Events

From Public Source:

On Sunday afternoon, hundreds of people marched to ICE’s Pittsburgh field office on the South Side to protest recent shootings involving federal immigration agents. The march followed the killing of an American citizen by a federal agent in Minneapolis on Wednesday and, a day later, the shooting of two Venezuelan nationals in Portland.

The shootings spurred a weekend of nationwide protests, including in Pittsburgh and elsewhere in the region, against a “pattern of unchecked violence, impunity and abuse” by federal immigration enforcement agencies, according to a statement by organizer Indivisible Pittsburgh.

Nationwide, organizers held protests “to demand accountability, honor the life lost, and make visible the human cost of ICE’s actions,” according to Indivisible Pittsburgh.

Locally, ICE arrests under the second Trump administration through mid-October were more than triple those of the prior year, according to data from the Data Deportation Project and analyzed by Public Source.

The protests have intersected with ongoing debate in the Pittsburgh region over cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. 

Newly inaugurated Pittsburgh Mayor Corey O’Connor said a day after the Minneapolis shooting that the City of Pittsburgh will not cooperate with ICE. Several Allegheny County municipalities, though, including Stowe Township and Springdale, have recently signed agreements to partner with ICE on local immigration enforcement.

In a statement, the City of Pittsburgh Republican Committee wrote that local police have a “clear legal duty” to assist federal agencies. “Any attempt by elected officials to blur that obligation undermines the rule of law and places officers — and citizens — in an impossible and potentially dangerous position,” said Todd McCollum, chairman of the City of Pittsburgh Republican Committee and a former Pittsburgh police officer, in a statement.

The surge in local immigration enforcement has led hundreds in the Pittsburgh area to sign up for rapid response teams that deploy to arrests and raids to record ICE actions and accompany vulnerable people to court. 

“Public protest is a constitutional right, but elected officials have an obligation to be absolutely clear that violence, obstruction of law enforcement, and intimidation will not be tolerated,” McCollum said.

READ MORE AT PUBLIC SOURCE

Sunday, January 11th at 2pm

Event by Indivisible Pittsburgh, 1Hood Power 

Three Rivers Heritage Park, Three Rivers Heritage Trail & Hot Metal Bridge St.Public  · 

"ICE Out For Good." We are a coalition of Pittsburgh-based organizations that know that Pittsburghers want to stand with the rule of law, our neighbors in Minnesota, and beyond. We’ll begin with brief remarks at Three Rivers Heritage Park, followed by a short march (0.4 miles) past the DHS/ICE offices on Sidney St..We are asking you to join us in the spirit of mourning and lamentation appropriate for this moment in history. We will join together to lament and march solemnly. We will encourage our local officials to join us and encourage participants to reach out.If you are able to, we ask that you bring a flower or flowers if that is your tradition or a pebble to lay in memory if that is your tradition. Some flowers will be available on site.It will be COLD. Please dress accordingly.On Wednesday, January 7th, an American citizen was killed by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Minneapolis, Minnesota. This killing is part of a broader pattern of unchecked violence, impunity, and abuse carried out by federal immigration enforcement agencies against members of our communities.A broad coalition of groups across the country is calling for a coordinated Ice Out For Good Weekend of Action on Saturday, January 10th, and Sunday, January 11th, to demand accountability, honor the life lost, and make visible the human cost of ICE’s actions.A core principle behind all ICE Out For Good events is a commitment to nonviolent action. We expect all participants to seek to de-escalate any potential confrontation with those who disagree with our values, and to act lawfully at this event. Weapons of any kind, including those legally permitted, should not be brought to this event. 

More Information

The Children’s Museum is delighted to open its fourth version of Tapescape, an indoor climbing, sliding, rolling art installation made of more than 50 miles of packing tape stretched over a steel frame, designed by creator Eric Lennartson.

Explore and crawl through the twisting tunnels and curving walls of this unique climbing terrain showcasing an unexpected and delightful use of a common material.

Learn about Opening Weekend activities.

Tapescape will be open to explore 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM every day that the Children’s Museum is open.

Kamin Science Center – formerly Carnegie Science Center and Pittsburgh’s most visited museum – will celebrate the grand opening of Sports360, its newest and largest long-term exhibition, with a Family-Friendly Tailgate Celebration on Sat., Dec. 13.

The launch marks the first major exhibition opening since the museum unveiled its new identity this fall, powered by a historic $65 million gift from Dan and Carole Kamin – the largest in Carnegie Museums’ 130-year history.
 

A New Era, A New Exhibit

When the museum announced its transition to the Daniel G. and Carole L. Kamin Science Center in September 2025, it signaled the beginning of a bold new era. That announcement revealed the museum’s plans for nine new exhibitions and experiences that will reimagine more than 75% of the Science Center’s exhibit spaces.

Sports360 exhibition is the latest of those new experiences to open, ushering in an unprecedented period of growth that will continue through 2026 and beyond.

“Our mission at the Science Center is to connect people and science, igniting curiosity that endures for a lifetime,” said Jason Brown, Henry Buhl, Jr., director of Kamin Science Center and vice president of Carnegie Museums. “Sports360 is the first major experience to open since we launched our new brand, and it perfectly captures the energy, imagination, and discovery that defines this new era of the Science Center. Sports360 celebrates where curiosity meets competition, and where visitors can experience the science behind movement, play, and hands-on challenges.”

About Sports360 Exhibition – Where Curiosity Meets Competition

At 9,500 square feet, Sports360 is the largest long-term exhibition at the Science Center. The high-energy experience immerses visitors in the science of athletic performance across football, baseball, hockey, soccer, basketball, and Olympic-inspired sports.

Featuring nearly 25 hands-on stations across four zones – Prepare, Practice, Participate, and Go Pro – visitors can:

• Dash, jump, weave, and race through NFL Combine-inspired challenges
• Test accuracy, reaction time, and instincts through sports simulators
• Drive a virtual Zamboni, investigate biomechanics, and experience the physics behind power and motion
• Discover how athletes train, adapt, and compete

Sports360 exhibition is designed for visitors of all ages and abilities, giving everyone a chance to test both their body and brain.

Family-Friendly Tailgate Celebration – Sat., Dec. 13

To celebrate the opening of this immersive new exhibition, Kamin Science Center will host a Family-Friendly Tailgate Celebration on Sat., Dec. 13, full of hometown spirit. Visitors will be able to:

• Take photos with a variety of Pittsburgh mascots, including the Pirate Parrot, Pierogies, Iceburgh, Steely McBeam, and AMO from the Pittsburgh Riverhounds
• Dance to high-energy music from DJ B-Renn, the official DJ for Pitt football and volleyball
• Snap selfies with the Pittsburgh Riverhounds’ new USL Championship Trophy
• Enjoy FREE photobooth photos with a Sports360 exhibit-themed backdrop
• Engage with hands-on physics demonstrations throughout the museum’s 1st Floor that explore forces, collisions, and motion
   

Part of a Multi-Year Transformation Rooted in Curiosity
 

Sports360 is among the first major initiatives made possible by the Kamin family’s transformational $65 million gift — a donation rooted in Dan Kamin’s childhood curiosity and frequent visits to the Buhl Planetarium, where he built his first telescope at age 13.
 

Upcoming projects that are part of the Kamin Science Center transformation include:

• Science of Speed (Opening summer 2026): An all-new experience devoted to the physics, engineering, and adrenaline behind the world’s fastest race cars featuring a two-story electric kart track, interactive exhibits, modern and vintage high-performance vehicles, and a racing-inspired lounge and restaurant
• Peirce Atrium (Opening fall 2026): An interactive exhibition that will fill the museum’s four-story atrium with light, movement, and imagination
• Responsive Science display (2026): A dynamic new experience exploring the local impacts of climate change in Southwestern Pennsylvania through immersive storytelling and innovative design
• Building Futures exhibition: A groundbreaking new exhibition spotlighting skilled trades and the science behind some of today’s most in-demand careers
• North Lot beautification project: A community-focused installation in the museum’s north parking lot with expanded green space and interpretative science displays
• 1st Floor gallery: A completely new space designed to energize visitors with interactive and engaging experiences
• Early Learners space: A new 4th Floor exhibition designed specifically for young explorers to foster curiosity and discovery through age-appropriate science play

