, 112 Renaissance Lane, West Newton. $22 adults, $11 ages 5-12, free for kids 4 and under. “This season we will take you on a magical tour through time and legend. As you wander down the village streets and pathways of the Pittsburgh Renaissance Festival, ready thyself to revel with master revelers, watch artisans create original works of their ancient craft and be taken in by the tantalizing aromas of roast turkey legges, steak on a stake, fresh baked goods and much more. Featuring a cast of hundreds of authentically costumed merrymakers living and working throughout the village and performing, continuously, upon the Festival’s stages, the illusion of a rollicking 16th Century festival day is created.” https://pittsburghrenfest.com

Stan Gordon Presents “Strange Aspects of the Elusive Bigfoot”, Saturday, September 1, 12PM-1PM, Monessen Library. “Stan will discuss the latest Bigfoot encounters around the area. He will also talk about some of the strangest cases ever documented about Bigfoot.” 

“Teen Anime Club”, Saturday, September 1, Saturday, September 15, and Saturday, September 29, 2PM, Carnegie Library Woods Run; Saturday, September 15, 2PM, Carnegie Library Hazelwood; and Saturday, September 15, 3PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland. “Explore new anime and express your fandom at Teen Anime Club! We’ll watch anime, explore Japanese culture, and enjoy a fun Japanese-inspired snack.” 

“Union Army Camp and Field Weekend”, Saturday, September 1 and Sunday, September 2, 9AM-5PM, Old Bedford Village, 220 Sawblade Rd., Bedford. $10 adults, $9 seniors, $5 students 6-18, free for ages 5 and under. “We invite you to join us for a weekend of interpretive living history, as we recreate the raising of Bedford County’s Co’s. D, E., and F., of the 138th Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry Regiment. This event will feature a recruiting and training camp, using the U.S. Army Regulations of 1861 and the U.S. Army School of the Soldier tactics being demonstrated according to the original manuals. Camps will feature other U.S. Army departments and functions that would have existed during the time.” http://oldbedfordvillage.com/events.php

“South Hills Scrabble Club”, Saturdays in September, 1PM-3:30PM, Mt. Lebanon Library, Meeting Room B. “South Hills Scrabble Club welcomes adults and kids ages 10 and up for an afternoon of friendly competition! Just show up when you want to play. Bring Scrabble® gear if you have it.” http://www.pittsburghscrabble.com

Concerts, “Nat 28 Presents A Scattering of Sequenzas”, Saturday, September 1 through Thursday, September 20, various venues. “NAT 28 is joining the Pittsburgh Festival of New Music to produce A Scattering of Sequenzas, a unique set of pop-up performances throughout Pittsburgh in September. We will be performing from Luciano Berio's Sequenze, a set of virtuosic, modern works for solo instrumentalists. Berio composed 14 pieces in this set, each for a different instrument. These famous pieces were composed throughout his career - the first composed in 1958 for flute, and the last in 2002 for cello. NAT 28 will draw from its cast of brilliant performers to present these iconic works in different venues throughout the month of September. Venues include: Pittsburgh Opera Headquarters, Mt. Washington Overlook, the PSO 5K event, Strip District Farmer's Market, and Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh.” https://www.nat28.org/copy-of-events

“Origami Club of Pittsburgh Presents Advanced Folding”, Sunday, September 2, and Saturday, September 15, 12PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Squirrel Hill. “Explore the art of paper folding. Accomplished paper folders will demonstrate various techniques and help participants create origami forms. Participants must have a basic understanding of origami forms. Children age 7 and up are invited to join but must have adult supervision. Adults and teens welcome!” 

“Late Summer Wildflower Walk”, Sunday, September 2, 2PM-4PM, Moraine State Park Wildflower Reserve. “Take a stroll around the Wildflower Reserve as we discover our late summer wildflowers in our two large meadows. The 1.5 mile walk will cover identification, medicinal/edible uses, and folklore associated with various flowers. Free program. Meeting location will be the Wildflower Reserve Interpretive Center along Rt 30.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/honeybees_8234#.W4CP9C3Myi4

"Wetlands and Wildlife Paddle", Sunday, September 2, 9:30AM-12PM, Moraine State Park, Pleasant Valley Non-Motorized Launch, South Shore. "Wetlands evoke powerful emotions. To some they are dark, mysterious, forbidding places, to be avoided at all costs. To many novelists, poets, and artists, however, they have been a source of inspiration. Come paddle with us to learn all about wetlands and the wildlife that call wetlands their home. Ages 12 and up, under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Kayak and gear provided, or bring your own. Life jackets required to be worn. Pre-registration required. To register call the park office at 724 368-8811. Due to increased interest, participation in park kayak programs is limited to 2 times per season." 

“Cambria County Fair”, Sunday, September 2 through Saturday, September 8, 883 N. Julian St., Ebensburg, PA. $8. https://www.cambriacofair.com

“Historical Tours of the Main Library”, Sundays and Wednesdays in September, Carnegie Main Library Oakland. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/historical-tours-of-main-library-registration-46770852880 “Join experienced staff and volunteer docents as we take you on a guided tour through Andrew Carnegie’s Main Library. You’ll get a look at the wonderful art and architecture that created this historic landmark, as well as how the building’s interior has changed over time. Tours will take place on Sundays at 1 PM and 3 PM and Wednesdays at 11 AM and 1 PM. All tours will meet in the front lobby of the Main Library.” 

“Life After High School”, Mondays in September, 4PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Woods Run. “Thinking about where you will be and what you want to do after graduation? Stop in to CLP — Woods Run on Mondays to prepare for Life After High School. Workshops will range from scholarship applications to quick and easy cooking tips to financial literary and more. CLP is here to get you ready for whatever the future has in store.” 

“Club Loose”, Monday, September 3, 10AM-5PM, Pittsburgh International Race Complex, Vehicle Dynamics Area, 201 Penndale Rd., Wampum. $5 at the gate to spectate. “ Here’s a group of local folks who like to drive sideways which is known as drifting! Always fun to watch!” http://pittrace.com/club-loose-september-3/

“Guided Nature Hikes”, Monday, September 3, 2PM, Boyce Park; Sunday, September 9, 2PM, Hartwood Acres Park; and Sunday, September 30, 2PM, White Oak Park. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search “Approximately 2 miles with moderate elevation changes. Join a Park Ranger for a hike and learn about the local flora and fauna that you see along the way. Bring water and wear hiking shoes.” 

“A Dozen Short Studies in Judgment and Decision Making”, Monday, September 3, 7PM-9PM, Carnegie Science Center, 1 Allegheny Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: http://carnegiesciencecenter.org/programs/adult-programs-cafe-sci/?utm_source=suggestions&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=Programs%20Overview “Have you ever thought about the decisions you made? Did you know your judgments can be influenced by irrelevant information? On Sept. 3, join Danny Oppenheimer, PhD, Professor at Carnegie Mellon University, jointly appointed in psychology and decision sciences, as he talks about how judgments can be influenced by irrelevant information and how people’s decisions can be easily manipulated. During his presentation, Oppenheimer will share some of the highlights of what he has learned and explore some of the exciting findings currently being investigated in his lab.” 

“Frankfort Mineral Springs Tour”, Monday, September 3, 10AM-11:30AM, Raccoon Creek State Park, meeting at the Mineral Springs parking lot on Route 18. “The historic Frankfort Mineral Springs complex was constructed in the mid 1800s and soon became a popular resort. It was best known for its mineral water once believed to have "healing qualities". This guided tour will look back at the people and events that shaped the history of this once famous area. The trail to the Springs is short but has uneven, rocky and wet terrain.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/frankfort_mineral_springs_tour_9147#.W4CTQi3Myi4

“History Walk”, Monday, September 3, 2PM-4PM, North Park, Tennis Court Building. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search/np-history-walk/2861 “Approximately 1 mile with slight elevation changes Take a walk back in time and learn about the history of North Park and how it was established. This hike will primarily take place on paved surfaces.” 

“Pittsburgh Police Chess Club”, Tuesdays, 5PM, Hazelwood Library; Thursdays, 3PM at Sheraden Library; Thursdays, 4PM at West End Library; and Mondays, September 10, 17 and 24, Brookline Library. “Children and teens are invited to join an officer for weekly community chess classes. Develop your mind and practice problem-solving skills that apply off the chessboard, too.” 

“Knit a Washcloth”, Tuesday, September 4, 6PM-7:30PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland. “Join us for HOW, a series of hands-on workshops for adults and teens. Learn from skilled craftspeople. Dig in and try things out in a creative, supportive environment. Join us for one or all of these free programs. Materials provided. New to knitting? Beginners will learn the basics with guidance from a seasoned expert. No registration is necessary for these sessions. Seating for all workshops is available to 20 participants on a first-come, first-served basis. You’ll want to come early to be sure you MAKE it on time!” 

“High School Homeschool History Symposium”, two sessions, Tuesday, September 4 and Wednesday, September 5, 9AM-4PM, Fort Ligonier, 200 South Market St., Ligonier. $100. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.fortligonier.org/event/high-schoolhome-school-history-symposium/ “American history in your curriculum this year? Join us for a two-day, intensive history seminar featuring lessons on the French and Indian War and the events that shaped our history. Lessons and activities will focus on: the causes and effects of the French and Indian War; daily life in the 18th century; leadership lessons of the 18th century and how they are still relevant today; presentations by 18th century history experts; hands-on experiential learning right where history happened. Pack a lunch and drink each day for an exciting glimpse into history at the site of the events.” 

“Anime Club”, Tuesday, September 4 and Tuesday, September 18, 3:30M-5PM, Sewickley Library. “Love ANIME? Join your fellow fans for your favorite anime movies and series. Plus snacks, crafts, games, and more! Newbies welcome! Open to all students in grades 6-12. No registration required.” 

“Advanced 3D Design”, Tuesday, September 4, 5PM-5:45PM, Monroeville Library. Ages 13 and up. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.monroevillelibrary.org/event-calendar “Learn how to use Sketchup design program. We’ll print your project!” 

“Coding: Python”, Tuesday, September 4, 6PM-6:45PM, Monroeville Library. Ages 13 and up. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.monroevillelibrary.org/event-calendar “Learn the basics of a text-based programming language!” 

“Exploring the Stable Complex”, Tuesday, September 4, 12PM-1PM, Hartwood Acres Park. $8, or $6 for Allegheny County residents. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search/ha-exploring-the-stable-complex/2824 “Tour the beautiful stable complex, which was designed by famed architect Alfred Hopkins to resemble an English Cotswold village! (There are no horses at the stable complex)” 

“Question, Persuade, Refer: Suicide Prevention”, Tuesday, September 4, 6:30PM-8:30PM, Peters Township Library, McMurray. Preregistration required; register online: https://ptlibrary.org/event/suicide-prevention/ “September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. The library, in partnership with Prevent Suicide PA, is hosting a suicide prevention training called QPR. QPR stands for Question, Persuade, and Refer – the 3 simple steps that anyone can learn to decrease suicidal behaviors and save lives. QPR is one of the leading evidence-based programs in suicide prevention in the country. The intent is to identify and interrupt the crisis and direct that person to proper care. Just as people trained in CPR and the Heimlich Maneuver help save thousands of lives each year, people trained in QPR learn how to recognize the warning signs of a suicide crisis and how to question, persuade, and refer someone to help. Each year thousands of Americans, like you, are saying ‘Yes’ to saving the life of a family member, a friend, a colleague, or a neighbor. A certified QPR trainer from Prevent Suicide PA will run this session. For more information, visit preventsuicidepa.org.” 

“A Peek Inside the Hive”, Tuesday, September 4, 7PM-8:30PM, Monroeville Library. “Come spend some time with Monroeville beekeeper, John Yakim. John will show everyone inside a real beehive and answer questions about honeybees, including how they make honey and how the honeybee helps improve our community. We’ll also learn what we can all do to help the bees survive and thrive! John is president of the Beaver Valley Area Beekeepers Association and a local beekeeper.” 

Author Talk, “The Good Neighbor: The Life and Work of Fred Rogers”, Tuesday, September 4, 7PM-9PM, Heinz History Center, 1212 Smallman St., Pittsburgh. $15. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/events/the-good-neighbor-the-life-and-work-of-fred-rogers “Join author Maxwell King at the History Center for the launch of the first-ever full-length biography of Pittsburgh original Fred Rogers! As the world marks 50 years since the debut of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, King’s book paints the definitive portrait of an American icon who changed children’s television forever. Drawing on original interviews, oral histories, and archival documents, King traces Rogers’ personal, professional, and artistic life through decades of work. From childhood stories and relationships with his family to the role religion played in his work, his close collaboration with leading childhood development experts, and his attempt to make television for adults, ‘The Good Neighbor’ tells the story of this utterly unique and enduring American icon. At this launch event, King will speak with History Center CEO Andy Masich about his work on ‘The Good Neighbor’ and sign copies of the book, which will be available for sale. Attendees may also take advantage of a cash bar offering alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.” 

“Sebastian and the Troll by Fredrik Backman – Light Literary Lunch Club: A Short Story Discussion Group”, Wednesday, September 5, 12PM-1PM, Carnegie Library Downtown and Business Branch. “Love literature, but don’t have much time? Bring a lunch and join us at noon on the first Wednesday of each month to discuss a short story. Light refreshments are provided. This month’s story is Fredrik Backman’s ‘Sebastian and the Troll.’ Stop by the library to request a copy or find it online here: http://www.fredrikbackman.com/2018/01/08/sebastian-and-the-troll/."

“Sally Kalson: The Early Years”, Wednesday, September 5, 6PM-8PM, Heinz History Center, 1212 Smallman St., Pittsburgh. Free. “Before she became a beloved columnist for the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Sally Kalson was a young reporter with deep roots, a strong will, a clear voice, and a desire to lead a meaningful life. Come see how she did it. This program is presented in partnership with the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, the Newspaper Guild of Pittsburgh, the Press Club of Western Pennsylvania and the Women’s Press Club of Pittsburgh.” https://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/events/sally-kalson-the-early-years

“Drop Dead Book Club”, Wednesday, September 5, 7PM, CC Mellor Library, Edgewood. September: “The Dying Detective” by G. W. Persson. “The atmosphere is informal. The group has a facilitator/record keeper but not a discussion leader. Books are chosen by consensus. The books to be discussed are borrowed through the eiNetwork, Allegheny County public libraries. Arrangements to borrow the books are made through the C.C. Mellor Library.” 

“Britsburgh: Special Mansion and Garden Tours”, Wednesday, September 5, 11AM and 1PM, Hartwood Acres Park. Ages 8 and up. $10, or $8 for Allegheny County residents. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search “These extended tours will encompass the house interior, exterior, and the lovely formal garden. Emphasis will be placed on the English antiques, and the family’s British antecedents.” 

“Animal Hibernation and Migration”, Wednesday, September 5, 10AM-12PM, and Wednesday, September 19. 5:30PM- 7:30PM, Latodami Nature Center, North Park. Free. Ages 5 and up. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search “Fall has come again, and that means local animals are preparing for winter. Join us as we learn more about our resident animals and how they prepare for winter. All individuals attending the program must be registered. Dress well for outdoor activity.” 

“British Walking Tour with Pittsburgh History and Landmarks Foundation”, Wednesday, September 5, 1PM-2:30PM, meeting at Trinity Cathedral, 328 6th Ave., Pittsburgh. $12. Preregistration required; register online: https://bacpgh.z2systems.com/np/clients/bacpgh/event.jsp?event=789 (Also see details of happenings before and after the walking tour (a free lecture on the hymns of Ralph Vaughan Williams beforehand, and a Britsburgh Afternoon Tea at the Omni William Penn afterwards, $43.) “Tour guides from the Foundation will lead an entertaining walk through downtown Pittsburgh highlighting British connections in architecture, art, literature, and even street names. You will hear what Charles Dickens and Anthony Trollope had to say about Pittsburgh, and tour civic, religious, and commercial buildings associated with the Penn family, William Pitt, James Grant, and John Forbes, among others.” 

“Otaku Lebo”, Thursday, September 6, 3:15PM-4:30PM, Mt. Lebanon Library Pittsburgh, Meeting Room B. “Share your love of all things manga and anime and explore Asian popular culture. For middle and high school students.” 

“Morning Bird Walk”, Thursday, September 6, 8AM, Sewickley Heights Borough Park, Hallaway Rd, Sewickley. Free. “Join the park staff and Sheree Daugherty from the Three Rivers Bird Club as they lead this bird walk in Sewickley Heights Borough Park. The walk begins at 8:00 AM starting from the upper parking lot. Stay as long as you like. Birders should be prepared for muddy trails. It is also advisable to bring water and a lunch. Besides birding in the park, we will drive and make stops along Little Sewickley Creek.” http://fhnc.org/events.aspx?id=340&d=09062018

“Club Otaku- Teen Anime Club”, Thursdays in September, 6PM-7PM, Whitehall Library, Pittsburgh. “Club Otaku is a meeting place for anime and manga fans to watch, read, and discuss anime and manga. As well as share your favorite fanfiction and fanart with your fellow otaku!” 

“Inkspotters Teen Writing Group”, Thursdays in September, 4:30PM, Shaler North Hills Library, Yates Room, Glenshaw. “Do you write stories, fanfiction, poetry, or blog posts? Need help picking the perfect character names? Join our weekly writing group and meet other writers! Talk, work on an existing project, or try a writing prompt. No registration required.” 

"What's Cooking?” Friday, September 7, 3PM, Carnegie Library Sheraden (ages 8-18); Monday, September 17, 3:30PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Allegheny (grades 6-12); and Thursday, September 27, 5PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Beechview (teens). "Learn to feed yourself and your friends! Chop, dice and mince your way to culinary mastery — then eat what you cook!” 

“Pittsburgh Irish Festival”, Friday, September 7 through Sunday, September 9, Riverplex at Sandcastle, 1000 Sandcastle Dr., West Homestead. Food, drink, music, and dance! Lots of details here: http://pghirishfest.org

“North Woods Expedition: Fall Edition”, Friday, September 7, 6PM-8:30PM, Forbes State Forest. Preregistration required; contact rmahony@pa.gov or 724-259-2201. “Learn about the amazing seasonal adaptations of plants and animals during a brisk, 2 mile in the North Woods of Forbes State Forest. Fresh, local apple cider will be provided after the hike.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/north_woods_expedition_fall_edition#.W4CVUS3Myi4

“3D Printing 101” , Friday, September 7, 5PM-6:30PM, Carnegie Science Center, 1 Allegheny Ave., Pittsburgh. $25. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.carnegiesciencecenter.org/programs/fablab-public-workshops/ “Learn to design and print on Fab Lab’s 3D printers and explore the technology of 3D printing using a 3D printing pen. This introductory class is required in order to use the 3D printer during Fab Lab Open Workshop (FLOW). Workshop is open to ages 8 and up. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult who also registers for the workshop.” 

“Oktoberfest”, Friday, September 7, 5PM-11PM, and Saturday, September 8, 11AM- 11PM, Teutonia Männerchor, 857 Phineas St., Pittsburgh. $5 admission, includes souvenir mug. This is an exclusive, private German social club open to the public for this special annual event. http://www.pghmannerchor.com

“Free Friday Walking Tour: Market Square Area”, Fridays in September, 10AM-11AM, meeting at PNC Triangle Park (across from Fairmont Pittsburgh at 510 Market Street). Preregistration required; contact marylu@phlf.org; 412-471-5808, ext. 527. “Explore the Market Square area, where the old and new are combining to create a vibrant, dynamic Downtown core. You’ll see the Market Street Grocery, Market Square, three LEED-Gold developments, the LEED-Platinum Tower at PNC Plaza, and Millcraft Investments Tower Two-Sixty and Hilton Garden Inn. Plus you’ll see an archaeological exhibit and many artfully designed and recently restored historic buildings, including one of the skinniest anywhere.” http://phlf.org/events/2018-09/

“Free Friday Walking Tour: Bridges and River Shores”, Fridays in September, 12PM-1PM, meeting at 107 Sixth Street, downtown Pittsburgh (in front of the Renaissance Pittsburgh Hotel). Preregistration required; contact marylu@phlf.org; 412-471-5808, ext. 527. “You’ll hear about a Pittsburgh sports hero and pop artist––and about two American daredevils––as you cross the Roberto Clemente and Andy Warhol bridges with your PHLF guides, and explore the Allegheny riverfront. You’ll see theaters, sports stadiums, sculpture, a school, residences, skyscrapers, and Pittsburgh’s David L. Lawrence Convention Center, among other notable sites, on this refreshing walk over water and on land.” http://phlf.org/events/2018-09/

“Ukrainian Food Festival”, Friday, September 7 and Saturday, September 8, 11AM-7PM, St. Peter and St. Paul Ukrainian Orthodox Church, 220 Mansfield Blvd., Carnegie. https://orthodoxcarnegie.org/ukrainianfoodfestival.html

“Star Parties”, Friday, September 7 and Saturday, September 8, Mingo Creek Park Observatory; and Saturday, September 15 and Saturday, September 29 at Nicholas E. Wagman Observatory, Deer Lakes Regional Park, Russellton. Lots of details here: https://3ap.org/resources/star-parties/ “What is a star party? Take a whole bunch of friendly, intelligent, telescope-toting amateur astronomers; anxious to share their hobby, put them in a large open meadow at the top of a gentle hill with excellent views to all horizons, add two large permanent telescopes, and invite the public. Many visitors bring their own telescopes to get help with 'setting up' or operation. Many bring binoculars, and many just use their own eyes. There is always a telescope with a wonderful view of some celestial treasure just waiting for a novice eye to enjoy. The AAAP members are happy to answer questions about astronomy, buying a telescope, or protecting our dark sky resource (actually you may have a hard time getting some of the members to quit talking once you get them started). Several times throughout the evening an AAAP member will give a 'guided tour' of the sky – an introduction to the constellations and brighter stars. The two large permanent telescopes at each observatory are open as well with an AAAP member at each to answer questions, adjust the telescope, and keep people from toppling off the viewing ladders. There are also displays within the observatory’s ‘warm-up’ room covering a wide variety of subjects of interest to amateur astronomers, and the science of astronomy in general. Star Parties are usually scheduled around the time of the first quarter moon; that way very nice high contrast views of the craters and mountains of the moon can be seen, but the moon still sets early enough that good views of deep sky objects such as nebulae, clusters, and galaxies become available. The positions of the planets vary from month to month, but there is always something interesting to observe.” 

