Your guide to activities and fun things to do with your preschoolers, toddlers and kids in pittsburgh, PA

Pittsburgh is a town that loves a good fireworks display, and we find reasons to put some extra sparkle in the night throughout the year.  So, at the Fourth of July, when fireworks are a necessity, it makes sense that you can find a great collection of displays and vantage points all around town.  Here are just a few to get you started.

Three Rivers Regatta
July 3, 4, and 5 the Three Rivers Regatta turns Pittsburgh into a festival with music, river fun, and food.  See a tightrope walk across the Allegheny River.  Go to one of the many concerts.  And don't forget about the icing on the cake-the "Flashes of Freedom" Fireworks Fantasia on the Fourth.  Check the schedule for details on all of the where and when for the weekend.   

Fireworks Front Row Seats at the Carnegie Science Center
If you want to see the Flashes of Freedom Fireworks Fantasia up close and personal without fighting the crowds at Point State Park or Mount Washington, why not check out the special seating at the Carnegie Science Center?  For only $35 (kids under 3 are free), you get an evening at the Science Center, starting at 6:00p.m.  You can explore the exhibits, take in an Omnimax movie, see a laser show, and participate in other special holiday activities.  Then, take a guaranteed seat on the lawn to see and *feel* the fireworks display. 

Celebrate America Days at Kennywood
In what has become a yearly tradition, Kennywood park turns back the clock to celebrate bygone days for a week during Celebrate America Days (formerly known as Victorian Days).  The park takes on a nostalgic feel with "street" performances by mimes, jugglers, and magicians.  Look for classic cars, craft demonstrations, and kids activities throughout the park (in addition to the rides, of course).  And take a chance to rest your barking dogs at Pavilion 23 near the Log Jammer for a concert.  Plus, each day features a parade at 6:00p.m. and fireworks after dark. 

Big Butler Fair
If you're looking for a way to get away for the weekend without *really* leaving town, why not check out the Big Butler Fair?  Now in its 154^th year (isn't that amazing?), the Big Butler Fair has activities galore.  Concerts, clowns, rides, animals, crafts, and a frontier show are just the beginning.  Are you a fan of dirt track racing and truck pulls?  The Big Butler Fair has you covered and then some.  And lest I forget the icing on the cake...the big fireworks display is on July 4^th.

So, what is *your* favorite vantage point for holiday fireworks?