“These experiences are only the beginning,” said Brown. “The generosity of the Kamin family has given us the opportunity to reimagine what a science museum can be — vibrant, modern, connected to community, and dedicated to igniting curiosity for generations.”

Sports360 exhibition is sponsored by the Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation, PPG, Pittsburgh Pirates, Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield, Giant Eagle Foundation, Peoples Gas, and the Chuck Noll Foundation.
 

Venture over to PPG Place to ice skate around the beautifully decorated 66-foot illuminated Holiday tree on The Rink at PPG Place. The outdoor ice rink is open from the public starting November 14, 2025 through March 1, 2026, with special holiday hours for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's (we highly recommend reserving your tickets in advance).

Experience the magic of skating at our spectacular, one-of-a-kind outdoor rink in the heart of PPG Plaza. Glide through a winter wonderland surrounded by stunning city views and festive lights! Book online today!

We are an outdoor ice skating rink in the center of the crown jewel of the Pittsburgh skyline, PPG Place.

Ticketing this year can be done online and pre-paid to guarantee your date and entry time slot and to avoid waiting in long lines. Walk-up in-person sales will also be available, however, long waits can occur for walk-up admission on busy dates. Waiting can be avoided if advance tickets are pre-purchased online.

Skate rentals are available online and in person. Skate sharpening is also available in the Skate Rental Office for $10 per pair. Coin-operated lockers are available during your skate for rink customers only, available on a first-come, first-served basis. We also offer skate laces, gloves, and hats.

Dress for the weather. We recommend hats, gloves, and socks. Customers with skate rentals must wear socks. We have socks available for purchase if you forget to bring a pair.

• Ages: All Ages
• Duration: 1 Hour & 45 Mins
• Rentals: Skate Rentals Available

Tuesdays, beginning January 6th, enjoy one free child admission with the purchase of an adult admission!

We are an outdoor ice skating rink in the center of the crown jewel of the Pittsburgh skyline, PPG Place.

Ticketing this year can be done online and pre-paid to guarantee your date and entry time slot and to avoid waiting in long lines. Walk-up in-person sales will also be available, however, long waits can occur for walk-up admission on busy dates. Waiting can be avoided if advance tickets are pre-purchased online.

Wednesday, beginning January 7th, enjoy a half priced student ticket with a valid ID!

We are an outdoor ice skating rink in the center of the crown jewel of the Pittsburgh skyline, PPG Place.

Ticketing this year can be done online and pre-paid to guarantee your date and entry time slot and to avoid waiting in long lines. Walk-up in-person sales will also be available, however, long waits can occur for walk-up admission on busy dates. Waiting can be avoided if advance tickets are pre-purchased online.

More Information: 

As the region and the nation prepare to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026, the Senator John Heinz History Center has partnered with the Pittsburgh Society of Illustrators (PSI) on a new exhibition that uses the power of illustration to reflect on the ideals at the heart of the America’s founding — freedom, equality, justice, and liberty. Opening this Saturday, Oct. 11 in the museum’s fifth floor Barensfeld Gallery, My America: An Illustrated Experience features 63 original works of art by 35 illustrators that answer the question: what does America mean to you? From paintings and portraiture to sculpture and cartoons, the artwork asks visitors to consider how American ideals have been realized, challenged, and redefined over time. The My America exhibition invites visitors to celebrate voices that shaped our nation, embrace diverse perspectives, and continue the shared work of building a more perfect union to mark America’s 250th anniversary. Exhibit highlights include: 