“Chimney Swift Watches: Church Brew Works”, Friday, September 7, 7PM, meeting at the corner of 36th St and Liberty Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: http://aswp.org/events/8041 “Like a reverse tornado descending into the towers at dusk, come watch one of nature’s most amazing spectacles as migrating Chimney Swifts roost for the night in one of our local swift hot spots.” 

“Pittsburgh Lebanese Festival”, Friday, September 7 and Saturday, September 8, 12PM-10PM, and Sunday, September 9, 12PM-6PM, Our Lady of Victory Maronite Catholic Church, 1000 Lindsay Rd., Scott Township. Free admission and parking. https://www.facebook.com/pg/pghlebanesefestival/posts/

“Simon Girty and Turner Cemetery”, Saturday, September 8, 10:30AM-12PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland. “Join Western Pennsylvania Genealogical Society for this historical lecture by Dr. Miles S. Richards that will focus on Simon Girty and the Turner Cemetery. Girty (1741-1818) was best known for serving as a liaison between the British and their Native American allies during the American Revolution. He originally served with the American forces but defected to the British side. He later fought with Native American tribes against American forces. Dr. Richards is president of the Elizabeth Township Historical Society. This event is free and open to the public. No registration is required.” 

“Jazz Poetry Month”, Saturday, September 8 through Saturday, September 29, City of Asylum, 40 W. North Ave., Pittsburgh. Free tickets: http://www.alphabetcity.org/events/ “What began in 2005 as a concert in a Mexican War Streets alley is now the world’s largest jazz-poetry festival. A cultural gift to the city, the dynamic four-week celebration brings together 41 renowned jazz musicians and writers from 12 countries to create fresh performances and exclusive commissions. All nine concerts are free and no two are the same. The collaborations are sure to give birth to new forms of artistic expression. This year will feature extensive multimedia elements — from recordings of prisoners in Mississippi and stonemasons in Japan to edgy dance and evocative projections. Not to miss is the 'Freedom-to-Write' keynote, Oliver Lake’s 'Stoop is a Verb' and Jaimeo Brown’s 'Americana Song'.” 

“Insider Tour of Meadowcroft Rockshelter”, Saturday, September 8, 10AM, Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village, Avella. $30, or $15 for Heinz History Center members. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/events/insider-tour-meadowcroft-rockshelter-september-8 “Enjoy an exclusive Insider Tour of Meadowcroft Rockshelter with James M. Adovasio, Ph.D., who achieved international acclaim with his archeological excavation of the Rockshelter in 1973. Dr. Adovasio will present a lecture and lead a special tour of the site. Meadowcroft Rockshelter, the oldest site of human habitation in North America, is located in Avella, Pa., 35 miles southwest of Pittsburgh. The National Historic Landmark features a massive, 16,000-year-old rock overhang used by the region’s earliest inhabitants for shelter and was named one of the “Five Great Places to See Evidence of First Americans” by Smithsonian magazine. Dr. Adovasio’s presentation begins at 10 a.m. in the visitor’s center with tours of the Rockshelter to immediately follow.” 

“PA Black Bears”, Saturday, September 8, 7PM-8:30PM, Ohiopyle State Park, Kentuck Campground Amphitheater. “Join us for one of our most popular programs. We’ll discuss these amazing mammals, where they are found in Ohiopyle State Park, and then we’ll view a portion of the award winning video, “On the Trail of Pennsylvania Black Bears’.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/pa_black_bear_3690#.W4CXSy3Myi4

“Moon Wizarding Festival”, Saturday, September 8, 11AM-6PM, Moon Park, 1350 Ewing Rd., Moon. Free. “Witches, Wizards and Muggles - Please join us for the first Moon Wizarding Festival. This amazing event is brought to you by Moon Parks and Recreation and will feature artisans, crafters, music, games, Quidditch, crafts, food, drink, costume contests, trivia tournaments, and much much more! Save the date - this is going to be bigger than the Quidditch World Cup!” https://www.facebook.com/events/290393341473725/

“Northern Appalachian Folk Festival”, Saturday, September 8, 600-500 blocks of Philadelphia St. in downtown Indiana, PA. Free. “The Northern Appalachian Folk Festival, entering its sixth year the weekend after Labor Day in Downtown Indiana, celebrates the region’s art and culture with free live music, educational programming and vendors. The popular Children’s Alley returns with games and activities geared to younger festival-goers. Diverse musical acts, guided by a folk-roots aesthetic, play all day. Admission to the event, its performances and programming is free. Please check back for updates and announcements.” https://northernappfolkfest.org

“Chimney Swift Watch and Info Session”, Saturday, September 8, 6:15-PM-8:30PM, meeting at Todd Nature Store. Free. Preregistration required; register online: http://aswp.org/events/8042 “Info session begins at 6:15 at the Todd Nature Store in Yellow Jacket Square. We'll have pizza generously donated by Amy Trulik, Associate Broker, Century 21 American Heritage Realty. Then head across the street at 7:15 to Freeport Area High School to watch as the Chimney Swifts return to their roost. Like a reverse tornado descending into the towers at dusk, come watch one of nature’s most amazing spectacles! 

“Antique Equipment Show Weekend”, Saturday, September 8, 9AM-9PM, and Sunday, September 9, 9AM-3PM, South Side Historical Village, Hookstown Fairgrounds, 1198 State Route 168, Hookstown. $3 for Antique Show and free to tour the village. “Celebrate the return of the Beaver County Antique Equipment and Crafts Show to the Hookstown Fairgrounds and see the village on this special weekend. Visit the one-room school, the blacksmith and artisan shops, the log cabin, outdoor bread oven, general store, doctor's office, and the bank barn. Buildings open as staffing permits.” https://www.facebook.com/South.Side.Historic.Village/

“Teen Sardines and Zombie Tag Game Night”, Saturday, September 8, 7PM-9PM, Shaler North Hills Library, Glenshaw. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/S/SHALER/EKP.cfm?zeeOrg=SHALER “Everyone’s favorite hide ’n seek game is here: Sardines! Then play Zombie Tag! We will also play some favorite board games (Apples to Apples, Catchphrase, Anomia, etc.) and card games (Uno, Spoons). You’re welcome to bring your games from home, too! Snacks served. Bring a flashlight for sardines and zombie tag. Small nerf guns are optional to ward off zombies!” 

“Britsburgh: Downton Abbey Themed Tea”, Saturday, September 8, 11AM-2PM, Hartwood Acres Mansion. $41 or $33 for Allegheny County residents. Ages 12 and up. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search/ha-britsburgh-downton-abbey-themed-tea/2282 “Step back into a time of elegant refinement at Hartwood’s Downton Abbey Themed Tea. Converse with friends old and new over a delicious tea before enjoying a tour of the mansion. Come dressed in period attire if you choose to do so, prizes will be given for the best costumes!” 

“Beaver County Bookfest”, Saturday, September 8, 9AM-4PM, Irvine Park, Beaver, PA. Free. Featuring our Author’s Tent with 60 local authors, our popular Children’s Tent with plenty of activities for little ones, music on the street, and of course a variety of food and retail vendors.” https://beavercountybookfest.com

“Old Fashioned Fall Festival”, Saturday, September 8, 10AM-5PM, and Sunday, September 9, 12PM-5PM, Little Beaver Historical Society, 803 Plumb St., Beaver. Free. “Come visit the museums as we welcome the Fall season. There will be craft and food vendors, applebutter making, cider, fall flowers, entertainment and produce for sale.” https://www.facebook.com/events/923912371107502/

“Cojiforms with Isaac Bower”, Saturday, September 8, 2:30PM-4:30PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Downtown and Business Branch. “Join us for a hands-on-workshop with local artist, Isaac Bower. His conceptual sculptures, modular cast shapes called Cojiform, are nature-inspired pieces that can be built into various sculptures, encouraging hands-on play, creative thinking, and community. He’ll talk about his artistic process and guests will get a chance to feel and build with Cojiform. Participants can invent their own ways to combine multiples of the complex Cojiform shapes, and Isaac will facilitate modular approaches that result in surprising sculptural outcomes. This workshop explores creative process through trial and error experimentation. Participant’s designs can be added to an ever-expanding catalogue of three-dimensional patterns and compositions. To see examples, use #cojiform on Instagram, or visit Isaac Bower Studio on YouTube. Seating for all workshops is available to 20 participants on a first-come, first-served basis. You’ll want to come early to be sure you MAKE it on time.” https://www.isaacbower.com/

“Intro to Synthesizers and Electronic Sound Making”, Saturday, September 8, 2PM-4PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland, Music Film and Audio Dept. “They’re back! Richard Nicol and Michael Johnsen of Pittsburgh Modular Synthesizers will offer a no-nonsense, beginner-friendly introduction to the principles and tools of electronic music, especially the analog synthesizer. The world of electronic instruments can seem confusing, but they all share the same basic ingredients. Using an intuitive analog synthesizer, we’ll make sense of the building blocks that make electronic music sing: oscillators, filters, envelope generators and modulators. Then we’ll turn the knobs and switches over to you to explore the limitless palette of sonic species.” 

“Frontier Militia Encampment”, Saturday, September 8, 4PM-7:30PM, and Sunday, September 9, 1:30PM-4:30PM, Oliver Miller Homestead, 1 Stone Manse Dr., South Park. $2. “The local frontier militia, men who were expected to protect their homes from Indian attack, will be encamped on the grounds for the weekend. See their encampment and outdoor cooking and join them for drills. Expect to be recruited!” http://olivermillerhomestead.org/special-events/

“Greenhouse Horticultural Series”, Saturday, September 8, 1PM-3PM, Harrison Hills Park. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search/hh-greenhouse-horticultural-series/2341 “Help transfer perennial plants to their new growing habitat to attract bees, other pollinators, and living visitors. A gardener’s activity of dividing and sharing to promote biodiversity.” 

“Shakespeare Workshop with New Renaissance Theatre Company”, Saturday, September 8, 3PM-5PM, Hartwood Acres Park. “Pay what you will.” Ages 12 and up. Preregistration required; register online: https://bacpgh.z2systems.com/np/clients/bacpgh/event.jsp;jsessionid=AF58228B64BD84E6060F0344A410BA39-n1?event=773 You have seen our Britsburgh partner, The New Renaissance Theatre Company perform with cue scripts, or maybe you haven't, but either way, now is your chance to experience the Unrehearsed Cue Script Technique (UCST) first hand. As part of Britsburgh's annual festival, NRTC's Artistic Director Andy Kirtland will lead this two-hour workshop focusing on two of the most fundamental rules of UCST. Participants will be on their feet, working through scenes the same way that our casts for The Unrehearsed Shakespeare Project prepare for a performance. Join us at the pavilion behind Hartwood Acres Mansion for this Pay-What-You-Will workshop and truly unique look at Shakespeare's plays.” 

“Sketch Crawl”, Saturday, September 8, 11AM,- 2PM, meeting in Katz Plaza. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.trustarts.org/event/15874-2018/sketch-crawl “For all ages; participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. A 3-hour drawing marathon! Bring a sketch book, art supplies, lunch and a chair. Draw what you see on a journey through some of Downtown's scenic plazas. An accomplished artist and illustrator will be on-hand at each scheduled location to assist with sketches as needed.” 

“Tours of the Sherman Memorial Lighthouse”, Saturday, September 8, 1PM-4PM, Lighthouse Island, Highland St., Tionesta. $5 adults and $2 kids. Tours run continuously from 1 to 4 pm. Yes, Tionesta is a small town bordering the Allegheny National Forest, definitely NOT bordering any body of water for which a lighthouse might come in handy, but yet they do have a fully functional lighthouse. The world does have its mysteries. Details here: http://www.e-clubhouse.org/sites/tionesta/page-6.php

“Riverview Park Day”, Saturday, September 8, 8AM-5PM, Riverview Park, Pittsburgh. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.showclix.com/event/rp-day “Join the Friends of Riverview Park, Northside Leadership Conference and Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy to celebrate Riverview Park at our first RPDAY! There will be free activities including adventure hikes, bike races and tours, kids' activities, live music, free food and MORE! Schedule for the day includes: 8am - Cyclocross Bike Races (Watch the spills and thrills of the first ever off-road bike races in a Pittsburgh city park!); 12pm - Lunch served (Free grilled hot dogs); 11am-4pm - Children's activities, family friendly hikes, music and more!; 1PM Presentations and awards; 1:45pm - History Hike with Allegheny City Society (a short hike filled with fascinating history); 3:00pm - Mushroom Hike with Western PA Mushroom Club (a short hike filled with fascinating fungi and friends).” 

Concert, “The Casual Hobos”, Sunday, September 9, 2PM-3PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland, Quiet Reading Room. “The Casual Hobos strive to produce that authentic bluegrass sound and take the music back to its purest form. But the Hobos are more than a traditional bluegrass band, as they add their own stamp to every song they perform. Digging deep into the archives of the music, the Hobos never cease to thrill audiences with lesser known tunes as well as exciting renditions of old bluegrass standards. The Hobos include Steve Ludwig on vocals and guitar, Jon Finder on banjo, and Trish Imbrogno on bass. They have made notable appearances at a number of regional music festivals and perform regularly at clubs and pubs throughout the area, from the streets of Shadyside to the woods of Clarion. So sit back and enjoy the best in Pittsburgh bluegrass!” https://www.facebook.com/TheCasualHobos/

“Rachmaninoff Doubled”, Sunday, September 9, 3PM, PNC Recital Hall, Mary Pappert School of Music, 408 Magee St, Pittsburgh. $15. “David Allen Wehr and his duo-piano partner Cynthia Raim present both of Rachmaninoff's Two-Piano Suites, music of incredible lushness, passion and brilliance, offsetting the tart humor of Stravinsky's Octet, with Daniel Meyer conducting eight wind and brass members of the Pittsburgh Symphony (all members of the Duquesne University faculty). Natasha Snitkovsky performs one of her specialties, Khachaturian's virtuosic Piano Sonata, which she studied with the composer, and Guenko Guechev brings his rich, dark bass-baritone to Mussorgsky's evocative and emotional cycle ‘Songs and Dances of Death'. Before the concert, Natasha Snitkovsky talks with Wehr about musical life, culture, and growing up in the Soviet Union.” https://www.duq.edu/academics/schools/music/calendar-of-events 

“Teen Dungeons and Dragons”, Sundays, September 9, 16, 23, and 30, 12PM-4PM, Peters Township Library, McMurray. “Pros and new players are welcome to join us for this on-going game. The game will be led by teens.” 

"McCune Trail Hike", Sunday, September 9, 10AM- 12PM, Ohiopyle State Park, McCune Trailhead Parking Lot. " This trail runs through an old homestead, where the remnants can still be seen in the beautiful high country of Ohiopyle. Be prepared to see a breathtaking view of the river gorge and some interesting rock formations. This is a 4 mile, moderate to difficult hike. Sturdy footwear is recommended." http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/mccune_trail_hike_3492#.W4CXmi3Myi4

“Pittsburgh Reptile Show and Sale”, Sunday, September 9, 9AM-3PM, Harmar House, 1321 Freeport Rd., Cheswick. $5 per person, free for kids 3 and under. “Thousands of animals and supplies all under one roof! Bring the family and don’t forget the camera! Buy direct and save, wholesale pricing!” http://pghreptileshow.com

“The First Lady in Red: Cornelia Bryce Pinchot and American Labor”, Sunday, September 9, 1:30PM-3:30PM, Historic Pump House, 880 E. Waterfront Dr., Munhall. Free. “Ken and Abby Wolensky tell the story of Cornelia Bryce Pinchot, wife of PA Governor Gifford Pinchot. A real radical, she fought for suffrage and against corporate interests, especially the ‘steel trust’, and encouraged workers to join the Amalgamated Association of Iron and Steel Workers.” https://battleofhomestead.org/bhf/event/the-first-lady-in-red-cornelia-bryce-pinchot-and-american-labor/

“Spinning Wheels Great and Small”, Sunday, September 9, 1PM-4PM, Depreciation Lands Museum, 4743 S. Pioneer Rd., Allison Park. $5 adults, $3 children 11 and under, free if you bring your spinning wheel. “A gathering of Wheels! All Spinners, bring your wheels and join us! Visitors young and old - come watch and try your hand at this traditional skill! Gather 'round as the locals and visitors in Talley Cavey Village bring their Spinning Wheels to spin wool yarn and linen thread! Great Wheels, also called Wool Wheels or Walking Wheels are familiar to most of us as decorative items, but rarely are they used for their original intended purpose: to spin wool yarn. More familiar, are the small Flax wheels, now used to spin all fibers. Today we will gather everyone who spins for a Gathering like you have never seen! Join us! See these wheels in actions! Have a try at this 18th century everyday skill! Do you spin with a Wheel, Great or Small? Please bring it along to our gathering and spin with us! Even if you don't spin, bring your wheel to the Gathering! Today we take clothing, fabrics and yarns for granted. Until the mid 19th century all yarn had to be spun by hand on a spinning wheel. The small portable wheels we generally see demonstrated today were traditionally used to spin flax into linen thread. The large Great Wheel was the wheel of choice for spinning wool yarns. As always, you will find our village bustling with residents carrying on their everyday lives. Attend school, visit the blacksmith, and stop in to see what is happening in the log cabin. There will be plenty for all to keep busy today!” http://www.depreciationlandsmuseum.org/upcoming.greatwheelday.shtml

“Songbirds as Carriers of Lyme Disease”, Sunday, September 9, 2PM, Powdermill Nature Preserve, 1795 Route 381, Rector. Free. “Anyone that has spent time in the great outdoors has probably encountered a tick, either on themselves or on their four-legged companion. However, there is still much to learn about the diseases that these ticks carry and who is responsible for spreading them. Join us for a talk with Amanda Hill from West Virginia University as she teaches us about Lyme disease in ticks in the Northeastern United States and the role that songbirds might play in their dispersal. She will share the results from her One Health master’s thesis project on songbirds carrying ticks and provide some helpful information about ticks and Lyme disease in this region. After the talk, we will head outside to see which of these songbirds we can find.” https://carnegiemnh.org/visitor/powdermill-nature-reserve/

“In the Workshop: Moog Minataur and Theremini w/ TzT”, Monday, September 10, 7PM-9:30PM, Ace Hotel, 120 S. Whitfield St., Pittsburgh. All ages. “Instruments-of-the-Month: Moog Minitaur and Theremini. Inspirational Artists: Stereolab and Broadcast. Influenced by 90s avant-pop bands Stereolab and Broadcast, TzT is a musician and healer who styles toward the everyday psychonaut with spacey originals and beat-driven experimental pop and hip-hop mixes. In this workshop, she’ll show you how pocket-sized instruments like the Moog Minataur and Theremini can pack a big punch! Curated by gfx, this hands-on workshop series takes inspiration from electronic and underground pioneers, past and present. Each session will highlight instruments from the Musical Instrument Lending Library at the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh. The Library will also be on hand at each session with instruments available for hands-on musical exploration. After making new sounds of your own, stick around to hear girlFx DJs at Ace Hotel’s In the Weeds.” https://www.carnegielibrary.org/event/in-the-workshop-tzt/

“Mystery Book Club”, Monday, September 10, 10AM, Springdale Library. “If you love to read mysteries, this group will be your cup of tea! This diverse group meets at the library to discuss a different mystery book on the 2nd Monday at 10:00 AM. Our Director tracks down books for this club, choosing books that are not necessarily written by a well-known author. Please call to register, so that enough books are ordered for the group! September 10 you will be discussing ‘Broken Harbors’ by Tana French.” 

“Uptown Jazz Series: Giants of Jazz (Duke Ellington/Thelonius Monk)”, Monday, September 10, 7:30PM, Genesius Theater, 1225 Seitz St, Pittsburgh. $10. “Now in its third year, the Uptown Jazz Series brings you Giants of Jazz. Each concert in the series will feature a retrospective on two influential jazz artists.” https://www.duq.edu/academics/schools/music/calendar-of-events/uptown-jazz-series

“Patagonia: Nature at the End of the Earth”, Monday, September 10, 7PM, Jennings Environmental Center, Slippery Rock. Free and open to the public. A meeting of the Bartramian Audubon Society. “The Patagonia region of southern Chile and Argentina has long been a lure for those who seek adventure or solitude or natural wonders. Vast plains, snow-capped mountains, and iceberg-laden glacial lakes are the setting for an almost startling array of wildlife: Guanacos (the wild ancestors of llamas), flamingos, rheas, parakeets...The Straits of Magellan and Tierra del Fuego host penguins, albatrosses, petrels, and more. This presentation will survey many of the highlights of ‘the uttermost part of the earth.’ Bartramian Audubon Society President Jeffrey Hall will present the program at the Jennings Environmental Center.” https://www.bartramianaudubonsociety.org/meetings

“Citizen Science Classes”, each class with 3 sessions, Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays, 1PM-3PM, starting September 10, Citizen Science Lab, 1435 Bedford Ave, Ste 132A, Pittsburgh. $25. Grades 3-8. September 10, 10 and 15: Shark Dissection; September 17, 19 and 22: Shark Tissue Isolation; September 24, 26 and 29: Prokaryotes v. Eukaryotes. Registration and details of each program are here: http://www.thecitizensciencelab.org/programs

“Shark Dissection for High School”, Monday September 10 and Wednesday September 12, 10AM-12PM, Citizen Science Lab, 1435 Bedford Ave, Ste 132A, Pittsburgh. $25. Registration here: http://www.thecitizensciencelab.org/programs/shark-dissection-2 “In this module, students will learn the anatomy and physiology of the dogfish shark using a variety of dissection techniques. This lab will give students a detailed look of the body systems of the sharks, which are used as a model for the human systems.” 

“Understanding Our Kids’ Online and Offline Social World: Friendships, Cliques and Power Plays”, Monday, September 10, 6:30PM-8PM, Shaler North Hills Library, Glenshaw. For adults. “The Library is proud to be partnering with Ross and West View Elementary Schools and the North Hills School District to bring Trudy Ludwig to Pittsburgh. Ms. Ludwig’s acclaimed books include My Secret Bully, Just Kidding, Sorry, Trouble Talk, Too Perfect, and Confessions of a Former Bully, and focus on helping children thrive in their social world. Learn more about what bullying is and isn’t, relational aggression (the use of relationships to manipulate and hurt others) including the latest research findings, the nature of boys’ and girls’ friendships, cyberbullying, as well as tips, tools, and resources to help you empower your children to connect with one another in kinder and more caring ways.” http://www.trudyludwig.com/ (We've met Trudy and she's utterly fantastic!)

“Author Visit: David Drayer”, Tuesday, September 11, 6:30PM-7:30PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh West End. “Is it better to be talented or lucky? Have you ever experienced a synchronicity? What are the things you will never regret doing? We hope you can join us when David Drayer, author of ‘Wayward Son: Travels and Reflections’, explores these questions and many others when he visits CLP-West End. A collection of blog posts and newspaper columns written during his time in western Pennsylvania and while traveling around the country, Wayward Son takes readers on open-ended motorcycle trips to peculiar small towns, late evening hikes through the woods, visits ghosts from the past, and holds philosophical conversations in neighborhood bars. At turns inspiring, hilarious, thoughtful, and always wise, ‘Wayward Son: Travels and Reflections’ provides commentaries on what makes life worth living, not only stimulate the mind, but to encourage us to venture off the beaten path and enjoy the ride. David Drayer grew up in a small, blue-collar town in western Pennsylvania with dreams to get out, see the world, have adventures and become a writer. It hasn’t always been as glamorous as he had imagined, but it has never been dull. Currently, David holds a Master of Fine Arts degree from the University of Iowa. Always seeking adventure, he has lived in New York City, Los Angeles and many other places in between. Aside from published novels, he has scripted screenplays, written and work-shopped stage plays, and completed various ghostwriting assignments. We hope to see you this prolific author stops by to share his stories with CLP-West End.” http://daviddrayer.com/index.htm

“September 11 Observance”, Tuesday, September 11, 9:45AM-11AM, Flight 93 National Memorial, 6424 Lincoln Highway, Stoystown. Free. The Seventeenth Anniversary September 11 Observance will be held on the Memorial Plaza. The open air service will include brief remarks, special music, reading of the names of the forty passengers and crew members of Flight 93, ringing of the Bells of Remembrance and a wreath laying at the Wall of Names.” https://www.nps.gov/flni/planyourvisit/event-details.htm?event=8EE994FF-155D-451F-67315534A6D1C099

“Moments of Remembrance”, Tuesday, September 11, 8:30AM-10:10AM, Carnegie Mellon University, Memorial Tree on the Cut. Campus map here: https://www.cmu.edu/assets/pdfs/cmu_map_8.5x11.pdf (The Cut is labeled near 57). “We remember the anniversary of the tragic events of 9/11 with a lone bagpiper playing at the 9/11 Memorial Tree on the Cut. The Memorial Tree was planted in memory of the seven alumni who perished that day. The piper will play at the moments of impact: 8:46 a.m., 9:03 a.m., 9:37 a.m. and 10:03 a.m., marking the times four airliners crashed into the World Trade Center Towers, the Pentagon and an open field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania.” 

“House of Horror Movie Club (6th Grade and Up):, Tuesday, September 11, 3PM-5:30PM, Mt. Lebanon Library Pittsburgh, Meeting Room B. “House Of Horror Movie Club is a teen-run horror movie night! Parents' permission is required to attend each film, please pick up an informational brochure containing the movie schedule and a permission slip in the Teen Space! All films are rated PG or PG-13.” 

“Homeschool Day at Meadowcroft”, Tuesday, September 11, 10AM-1PM, Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village, Avella. $7 admission or $5 for Heinz History Center members. Free for kids 4 and under. No registration required. “Once again, Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village is opening its doors to our region’s homeschoolers and their families for a unique opportunity to experience the development of our region. Through our hands-on educational programs that explore life on the land in the upper Ohio Valley, students will experience the cultural changes of our region from prehistory to the 19th century. Explore rural life in the upper Ohio Valley with a visit to Meadowcroft’s 19th century village. Students will visit historic houses, a blacksmith’s shop, and a one room school house to learn what life was like before modern conveniences. Stepping further back in time to our recreated 16th century Indian Village, students can learn about the complex relationship between nature and man during a program emphasizing our area’s late prehistoric agriculturalists, the Monongahela culture. Tours of the Meadowcroft Rockshelter will also be available. Students will discover why people camped at the site over the course of 16,000 years and learn about the hunter-gatherer lifestyle of the people who used the site. Note: Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village is an outdoor facility, so make sure to dress for the weather! There is no food service on site, however picnic tables are available for your use.” https://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/events/homeschool-day-at-meadowcroft-fall-2018

“Port Authority of Allegheny County: Recruiting Process”, Wednesday, September 12, 8:30AM-11AM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Downtown and Business Branch. “Please join us for a presentation on the recruiting process offered by Port Authority of Allegheny County. This program is sponsored by PA CareerLink.” 

“Art Attack: End of Summer Tie Dye Party (6th Grade and Up)”, Wednesday, September 12, 3PM, outside of Mt. Lebanon Library, Pittsburgh. “Join us outside for a tie dye party to end the summer! Bring in any white cotton clothing item (socks, t-shirts, etc.) you want to tie-dye, or you can have a free white bandana to dye courtesy of the library! We will be dyeing our clothing outside in the courtyard. Please wear clothes you don't mind getting a bit dirty! Your shirts will be left to dry at the library and washed. You can pick up your project after school on Monday 9/17!” 

“The Sinking of the USS Indianapolis”, Wednesday, September 12, 6PM-7PM, Adams Library, Latrobe. Preregistration required; call 724-539-1972. “The fatal last voyage of the ‘Indy’ and her survivors, including updated information about the recently discovered wreckage of the vessel on the ocean floor, will be discussed in this presentation. Bob MacPherson is a United States Navy veteran and an award winning master storyteller who has travelled the world for over forty-five years sharing his vast experiences with audiences of all ages.” 

“Industrial History of Muddy Creek and Slippery Rock Creek”, Wednesday, September 12, 6:30PM-7:30PM, Moraine State Park, Vavilion #7, McDanel’s Launch Area, North Shore. “Many years before transformation into state parks, the land that became Moraine had active coal and oil industries. The Wilroy Iron Furnace was upstream along the Slippery Rock Creek from the land that became McConnells Mill State Park. Hell's Hollow had a lime kiln and Lawrence Iron Furnace. Join Polly Shaw, author of the book ‘Images of Modern America Moraine State Park’, who will share images and insights into these early businesses which were so essential to the local residents.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/industrial_history_of_muddy_creek_and_slippery_rock_creek#.W4CYPC3Myi4

“Why Louis Armstrong Matters”, Wednesday, September 12, 7PM-8:30PM, Monroeville Library. “There is much, much more to Louis Armstrong than you could ever imagine! Whatever your generation, you might associate him with 'What a Wonderful World', or 'Hello Dolly' or 'Cabaret'. These were hits from the last decade of his life, but did you realize that Louis Daniel Armstrong single-handedly changed everything about music? During the 1920s Armstrong created the very essence of solo-oriented jazz performance through the sheer power and brilliance of his being. His influence extended far beyond the world of jazz: classical musicians were also deeply affected by his sound. We can’t hear any piece of music anymore without hearing traces of the genius of Louis Armstrong. Come learn how a child from the poorest and most dangerous neighborhood in the Deep South rose above poverty and prejudice to become America’s Ambassador of Goodwill. Presenter Tom Roberts is a leading exponent of early jazz piano. He's played everywhere from New York’s Carnegie Hall and the Tonight Show to the major jazz clubs in the French Quarter of New Orleans. Along with his pianistic artistry, Tom is a versatile music historian with special focus on the early jazz era.” 

“American Promise”, Wednesday, September 12, 6:30PM-8:45PM, Mt. Lebanon Library, Pittsburgh, Meeting Room A. “A public meeting of American Promise--whose goal is to empower, inspire, and organize Americans to win the cause of our time: the 28th Amendment. This historic reform will rebalance our politics and government by putting the rights of individual citizens and the interests of the nation before the privileges of concentrated money, corporations, unions, political parties, and superPACs. Learn more about this organization and its goals.” http://www.americanpromise.net

“Creek Critters”, Wednesday, September 12, 4:30PM-6:30PM, Irwin Run, Jackson and Irwin Rd., Gibsonia. $5. Preregistration required; register online: https://alleghenylandtrust.org/event/creek-critters-2/ “Join our trained education team as we wade into the waters that flow through our greenspaces in search of the ‘creek critters’ that call these waters home. Great for families and community groups. We will be getting wet to varying degrees and closed-toe shoes are required. All programs run for two hours and are held rain or shine.” 

“Planned Parenthood Presents: Check it Out! Assessing a Personal Relationship”, Wednesday, September 12, 3:30PM-5PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Squirrel Hill. “We will be looking at what makes a relationship healthy or unhealthy. Accompanying that, we will practice communicating openly and honestly about relationship concerns and think through how to manage them. For teens ages 11-19.” 

“Birds and Climate Change in the 21st Century”, Wednesday, September 12, 7PM-10PM, Oaks Theater, 310 Allegheny River Blvd., Oakmont. $15- $20 per ticket. “All proceeds support the continued operations of Audubon’s bald eagle webcams. Wishful Wednesday Productions and the Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania are teaming up again to present the 6th in our lecture . Opening the show will be the amazing acoustic guitars of Rusty Liberatore and Doug McIltrot and on keyboards Frank Novasak. Chris Kubiak from the Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania will enlighten us to the effects of climate on so many species of birds through out our region. Maybe you will find some answers to your questions...and find more questions to ask.” https://www.facebook.com/events/271965426917802/

“Meet, Play, Learn: Dungeons and Dragons”, Wednesday, September 12, 5PM- 8PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland. “Come play Dungeons and Dragons at the library! Bring a character and some dice or just your imagination. All experience levels are welcome. Please register beforehand by emailing Wren at mcgalliardw@carnegielibrary.org. Indicate your experience as a player, so that we can assign you to an appropriate table. If you are interested in learning how to be a Dungeon Master, let us know and we can help you run a game at this event.” 

“Kiva Loan Workshop”, Thursday, September 13, 12:30PM-1:30PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Downtown and Business Branch. “Would a small injection of capital help you to launch or grow your business? Kiva, an international nonprofit organization, offers 0% interest micro-loans of up to $10,000 for U.S. small businesses and is willing to work with entrepreneurs at all stages of business. Attend this workshop to learn more about Kiva and find out whether a Kiva U.S. loan could help you take your business to the next level.” 

“Eichleay Engineering Company: Records and Photographs”, Thursday, September 13, 7PM-8:45PM, Mt. Lebanon Library, Pittsburgh, Meeting Room A. “Established in Pittsburgh in the late 1800s, the Eichleay Engineering Company worked on moving projects that included the relocation of homes, office buildings, and large machinery. As the business grew, it became involved in work on outside of Western Pennsylvania, participating in the Manhattan Project and construction of the Hoover Dam. Heinz History Center Chief Archivist Matt Strauss will discuss the Eichleay Engineering Company Records and Photographs, highlighting the strengths of collection and the ways in which the Library and Archives staff have worked to increase awareness of these materials.” 

“When the Smoke Clears: A Talk with Dr. Ervin Staub”, Thursday, September 13, 7PM-9PM, Heinz History Center, 1212 Smallman St., Pittsburgh. $10 for adults, free for students and Holocaust survivors. Preregistration required; register online: http://hcofpgh.org/staub/ “Dr. Ervin Staub is a psychologist whose research examines the roots of goodness (caring and helping) and the roots of violence, especially genocide and mass killing, and who applies his research to real world interventions. Motivated in part by his experience of surviving the Holocaust in Hungary as a young child, one central focus of his work has been the role of passive and active bystanders. He is professor of psychology, emeritus, at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, and the founding director of the doctoral program there on the psychology of peace and violence. In this talk, Dr. Staub will discuss the role of passive bystanders in the evolution of violence and the power of active bystanders; describe his work in Rwanda to promote healing and reconciliation after the genocide; his work in the Netherlands to improve Dutch-Muslim relations after violence; the training he developed in active bystandership for California police in the wake of the Rodney King incident, so that officers stop unnecessary harmful actions by fellow officers, which has been used to great success in New Orleans in the last three years; and training students in schools to be active bystanders who stop bullying.” 

“Teen Gender and Sexuality Alliance”, Thursday, September 13 and Thursday, September 27, 5PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland. “The Teen Gender and Sexuality Alliance (GSA) is a place where you can be yourself! We’re a group of LGBTQIA teens and allies who are having fun, being supportive, learning about local resources, and striving to make our community stronger.” 

Author Talk, “Discovering Gettysburg”, Thursday, September 13, 6:30PM-7:30PM, Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall, 4141 5th Ave., Pittsburgh. From author W. Stephen Coleman: “In Discovering Gettysburg: An Unconventional Introduction to the Greatest Little Town in America and the Monumental Battle that Made It Famous, you will visit with me a host of famous and off-the-beaten-path places on the battlefield, explore the historic town of Gettysburg as it is today, chat with some of the town’s fascinating “resources,” and follow along, as I did, with some of the most engaging storytelling I have ever had the pleasure of hearing. And nowhere inside will you be bothered with footnotes or stumble your way through academic mumbo jumbo. Thankfully, my friend and award-winning cartoonist Tim Hartman agreed to provide the magnificent maps and outstanding caricatures that grace this book.” https://soldiersandsailorshall.org/event/spotlight-discovering-gettysburg/

“A Party for Barbara”, Thursday, September 13, 6PM-10PM, Mattress Factory, 500 Sampsonia Way, Pittsburgh. “Barbara Luderowski said that what she desired most was a community. In 1975, she purchased the abandoned Stearns and Foster mattress warehouse at 500 Sampsonia Way. A sculptor herself, she hoped to create a place for creative and intellectual exchange. Over four decades under Barbara's leadership, the museum purchased and rehabilitated nine dilapidated buildings, converting them into artist residences, gallery spaces, administrative offices, an education studio, garden and museum parking lot. The museum's presence on the North Side – Barbara's presence – changed the neighborhood, and changed Pittsburgh. The Mattress Factory stands tall as a leading example of artistic force and creative output, as a champion of artists and a pioneer of installation art. The Mattress Factory has supported over 750 artists from all around the world, and impacts the lives of over 100,000 visitors and 30,000 children annually. Barbara created her community, and you are a part of it. We welcome you to celebrate Barbara's life's work with us on September 13, 2018 from 6-10pm at the Mattress Factory. There will be friends, food, drinks, entertainment, and of course, drag queens. Please join us as we raise a glass to Barbara's life and legacy!” https://www.showclix.com/event/a-party-for-barbara 

“Vinyl Cutting 101” , Friday, September 14, 5PM-6:30PM, Carnegie Science Center, 1 Allegheny Ave., Pittsburgh. $25. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.carnegiesciencecenter.org/programs/fablab-public-workshops/ “Learn to use the computer controlled vinyl cutter in Fab Lab Carnegie Science Center. This introductory class is required in order to use the vinyl cutter during Fab Lab Open Workshop (FLOW). Workshop is open to ages 8 and up. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult who also registers for the workshop.” 

“Ghost Hunt at Castle Blood”, Friday, September 14, 7PM-11PM, Castle Blood, 100 Schoonmaker Ave., Monessen. $40. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ghost-hunt-at-castle-blood-friday-sept-14th-monessen-pa-tickets-49173794142?aff=aff0spingo “On Friday September 14th, Grab your flashlight, and come on a REAL ghost hunting adventure event like no other! Castle Blood is a haunted house attraction located in Monessen, PA that has REAL ghosts. What better place to hunt ghosts than in a 100 year old FUNERAL HOME? That's EXACTLY what Castle Blood is! During our ghost hunt, you will be paired with a REAL paranormal investigator using the latest and greatest in ghost hunting gadgetry to try to make contact with ‘The Other Side’. On our initial investigation, Ghosts N'at experience many strange phenomenon in the house including audible voices, EVPs, and more!” 

Opening Reception, “Transformation 10: Contemporary Works in Found Materials”, Friday, September 14, 5:30PM-8PM, with additional events on Saturday, September 15, Contemporary Craft, 2100 Smallman St., Pittsburgh. Free. Exhibition runs Sept. 14 through March 23, 2019. “’One man’s trash is another man’s treasure’ is the perfect idiom for Transformation 10: Contemporary Works in Found Materials, The Elizabeth R. Raphael Founder’s Prize Exhibition. The exhibition will open on Friday, September 14, and we would love to see you at this free and public opening reception starting at 5:30 PM. During the reception, we will also be announcing the winner and honorable mention recipients for The Elizabeth R. Raphael Founder’s Prize! Featuring 26 national and international artists who have been selected as finalists for the 2017 Elizabeth R. Raphael Founder’s Prize. Transformation 10 will showcase newly created, innovative artworks that incorporate found materials in unexpected ways and challenge notions about commonplace objects, found materials, and contemporary art for personal and global narratives, expressions, and aesthetics. Saturday: 12 – 2 PM Dialogue with exhibiting artists; performance art by exhibiting artist Fumi Amano; 2 – 3 PM Artist Talk: Winner of The Elizabeth R. Raphael Founder’s Prize” http://contemporarycraft.org/event/transformation-10-opening/

“Urban Art Workshop 2018”, Friday, September 14, 5PM-8PM, Carrie Furnaces, Swissvale. $30. “Join Rivers of Steel Arts for this unique workshop in aerosol painting at the Carrie Furnaces! Participants will get hands-on experience with style-writing, letter design and painting techniques while learning about the underground culture of graffiti, its history and how it continues to evolve as an art form. Taking place on Friday evenings from 5:00-8:00 pm, these workshops are led by experienced urban artist Shane Pilster of 82 Concepts. Each guest has the chance to view Rivers of Steel’s unique collection of graffiti murals created by artists from around the world and design their own canvas to take home as a workshop memento.” http://rosarts.org/events/

Quantum Theater Presents “Chatterton”, Friday, September 14 through Sunday, October 28, Trinity Cathedral, 328 6th Ave., Pittsburgh. A full dinner with a glass of wine and pre-show drink included with each ticket. “A new play adapted from Sir Peter Ackroyd’s award-winning book and directed by Quantum Theatre founder Karla Boos, Chatterton spreads out in three dimensions, immersing its mobile audiences in the haunting spaces of Trinity Cathedral. Chatterton’s plot takes inspiration from historical character Thomas Chatteron, the Romantic era’s most famous suicide, an 18th century poet who took his young life and was immortalized 100 years later by a very famous painting. Modeling for that painting was Victorian poet George Meredith, whose own dramatic life also features in Ackroyd’s story. And in the present, poet Charles Wychwood goes on a hunt to solve mysterious puzzles from the past – is what we believe about Thomas Chatterton truth or fiction?  Chatterton offers a trifecta of poets in three centuries, colorful London with Dickensian characters bristling with humor, and deep debates on what is real, what is fake, asking is anything ‘authentic’ in the intertwining worlds of art and commerce? In the manner of Quantum’s 2014 production TAMARA, the audience moves through masterfully dressed spaces in a stunning historic landmark. The experience begins with pre-show drinks in Pittsburgh’s oldest Church Yard and includes a full intermission dinner by the celebrity chef of the week. Quantum Theatre is Pittsburgh’s longstanding company of theatrical innovators, who make the city their canvas as they inventively transform real places into sites for magical stories and experiences.” https://www.trustarts.org/event/15248-2018/chatterton-quantum-theater

“Fall Homeschool Day”, Friday, September 14, 10AM-2PM, Fort Ligonier, 200 South Market St., Ligonier. Early registration $9 for both adults and kids when you register by Sept. 4. Free for ages 5 and under. “Fort Ligonier is excited to host Fall Homeschool Day on Friday, September 14, 2018! Homeschool Days are for all ages and include experiential learning activities for all. This is a great opportunity for a field trip experience, but also a time to share and network with other homeschool parents and children. We offer special pricing, programs and scheduling. You are also welcome to visit any other time of the year, but hope that you will join us for our designated Homeschool Day events this year.” Registration and details here: https://www.fortligonier.org/event/fall-homeschool-day/

“Sunset Stroll”, Friday, September 14, 7PM-9:30PM, Forbes State Forest. Preregistration required; contact rmahony@pa.gov or 724-259-2201. “Take in late summer’s sunset on this moderate, 3.5 mile hike out to Wolf Rocks. Hikers will be rewarded with a scenic vista of the Linn Run Valley. Please bring headlamps or flashlights.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/sunset_stroll_1947#.W4CZui3Myi4

“Mushroom Walk at Cook Forest”, Friday, September 14, 9AM-12PM, Cook Forest State Park. “Meet Western Pennsylvania Mushroom Club Mycologist Garrett Taylor and Dale Luthringer, Environmental Education Specialist with the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, at Shelter #1 for a pre-Foray mushroom walk.” https://wpamushroomclub.org/events/cook-forest-with-garrett-taylor/

“Shrine Circus”, Friday, September 14 through Sunday, September 16, PPG Paints Arena. http://www.ppgpaintsarena.com/events/detail/shrine-circus-3

“Pennsylvania Bavarian Oktoberfest”, Friday, September 14, 4PM-10PM; Saturday, September 15, 11AM-10PM; and Sunday, September 16, 11AM-4PM, downtown Canonsburg. “The Pennsylvania Bavarian Oktoberfest is a replica of the legendary German festivals. Our festival was named by aol.com as one of the Top Ten Oktoberfest Celebrations in the nation! Held in downtown Canonsburg, the festival features two stages; one with authentic German music and the other with continuous popular music, German cuisine and beer, as well as ethnic and American foods are featured. Our Oktoberfest also features our craft concourse vendors, amusement rides, game, and much more.” http://canonchamber.com/pa-bavarian-oktoberfest/

“Critical Hit: Dungeons and Dragons”, Friday, September 14 and Friday, September 28, 6PM-8PM, Whitehall Library, Pittsburgh. “IT'S BACK! -- Whitehall Public Library has brought back its tabletop gaming program called Critical Hit. The program features gameplay and campaigns from Dungeons and Dragons 5th edition books. Welcome back travelers it has been awhile. Have you completed your own quests? Travel around once again with your old friends in groups of 4-8. Dive back in to those tricky mazes filled with jelly monsters and sand dragons. Tackle the horrors of archery contests and ski ball tournaments. Continue exploring the abandoned house filled with scurrying creatures and queens. The world you started awaits your return. Bring your dice, your friends and your trusty DM (Dungeon Master) and prepare for things to get a dicey all over again. 2nd and 4th Friday nights each month. Teens 13-20. Space is limited.” 

“Sew a Patchwork Potholder”, Saturday, September 15, 1:30PM-3:30PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Allegheny. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.carnegielibrary.org/event/hands-on-workshop-sew-a-patchwork-potholder/ “Use our library sewing machine and fabric scraps to create your own one-of-a-kind potholder. Beginners welcome. Materials provided.” 

