KidsPlay In The Square

We don’t have to tell you that Market Square is a great place for grownups to have all kinds of fun — from the Farmers Market to free concerts by some of the area’s most exciting performers.

But did you know that every Friday through August 27, we transform the Square into Downtown’s hot spot for a much younger set?

Now that school’s out for most youngsters, KidsPlay in the Square is the perfect way to keep the little ones entertained each Friday morning throughout the summer from 10-11:30 a.m. with stories, crafts, hands-on educational exhibits and special guests.

From McGruff the Crime Dog to Washington Wild Thing baseball team mascot, you never know who is going to show up in the Square. Even adults will have tons of fun — we promise.

First up this Friday is "That Guy With The Birds," John Lege, who entertains with his educational and entertaining parrot programs for all ages. John mixes a little bit of music, magic and hands on interaction to give kids of all ages a close adventure with these awesomely intelligent fine-feathered friends.

And just to make sure everyone has a yummy time, the WISH 99.7 Street Treat Patrol will be passing out free ice cream and snacks.

Here’s what’s happening on KidsPlay In The Square every Friday throughout the summer:

June 11 – That Guy With The Birds
Kids will flock to Birdman John Lege and his amazing parrots. It’s time to fly with

June 18 – Take Me Out To the Ball Game The Washington Wild Things mascot will take over the Square for a day of baseball related stories and activities, including a chance for young baseball players to sign up for the W’ittle Wild Things Kids Club.

June 25 – Fire Safety Day
Join the four-alarm excitement as kids get to meet a real City of Pittsburgh firefighter and hop aboard an actual fire truck.

July 2 – Get Fit
Youngster will discover the importance of lifelong fitness and learn some cool exercises for pre-school and elementary students.

July 9 – Science is Cool Staff members of the Carnegie Library transform the Square into a giant outdoor lab to conduct some exciting science activities and tell a few stories.

July 16 – Check back for details.

July 23 –  That Guy With The Birds, Again!
John Lege is back for an encore presentation of That Guy With The Birds! (include photo attached) Plus, Think Outside the Cage with Animal Friends!

July 30 – Once Upon a Toon!
Join storyteller and quick draw cartoonist Joe Wos, of the ToonSeum, for a special live performance of Once Upon a Toon. It’s a one-of-a-kind blend of storytelling and live cartoon illustration. Kids can also mingle with cartoon character Grimmy, as the ToonSeum celebrates it’s newest exhibition, “The Dog Days of Summer: Cartoon Canines. And kids can test their funny bones during a hands-on comical crafts session. 

August 6 – Music, Music, Music

August 13 – Eat Smart, Eat Healthy

August 20 – Read, Read, Read With Carnegie Library

August 27 – Policemen Are Our Friends Meet McGruff, the Crime Dog, check out the Bomb Squad truck and imagine yourself behind the wheel of the D.A.R.E. car. Gather round as one a City of Pittsburgh police officer reads a great story to kids. And, parents who wish to have their child fingerprinted may do so  to, as long at least one parent is on site to give permission.

KidsPlay in the Square is presented by:

We also thank the following sponsors: