5 free things to do in Pittsburgh this October

The temperatures are dropping and the days are getting shorter, which means the events are falling from the trees like so many auburn leaves. Watch giant pumpkins get destroyed, find the Cheshire Cat in a glass wonderland or watch a Halloween classic on the plaza — all, of course, free.

Vintage and handmade in the plaza

Saturday, Oct. 4, 11 a.m.

Pittsburgh’s premier open-air flea market comes to campus in partnership with the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy, featuring vintage clothing and furniture, handmade art, local food and more.

Where: Schenley Plaza, 4100 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh, PA, 15260

Soccer with a festive atmosphere

Saturday, Oct. 10, 7 p.m.

Celebrate the cultures, traditions and contributions of the city’s Hispanic and Latinx communities at Hispanic Heritage Night at the Pittsburgh Riverhounds, featuring themed entertainment. Some complimentary tickets are available to Pitt community members on a first-come, first-served basis.

Where: F.N.B. Stadium, 510 W. Station Square Drive, Pittsburgh, PA, 15219

Go down the rabbit hole

Starting Saturday, Oct. 10

The Phipps Conservatory’s fall flower show, Alice’s Adventures in Autumn, includes the conservatory’s classic chrysanthemum fall theme along with characters and scenes from the Lewis Carrol classic. Check out the wonderland through Nov. 1, free with your Pitt student ID.

Where: 1 Schenley Drive, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213

Pumpkins, but big

Oct. 17-18, 10 a.m.

Ever look at a classic jack-o-lantern and think “too small”? Then you’re going to love this. Only the most giant of gourds will get carved, dropped, eaten and more at the Pittsburgh Monster Pumpkins festival, along with a 5K, art, food vendors and other attractions.

Where: 875 Railroad St., Pittsburgh, PA, 15222

Toil and trouble under the stars

Friday, Oct. 30, 7:30 p.m.

Bring a blanket and get cozy for an outdoor showing of the Halloween classic “Hocus Pocus.” Show up early — starting at 3 p.m. — for more vendors and activities. Broom and pointy hat optional.

Where: Schenley Plaza, 4100 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh, PA, 15260

Image courtesy of Pittsburgh Monster Pumpkins