Best Things To Do Labor Day Weekend In Pittsburgh

The Daily Meal Staff|Aug. 15, 2014 7:00 am EST

Photo Credit: Heather Lang

Even though Labor Day may be a last gasp of summer, it doesn't mean there aren't enough activities to celebrate and honor the contributions made by hard-working people. The Pittsburgh region offers an array of things to do and families may enjoy parades, games, fireworks and picnics or participate in historical, cultural, culinary and sporting events planned for the Labor Day weekend. Labor Day is a brief respite from work and time to relax as a family for a last-ditch attempt to take a holiday jaunt or just kick back and take in the aromas of a delicious barbecue with friends. Take a favorite lawn chair and listen to recording artists at concerts and parades or lace of the sneakers for a comfortable walk through county parks, festivals and fairs.

2014 Heinz Field Kickoff and Rib Festival
Heinz Field
100 Art Rooney Ave.
Pittsburgh, PA 15212
(412) 697-7181
www.heinzfieldribfest.com

Dates: Aug. 28 – Sept. 1, 2014

If you're looking for a place to enjoy the ambiance of a Labor Day event for the entire family, then a trip to Heinz Field for the annual Kickoff and Rib Festival is a great way to celebrate a holiday. The schedule of events ensures there is something for everyone and that includes, food, concerts, football games and opportunities to participate in fitness activities. Heinz Field offers free admission and while you are there, take in the panorama of the city with an awesome view of the city and North Shore, and check out the rib vendors, too. Set up your calendar for a weekend of entertainment and what makes it even better is many of the events are free and that is a Labor Day bargain filled with memories.

Labor United Celebration
Northmoreland Park
280 Markle Road
Apollo, PA 15613
(724) 830-3950
www.co.westmoreland.pa.us

Dates: Aug. 31 – Sept. 1, 2014

The importance of Labor Day is on display each year at Northmoreland Park and all of the events are prepared to honor the work force that has been the backbone of the U.S. economy. There is a festival atmosphere with carnival rides, musical groups, circus, games, petting zoo, arts and crafts and the free admission makes for a special Labor Day weekend. The event covers two days and that is enough time for families to plan and enjoy the park. Families can participate in the walking trails, fishing, playgrounds and the pavilions for a relaxing picnic break.

Point State Park
101 Commonwealth Place
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
(412) 471-0235
www.dcnr.state.pa.us

Make sure to keep Point State Park on your list of places to visit over the Labor Day weekend. There are hiking and biking trails that will fit all of your fitness needs and part of that experience is to traverse the Three Rivers Heritage Trail. The vistas are spectacular and the history of the Three Rivers make for an exhilarating walk or ride. There are historical and educational opportunities to visit the Fort Pitt Museum and Blockhouse for families to learn about the importance Pittsburgh played in the history of our country. The trees and vast acreage of land offers the perfect place for a picnic, and then venture to the steps to watch all types of water traffic or take a chance to kayak to enjoy the skyline of Pittsburgh.

Pittsburgh Renaissance Festival
112 Renaissance Lane
West Newton, PA 15089
(724) 872-1670
www.pittsburghrenfest.com

Dates: Click here

If you're in the mood to experience the old days of England for the delicious food, shopping, crafts and dazzling entertainment, then pack up the car and venture over to the Pittsburgh Renaissance Festival. There are heaps of acts on the various stages to watch daring acrobatics, juggling and jousting events that are reminiscent of the history of England. The festival is a wonderful way to interact with the performers and enjoy the pageantry for some keepsake photographic memories. Be sure to experience the bouquet of smells that may lead you to try out the tempting baked goods and other culinary delights.

Gerry Cernicky is a retired health and physical education teacher with 36 years of experience. He is a former teacher of the year and a sports writer for the Vandergrift News. He delivers podcasts, and maintains a website and blog. He currently resides in Pittsburgh. His work can be found at Examiner.com.