“EuroFest”, Saturday, September 15, 11AM-5PM, University of Pittsburgh, Wesley W. Posvar Hall, at S. Bouquet St. and Roberto Clemente Dr., Pittsburgh. Free. “EuroFest is a family friendly festival featuring all things Europe in the ‘Burgh. Local artisans and vendors will create a dynamic marketplace and performances of song and dance will be presented on the main stage. Food booths featuring various European cuisines will be participating and artistic demonstrations and children’s activities will take place throughout the day.” https://www.ucis.pitt.edu/esc/system/files/ESC%20Eurofest%20Poster%202018.pdf

“Napoleonic Grande Tactique”, Saturday, September 15 and Sunday, September 16, 9AM-5PM, Old Bedford Village, 220 Sawblade Rd., Bedford. $10 adults, $9 seniors, $5 students 6-18, free for ages 5 and under. “Infantry and cavalry portray the battles, tactics and life of soldiers of 1800’s Europe. Armies of France and Britain and their allies will be on hand for the event. Don’t miss seeing a different era in reenacting.” http://oldbedfordvillage.com/events.php

“Hawk Watch”, Saturday, September 15, 8AM-3PM, Ohiopyle State Park. $10. Preregistration required; please call or email Rose Bando to reserve a spot: rbando@pa.gov or 724-329-8591 ext. 016. “Along the Allegheny Front, the hawks are migrating southward. We will be joining the Audubon Society on top of the mountain to watch this spectacular sight. We will meet at the Visitors Center and caravan to the Front. We also ask that you give a $10 donation to the Audubon Society at the site.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/hawk_watch_5246#.W4CaHy3Myi4

“World War II Weekend”, Saturday, September 15, 9AM-5:30PM, and Sunday, September 16, 9AM-4:30PM, Eisenhower National Historic Site, 243 Eisenhower Farm Rd., Gettysburg. “On September 15 and 16, 2018 the National Park Service will sponsor its 22nd annual World War II living history weekend at the Eisenhower National Historic Site. The public is invited to tour World War II encampments of over 700 living historians portraying Allied and German troops. The camps are authentically recreated by over 90 living history units and include original World War II vehicles. Living history volunteers will present programs throughout the weekend on WWII weapons and equipment, communications, medical services, military vehicles, and the life of the common soldier. Dozens of operational WWII vehicles will be on display, including a Sherman tank and a tank destroyer. Visitors have the opportunity to participate in an Army Air Force mission briefing, join an infantry platoon on patrol, and listen to stories of civilians from the Home Front. The weekend also features book signings, special guided tours of World War II burial sites in the Soldiers’ National Cemetery, and a World War II style “USO” dance. Both days, visitors may purchase lunch at the site courtesy of the Heidlersburg Volunteer Fire Company. Guest speakers for the event include World War II veterans and authors. Both days, retired National Security Agency employee Rick Henderson will be on hand to demonstrate a captured German Enigma Code Machine, the code of which was cracked by the Allies, allowing them to intercept and decipher important messages transmitted by the Germans. Licensed Battlefield Guide Ralph Siegel will present free guided tours of the World War II burials in the Soldiers’ National Cemetery. Though well known for Civil War burials, the National Cemetery is the final resting place for more than 400 soldiers, sailors, marines, and airmen who died between 1941 and 1945. The interments include men who fell at Pearl Harbor and on D-Day in Normandy. These hour-long free guided walks are offered Saturday at 5 p.m. and Sunday at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. The tour begins inside the Taneytown Road cemetery gate. Saturday night, a World War II style “USO” dance will be held at the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center from 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., featuring 1940s music by the Gettysburg Big Band. Open to the public, tickets will be sold at the door for $10.00. A cash bar will be available. The encampment will be open Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Sunday 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Admission to the Eisenhower National Historic Site is by shuttle bus. Buses depart from the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center located at 1195 Baltimore Pike. Weather permitting, free on-site parking for passenger vehicles only will also be available in a farm field accessible off of Emmitsburg Road, Business Route 15. Bus groups and visitors using wheelchairs should plan to use the shuttle system. For reservations, call 1-877-874-2478. Cost of shuttle bus tickets are: Adults, $9.00; Children 6-12, $5.00; Children age 6 and under are admitted free.” https://www.nps.gov/eise/planyourvisit/event-details.htm?event=C50DC83A-155D-451F-67FAC14CBFF20E3B

“Liberation of New Oxford”, Saturday, September 15, 8AM-3PM. New Oxford, PA. “In honor of local veterans of World War II, New Oxford, Pennsylvania will stage a re-enactment of the liberation of a Dutch village by an Allied convoy. On that Saturday morning, the center of town will travel back in time and place to the Netherlands, September 1944, a few months after the Allied armies invaded occupied France to liberate Europe from Nazi Germany. Operation Market-Garden has kicked off in General Montgomery's plan to attack Germany through the Netherlands with the largest Airborne force dropping thousands of men. XXX Corps leads the land forces on a single road. The morning will begin with Dutch villagers, believing the Germans have withdrawn for good, preparing to celebrate the arrival of the Allies by hanging banners and welcome signs. However, they are surprised when the Germans re-occupy the town to delay the Allied advance. Eventually the Allied convoy arrives, a battle ensues and the town is liberated once and for all. The captured Germans are marched to the town's train station on their way to become prisoners of war. (Please note that weapons discharged will only fire blank ammunition.) Hosted by the New Oxford Area Historical Society in cooperation with the Borough of New Oxford, PA, the post-battle celebration will recognize the sacrifices of the local residents and veterans during the war. That afternoon, all are welcome to visit the encampment at the train station where the German camp will be set up, including the period vehicles used in the battle. The re-enactors will be available to answer questions about the training, uniforms, equipment and weaponry of average soldiers from the era.” https://www.liberationofnewoxford.com

“Gary Lincoff Memorial Mushroom Foray”, Saturday, September 15, 8AM-7PM, North Park. $35 for members of the Western Pennsylvania Mushroom Club, $55 for nonmembers which will include a membership, students and kids 11-18 $15, free for kids 10 and under. Preregistration required; register online: https://wpamushroomclub.org/events/gary-lincoff-memorial-foray/ “The Gary Lincoff Memorial Foray will be held on Saturday, September 15th : Walks, presentations, auction, book signing, sales, table-walk, mushroom feast.” 

“Wildflowers, Wildlife Habitats and Meadows”, Saturday, September 15, 1:30PM-3:30PM, Boyce Park. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search/bp-wildflowers-wildlife-habitats-meadows/2792 “Learn and participate as we help to create a balance of ecosystems for plant and animal species.” 

“Pittsburgh History Paddle”, Saturday, September 15, 9AM-1PM, Fort Pitt Museum, 601 Commonwealth Pl., Pittsburgh. $40, or $30 for Venture Outdoors members. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.ventureoutdoors.org/events/3320/ “Join the Fort Pitt Museum and Venture Outdoors on a kayaking adventure! The program begins at 9 a.m. at the Fort Pitt Museum for a highlights tour of the exhibits. All paddles include all day admission to the Fort Pitt Museum. Following the tour, participants will walk to Kayak Pittsburgh – North Shore for a kayak tour of Pittsburgh’s rivers that will focus on the 18th century history of the rivers and point out historic landmarks related to the history of Fort Pitt and the conflict over the forks of the Ohio River. Previous paddling experience is required.” 

“Washington and Greene Counties Covered Bridge Festival”, Saturday, September 15 and Sunday, September 16, 10AM-5PM, at 10 sites. Free. A detailed brochure with a map of sites is here: http://www.visitwashingtoncountypa.com/downloads/CBF-2018.pdf “Take part in a celebration of rich histories and beautiful countrysides during the 48th Annual Washington and Greene Counties Covered Bridge Festival presented by EQT. Each of the 10 festival locations offer a charming atmosphere and an array of activities including handmade arts and crafts, homestyle foods, historical re-enactments, crafting demonstrations and delightful entertainment. Held the third weekend in September each year, the Covered Bridge Festival is regarded as the signature event in the area and the official start to the Fall season.” https://www.facebook.com/events/406614666440727/

“Take a Stroll with a Park Ranger”, Saturday, September 15, 2PM-4PM, Deer Lakes Park. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search/dl-take-a-stroll-with-a-park-ranger/2766 “Approximately 1 mile with moderate elevation changes. Join a Park Ranger for a walk along the lakeside paved paths and learn about the local flora and fauna that you see along the way. Bring water and wear comfortable shoes.” 

“Allegheny County Sanitation Authority Open House”, Saturday, September 15, 9AM-4PM, 3300 Preble Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. “Join ALCOSAN for the region’s largest watershed and environmental festival. Free and open to the public. Rain or shine. Enjoy a fun-filled day of hands-on environmental exhibits, wastewater treatment plant and laboratory tours, microbiology and watershed life demonstrations, and educational activities for all ages. ALCOSAN is located at 3300 Preble Avenue on Pittsburgh’s North Side, minutes from the Chateau Street exit off the West End Bridge. Using public transit? A free shuttle will bring visitors from the Port Authority’s North Side T station near PNC Park and the Allegheny T station at Heinz Field.” http://sustainablepittsburgh.org/event/alcosan-open-house-2/

“Stahlstown Flax Scutching Festival”, Saturday, September 15, and Sunday, September 16, Monticue’s Grove, 1703 Route 711, Stahlstown. $4 adults, free for ages 11 and under, free parking. “The Flax Scutching Festival offers demonstrations of the complete process of making Linen from the Flax plant. The festival also has great homemade food, crafts, antique farm equipment, live music, civil war encampment, covered wagon train encampment and a staged Indian raid. The Indian raid is a realistic battle between Indians and settlers, representing the hazards of the era.” http://www.flaxscutching.org

“Lycoming County Balloonfest and Airshow”, Saturday, September 15, with hot air balloon launces at 5:30AM and 5:30PM and an air show at 3PM, Lycoming County Fairground, Hughesville. http://www.lcrotary.com

“Survival Skills”, Saturday, September 15, 1PM-4PM, Settler’s Cabin Park. Ages 13 and up. $10. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search/sc-survival-skills/2886 “Moderate to difficult, varied terrain, on and off trail. Join the Allegheny County Park Rangers and learn about basic woodland survival skills. Learn what to do if you become lost, methods of water filtration, how to start an emergency fire (everyone receives a fire starting kit), how to build emergency shelters, and how to plan ahead and prepare so you don’t become lost in the first place or be ready if you do. Come dressed for the outdoors (Rain or Shine) and be prepared to walk at least 2 miles over varied terrain ? on an off trail. Be sure to bring enough water for the weather conditions as access may be limited or non-existent. Expect to spend three hours in the outdoors. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.” 

“POW- MIA Vigil”, Saturday, September 15 and Sunday, September 16, Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall, 4141 5th Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. “Join Vietnam Veterans, Inc. as they raise awareness and remember all Prisoners of War and those Missing in Action. Saturday 12PM- Opening Ceremony on Soldiers and Sailors Patio. Show your patriotism and honor the POW/MIAs by bearing the US Flag for 15 minutes. Saturday at dusk- POW/MIA Candlelight Ceremony. Sunday 2PM- Closing Ceremony. Rain or shine.” https://soldiersandsailorshall.org/event/pow-mia-vigil/

“Cool Spring Power Museum Open Days”, Saturday, September 15 and Sunday, September 16, 10AM-5PM, 179 Coolspring Rd., Coolspring. $7 adults, free for kids 11 and under. “Coolspring Power Museum presents an illuminating history of the evolution of internal combustion engine technology that put an end to the steam powered era. The museum's collection includes over 275 stationary engines housed in more than 35 buildings and outdoor displays. Stationary gas hit and miss engines, throttle governed engines, flame ignition engines, hot tube ignition engines, and hot air engines are all among the permanent exhibits at the Coolspring Power Museum in Coolspring, Pennsylvania. Engines in the museum's collection range in size from fractional horsepower up to 600 horsepower.” http://coolspringpowermuseum.org

“Trek to Tall Trees”, Sunday, September 16, 10AM-12PM, Ohiopyle State Park. “Did you know that Ohiopyle is home to some of the tallest trees in Pennsylvania and in some cases the Northeast United States. During this series of programs we will take you to these giants so you can see them for yourselves. Bring a camera and practice your tree hugging!” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/trek_to_tall_trees_5468#.W4CbXC3Myi4

"Isaac A. Shuster's Diaries of 1878-1879: Life on North Greensburg Farms", Sunday, September 16, 2PM, Baltzer Meyer Historical Society Center, 642 Baltzer Meyer Pike, Greensburg. Free and open to the public. “Learning in Progress from two diaries written by Isaac Alpheus Shuster living and working the farm a few miles north of Greensburg, also, some primitives from his extensive collection.” http://www.baltzermeyer.pa-roots.com/Pages/calendar.html

“Rising Stars Concert”, Sunday, September 16, 6PM-8PM, Pittsburgh Opera, 2425 Liberty Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.pittsburghopera.org/calendar/detail/rising-stars-concert “Meet Pittsburgh Opera's 2018-19 Resident Artists in this free concert! You'll be up close and personal in the intimate George R. White Studio at Pittsburgh Opera headquarters, 2425 Liberty Avenue in the Strip District. The Resident Artists will be introducing themselves through an audition format with one of their favorite arias, followed by an aria chosen by General Director Christopher Hahn, Music Director Antony Walker, and Director of Artistic Operations Bill Powers. Afterwards, the pressure is on. The audience gets to vote on which Resident Artist is brought back out for the final aria. Mingle with the artists afterwards.” 

“Stamp Club”, Tuesday, September 18, 6:30PM-8PM, Peters Township Library, McMurray. Preregistration required; register at the circulation desk. “Third Tuesday of the month. Spend your time with Kings and Queens, Sports Legends, Movie Stars and more! You can start your own art collection, connect with the past, or travel to far and mysterious lands. Come and learn the basics, expand your collection and meet with others who share your interests.” 

“Get in Tune with Nature: The Six Senses of Nature”, Tuesday, September 18, 6:30PM-8:30PM, Shaler North Hills Library, Glenshaw, Large Print Program Room. Ages 14-adult. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/S/SHALER/EKP.cfm?zeeOrg=SHALER “Join Pat Milliken and Gil Pielin, retired educators and Master Naturalists-in-training as they help us explore the natural world around us. Learn about what a naturalist is, about mammals in our area, conservation and more! We'll be hosting both a fall and spring series at the Library! The program is free and open to the public. Recommended for adults. Minimum age to participate is 14. Registration is required. September 18: The Six Senses of Nature; October 16: Oh 'Deer'! Mammals in our Area; November 13: Conservation: How we Interact with the Natural World.” 

“The Play that Goes Wrong”, Tuesday, September 18 through Sunday, September 23, Benedum Center, 7th St. and Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. “What would happen if Sherlock Holmes and Monty Python had an illegitimate Broadway baby? You’d get ‘The Play that Goes Wrong’, Broadway and London’s award-winning smash comedy! Called ‘a gut-busting hit’ (The New York Times) and ‘the funniest play Broadway has ever seen’ (HuffPost), this classic murder mystery is chock-full of mishaps and madcap mania delivering ‘a riotous explosion of comedy’ (Daily Beast) that is ‘tons of fun for all ages'. (HuffPost)!” https://www.trustarts.org/production/58245/the-play-that-goes-wrong

“Smithfield Book Discussion Group”, Wednesday, September 19, 12PM-1PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Downtown and Business Branch. Discussion of “The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness by Michelle Alexander”. “In a bold and innovative argument, Michelle Alexander shows readers how the mass incarceration of a disproportionate number of black men amounts to a devastating system of racial control. This is a terrifying reality that exists in the UK as much as in the US. Despite the triumphant dismantling of the Jim Crow laws, the system that once forced African-Americans into a segregated second-class citizenship still haunts. The criminal justice system still unfairly targets black men and deprives an entire segment of the population of their basic rights.” 

“Life at Night”, Wednesday, September 19, 7PM-9PM, Powdermill Nature Preserve, 1795 Route 381, Rector. Free. “he night life at Powdermill Nature Reserve is really happening! There are many nocturnal animals at Powdermill Nature Reserve with special adaptations for life at night. Come find out about these creatures and their adaptations, and then we will hit the woods in search of them.” https://carnegiemnh.org/visitor/powdermill-nature-reserve/

“Chuck Beard visits the History Club”, Thursday, September 20, 11AM-12:30PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh West End. “Pittsburghers are slow to give up their ghosts. Rusted skeletons of steel mills and rail depots line the rivers, corroded reminders of a city’s past forged in steel. Churches built in the 19th century by devout East European immigrants now stand desanctified and decayed. For Chuck Beard, it’s not enough to just pass by these empty places every day. He wants to know what happened there, to see what was left behind. Abandoned Pittsburgh is an ongoing project that documents these forgotten places where a strange, haunting beauty still exists. We hope you can visit us when local author and artist Chuck Beard visits the History Club at CLP-West End to discuss his work, and the art and history of Pittsburgh’s past.” https://abandonedpittsburgh.com/

“iLuminate”, Thursday, September 20, 7:30PM, Byham Theater, 101 6th St., Pittsburgh. “iLuminate™ is an entertainment technology company that combines state-of- the-art technology with electrifying entertainers who perform in the dark to create the ultimate performing arts experience. Founded by dancer and software engineer Miral Kotb, iLuminate™ enables performers, choreographers, engineers, technicians, stylists, and artistic directors to produce explosive performances with customized wireless lighting programs. The results are extraordinary lighting effects choreographed with phenomenal dance moves that take viewers on an exhilarating ride.” https://www.trustarts.org/production/60394/iluminate

Pittsburgh Opera Presents, “Market Square Concerts”, Thursday, September 20, and Thursday, September 27, 11:30AM, Market Square in downtown Pittsburgh. Free. “Pittsburgh Opera's 2018-19 Resident Artists will entertain Pittsburghers with a free open-air concert at Market Square during the Farmers Market on Thursday, September 20th. Sample all that the Market Square Farmers Market has to offer while enjoying world-class singing of opera favorites by Pittsburgh Opera Resident Artists!” https://www.pittsburghopera.org/calendar/detail/market-square-concert 

“Wendell G. Freeland—A Quiet Soldier", Thursday, September 20, 7PM-9PM, Historic Pump House, 880 E. Waterfront Dr., Munhall. Free. “Wendell G. Freeland—A Quiet Soldier is a one hour documentary on an important but little known African American leader, attorney, activist, and Tuskegee Airman who worked quietly, but effectively, on all of the significant civil rights battles of his time. His inspirational story is a significant piece of American history; introduction and discussion by film producer Billy Jackson.” https://battleofhomestead.org/bhf/event/wendell-g-freeland-a-silent-soldier/

“Red Herring Book Club: Mystery Book Discussion Group”, Friday, September 21, 1PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland. “Join us for lively discussions of your favorite mystery novels. Discussions are free and open to the public. No registration is necessary. We usually have copies of the current month’s book available for you to check out at the Ask a Librarian desk on the First Floor. Discussions are held in the Graphic Novels Room on the First Floor of the Main Library on the third Friday of the month at 1 p.m. This book group meets monthly from March through November. The theme for July through November 2018 is Scientific Murders. September’s book selection is 'Surrender, New York' by Caleb Carr – Living in exile on an upstate New York dairy farm after his unceremonious termination from the NYPD, a once-dedicated criminal psychologist is called back to duty as a consultant for the suspicious death of several abandoned kids who nobody seems to miss. By the award-winning author of The Alienist.” 