• Portraits of beloved Pittsburghers like civil rights activist Daisy Lampkin, environmentalist Rachel Carson, and television host Fred Rogers
• A large-scale sculpture of 50 historical figures, including the flag-raisers at Iwo Jima, highlighted by imagery of Americans through time
• Illustrations of iconic places, from Plimoth Plantation to Pittsburgh neighborhoods, that explore the power and meaning of home and community
• The artwork “Thoughts and Prayers” which is designed to spark reflection and civil discourse about freedom of expression
• Hands-on interactives that invite you to create your own art, from designing a felt flag to piecing together a puzzle that reflects your vision of America

The exhibition also celebrates the 30th anniversary of the Pittsburgh Society of Illustrators, one of the largest illustrator groups in the United States. Visitors can meet and interact with PSI artists throughout the exhibit’s opening day on Saturday, Oct. 11. My America: An Illustrated Experience will be on view through Monday, Sept. 7, 2026. Celebrating America’s 250th in Pittsburgh The exhibition is a core component of the History Center’s year-long commemoration of the U.S. Semiquincentennial, marking the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, in partnership with America250PA. America250PA was established by the Pennsylvania state legislature and Governor in 2018 to plan, encourage, develop, and coordinate the commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, Pennsylvania’s integral role in that event, and the impact of its people on the nation’s past, present, and future. My America is also part of the History Center’s America 101 initiative, which empowers and inspires citizens to learn more about history and civics through public programs, special exhibitions, digital learning tools, and educational curriculum. Learn more at heinzhistorycenter.org. The Senator John Heinz History Center, an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution and the largest history museum in Pennsylvania, presents American history with a Western Pennsylvania connection. The History Center was voted as the #1 history museum in America by readers of USA TODAY (2024, 2025) and “Pittsburgh’s Best Museum” by Pittsburgh Magazine (2022, 2023, 2024). The History Center and Sports Museum are located at 1212 Smallman Street in Pittsburgh’s Strip District. The History Center’s family of museums includes the Sports Museum; Fort Pitt Museum in historic Point State Park; and Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village, a National Historic Landmark located in Avella, Pa., in Washington County. The History Center and Fort Pitt Museum are always free for kids, supported by the Kamin “Free for Kids” Initiative. More information is available at heinzhistorycenter.org. 

Featuring 63 original works of art by 35 illustrators, My America: An Illustrated Experience uses the power of illustration to reflect on ideals associated with the American Revolution and the pillars at the heart of the nation’s founding — freedom, equality, justice, and liberty. Image: “History of Persistence” by James Mellett.

Photojournalism is work and it is livelihood, it is craft and it is documentation, it is a way to be in the world and to share the world, it is a way to resist oppression while insisting on the fullness of life.

Black Photojournalism presents work by nearly 60 photographers chronicling historic events and daily life in the United States from the conclusion of World War II in 1945 to the presidential campaigns of 1984, including the civil rights movements through the 1950s, 60s, and 70s. Drawn from archives and collections in the care of journalists, libraries, museums, newspapers, photographers, and universities, the original work prints in the exhibition were circulated and reviewed in publishing offices before anything went to print. Each one represents the energy of many dedicated individuals who worked to get out the news every single day. One picture leads to another, making visible multiple experiences of history while proposing ways of understanding today as tomorrow is being created.

Responding to a dearth of stories about Black lives told from the perspectives of Black people, Black publishers and their staff created groundbreaking editorial and photojournalistic methods and news networks. During a period of urgent social change and civil rights advocacy, newspapers and magazines, including the Afro American News, Atlanta Daily World, Pittsburgh Courier, Chicago Defender, and Ebony, transformed how people were able to access seeing themselves and their communities. Their impact on the media landscape continues into the digital present.

The exhibition, designed by artist David Hartt, is co-organized by Dan Leers, curator of photography, and Charlene Foggie-Barnett, Charles “Teenie” Harris community archivist, in dialogue with an expanded network of scholars, archivists, curators, and historians.

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