“Pittsburgh International Festival of Firsts”, Friday, September 21 through November 11, various venues. “This fall, Pittsburgh’s Cultural District welcomes U.S., North American, and World Premieres during the Pittsburgh International Festival of Firsts, September 21 – November 11, 2018. Featuring 30 international companies and artists from 20 countries, including representation from Pittsburgh’s own arts community, the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust’s Festival of Firsts will electrify downtown with never-before-seen theater, dance, music, visual arts and immersive experiences. These are the ones you can’t describe in words. The Festival captivated millions of visitors in 2004, 2008, and 2013, reinforcing the city’s reputation as a premier global destination for arts, entertainment, and culture. This time around, the Trust has doubled the Festival’s length and tripled its attractions, presenting more than 500 opportunities for everyone – locals and visitors alike – to experience groundbreaking international works in Pittsburgh. These are the ones that will change you.” https://www.trustarts.org/pct_home/festivals/pittsburgh-international-festival-of-firsts-2018/about

“Gallery Crawl in the Cultural District”, Friday, September 21, 5:30PM. Free. “Gallery Crawl in the Cultural District, produced by the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, is a free, quarterly, multi-venue showcase of downtown’s dynamic art and entertainment scene. Dozens of galleries, stages, storefronts, and unique public spaces dot each installment’s 14-block map of destinations, hosting US premieres of international multimedia artists, regional visual art exhibitions, live music, theater and dance performances, film screenings, hands-on creative activities, and special crawl after dark attractions. The Gallery Crawl is what it looks, feels, tastes, and sounds like to experience a true Cultural District, with diverse artistic offerings for a multitude of interests. Nearly 30,000 annual visitors experience this “open house” for Pittsburgh’s renowned Cultural District, free and open to the public since 2004.” https://www.trustarts.org/event/2522-2011/gallery-crawl-in-the-cultural-district

Outdoor Performance, “Manifold”, Friday, September 21 and Saturday, September 22, 8:15PM and 10:15PM, 8 minute performances, outside the Benedum Center, Penn Ave and 7th St., Pittsburgh. Free. “Projection Mapping by Filip Roca, Original Music Composed by Wang Lu, 30+ Pittsburgh musicians conducted by Daniel Nesta Curtis. Millions of guests have enjoyed thousands of performances at the Benedum Center since its opening as the Stanley Theatre in 1928, but this is a first. Pittsburgh welcomes artists working in 3D animation technique, particle and liquid simulations, and audio generative images. For two days only and four total outdoor performances, the exterior façade of the Benedum Center becomes the canvas for Filip Roca’s World Premiere projection mapping spectacle, Manifold. In the foreground, near the intersection of Penn Avenue and 7th Street, acclaimed Chinese composer Wang Lu’s original score, written specifically for Manifold, will be brought to life by an ensemble comprised of outstanding Pittsburgh musicians from many worlds. Our great symphonic and new-music players are joined by masters from our jazz heritage, other traditional forms, and young players crossing musical barriers. Expect to hear echoes of hip-hop, ragtime-influenced banjo, flamenco guitar, and brass band from a non-traditional orchestra as diverse as Pittsburgh itself, under the baton of Daniel Nesta Curtis. The eight-minute performance is a must-see! Roca’s abstract audio-visual narrative will wrap around the Benedum Center along Penn Avenue and 7th Street, generating space distortions and optical illusions, bending and lighting the many intricate parts of the façade. The projection mapping piece studies matter as a physical substance, creating spaces on the façade that reflect our human perception of physical laws governing energy, gravity, time, and state of being. Each of these spaces affects the geometry of the Benedum Center differently. Light, sound, and matter come together in a single moment.” https://www.trustarts.org/event/15871-2018/manifold-filip-roca-and-wang-lu 

“History Radio Show: Soldier, Come Home!”, Friday, September 21, 7PM-8PM, Merrick Art Gallery, 1100 5th Ave, New Brighton. $20. “Join the TSVP Radio Theater Players for a dramatic, radio-style performance of ‘Soldier, Come Home!’ performed before a live audience at the Merrick Art Gallery in New Brighton, Pennsylvania. The play written by Frank W. Wicks is based on the Civil War letters of his great-grandparents, Philip and Mary Pringle of Western Pennsylvania. The TSVP Radio Theater Players is a collective cast of local performing artists enthused by the art and craft of old-time radio theater.” https://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/3595048

“RADical Days”, beginning Friday, September 21. “RADical Days is an annual event celebrating the assets with free admission, musical and dance performances and family activities offered by arts and culture organizations, parks and recreation, and sports and regional attractions that are funded by RAD (Allegheny Regional Asset District).” See their complete schedule and details here: https://radworkshere.org/pages/radical-days

“Autumn at Mt. Davis”, Friday, September 21, 6PM-8PM, Forbes State Forest. Preregistration required; contact rmahony@pa.gov or 724-259-2201. “Colorful trees and crisp leaves are one of the first signs of fall. Join forest naturalist for an easy, 2 mile hike to learn about the science behind fall foliage at the highest point in PA! Fresh, local apple cider will be provided after the hike.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/autumn_at_mt_davis#.W4Cb9C3Myi4

“Opening Reception: Artists in Residence”, Friday, September 21, 6PM-8PM, Mattress Factory, 500 Sampsonia Way, Pittsburgh. Free. All ages. “The Mattress Factory's fall exhibition, Artist in Residence, opens Friday, September 21 with a FREE reception from 6 - 8pm. Artists in Residence features new installations from: William Earl Kofmehl III; Laleh Mehran; OSGEMEOS; Karina Smigla-Bobinski; and Christina A. West. This event is free and open to all ages. There will be music as well as complimentary food and drinks.” https://mattress.org/calendar/month?type=All

“Penn Brewery Oktoberfest”, September 21, 22, 23, 28, 29, and 30, all ages until 8PM, and festival runs Fridays and Saturdays 5PM-12AM, Sundays 12PM-10PM, Penn Brewery, 800 Vinial St, Pittsburgh. Free. “Get your Lederhosen ready, Penn Brewery's classic Oktoberfest celebration is back for another two weekends of fun! As always, we will combine old-time traditions with new sounds and flavors. Join us at our mid-19th-century landmark building and Biergarten for two weekends of cold bier, delicious food, traditional Bavarian music, and fun vibes! Entertainment this year includes Autobahn, Kevin Solecki, Madel Jager, and more! This group of talented musicians will offer plenty of oompah, accordions, and horns!” https://www.pennbrew.com/oktoberfest

“Silk Screen Asian American Film Festival”, Friday, September 21 through Sunday, September 30, various venues. Films and tickets here: http://www.silkscreenfestival.org/2018-films/

“Laser Cutting 101” Friday, September 21, 5PM-6:30PM, Carnegie Science Center, 1 Allegheny Ave., Pittsburgh. $25. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.carnegiesciencecenter.org/programs/fablab-public-workshops/ “Learn to use the 40W laser at Fab Lab Carnegie Science Center to safely cut and etch your own designs! This introductory class is required in order to use the laser cutter during any Fab Lab Open Workshop (FLOW). Workshop is open to ages 8 and up. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult who also registers for the workshop.” 

“Moonlight Hikes”, Friday, September 21, 8PM-10PM, North Park, Pie Traynor Field Parking Lot; and Saturday, September 22, 8PM-10PM, South Park, Oliver Miller Homestead parking lot. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search “Approximately 2 miles with moderate elevations. Join us for a walk in the park after dark and experience nature in a whole new light. Wear sturdy shoes, bring water and prepare to spend two hours on the trails. Flashlights are recommended in case of emergencies; however, it will be requested that you do not use them during the hike.” 

“Tamburtizans”, Saturday, September 22, 7PM-9PM, Canon-McMillian High School Auditorium, 314 Elm St. Ext., Canonsburg. $20. “The Tamburitzans, the world-renowned ethnic dance troupe, will be performing in the Canon-McMillan High School Auditorium. The Tamburitzans is the longest-running U.S.-based folk ensemble dedicated to the performance of music, song and dance of international cultures. Tickets are $20 and proceeds benefit the Frank Sarris Public Library. All seating is general admission (i.e. no assigned seats). Make plans with family or friends to join us for this entertaining evening. Tickets are on sale now. Purchase your tickets at the adult circulation desk or by calling 724-745-1308 and selecting option #1. We hope to see you there!” https://www.franksarrislibrary.org/event/tamburitzans

“Steel City Reptile Expo”, Saturday, September 22, 9AM-3PM, Printscape Arena, 114 Southpointe Blvd., Canonsburg. $6 ages 11 and up, $3 ages 3-10, free for ages 2 and under, free parking. “The Steel City Reptile Expo brings thousands of reptiles from dozens of top breeders to the Printscape Arena (formerly IceoPlex) at Southpointe six times a year. Join us to learn more about reptiles and amphibians through our live animal encounters, seminars, and Free reptile petting zoo. Our Expo is the best place to buy reptiles, amphibians, and all the supplies you need direct from the experts at prices better than you will find anywhere else!” http://steelcityreptileexpo.com

“Douglas Fairbanks in The Mark of Zorro”, Saturday, September 22, 7:30PM, Keystone Oaks High School Auditorium, 1000 Kelton Ave., Pittsburgh. $15 in advance, $20 at the door, free for students with ID. “The Mark of Zorro, a swashbuckling 1920 silent film starring Douglas Fairbanks, will be presented with live theatre organ accompaniment on Saturday, September 22, 2018, 7:30pm at Keystone Oaks Auditorium in Dormont. Silent film organist Jay Spencer, the house organist at the Palace Theatre in Canton, Ohio, will accompany this landmark film on the 3 manual PATOS Wurlitzer theatre organ. This is the film that launched the movie career of Douglas Fairbanks. He was a 1920s screen idol famous for playing action heroes in such pictures as 'Robin Hood,' 'The Black Pirate,' and 'The Three Musketeers.' His marriage to another screen idol, Mary Pickford, was the most famous in Hollywood, affording both even more popularity among the film-going masses.” http://pittsburghtheatreorgan.com/jay-spencer-september-22-2018/

“Blind Cinema”, Saturday, September 22, 1PM, 4PM, and 7:30PM, Harris Theater, 803 Liberty Ave., Pittsburgh. $25. “In the darkness of a movie theater, the audience members sit blindfolded and behind each row is a row of children. In hushed voices, these children describe a film only they can see. Accompanied by the film’s dialogue-free soundtrack, the whispered descriptions are a fragile, fragmentary, sometimes struggling, courageous attempt by the children to make sense of what they see projected on the screen. Based on the method of audio description, Blind Cinema is an experience where the act of watching a film becomes a shared investment: a collaborative and imaginative act between seeing children and blinded adults. As adults recall their own experiences of trying to find the right words, they newly value that struggle to articulate in order to share experiences. Blind Cinema seeks to discover language’s potential and limits. The film screened during the performance will be seen by each group of children for the first time. Hence, each performance will have a unique group of describing children between the ages of 9 and 11, whose experience was preceded by a workshop.” https://www.trustarts.org/production/60087/blind-cinema-britt-hatzius

Exhibit, “Beyond”, Saturday, September 22 through Friday, October 26, downtown in the Cultural District. Free tickets required; available here: https://www.trustarts.org/production/59980/list_performances "Beyond is an immersive, audiovisual installation by Barcelona-based research studio Playmodes that explores relationships between space, time, and perception. A geometrical architecture transforms space into a container for the abstract language of light and sound. Beyond is also a study on visual and auditory perspective. Inside a long tunnel, vanishing points are made visible, creating an effect of endless depth and monumental scale. This perspective is enhanced through sound, as Playmodes invites us to “travel without moving” in a collision between inner and outer, darkness and light, death and life.” 

“Origami Paper Crafts Workshop”, Saturday, September 22, 1PM-2PM, Dormont Library, Pittsburgh. Preregistration required; call 412-531-8754. “By popular demand, our Origami Paper Crafts workshops will be continuing! Sessions are held on the fourth Saturday of each month from 1-2 PM. This program is open to adults, teens, and children 3rd grade and up.” 

“Mushroom Walk at Sewickley Heights Borough Park”, Saturday, September 22, 10AM-12PM. Free. “Meet Western Pennsylvania Mushroom Club Identifier Fluff Berger in the parking lot of Sewickley Heights Borough Park.” https://wpamushroomclub.org/events/sewickley-heights-borough-park/

“Penn’s Colony Festival”, Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 22, 23, 29 and 30, Penn’s Colony Village, 365 Saxonburg Blvd., Saxonburg. $8 adults, $6 seniors, $5 kids 8-15, free for ages 7 and under. “Penn’s Colony is as unique among other festivals as the Pittsburgh region is to the nation. With an authentic focus on the French and Indian era, that began with the 1753 journey of a 21-year-old George Washington through this region, Penn’s Colony Festival weaves history into a colonial faire featuring a village filled with fine craftsmen. The distinction of Penn’s Colony craftsmen is quality and variety in 185+ artisans who gather once a year to showcase contemporary and traditional works for the home, garden, seasonal and holiday decor, gifts and personal accessories.” http://pennscolony.com

“60th Annual Ligonier Highland Games”, Saturday, September 22 and Sunday, September 23, Idlewild Park, 2574 US 30, Ligonier. “New this year! The Ligonier Highland Games is now a 2-day event! Saturday will be our traditional highland games event with the amateur heavy athletics, while Sunday will be our Celtic music and athletic event featuring the masters and women competitors in the heavy athletics and the team tug of war competition! We are featuring an extended line up of performers, a shortbread contest, children’s races and a whisky tasting too! Check our schedule for more information and updates as they are added!” http://www.ligonierhighlandgames.org

“Meadow Run Trail Hike”, Saturday, September 22, 10AM-11:30AM, Ohiopyle State Park, Meadow Run Trailhead parking lot. “The Meadow Run Trail has many geological features that create the back drop for its beauty. From large rock formations to water falls to majestic hemlocks, this trail is a must. The loop is about a 1.5 miles long. Please wear sturdy shoes.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/meadow_run_trail_hike_8495#.W4Ccay3Myi4

“Owl Prowl”, Saturday, September 22, 7PM-9PM, McConnells Mill State Park, Kildoo Pavilion. “Join the park naturalist to learn about the wonderful owls that prowl the night woods in Pennsylvania. After a short discussion, we will go in search of these night-flying creatures to do a little prowling of our own. Bring a flashlight if you have one. Dress for the weather.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/owl_prowl_6094#.W4Cd_C3Myi4

“Harvest Moon Hike”, Saturday, September 22, 9PM-10:30PM, Forbes State Forest. Preregistration required; contact rmahony@pa.gov or 724-259-2201. “Let the (almost) full moon light your path on a night hike through the forest. Learn about the harvest moon and the seasonal changes occurring throughout the forest. Please bring headlamps or flashlights. S’mores will be provided after the hike.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/harvest_moon_hike_3541#.W4CfBi3Myi4

“Project Budburst”, Saturday, September 22, 10AM at Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve and Succop Nature Park, and 12PM at Todd Nature Store. Free. Preregistration required; register online: http://aswp.org/events “Project BudBurst participants make careful observations of the timing of leafing, flowering, and fruiting phases of plants (plant phenophases) throughout the year. Spring, summer, fall, and winter phases are all valuable. Learn how scientists and educators can use the data to learn more about how plant species respond to changes in climate locally, regionally, and nationally.” 

“Frontier Heritage Weekend”, Saturday, September 22 and Sunday, September 23, 10AM-5PM, Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village, Avella. Regular admission applies. “Get a first-hand look at the everyday lives of 18th century frontier traders during Frontier Heritage Weekend. The 18th century frontier was a dangerous and difficult place to live. Discover the skills necessary to survive and learn how American Indians and European settlers borrowed ideas from each other to build a better life in the Western Pennsylvania wilderness. Demonstrations include: costumed European traders with authentic trade goods; a tomahawk throwing station where visitors can try their hand at tossing an important tool and weapon on the 18th century frontier; blackpowder firearms and musket volleys; 18th century carpentry; open-hearth cooking; and 18th century land surveying techniques.” https://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/events/frontier-heritage-weekend-2018

“Starlight Stroll”, Saturday, September 22, 7PM-8PM, Wingfield Pines Conservation Area, 1550 Mayview Rd., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://alleghenylandtrust.org/event/rad-days-starlight-stroll/ “Ever wonder what our green spaces are like after dark? Join our trained education staff as we stroll under the light of the full moon each month. Topics vary depending on the evening’s leader and can include nocturnal and crepuscular creatures, astronomy, lore and much more! Hikes run rain or shine for an hour each full moon. Great for families and community groups or as an extra credit activity for science classes.” 

“Trees and Shrubs Supporting Wildlife in Winter”, Saturday, September 22, 10AM-12PM, Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve. $4. Preregistration required; register online: http://aswp.org/events/8074 “When winter sets in birds depend on plant resources to provide critical nutrients as insects become scarce. We will discuss how we can help sustain birds during the harsh winter months using bird-friendly native woody plants and ways to prepare your landscape at the end of the season to support resident birds through the winter. Participants will learn proper pruning and planting techniques to successfully establish trees and shrubs in a home landscape. This event is free for ASWP members and Fox Chapel Garden Club members and $4 for non-members, thanks to the programs being underwritten by the Fox Chapel Garden Club (FCGC).” 

“Vietnam: A Working Class War”, Saturday, September 22, 9AM-2:30PM, Community College of Allegheny County, Allegheny Campus, Tom Foerster Student Services Center, 808 Ridge Ave., Pittsburgh. $25, or $10 for veterans, active military personnel and students. Preregistration required; register online: https://battleofhomestead.org/bhf/event/vietnam-a-working-class-war/ “The goal of this program is to provide an opportunity for the present generation of young people, students, elders, and members of the larger Pittsburgh community to learn from and dialogue with those whose lives and politics were profoundly impacted by the Vietnam War. The program will include three panels: Vietnam veterans; anti-war resisters; and representatives from the Vietnamese community. It will conclude with a procession to and ceremony at the Vietnam War Memorial on the North Shore honoring T.J. McGarvey and the Pittsburgh Building Trades who built the memorial with donated labor.” 

Philippine-American Performing Arts Presents “Halo Halo”, Saturday, September 22, 8PM, Kelly Strayhorn Theater, 5941 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. “Pay what makes you happy.” “With its influences of Spanish, Muslim, and cultures indigenous to the archipelago, this evening of dance and music is a celebration of Filipino cultures. “Halo-halo means 'mix-mix' in the Filipino language, and the program hosts more than 40 dancers, musicians and singers who perform a variety of dances that promote, preserve and propagate folk traditions—while showing them in a totally different light. In more than a dozens works, Halo-Halo shares inspiring traditional practices alongside new hybridized forms, including the famous Tinikling pole-jumping dance, Banga, with dancers balancing clay pots on their heads; Pangalay, a couple dance balanced perilously on top of bamboo; and Sayaw sa Banko, in which performers hop across an ever-growing tower of narrow wooden benches.” https://kelly-strayhorn.org/events/philippine-american-performing-arts/

“Pirates Stadium Tour for Families”, Saturday, September 22, 10AM-11:30AM. Preregistration required; If you'd like to register a child for this trip, please call Venture Oudoors at 412-255-0564 x 200. “Join us for a special family hike as we get inside access to the Pirates Stadium! This is a walking tour (approximately 1.5 miles) so please wear comfortable footwear. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible. Call the office if anyone in your group has special needs or accommodations (with advance notice, PNC Park will provide complimentary wheelchairs or assistance for a hearing impairment).” https://www.ventureoutdoors.org/events/7520203/

“RADical Dance Day”, Saturday, September 22, 10AM-12PM, Kelly Strayhorn Theater, 5941 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. “Ever wanted to dance ballet like Misty Copeland or groove like Drake? This morning of free all-levels dance classes is designed to offer you and your family playful encounters with a wide range of dance forms. Presented as part of RADical Days, join in annual event that activates the region’s arts and cultural organizations, by offering free admission to musical and dance performances, family activities. The entire family can enjoy an afternoon of movement in our state-of-the-art studio, with options like pre-ballet, Hip Hop, Zumba, line dancing, healthy treats and more.” https://kelly-strayhorn.org/events/radical-day-2018/

“Opera Up Close- Madama Butterfly”, Sunday, September 23, 2PM-3:30PM, Pittsburgh Opera, 2425 Liberty Ave., Pittsburgh. $5. “Join Robert Boldin, Manager of Artistic Administration, and special guests from the production, for an in-depth look at Puccini’s Madama Butterfly.” https://www.pittsburghopera.org/calendar/detail/opera-up-close-madama-butterfly

Concert, “Yang Jin”, Sunday, September 23, 2PM-3PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland, Quiet Reading Room. “Yang Jin is one of the leading Pipa soloists of her generation. Born in Datong, Shanxi Province, in 1982, Yang Jin began her study of Pipa at age nine. She received her BA and MA degrees from the world-famous Central Conservatory of Music in Beijing. Before relocating to the U.S., she served as a pipa instructor at Wuhan Conservatory of Music. She has performed in mainland China, Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan, France, the U.S., Britain, Japan and the Philippines. In 2010, Jin was the only pipa performer from Mainland China selected to participate in the Kronos Quartet and Wu Man Master Class at Carnegie Hall. In October 2016, Jin began playing with Yo-Yo Ma’s Silk Road Ensemble. Jin is a solo performer of the Cleveland Chinese Music Ensemble, Pittsburgh Purple Bamboo Ensemble, Gypsy Rad Ensemble and Afro Yaqui Music Collective (Jazz). She has performed hundreds of concerts in Ohio and Pennsylvania since 2013.” https://www.yangjinpipa.org/projects

“Autumn Natural History Tour and Walk”, Sunday, September 23, 2PM-3:30PM, Boyce Park. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search/bp-autumn-natural-history-tour-walk/2793 “Celebrate autumn with a guided tour of the nature center and interpretive hike on the Sensory Honeysuckle Trail.” 

“Fall Wildflower Hike”, Sunday, September 23, 10AM-11:30AM, Ohiopyle State Park, Tharp Knob Picnic Area. “Often when we think of wildflowers we think of spring and summer, but there are many species of plants that have chosen fall as their time to shine. Come on a short 1 mile hike on the Kentuck loop trail to see some of these wonderful and unique flowers.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/fall_wildflower_hike_8137#.W4Cfly3Myi4

“7th Annual Wildbird Recovery Fall Migration Festival”, Sunday, September 23, 12PM-5PM, Wildbird Recovery, 120 Forsythe Rd., Valencia. $25 for the first ticket, $20 for each additional ticket. “Meet our education birds, tours of the property, presentation on bats, northern goshawks and American kestrels, silent auction, basket raffle, chainsaw carving by Robert Angelo, catering by Lisa King of Freedom Farms. Meet Master Falconer Jeff Finch! Jeff’s presentation will focus on the broad characteristics of falconers as both hunters AND conservationists. He will share the similarities that falconers have with all others that love and appreciate nature, specifically birds of prey. Additionally, he will bring a North American Goshawk and American Kestrel and offer insights to the characteristics of both along with training strategies/procedures Meet Terry Lobdell (who participates in Citizen Science with the PA Game Commission and others) to learn all about the bats of Pennsylvania and how to build and mount successful bat houses on your property. He will also touch base on white nose syndrome and its affect on our bats, the difference between little browns and big browns. (They are as different as white tail deer are to elk!)” http://www.wildbirdrecovery.org/fall-migration-festival

“Hike Through History: Rachel Carson”, Sunday, September 23, 2PM-4PM, Harrison Hills Park. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search/hh-hike-through-history-rachel-carson/2779 “Approximately 2 miles with moderate elevation changes Talk a walk back in time and learn about the legendary local conservationist Rachel Carson and the impact she made to shape modern-day conservation efforts.” 

“Pittsburgh Pierogi Festival”, Sunday, September 23, 1PM-6PM, Kennywood Park, 4800 Kennywood Blvd., West Mifflin. “The Pittsburgh Pierogi Festival is back at Kennywood Park! Join us on September 23, 2018 from 1pm-6pm at Kennywood Park for the ultimate in hometown Pittsburgh food and fun! The annual celebration of the #CityofDumplings will feature our city’s favorite food from over two dozen restaurants, chefs, and pierogi purveyors who will be serving up hot and delicious pierogies, creative pierogi-inspired dishes, dessert pierogies and more! As you make your way through Kennywood Park, hop on some classic rides open to our guests special for the day, paint your own pierogi with Paint Monkey and shop the pop-up Pierogi Marketplace for everything from pierogi t-shirts and clothing, to jewelry and pottery, to Festival keepsakes and Pittsburgh memorabilia. The party goes on from 1pm-6pm, with live music, open beer garden for guests 21+, and select Kennywood games and favorite food vendors who will be joining in the fun.” https://www.facebook.com/events/156709571668737/

“An Evening with Patrick Winn”, Sunday, September 23, 7PM-9PM, Mt. Lebanon Library Pittsburgh. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/M/MTLEB/EKP.cfm?zeeOrg=MTLEB “Please join us for a special after-hours event with journalist and author Patrick Winn. Patrick Winn is an award-winning investigative journalist who covers crime and black markets in Southeast Asia. He enters the worlds of guerrillas and vigilantes to mine stories that might otherwise go ignored. Winn has received the Robert F. Kennedy Journalism Award (also known as the ‘poor man’s Pulitzer’) and a National Press Club award. He’s also a two-time winner of Amnesty International’s Human Rights Press Awards among other prizes. His writing and short documentaries have been featured on NBC News, the BBC, The Atlantic, NPR and many other outlets. He is a co-creator of the film Hope Frozen, which will screen at international documentary festivals in 2018. Winn has served as a consultant for Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown on CNN. Working closely with the show’s director, he selected people, locations and food featured on the debut episode in Myanmar. The episode won multiple Emmys. He will be with us tonight to discuss his book Hello, Shadowlands: Inside the Meth Fiefdoms, Rebel Hideouts and Bomb-Scarred Party Towns of Southeast Asia. Essential to understanding Southeast Asia in the 21st century, Hello, Shadowlands reveals a booming underworld of organized crime across a region in flux, a $100 billion trade that deals in narcotics, animals and people and the staggering human toll that is being steadily ignored by the West. Our bookselling partner, City Books, will have copies of Hello, Shadowlands for sale at the event.” http://patrickwinnonline.com 

Screening, “Journey to Normal: Women of War Come Home”. Sunday, September 23, 1:30PM-3:30PM, Peters Township Library, McMurray. Preregistration required; register online: https://ptlibrary.org/event/journey-to-normal/ “JulieHera DeStefano, film director, traveled to Afghanistan in 2011 to learn more about the experiences of women serving in the combat zone. As she gathered stories, one driving question led to the feature-length documentary ‘Journey to Normal: Women of War Come Home ‘– What happens when they come home? Women now make up 15% of our military force, and roughly 300,000 women are combat veterans from our most recent conflicts. In order to understand their experiences beyond the “happy homecoming”, this documentary tells the stories of eight women over a three-year period. We follow these veterans through reintegration after combat deployment, marriages and divorces, the birth of children, and the search for new jobs. From their collective stories, we learn about the challenges women face when transitioning from military service to civilian life.” Trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a99HPEDDuCI 

“Black Holes, Beakers, and Books: A Popular Science Book Discussion Group”, Sunday, September 23, 3:30PM-4:30PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland, Director’s Conference Room. “Are you interested in exploring the vast mysteries of the cosmos, understanding human evolutionary history, or talking about the long-term future of the planet earth? These topics and more will be discussed in Black Holes, Beakers, and Books, a popular science book club that reads and discusses popular science books published within the last five years. This group meets every other month on the fourth Sunday from 3:30 – 4:30 PM in the Director’s Conference Room on the First Floor of the Main Library. September’s selection is 'Superforecasting: The Art and Science of Prediction' by Philip E. Tetlock, who provides a history of forecasting, including successes and failures, and insists that accurate prediction can be learned. He also shares the discoveries of the federally funded Good Judgment Project, which has tapped the brainpower and intelligence gathering of thousands of volunteers in order to predict the future – with phenomenal results.” 

“Jr. Students Active for the Environment Club (SAFE)”, Monday, September 24, 3:30PM-5PM, Peters Township Library, McMurray. “Grades 4 through 8. Second and fourth Mondays of the month. No meeting on September 10. Learn more about the beautiful planet we call home by joining our Jr. SAFE Club. Assisted by members of the PTHS SAFE Club, every session will explore a different environmental theme or issue. We'll have lots of fun, hands-on activities while learning about our world.” 

“Odyssey of the Mind Informational Meeting”, Monday, September 24, 7PM-8:30PM, Mt. Lebanon Library, Pittsburgh, Children’s Story Room. “Open meeting for parents to lean more about Odyssey of the Mind.” 

“Joyce Carol Oates”, Monday, September 24, 7:30PM, Carnegie Music Hall, 4400 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh, Tickets $15- $35 depending on seats chosen, $10 student tickets. “The iconic, extraordinary Joyce Carol Oates is the recipient of the National Book Award and five-time Pulitzer Prize finalist. ‘Beautiful Days’ is a collection of mesmerizing stories of passion, independence, and defiance. For over half a century, Oates has penned best-selling novels, critically acclaimed collections of short fiction, essays, plays, poetry, and a memoir. Her remarkable literary industry—which includes work as an editor and anthologist—spans forms, themes, topics and genres. She was awarded the National Humanities Medal in 2010 by President Barack Obama. In ‘Beautiful Days’, a collection of thirteen stories, including the 2017 Pushcart Prize-winning ‘Undocumented Alien’, Oates explores the most secret, intimate, and unacknowledged interior lives of characters not unlike ourselves, who assert their independence in acts of bold and often irrevocable defiance.” https://pittsburghlectures.org/lectures/joyce-carol-oates/

“Harvest Full Moon Paddle”, Monday, September 24, 6:30PM-8:30PM, Black Moshannon State Park. “Enjoy paddling a kayak as the moon is rising over the lake. Take a break at the campfire to make pizza mountain pies, s’mores, and enjoy a cold drink. A limited number of kayaks are available to borrow for this program. We have fourteen spots in boats and six spots for those who wish to bring their own kayak. Pre-registration is required. Please contact the Black Moshannon State Park office at 814-342-5930 or email blackmoshannonee@pa.gov to reserve a spot. Age limit is 9 years old and older. The weight limit on most of the kayaks is 250 to 275 pounds. Cost: $6 per person, $3 ages 9-12.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/harvest_full_moon_paddle_7141#.W4CgFS3Myi4

“Make It and Take It: Book Folding”, Tuesday, September 25, 5PM-7PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Sheraden. “Join us for a different craft project each month! Just bring your creativity and we will supply the tools and other materials for you to design your very own masterpiece!” 

Cashore Marionettes Presents “Life in Motion”, Tuesday, September 25, 7:30PM, Washington and Jefferson College, Olin Fine Arts Center Theatre, 285 E. Wheeling St., Washington, PA. $12 adults, $10 seniors and non- Washington and Jefferson students, $7 for ages 12 and under. “Unmatched in artistry, grace and refinement of movement, the internationally acclaimed Cashore Marionettes redefine the art of puppetry. The moving and humorous performance has astounded audiences in Europe, the Far East and across North America including stops at the Kennedy Center, Annenberg Center, Kravis Center, and many others. In the performance Life in Motion, Joseph Cashore presents his collection of marionette masterworks. Characters of depth, integrity, and humanity are portrayed in a full evening unlike anything else in theater today. The performance is a series of scenes taken from everyday life and set to beautiful music by composers such as Beethoven, Vivaldi, Strauss, and Copland. Through a combination of virtuoso manipulation, humor, pathos, classic music, and poetic insight, The Cashore Marionettes take the audience on a journey that celebrates the richness of life. Life in Motion is a powerful, entertaining, surprising, theatrically satisfying, one-of-a-kind evening for adults and young adults.” https://www.washjeff.edu/wj-arts-series  http://www.cashoremarionettes.com

“Adobe Illustrator 101”, Tuesday, September 25, 5PM-5:45PM, Monroeville Library. Ages 13 and up. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.monroevillelibrary.org/event-calendar “Learn the basics of adobe Illustrator design program.” 

Cirque Éloize Presents “Hotel”, Tuesday, September 25 through Sunday, September 30, Benedum Center, 7th St. and Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. “For its 25th anniversary, Cirque Éloize once again presents a touching, poetic, one- of-a-kind creation. Hotel is the story of a place and the travelers who come passing through it. A stopover where lives intersect, collide and juxtapose for a brief time to generate tales and memories. Acrobatics, theatre, dance and live music, will draw spectators into a colorful, timeless world. Avant-garde stage design, inspired by the elegance of the great hotels, will carry the narrative. All that remains is to enter through the lobby door and get swept away by the grandeur and poetry of Hotel.” https://www.trustarts.org/production/59477/cirque-eloize-hotel

“The Creeps: A Middle Grade Horror Book Club”, Tuesday, September 25, 6:30PM, Mt. Lebanon Library, Pittsburgh, Maker Space. 6-8 grade. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/M/MTLEB/EKP.cfm?zeeOrg=MTLEB “For those who enjoy being afraid...A new book club open to all middle schoolers! Meeting the last Tuesday of each month in the Maker Space. This is our first meeting! We will be discussing Coraline by Neil Gaiman. Please contact Katie to reserve your copy of the book!” 

“Mystery Lovers Book Club”, Wednesday, September 26, 1PM-2PM, Baldwin Borough Library, Pittsburgh. “Want to find out ‘whodunit’? We are always looking for new readers and this is one fun group! No registration required. This month we are discussing ‘Rebecca’ by Daphne Du Maurier.” 

“Author Talk: Carleton Young”, Wednesday, September 26, 7PM-8:30PM, Dormont Library, Pittsburgh. Preregistration required; call 412-531-8754 or email dormontprogramming@einetwork.net. “Imagine clearing out your family attic in Pittsburgh and discovering hundreds of letters written during the Civil War. That’s what happened to Carleton Young, author of ‘Voices from the Attic’. This is the story of two brothers who witnessed and made history by fighting in the Peninsula Campaign, then at South Mountain, Antietam, Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, the Wilderness, and Cedar Creek. They preserved that history through their surprisingly detailed and insightful letters. Rediscovered after 150 years, their letters offer fascinating insight as seen through the eyes of two soldiers fighting in America’s great Civil War. Dormont Public Library and the Dormont Historical Society are proud to host Dr. Young for a presentation about his spectacular find, the two Keystone Oaks teachers who assisted him in transcribing the letters, and how we can better understand the past by getting a fresh perspective on it.” 

“Drawing the Inside Out: Writing Comics for Yourself”, Wednesday, September 26, 6PM-8PM, Prototype PGH, 460 Melwood Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/drawing-the-inside-out-writing-comics-for-yourself-tickets-49184442993?aff=efbevent “In this workshop, comics artist Georgia Webber poses the question “Why do we write about ourselves?” and invites you to join her investigation. Georgia’s comics work has intuitively described her anxiety, chronic pain, and health crises, demonstrating how she uses story to navigate health and the self. Though this workshop will not require its participants to share any personal details, we will see that when we explore our personal language of health and art, discoveries of the self inevitably emerge. Participants will engage in listening exercises, drawing games, and group discussion of how we translate our inner experience to the outer world, and how we value those translations for the connection and understanding they inspire.” 

“Fall Colors Hike”, Wednesday, September 26, 10AM-11:30AM, Latodami Nature Center, North Park. Free. Ages 5 and up. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search/np-fall-colors-hike/3124 “Join us as we walk through the forests and see how the trees change color and how plants and animals get ready for winter. Dress well for outdoor activity.” 

“Science Fiction Book Discussion Group”, Wednesday, September 26, 7PM, Mt. Lebanon Library. “The science fiction book discussion group focuses on classic, ‘hard,’ and/or award winning science fiction books.” September 26 Novel: “Norstrillia” by Cordwainer Smith. Short Fiction: “Nine Lives” by Ursula Le Guin; “Child’s Play” by William Tenn. See detailed book list for the year on their website calendar: http://www.mtlebanonlibrary.org

“Lavender Book Club: An LGBTQ Book Discussion Group”, Thursday, September 27, 6:30PM-8PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland, Director’s Conference Room. “Join us to discuss contemporary and classic LGBTQ fiction and nonfiction. More information can be found at http://lavenderbook.club/. Discussions are free and open to the public. No registration is necessary. We usually have copies of the current month’s book available for you to check out at the Ask a Librarian desk on the First Floor. Discussions are held in the Director’s Conference Room on the First Floor of the Main Library on the fourth Thursday of the month at 6:30 p.m. This book group meets every month, except for November and December. September’s book selection is 'The Mayor of Castro Street: The Life and Times of Harvey Milk' by Randy Shilts – A biography of Harvey Milk, the first openly gay city official in the nation, recounts his public and personal life, and examines the emergence of the San Francisco gay community as a social and political force. Please join us for a showing of the movie, Milk, on Saturday, September 29th at 2 pm in Classroom A!” 

“Pride and Prejudice”, Thursday, September 27 through Sunday, October 28, O’Reilly Theater, 621 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. “Kate Hamill’s wild adaptation of Austen’s classic love story is anything but plain Jane. To save the family estate, the Bennet sisters are in a flurry to find suitable men to marry—except Lizzy who’d rather risk the family fortunes than force a second date. This madcap romance is filled with clever seductions, awkward escapes, and perhaps just enough luck to win at this wicked game called love.” https://www.ppt.org/production/55118/pride-and-prejudice

“Basic Circuitry and Soldering 101” , Friday, September 28, 5PM-6:30PM, Carnegie Science Center, 1 Allegheny Ave., Pittsburgh. $25. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.carnegiesciencecenter.org/programs/fablab-public-workshops/ “Learn to solder a basic LED circuit at Fab Lab Carnegie Science Center. This introductory class is required in order to use the electronics equipment and soldering irons during and Fab Lab Open Workshop (FLOW). Workshop is open to ages 8 and up. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult who also registers for the workshop.” 

“The Speed of Sound”. Friday, September 28 through Sunday, September 30, New Hazlett Theater, 6 Allegheny Square East, Pittsburgh. “The second performance of the 2018-2019 season for Texture Contemporary Ballet with new choreography by Artistic Director Alan Obuzor, and Associate Artistic Director Kelsey Bartman.” https://newhazletttheater.org

Cynthia Oliver Presents “Virago-Man Dem”, Friday, September 28 and Saturday, September 29, 8PM, Kelly Strayhorn Theater, 5941 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh. “Pay what makes you happy.” “In what ways do we all embody masculine energy? Who gets to decide what is ‘masculine’? Virago-Man Dem is an evening-length, dance-theatre work by Cynthia Oliver that navigates stereotypes, rumors, and half-truths that surround black masculinities, while celebrating their infinite variety and nuance. The Latin prefix ‘vir’ means ‘man’; the suffix ‘-ago’ indicates female, thus, the term ‘virago’ has, since ancient times, suggested that elusive flicker between genders we know so well, and deny so violently. ‘I want to get dirty, acknowledge demons, hail the angels, tell secrets, question and celebrate conflicted, complicated, glorious lives fully lived,’ notes Oliver. Virago-Man Dem constructs a bold visual tableau of sashaying, screaming, speaking and soaring individuals, all grounded in the real lives of its riveting dancer/performers—Duane Cyrus, Jonathan Gonzalez, Ni’Ja Whitson, and Niall Noel Jones. Together, the ensemble excavates layers of racial and gender performance, refracted through the shared lens of their Afro-Caribbean and African-American ancestries.” https://kelly-strayhorn.org/events/cynthia-oliver-virago-man-dem/

“Mt. Pleasant Glass and Ethnic Festival”, Friday, September 28 and Saturday, September 29, 11AM-10PM, and Sunday, September 30, 11AM-7PM, 1 S. Diamond St., Mt. Pleasant. Free. “Mount Pleasant welcomes you to be a part of our autumn tradition. The Mount Pleasant Glass and Ethnic Festival is an annual street festival that celebrates our area’s glass making history and ethnic diversity.” http://mtpleasantglassandethnicfestival.com

“Raspberry Pi Workshop”, Saturday, September 29, 11:30AM-1:30PM, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh West End. “Have you ever thought about building and programming your own computer? We hope you can visit and have fun learning how to build the credit card sized computer called the Raspberry Pi! You’ll also explore the free software it provides and how to use it to program in Python through this two-hour workshop!” 

“Scarehouse Behind the Scenes Tours”, Saturdays and Sundays beginning Saturday, September 29 through Sunday, October 28, 118 Locust St., Etna. $23.50. “Learn more about what goes on behind the scenes in the tour "Uncovering the Secrets: Behind the Screams of ScareHouse", an exclusive lights-on look at one of America's top haunts. Even if you haven't been through ScareHouse, you'll be fascinated by the details and originality that goes into a major haunted attraction production. Behind the scenes tours are perfect for younger horror fans, haunted house enthusiasts, and those looking for something different to do this Halloween season. Tours last one to two hours depending on group questions. Guests will be required to climb a set of stairs.” http://www.scarehouse.com/tickets/events--2

“Make Lace in Public Day”, Saturday, September 29, 12PM-3PM, CC Mellor Library, Edgewood. “The first day of October is Make Lace in Public Day, but we’re celebrating early at CCM! On Saturday, September 29, join lacemakers from the Pittsburgh Lace Group to learn more about lace and the art of lacemaking.” 

“Blastoff Opening Day”, Saturday, September 29, 10AM-5PM, Heinz History Center, 1212 Smallman St., Pittsburgh. Regular admission rates apply. “3 … 2 … 1 … Liftoff! Join us on the launchpad for the opening of Destination Moon: The Apollo 11 Mission at the History Center! We’ll start the day with a real-life motor-powered rocket launch across the street from the History Center, launch kid-friendly air rockets, and have tons of out-of-this-world activities throughout the day. Check back in soon for more information and a detailed opening day schedule.” https://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/events/blastoff-opening-day 

“McConnells Mill Heritage Festival”, Saturday, September 29, 10AM-5PM and Sunday, September 30, 11AM-5PM, Kildoo Picnic Area. Free. “History comes alive at the 26th Annual Heritage Festival at McConnells Mill State Park. The Festival, sponsored by the Portersville-Prospect Rotary, celebrates the operational time period of the historical gristmill—from 1852 to 1928. Artists and craftspeople from the local area demonstrate their skills and provide regional art for sale. Bluegrass and Celtic music and free tours of the mill will be offered. The historic gristmill houses the fascinating machinery that ground the grain for the community surrounding Slippery Rock Gorge. A civil war encampment, art and craft demonstrations and vendors and family activities both days bring history to life. Located in Kildoo picnic area, and the gristmill.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/mcconnells_mill_heritage_festival_475#.W4Chiy3Myi4

“40th Annual Pow Wow”, Saturday, September 29, and Sunday, September 30, 12PM-7PM, Council of Three Rivers American Indian Center, 120 Charles St., Dorseyville. $6 adults , $4 elders and kids 11 and under. “Singing, drumming, dancing, arts, crafts, museum and native foods.” http://www.cotraic.org

“Greenhouse Horticultural Series”, Saturday, September 29, 2PM-3:30PM, Hartwood Acres Park. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search/ha-greenhouse-horticultural-series/2829 “Learn seed gathering techniques, unique selections and proper storage. Make your own seed packet at the Memorial Herb and Edible Flowers habitats.” 

“Treaty of Fort Pitt: 240th Anniversary Celebration”, Saturday, September 29, 11AM-9PM, Point State Park, 601 Commonwealth Pl., Bldg A, Pittsburgh. “Come to the Fort Pitt Museum inside Point State Park to celebrate the 240th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Fort Pitt with living historians that will include active members of the Delaware Tribe of Indians. Daytime programming will include re-enactments of treaty negotiations starting at 11am and ending at 4:30pm in the grassy lawn next to the museum. Evening programming will start at 7:00 pm and include traditional stomp and social dances led by Delaware Indians that will be open for the public to join in on the dancing. In-between living history events, there will be a lecture on the treaty by Dr. David Preston inside the Fort Pitt Museum. For more information on the lecture, please go to: https://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/events/treaty-of-fort-pitt-240th-anniversary-commemoration.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/treaty_of_fort_pitt_240th_anniversary_celebration#.W4CiAy3Myi4

“Festival of Combustion 2018”, Saturday, September 29, 12PM-5PM, Carrie Furnaces, Swissvale. $10 in advance or $15 at the gate. Free for ages 17 and under. “Step inside the magnificent Carrie Furnaces and experience the HEAT and POWER of molten metal amid this 20th century industrial marvel! 2018’s Festival of Combustion features hands-on activities in industrial arts and American crafts guaranteed to excite adults and children of all ages! Create your own unique piece of HOT art and witness exciting American craft demonstrations including glass blowing, raku ceramics, black smithing, custom automotives, welding and metal fabrication. Carve a scratch mold and watch the Rivers of Steel furnace team cast your design in molten metal, or fire your own ceramic vase with Pittsburgh’s TON Pottery! The 2018 Festival of Combustion heats up when Rivers of Steel fires the blast furnace to smelt some iron! Dance to the region’s best local music and meet featured Mon Valley artisans showing off their wares. Enjoy delicious craft beer from Homestead’s own Voodoo Brewing Company and food from the best of Pittsburgh’s food trucks. Join Rivers of Steel for a day of flames, fun and American craft beneath the massive and spectacular Carrie Furnaces National Historic Landmark. Tickets are available online for just $10 in advance or $15 at the gate. Attendees can create their own unique piece of HOT art through a choice of hands on workshops, listen to great local music and enjoy a range of creative demonstrations. The Festival of Combustion is perfect for all ages and kids under 18 get in free!” http://rosarts.org/event/festival-combustion-2018/

“Highmark Blues and Heritage Festival”, Saturday, September 29 through Sunday, September 30, August Wilson Center, 980 Liberty Ave, Pittsburgh. “The African American Cultural Center is pleased to present the first Highmark Blues and Heritage Festival on September 29-30 at the August Wilson Center and outdoors on Liberty Avenue, downtown Pittsburgh. Poised to attract regional and national audiences, the Highmark Blues and Heritage Festival will feature music, workshops, lectures, free concerts by local and emerging artists, plus ticketed performances featuring nationally and internationally renowned blues artists. Saturday September 29, 2018 – 1pm to 6pm: Outdoor stages with FREE performances – (line up to follow); Saturday September 29, 2018 – 8pm: Bettye LaVette; Sunday September 30, 2018 – 4pm: Sweet Honey in the Rock; Sunday September 30, 2018 – 8pm: John Scofield.” https://aacc-awc.org/event/highmark-blues-and-heritage-festival/

“Walk Through Prehistory”, Saturday, September 29, 10AM-1PM, Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village, Avella. $20, or $15 for members of Venture Outdoors. Preregistration required; register online: https://www.ventureoutdoors.org/events/3212/ “Travel through time on a 2-mile walk through the woods and fields surrounding Meadowcroft Rockshelter, the oldest site of human habitation in North America. Along the way, we'll learn about the flora and fauna of the area as it relates to the survival techniques of prehistoric people. We will pass a local beaver dam and briefly visit a re-created 16th century Monongahela Indian village where participants will have the opportunity to try using the ancient atlatl. We will end the hike at the Visitors Center for a 40-minute tour of the famous Rockshelter. Museum admission is included in the cost of the outing, so plan to visit the rest of the museum’s exhibits at your leisure until 5 PM.” 

“River Otter Field Day”, Sunday, September 30, 9AM-12PM, Ohiopyle State Park Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required; contact rbando@pa.gov or call 724-329-0986. “Are there otters in Ohiopyle? What do they eat? How do we know? Join the naturalists as we bike up the bike trail to collect samples and use microscopes in the Visitors Center classroom to investigate the answers. Also, learn how we work with local schools on this otter project. You must provide your own bike or rent one from an outfitter prior to the program.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/river_otter_field_day#.W4CjqC3Myi4

“5th Annual Stable Tour and Hayride”, Sunday, September 30, 1PM-2:30PM, Hartwood Acres Park. $15 for ages 18 and up, $5 for ages 5-17. Preregistration required; register online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/alleghenyparks/Activity_Search/ha-5th-annual-stable-tour-and-hayride/2830 “Take a tour of the beautiful stable complex, enjoy cookies and apple cider, and receive an informative docent-guided hayride around the park. (There are no horses at the Stable Complex.)” 

“Gerrymandering 101”, Sunday, September 30, 2PM-3:30PM, Carnegie Main Library Oakland, Quiet Reading Room. “Join Draw the Lines PA for interactive and informational discussion of gerrymandering. They will cover the history of gerrymandering, the state of gerrymandering in Pennsylvania, explain the mission of Draw the Lines, and offer connections to reform efforts. Draw the Lines has been developed by the Committee of Seventy, one of Pennsylvania’s oldest and largest good government groups. Based in Philadelphia, the Committee of Seventy is an independent, nonpartisan 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that has been around since 1904.” 

Author Talk, “Meg Medina”, Sunday, September 30, 2:30PM, Carnegie Library Lecture Hall, 4400 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh. Free. Preregistration required; register online: https://pittsburghlectures.org/lectures/meg-medina/ “Cuban American writer Meg Medina is an award-winning author who writes picture books, middle grade and YA fiction about strong girls, tough circumstances, and the connecting power of culture. Merci Suárez Changes Gears is about a sixth grader in the midst of change and confusion as a new scholarship student at a fancy private school. Meg’s work examines how cultures intersect through the eyes of young people, and she brings to audiences stories that speak to both what is unique in Latino culture and to the qualities that are universal. Her favorite protagonists are strong girls. In March 2014, she was recognized as one of the CNN 10 Visionary Women in America. Meg Medina is serves on the advisory board for We Need Diverse Books (WNDB), a non-profit organization dedicated to increasing diversity in children’s literature. WNDB advocates for essential changes in the publishing industry to produce and promote literature that reflects and honors the lives of all young people.” https://megmedina.com

*********Road Trips********** 

Buffalo: 

“Buffalo German Fest”, Saturday, September 1 and Sunday, September 2, 12PM-10PM, Cheektowaga Town Park, 2600 Harlem Rd., Cheektowaga, NY. $5. “Join us Labor Day weekend for the largest, annual German Fest in WNY! $5.00 admission goes to the Federation of German-America's to support our scholarships! Sauerkraut, steins, smiles! Authentic German Menu; Imported German Beers on Tap; Weinstube; Marktplatz Vendors; Authentic bands; S.G.T.V. Edelweiss Bavarian Folk Dancers; Contests and more!” https://www.facebook.com/events/676971676028393/

“Elevator Alley Kayak Tours”, Saturdays and Sundays in September, 9AM, meeting at Barrel Factory, 65 Vandalia St., Buffalo. $45 adults and $40 students, including kayak rental. “The best way to appreciate Buffalo's many grain elevators is from the water! From a kayaking perspective, the massive scale of the grain elevators and silos will be even more awe-inspiring. Join us for a kayak tour of the Buffalo River and its grain elevators in partnership with Elevator Alley Kayak, who will provide the kayaks for this urban adventure tour. Learn about the history of the grain elevators in Buffalo and have many terrific photo opportunities on this guided kayak tour!” http://www.elevatoralleykayak.com/tourspage

“All Day All Wright Tour”, Friday, September 7, Saturday, September 15, and Friday, September 21, 8:15AM, meeting at Forest Lawn’s Margaret L. Wendt Archive and Resource Center, 1990 Main St., Buffalo, NY. $150. Preregistration required; register online: http://martinhouse.org/tour_descriptions.cfm “Western New York affords visitors the rare opportunity to experience a variety of Wright's residential, functional, recreational, and monumental designs – both historic and newly constructed. Leave the driving and planning to us! Join us for this all-inclusive package which begins at Forest Lawn's Margaret L. Wendt Archive and Resource Center* and proceeds on the fully-enclosed, climate-controlled Forest Lawn trolley to the Martin House (1903-05) for an extended tour. The next stop is the Filling Station designed by Wright for Buffalo in 1927 and built in 2013 inside the Pierce Arrow Museum. Drive by Larkinville and arrive for a tour of the Fontana Boathouse (2007) on the Black Rock Canal. Continue on to Graycliff (1926-31) for an essentials tour then visit historic Forest Lawn's Blue Sky Mausoleum (2004). The trolley will return you to Margaret L. Wendt Archive and Resource Center. This tour package includes a delicious lunch buffet. A knowledgeable guide will be on hand to point out architectural treasures along the way including the site of the Larkin Administration Building (1904) and manufacturing buildings in an area now known as Larkinville.” 

“39th Dożynki Polish Harvest Festival”, Friday, September 14 through Sunday, September 16, Corpus Christi Church, 199 Clark St., East Buffalo, NY. Saturday at 3PM is the “Buffalo’s Best Pierogi Contest”. Admission $1.00 on Saturday and Sunday or donation of non-perishable food item for Food Bank of WNY. “The word Dożynki means a celebration of harvest and is a centuries old tradition by farmers in rural Poland. Please join us for a wonderful weekend in the heart of East Buffalo’s Historic Polonia.” http://dozynki.corpuschristibuffalo.org

“Niagara Celtic Festival”, Saturday, September 15 and Sunday, September 16, Krull Park, 6108 Lake Rd., Olcott, NY. “The Niagara Celtic Heritage Society invites you to their 18th Annual Niagara Celtic Heritage Festival and Highland Games. Located less than an hour from both Buffalo and Rochester, NY, guests are immersed in the traditions and pageantry of Ireland, Scotland, Wales and all things Celtic! Join the 12,000 others who come and celebrate this amazing culture.” http://niagaraceltic.com

“Bubblefest”, Saturday, September 15, 10AM-5PM, Buffalo Museum of Science, 1020 Humboldt Parkway, Buffalo, NY. “Our annual celebration of bubble science is back! At BubbleFEST, presented by Praxair, participate in family-friendly bubble activities and demonstrations, bubble crafts, and even a techno bubble dance party! Plus, don’t miss Bubblemania shows throughout the day at 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., 2 p.m., 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. ($5 per person).” https://www.sciencebuff.org/event/bubblefest/

“Chalkfest Buffalo”, Saturday, September 22 and Sunday, September 23, 12PM-6PM, Buffalo Riverworks, 359 Ganson St., Buffalo, NY. Free. “This September 22nd and 23rd the event will be both inside and outside of the GLF grain silos at Buffalo Riverworks. Outside on the blacktop artists will be able to draw their creations under the urban zipline course. When they are done they can zip over the chalk lot to see their creations from high above. Inside the grain elevators gives artists a smooth concrete canvas that is protected from the elements of weather. It also gives artists the ability to draw not just on the ground, but on the walls of the historic silos. This is not just a unique opportunity for artists, but a uniquely Buffalo opportunity as the historic grain elevators were invented here and have largely gone abandoned for the past few decades. To add to this there will be live music, face painting, rock climbing on the grain silos, DJs, street performers, an urban ropes course, a “candy shop” area with sweets and ice cream, kayaking, paddleboarding, a free Touch-a-Truck for the kids, the football game (on Sunday) on the massive 25′ screen, plus Riverworks is a full scale microbrewery and restaurant. Also, Kids of all ages will have the chance to participate and leave their chalked mark in the community art zone, while drawing, learning and watching over the shoulders of local and world renowned artists!” https://chalkfestbuffalo.com/about/

“Grand Army of the Republic Encampment”, Saturday, September 29, 10AM-5PM, Buffalo Niagara Heritage Village, 3755 Tonawanda Creek Rd., Amherst, NY. $8 adults, $6 military, seniors, children. “Civil War Veteran Re-Enactors and Encampment; Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Helmets to Hives Apiary – Western New York’s First Beekeeping for Veterans Organization at 12:00 pm; Parade held at 12:45 pm; In-Memorandum Reading at 1:00 pm; Hive Inspections performed by Helmets to Hives; Quoits (Horseshoe) Tournaments ($5 Buy In); Indoor and Outdoor Exhibits featuring GAR Memorabilia; Live Afternoon Musical Entertainment provided by the BNHV House Band: The Porch Pickers and much more!” http://bnhv.org/event/grand-army-of-the-republic-encampment/

Erie: 

“Downtown Erie Food Tours”, Saturdays, September 1, 8, 15, and 29, 11AM- 2PM, meeting outside of Like My Thai restaurant, 827 State St., Erie. , $35, or $32.50 for groups of 4 or more. Preregistration required; register online: http://www.eriefoodtours.com “Learn the history and culture of Erie's beautiful downtown area while enjoying delicious food from locally owned restaurants, bakeries, and specialty shops. We'll stroll through the heart of Erie's business district, pass by legendary entertainment venues, and visit the establishments that have made a lasting imprint on our city. Whether you're an Erie native or you're just visiting our city by the bay, this is the perfect lunchtime activity for anyone who enjoys eating good food and learning a little bit along the way.” 

“German Heritage Fest”, Saturday, September 1, 11AM-8PM, and Sunday, September 2, 11AM-6:30PM, St. Nick’s Grove, Erie. $5 admission, $8 two-day pass, free for ages 12 and under, free parking. “Come join us at this year's German Heritage Fest! There's food, music, dancing, merchandise, and of course, beer, all in honor of celebrating German culture.” http://www.dank-erie.org/german-heritage-fest.html

“2018 Hispanic Festival”, Saturday, September 1, 12PM- 7PM, Perry Square Park, 568 State St., Erie. Free. “Live music, authentic foods, vendors, children’s activities.” https://www.facebook.com/events/1934728866585919/

“Early Bird Lagoon by Pontoon”, Tuesdays and Saturdays through September 1, 10AM, Presque Isle State Park, Lagoon Boat Launch. Free. Preregistration required; register online: http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/early_bird_lagoon_by_pontoon_5768 “A 10:00 AM morning pontoon ride will be offered by online reservation only. Rides will be offered every Tuesday and Saturday through the summer. Online registration opens May 1 and closes September 1. Sign-up is limited to 6 seats per person regardless of age on all rides.” 

“Lagoon by Pontoon”, daily through September 3, with in person signups at 10AM and rides at 11AM, 1PM and 2PM. Presque Isle State Park, Lagoon Boat Launch. “The lagoon at Presque Isle is full of natural surprises such as sun basking turtles, wading great blue herons, beavers slapping their tails on the water, and many other natural wonders. Join the park staff and volunteers on a one-hour interpretive pontoon boat ride to discover the natural history and beauty of the interior. These daily rides depart at 11:00am, 1:00pm and 2:00pm. Sign-up for these three rides begins at 10:00 AM in person at the pontoon station and is a first-come, first serve basis. Sign-up is limited to 6 seats per person regardless of age on all rides. This is a free program that accommodates 16 guests plus crew.” http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/lagoon_by_pontoon_7119#.WzAGPi3Myi4

“Edinboro Highland Games”, Thursday, September 6 through Sunday, September 9, Edinboro University, 208 Compton Hall, Edinboro, PA. “Scotland has proud traditions of independent and innovative thinking, and the Edinboro Highland Games celebrates that heritage. Please join us for the 25th Annual Edinboro Highland Games and Scottish Festival September 6-9, featuring exceptional music, dance, athletics, art, food, and family gatherings! From beer tastings by local brewers to kids' games and student competitions, the festival offers fun for all ages.”Details and schedule here: http://www.edinboro.edu/events/highland-games/

“Birding by Pontoon”, Saturday, September 8, 9AM-10:30AM, Presque Isle State Park, Pontoon Boat Station. Free. Preregistration required; register online: http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/event/birding_by_pontoon#.W4Y3ZC3Myi4 “Presque Isle is home to over 300 types of birds that visit the Peninsula each year. Join our Park Naturalist at the Pontoon Boat Station for a relaxing ride through Misery Bay and The Lagoons looking for various types of birds. Anyone 12 years of age and under must wear a life preserver during the entire ride. Registration is required. Sign-up is limited to 4 seats per person regardless of age. This is a free program that accommodates 16 guests plus crew.” 

“ComiCon Erie”, Friday, September 14 through Sunday, September 16, Bayfront Convention Center, 1 Sassafras Street Pier, Erie. “Cosplay contests, celebrities, artists, gaming tournaments and more!” www.comiconerie.com

Maryland: 

“Monarch Butterfly Release”, Saturday, September 1, 10AM-12PM, and Saturday, September 22, 1PM-3PM, Hammerman Area, 7200 Graces Quarter Rd., Middle River, MD. “Enjoy watching the initial flight of freshly emerged monarch butterflies! Visitors will be able to hold butterflies and take photos with them before they fly away. A naturalist will discuss the monarch life cycle as well as their migration and the threats that these delicate creatures face in both their overwintering habitats and their breeding locations. Butterfly tagging will be demonstrated. A service charge is in effect at the Hammerman Area - $3/vehicle for MD residents; $5/vehicle for out-of-state residents ($3/person for MD residents and $5/person for non-MD residents on September 1 only). After driving through the Ranger Station, continue on the one-way loop for half a mile. Make a right-hand turn onto the driveway leading to the beach area. Park in front of the big blue building where naturalists will be stationed on the boardwalk to meet you.” https://go.activecalendar.com/doit-md/?&ql=y&search=y

“Maryland Renaissance Festival”, September 1, 2, 3, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 29, 30, and October 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, and 21, 1821 Crownsville Rd., Annapolis, MD. “The Maryland Renaissance Festival, a tradition for the entire family, begins its 42nd season and runs Saturdays and Sundays and Labor Day Monday through October 21st for nine weekends of thrills, feasting, handmade crafts, entertainment and merriment in Crownsville, near Annapolis, Maryland. The 27 acre Village of Revel Grove comes to life each autumn with more than 200 professional performers on ten stages, authentic combat armored jousting on magnificent steeds and streets filled with village characters. Join His Most Royal Highness King Henry VIII in the forests and glades with over 140 artisans exhibiting crafts in their own renaissance shops, five taverns featuring cool libations, 42 food and beverage emporiums providing a vast array of succulent and sweet treats to sate even the most hearty of appetites.” http://www.rennfest.com

“Discover Monarchs at Days Cove”, Sunday, September 2, 3:30PM-5:30PM, Days Cove Environmental Education Center, Days Cove Rd., White Marsh, MD. “Participate in a search through milkweed patches, looking for Monarch caterpillars and other insects that call milkweed home! We will be collecting caterpillars to raise and release as part of the Monarch Watch program. We will discuss the importance of milkweed as well as the Monarch life cycle and migration. Please wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, closed-toe shoes, and bring insect repellant and water. Days Cove is located at the end of Days Cove Rd, off Rt. 40 in White Marsh, MD. Keep driving past the refuse center and the split for the reclamation center, keep left and travel down the gravel road (there is a sign out front that days Days Cove Environmental Education Center).” https://go.activecalendar.com/doit-md/event/discover-monarchs-at-days-cove-1/

“16th Annual Papa Joe Smiddy Mountain Music Festival”, Sunday, September 2, 3PM-9PM, Natural Tunnel State Park, Duffield, VA. “Presented by the Cove Ridge Center Foundation to promote the musical heritage of Appalachian Mountain Culture, the festival honors the tireless work of 'Papa Joe' Smiddy, well-known musician, entertainer, and educator. In addition to being an old-time banjo picker, 'Papa Joe' is also known as Dr. Joseph Smiddy, Chancellor Emeritus at the University of Virginia's College at Wise. Monies raised will go to the festival funds scholarships for local students. Festival tickets are general admission and may be purchased for $10 in advance or $15 at the gate. Children 12 years of age or younger are admitted free with a paying adult.” http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/park-event-info?id=NT180030-00

“One Fort, Three Wars”, Saturday, September 15 and Saturday, September 16, Fort Frederick, 11115 Fort Frederick Rd., Big Pool, MD. “Through living history demonstrations discover the part Fort Frederick played during the French and Indian War, American Revolution and Civil War. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 pm. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday Park entrance fees apply.” http://www.friendsoffortfrederick.info/calendar.htm

“Monarch Release”, Saturday, September 15, and Saturday, September 29, 11AM-1PM, Sparks Bank Nature Center, 1207 Sparks Road, Glencoe, MD. “Enjoy watching the initial flight of freshly emerged monarch butterflies! Visitors will be able to hold butterflies and take photos with them before they fly away. A naturalist will discuss the monarch life cycle as well as their migration and the threats that these delicate creatures face in both their overwintering habitats and their breeding locations. Butterfly tagging will be demonstrated.” https://go.activecalendar.com/doit-md/?andql=y&search=y

“Baltimore Comic Con”, Friday, September 28 through Sunday, September 30, Baltimore Convention Center, 1 W. Pratt St., Baltimore, MD. “America’s greatest comic book convention!” http://baltimorecomiccon.com 

Ohio: 

“Columbus Greek Festival”, now through Monday, September 3, The Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedra, Goodale Blvd. at High St., Columbus, OH. “Experience the culture and ancestry of Greece and our Orthodox Christian faith! Be a part of the 46th Annual Greek Festival in Columbus. Come and connect with heritage and traditions that are centuries old, but still contemporary in their focus. Our Cathedral tours will inspire you, the Orthodox Christian Bookstore will educate you, the food and drink will entice you and the hospitality will overwhelm you. Stop by the shops, enjoy the music and dancing, visit the exhibits and enjoy the wonderful Greek pastries.” https://www.columbusgreekfestival.com

“Yayoi Kusama: Infinity Mirrors”, now through Sunday, September 30, Cleveland Museum of Art, 11150 East Blvd., Cleveland. $30 adults, $15 children 6-17, free for ages 5 and under, up to 2 children per adult ticket. “Weekly ticket sales will occur on Mondays throughout the run of the exhibition beginning Mon, 7/16, at 9:00 a.m. Due to Labor Day (Mon, 9/3), that week’s ticket sale will occur on Tues, 9/4. Sales will take place online and phone only. Tickets sold during the weekly ticket sales will only include times for the week of purchase. Yayoi Kusama: Infinity Mirrors celebrates the legendary Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama’s 65-year career. The exhibition spans the range of Kusama’s work, from her groundbreaking paintings and performances of the 1960s, when she staged polka-dot ‘Happenings’ in the streets of New York, to her widely admired immersive installations and the US debut of her recent series of paintings, My Eternal Soul. Visitors have the unprecedented opportunity to experience seven of Kusama’s captivating Infinity Mirror Rooms, including Where the Lights in My Heart Go, exclusive to the exhibition’s presentation in Cleveland. Yayoi Kusama: Infinity Mirrors provides an unforgettable sensory journey through the mind and legacy of one of the world’s most significant artists.” http://www.clevelandart.org/exhibitions/yayoi-kusama-infinity-mirrors

“Cleveland National Air Show”, Saturday, September 1 through Monday, September 3, Burke Lakefront Airport, Cleveland, OH. $23 adults and $14 youth 6-11 in advance. Featuring the Blue Angels. http://www.clevelandairshow.com

“Tremont Polish Festival”, Sunday, September 2, 1PM-11PM, St. John Cantius Church, 906 College Ave., Cleveland. Free. Let your quest for the perfect pierogi begin in Tremont during this annual Polish Festival. It’s Polska all around with handmade Polish crafts (nesting dolls, anyone?), Polish delicacies (pierogi and halushki and paczki, oh my) and tons of polka music and dancing.” https://www.facebook.com/events/274344693169586/ 

“Columbus Oktoberfest”, Friday, September 7 through Sunday, September 9, Ohio State Fairgrounds, Columbus. Free admission. “Beautiful Authentic Oktoberfest Setting... Rain or Shine! Three 100 year old historic covered pavilions (100 thousand square feet) provide the perfect backdrop for two stages and dance floors for lots of polkas! Spanning across three buildings at the Ohio State Fairgrounds / Ohio Expo Center.” http://www.columbusoktoberfest.com

“Water Lantern Festival”, Saturday, September 8, 5PM-9:30PM, The Promenade, 233 S. Civic Center Dr., Columbus, OH. “Water Lantern Festival is filled with fun, happiness, hope, and great memories that you'll cherish for a lifetime. This is a family friendly event that can be shared by everyone. Friends, families, neighbors, and lots of people that you haven't met can come together to create a peaceful, memorable experience.” https://www.waterlanternfestival.com/columbus.php

“Civil War Re-enactment”, Saturday, September 8 and Sunday, September 9, Beaver Creek State Park, East Liverpool, OH. “Sutlers, demonstrations, encampment tours and other activities to be announced. Saturday's battle begins at 2 pm. Sunday's battles begins at 1 pm.” http://parks.ohiodnr.gov/beavercreek

“Brick Universe”, Saturday, September 8 and Sunday, September 9, 10AM-4PM, Cleveland Convention Center, 300 Lakeside Ave. E., Cleveland, OH. $15. Free for ages 2 and under. “Release the builder within at BrickUniverse LEGO Fan Convention, the ultimate LEGO lover's paradise! Choose from Saturday or Sunday admission, and experience hands-on LEGO attractions and activities. This fun, family-friendly event will have tons of amazing LEGO creations to gawk at, building zones to unleash your creative energy, guest speakers and more in the LEGO theater, and vendors selling the latest LEGO sets, mini-figures, and accessories.” https://www.brickuniverse.com/cleveland

“Mushroom Walk at Mohican State Forest”, Saturday, September 9, 8:45AM, Perrysville, OH. Free. “Meet Western Pennsylvania Mushroom Club Identifier Josh Doty at the picnic tables by the Gorge Overlook at 8:45 a.m. and begin the hike around 9:00 a.m. Feel free to come after 9:00 a.m., but we may already be on one of the trails in the State Forest. You can hike with the group or individually. We will meet back at the picnic tables by the Gorge Overlook at 2:30 p.m. in order to share our finds with the group. No cost and all are welcome! For a map to the specific meeting location: https://goo.gl/maps/SBhMm6DW6j72.” https://wpamushroomclub.org/events/mohican-state-forest-perrysville-oh/

“Columbus Garden Railway Society 2018 Fall Garden Tour”, Sunday, September 9, 1PM-5PM, with 13 participating homes in the greater Columbus metro area. Garden railroads are model railroads in outdoor displays. The best ones will incorporate foliage that creates realistic scenery for the trains to pass through. Details here: http://www.thecgrs.org/2012_Open_Garden_Tour.php

“Ravenna Balloon A-Fair”, Thursday, September 13 through Sunday, September 16, with evening hot air balloon launches on the weekend, Ravenna, OH. https://www.ravennaballoonafair.com/schedule-of-events

“Civil War School Day”, Friday, September 14, 9AM-3PM, Historic Zoar Village, 198 Main St., Zoar, OH. $5 student, one adult per group is free, $7 per additional adult. Open to all public, private and homeschool students. Preregistration required; call 330-874-3011. “Civil War School Day returns to Historic Zoar Village on September 14, 2018. Discover Zoar in the Civil War during Civil War School Day. Throughout the village, learn how Separatists in Zoar, and citizens in the Union, lived during the conflict. Interact with famous figures of the Civil War such as Abraham and Mary Todd Lincoln, General George Custer, Jefferson Davis, and Robert E. Lee. Watch cavalry and artillery demonstrations, learn about life on the home front, and participate in hands-on activities.” https://historiczoarvillage.com/event/civil-war-school-day-6/

“BOUND Art Book + Zine Fair”, Friday, September 14, 4PM-9PM, and Saturday, September 15, 10AM-5PM, Museum of Contemporary Art, Cleveland, OH. “MOCA’s BOUND Art Book + Zine Fair celebrates the work of independent writers, artists, and musicians by providing space and support to share their diverse voices with Cleveland. Now in its fourth year, BOUND is an opportunity to meet, learn, and collect from national and international artists, makers, and publishers. BOUND is what you make it, and boundaries are off limits.” http://www.mocacleveland.org/programs/bound-4th-annual-book-zine-fair

“They Come Out at Night - Mothing at the Nature Center”, Saturday, September 15, 9PM, James K. Bissell Nature Center, Grand River Conservation Campus, 3973 Callender Rd., Rock Creek, OH. Free. “Join naturalist Jim Heflich as he lures in moths and take a closer look at these fascinating insects. Free and open to the public. To register and for more information, contact: bissellnaturecenter@tnc.org or 44.563.3081 x301.” https://www.nature.org/ourinitiatives/regions/northamerica/unitedstates/ohio/events/they-come-out-at-night.xml

“Cleveland Armenian Festival”, Friday, September 21 through Sunday, September 23, St. Gregory of Narek, 678 Richmond Rd., Cleveland, OH. “Armenian food and pastries, live entertainment, church tours, gift boutique, cultural exhibit, outdoor games.” http://www.stgregoryofnarek.org/news/armenian-festival-2018/

“Woollybear Festival and Parade”, Sunday, September 23, 10AM-6PM, downtown Vermillion, OH. “The Woollybear Festival is the largest one day festival in the state of Ohio. Fox 8 Meteorologist Dick Goddard hosts the fun-filled events when the 46th Annual Woollybear Parade and Festival takes over Vermilion, Ohio on Sunday, September 23, 2018.” http://vermilionchamber.net/festivals/woolybear/

“Migration at Headlands”, Tuesday, September 25, 8AM-1PM, Headlands Beach State Park, Mentor, OH. $14. Preregistration required; register online: https://1023.blackbaudhosting.com/1023/Migration-at-Headlands “September offers some of the best birding of the year and if weather is optimal, we can see numerous southbound migrants along the shores of Lake Erie. If conditions are favorable, large numbers of Monarch butterflies will also be in attendance. We will hike Headlands Beach State Park and Mentor Marsh seeking out all there is to see. Regardless of what we find, this area is one of the best sites in Ohio for a variety of birds and insects at this time of year. Difficulty Level: 2 out of 4.” 

“Cartoon Crossroads Columbus”, Thursday, September 27 through Sunday, September 30, various venues, Columbus, OH. Free. “CXC is a free, citywide arts festival hosted every year by people and places with a passion for cartoon arts. CXC connects the global family of cartoon storytellers, comic makers, and animators with the people who love and are inspired by their art. Together, they celebrate the stories that can only be told in visual media that are as diverse as the people who imagined them.” http://cartooncrossroadscolumbus.com

Philadelphia: 

“Philly Fringe Festival”, Thursday, September 6 through Sunday, September 23, various venues, Philadelphia. “FringeArts is Philadelphia’s home for contemporary performance, presenting progressive, world-class art that expands the imagination and boldly defies expectation. Our programming exposes audiences to genre-defying dance, theater, and music performances by accomplished and emerging innovators who push the boundaries of art-making and redefine the artistic landscape worldwide. Each September, the organization presents the annual Fringe Festival, a 17-day celebration that fills the city’s neighborhoods with more than 1,000 curated and independently produced performances.” https://fringearts.com/list-view/phillyfringe18/

“32nd Annual Mushroom Festival”, Saturday, September 8 and Sunday, September 9, street festival in downtown Kennet Square, PA. $3 admission. “The mission of The Mushroom Festival is to promote the mushroom, educate consumers about the health benefits of mushrooms, and to promote tourism in Southern Chester County, all while financially supporting local and regional charities through a grant process.” https://mushroomfestival.org

“Brazilian Day Festival”, Sunday, September 9, 1PM-7PM, Penn’s Landing, Philadelphia. Free. “Brazilian Day Philadelphia celebrates the Brazilian Independence Day. The festival celebrates, promotes, and shares Brazilian arts and culture while fostering intercultural exchange and uniting the Brazilian community. The festival presents a high energy experience with Brazilian arts and culture designed to engage, educate, and inspire participants in the Greater Philadelphia region. In addition, the festival empowers and unifies the Brazilian community by celebrating the diverse ethnic heritage that makes Brazil unique and rich in cultural pride. Brazilian Day Philadelphia has become one of the most popular events in the annual PECO Multicultural Series.” http://braziliandayphiladelphia.com

“Mexican Independence Day Festival”, Sunday, September 16, 2PM-8PM, Penn’s Landing, Philadelphia. Free. “This festival is the largest event celebrating the Independence of Mexico in the Delaware Valley and it is recognized by the Delaware River Waterfront as the largest one-day cultural festival held at Penn’s Landing. The day features events such as ‘El Grito,’ a Mexican Independence Day tradition recalling the moment when Father Hidalgo rang the church bells marking the start of the Mexican War of Independence. City officials and prominent dignitaries will join the Consul of Mexico in Philadelphia, Consul Alicia Kerber, for this civic ceremony. This popular festival celebrates not only Mexican Independence, but also Mexican culture and heritage, which will be highlighted through traditional Mexican artisan crafts, folkloric and mariachi performances, activities for children, and popular music performances by Montez De Durango, Hugo Cesar and Alter-Real. During the event, attendees can also enjoy traditional Mexican food provided by local vendors. Don’t miss this popular event and its grand finale, a fireworks show in the Penn's Landing Great Plaza at 8:00 p.m.!” https://www.facebook.com/events/696501087368983/

“Terror Behind the Walls”, Friday, September 21 through Saturday, November 10, Eastern State Penitentiary, 2027 Fairmount Ave., Philadelphia. “A massive haunted house inside a real prison. One of America’s scariest Halloween attractions.” http://www.easternstate.org/halloween/

“Feria Del Barrio”, Sunday, September 23, 12PM-5PM, North 5th St. from Huntingdon to Somerset, Philadelphia. “Feria is North Philadelphia’s largest and oldest festival organized by a partnership of community organizations, with thousands of people in attendance. Since 1979, La Feria del Barrio has celebrated Latino culture, family, and the economic and educational aspirations of the people of North Philadelphia with live Latin music and dancing, Latino food delicacies, art and crafts, and much, much more!” http://feriadelbarrio.org

“Puerto Rican Day Parade”, Sunday, September 30, 12:30PM-2:30PM, Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia. Free. “A celebration of Latino culture in the heart of the city’s streets. Traditional Latino music, poetry, and dance make this vibrant festival a must-see event. Held on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, the Puerto Rican Parade typically has around 1,500 marchers; more than 5,000 attendees; and 96,000 tune-in to watch live on 6ABC.” http://elconcilio.net/event/puerto-rican-festival-parade-2018/

Toronto: 

“Spiders: Fear and Fascination”, now through January 6, 2019, Royal Ontario Museum, 100 Queen’s Park, Toronto. “Spiders are one of the most remarkable animals on the planet! They spin webs, dance, swim, and even grow back lost limbs. Come face-to-face with nearly 400 live and preserved amazing arachnids in Spiders: Fear and Fascination. Entangle yourself in the world of spiders with the ROM Spider Lab, challenge a Peacock spider to a dance-off, explore a recreated spider cave, and experience a web of hands-on interactives, incredible augmented reality, and more!” https://www.rom.on.ca/en/spiders

“Fairland Funhouse”, September tickets on sale beginning September 4 at 10AM, 241 Augusta Ave., Toronto, ON. $20 CN. Timed tickets available here: http://fairlandfunhouse.com “The Funhouse is the lovechild of Toronto’s most imaginative visual and music artists, who have come together to transform an old grocery store from the 1950s into an interactive two-storey adventure world. The adventure begins as you check yourself into an inter-dimensional hotel, but you’ll quickly find everything is not as it seems. As you descend down a wormhole to an alternate universe, your stay at the Funhouse will do everything but put you to sleep. Fairland Funhouse is all about discovery, play, and art that you can be IN. You might find a lush, floral jungle, a celestial crystal cave or an underwater ballroom - who knows where you’ll end up!” 

Exhibit, “The Art of Bansky”, now through September 16, in a former factory space, 213 Sterling Rd., Toronto. Tickets here: https://www.banksyexhibit.com “With over $35m in art, this is the largest Banksy exhibit ever assembled! The Art of Banksy, curated by Steve Lazarides, the artist's former manager, displays the largest collection of Banksy's works. Included in the collection is the famous painting known as "Girl and Balloon" and the controversial work ‘Laugh Now’ – a witty graffiti piece that depicts a monkey with a sign hanging from his neck with the words: ‘Laugh now, but one day we'll be in charge.’ Banksy, who refrains from revealing his identity and does not appear in public, is a painter, graffiti artist and social activist, considered one of the world's top political graffiti artists. ‘This is a one of a kind exhibition – you will never again have the opportunity to see so many works in one place. Once the exhibition is over, the artwork will be returned to 40 different art collectors around the world, and the chances that they will be displayed together again in the future are extremely slim,’ says Steve Lazarides, curator.” 

“Canandian International Air Show”, Saturday, September 1 through Monday, September 3, 12PM-3PM, Canadian National Exhibition, 210 Princes’ Blvd., Toronto, ON. “The 69th annual Canadian International Air Show (CIAS) soars over Lake Ontario Labour Day weekend for another awe-inspiring show. This year, the aviation extravaganza will be bookended by two of North America's best aerial acrobatic jet teams as the United States Air Force Thunderbirds open the show with thrilling panache, and the Canadian Forces Snowbirds bring the performance to its dramatic finale. The United States Air Force Thunderbirds featuring six pilots in their signature F16’s return to the CNE for the first time in 15 years. This will be their only performance outside of the USA in 2018. The afternoon comes to its final crescendo with the spectacular CF Snowbirds electrifying crowds with extraordinary aerial maneouvers performed by nine amazing pilots who come from across Canada. Celebrating the 60th Anniversary of NORAD (North American Aerospace Defense Command), the show is a shining example of a 60 year old history of USA and Canadian cooperation.” https://theex.com/main/entertainment/canadian-international-air-show

“Roncesvalles Polish Festival”, Saturday, September 15 and Sunday, September 16, Toronto, ON. “The 2018 Roncesvalles Polish Festival, North America’s largest celebration of Polish culture in Toronto’s best neighbourhood, Roncesvalles Village! will be taking place September 15th and 16th, 2018. Now entering its fourteenth year, the Festival adds an old world charm to today’s Roncesvalles Village, well-known as one of Toronto’s most vibrant, diverse and creative communities. Enjoy great local and international music, including Polish folklore, Polka and Euro dance bands, and entertainment from near and far on multiple stages. Saturday night enjoy the ever-popular Disco Polo Party. Come out and sample fantastic cuisine from over 40 renowned restaurants, cafes, bakeries, and bistros, along Roncesvalles, and of course, lots of traditional Polish fare, including pierogi, kielbasa, bigos, cabbage rolls, and much much more! Discover treasures along the 18 blocks of boutique shops and merchants. We also have a Car Show and many great vendors with unique products and food.” https://polishfestival.ca

“Toronto Oktoberfest”, Thursday, September 27 through Saturday, September 29, Ontario Place, 955 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto, ON. “Want to experience a traditional Oktoberfest? Toronto's Oktoberfest is the closest you're going to get without hopping on a plane to Germany! Join thousands dressed in lederhosen and dirndls under a massive Bavarian-style Festhalle tent as we celebrate German culture. Food, beer, music, and a fun fair modeled after the original Munich event.” https://www.torontooktoberfest.ca

Virginia: 

“Wild Cave Tours: Bolling Cave”, Saturday, September 1 and Saturday, September 29, 2PM-4:15PM, Natural Tunnel State Park, Stock Creek Interpretive Center, Duffield, VA. Ages 8 and up. $15 per person or $12 per person for groups of 4 or more. Preregistration required; call (276) 940-2674. “Get down and dirty with this two hour wild cave tour. Explore the underground world of caves in their true form. Crawl through crevasses and waddle through tunnels. View the archeology room, soda straws, and columns. There are no special effects/lights or sidewalks in the caves. Guests will be given a helmet, with a LED light on it, along with gloves and knee pads. Expect to get dirty during exploration. For your comfort and safety appropriate pants and close toe shoes required. Guest must use park gear.” http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/natural-tunnel#general_information

“Virginia Scottish Games”, Saturday, September 1 and Sunday, September 2, Great Meadown, 5089 Old Tavern Rd., The Plains, VA. “Join us at the annual Virginia Scottish Games and Festival for two days filled with competition, family friendly fun, tons of food and drink, and all things Scottish.” http://www.vascottishgames.org

“Digging Up Firepower”, Sundays in September, 11AM-12PM,, Natural Tunnel State Park, Duffield, VA. “Virginia caves are known for their beautiful formations, unique wildlife and as a cool place to visit in the summer. For many centuries, they were also a source of salt peter (potassium nitrate) which is a key ingredient in gun powder. Stop by our park's Salt Peter Cave to discover the fascinating history of this vital gunpowder ingredient, and the geology that allowed it to form.” http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/natural-tunnel#general_information

“Colonial Market and Fair”, Saturday, September 15 and Sunday, September 16, 9AM-5PM, Mount Vernon, 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon, VA. Adults $20, seniors $19, youth 6-11 $12, free for kids age 5 and under, discount for online sales. “Visit with colonial artisans who demonstrate and sell traditional wares such as baskets, woodcarvings, tin and ironwork, leather-workings, weavings, furniture, and food. Watch 18th-century shows, including a puppet show, a fire-eating act, and a balloon launch and listen to colonial music. Costumed interpreters will be demonstrating the 18th-century chocolate-making process using an authentic colonial recipe! Potomac River sightseeing cruises are available at half price (while supplies last). Colonial Market and Fair takes place rain or shine.” https://www.mountvernon.org/plan-your-visit/calendar/events/colonial-market-fair/

Washington DC: 

“No Spectators: The Art of Burning Man”, now through January 21, 2019, Renwick Gallery, Pennsylvania Ave. at 17th St. NW, Washington DC. “Each year in Nevada’s Black Rock Desert, a city of more than 75,000 people rises out of the dust for a single week. During that time, enormous experimental art installations are erected and many are ritually burned to the ground. The thriving temporary metropolis known as Burning Man is a hotbed of artistic ingenuity, driving innovation through its principles of radical self-expression, decommodification, communal participation, and reverence for the handmade. Both a cultural movement and an annual event, Burning Man remains one of the most influential phenomena in contemporary American art and culture. No Spectators: The Art of Burning Man brings the large-scale, participatory work from this desert gathering to the nation’s capital for the first time. The exhibition takes over the entire Renwick Gallery building and surrounding neighborhood, bringing alive the maker culture and creative spirit of this cultural movement. immersive room-sized installations, costumes, jewelry, and ephemera transport visitors to the gathering’s famed “Playa,” while selected photographs and archival materials from the Nevada Museum of Art's show 'City of Dust: The Evolution of Burning Man' trace Burning Man’s growth and its bohemian roots.” https://americanart.si.edu/exhibitions/burning-man

“The Many Cultures of Taiwan: Evening Program with Tastings”, Thursday, September 6, 6:45PM, S. Dillon Ripley Center, 1100 Jefferson Dr. SW, Washington, DC. $50, $25 student rate available with id. Preregistration required; register online: https://smithsonianassociates.org/ticketing/tickets/many-cultures-of-taiwan “Taiwan and its many smaller offshore islands may not be huge in area, but they contain vast history, traditions, cultures, and natural attractions. Get ready to explore many of the treats Taiwan has to offer during a single spectacular evening. Learn more about Taiwan’s many indigenous cultures: Listen to the famous eight-part harmony of the Bunun tribe, examine the intricate weaving of the Truku, and discover the flying fish festival of the aboriginal Tao people. Make a virtual visit to Taiwan’s quirky Rainbow Village, and add your own artwork to a re-creation of that site. Admire the blooming floral fabrics and intricate mudiao woodworking for which the Hakka people are famous, and learn about the rich history of indigo blue dye. Discover the history of Taiwanese railway travel, immerse yourself in the beauty of Taiwan’s temples, and find your future with the Taoist practice of Kau Cim and have it confirmed—or contradicted—by throwing your own pair of jiaobei blocks. Enjoy Taiwanese music, food and drinks including the traditional ‘thunder tea rice’ (lei cha), some hearty, salty Hakka dishes, and a generous tasting of typical street foods created by top area chefs.” 

“Fiesta DC”, Parade Saturday, September 15. 1PM-5:30PM, Constitution Ave. NW between 7th and 14th Streets., and Festival Sunday, September 16, 11AM-7PM, Pennsylvania Ave. NW, between 3rd and 7th Streets, Washington, DC. Free. “This annual celebration of Latino culture includes a parade and a festival on back-to-back days, both held in the heart of the District. Saturday’s Parade of Nations features Native Latino dance troupes and other local groups. Sunday’s festival will gather thousands with a beauty pageant, live musical and dance performances, plenty of food and much, much more. Both are free to attend!” http://fiestadc.org

Exhibit, “Rachel Whiteread”, Sunday, September 16 through January 13, 2019, National Gallery of Art, East Building Concourse Galleries, Constitution Avenue NW between 3rd and 9th Streets, Washington, DC. “As the first comprehensive survey of the work of British sculptor Rachel Whiteread (b. 1963), this exhibition brings together some 100 objects from the course of the artist’s 30 year career, including drawings, photographs, architecture-scaled sculptures, archival materials, documentary materials on public projects, and several new works on view for the first time. The exhibition also features the wide range of materials utilized by the artist from plaster to rubber, concrete, resin, and paper. Ranging in scale and effect from the monumental to the modest, Whiteread’s sculptures memorialize everyday objects, domestic interiors, and public spaces. Throughout her celebrated career, Whiteread has effectively recast the memories of these locations and objects to chart the seismic changes in how we live, from the late 20th century and into the 21st. Co-organized with Tate Britain, the exhibition is accompanied by a catalog with contributions by the exhibition’s curators, an interview with the artist, and additional scholarly essays.” https://www.nga.gov/exhibitions/2018/rachel-whiteread.html?utm_source=washingtonorg&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=rachel-whiteread

“DC State Fair”, Sunday, September 23, Waterfront Station, 375 and 425 M. Street SW, Washington DC. Free. “The DC State Fair is a free showcase of the District’s agricultural and creative talents and a daylong celebration of all things homegrown. Featuring contests, education, music, delicious food and drink.” https://dcstatefair.org

“Art All Night: Made in DC”, Saturday, September 29, 7PM through Sunday, September 30, 3AM, various venues, Washington, DC. Free. “Art All Night: Made in DC is Washington, DC’s free overnight arts festival, starting at 7:00 PM on Saturday, September 29, 2018 and running until 3:00 AM the following morning. The festival will take place in six DC Main Streets neighborhoods, bringing visual and performing arts, including painting, photography, sculpture, crafts, fashion, music, dance, theater, film, and poetry, to indoor and outdoor public and private spaces, including businesses.” https://www.artallnightdc.com

West Virginia: 

“Flatwoods Monster and Mothman Double Feature”, Friday, September 14 and Saturday, September 15, 7PM, The Elk Theatre, 192 Main St., Sutton, WV. $7. “We will be showing a double feature of The Flatwoods Monster: A Legacy of Fear, and The Mothman of Point Pleasant on September 14th and 15th at 7PM. Price of admission is $7. If you missed the Flatwoods Monster premiere last April, now is your chance to see it on the big screen! There will be an intermission of 10 minutes between films.” (The famous Flatwoods Monster Museum is located just doors away at 208 Main St. http://www.braxtonwv.org/museum.aspx) https://www.facebook.com/pg/elktheatre/events/?ref=page_internal

“17th Annual Mothman Festival”, Saturday, September 15 and Sunday, September 16, Point Pleasant, WV. “Mothman Festival is an annual event held every third weekend in September that commemorates the 1966 Point Pleasant, West Virginia Mothman sighting, which gave birth to the infamous red-eyed winged legend. People from all over the world gather around our charming Main Street to celebrate their favorite cryptid during this one of a kind event.” https://www.mothmanfestival.com

“Columbus Foundation Replica Ships the Niña and the Pinta”, Friday, September 28 through Tuesday, October 2, 9AM-6PM, Heritage Port, 12th and Water St., Wheeling, WV. Self-guided tours $8.50 per adult, 7.50 seniors, $6.50 ages 5-16, free for ages 4 and under. Guided tours available only by reservation for groups of 15 paying attendees or more. The ships will be in Pittsburgh October 4-16 and Marietta, OH October 19-23. “Come see our two Columbus replica ships - our original Niña, the most historically accurate replica of a Columbus Ship ever built, and our newer Pinta. Both The Niña and Pinta will be touring together as a new and enhanced ‘sailing museum’, for the purpose of educating the public and school children on the ‘caravel’, a Portuguese ship used by Columbus and many early explorers to discover the world.” http://www.thenina.com/index.html