This weekend, it’s the Chess Club at Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh – Woods Run, a Polar PJ Party at the Carnegie Science Center, Photos with Santa and a Penguin at the Aviary, and more.

Photo courtesy of Engin Akyurt via Pexels

Thursday, Dec. 19

Chess Club at Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh – Woods Run

“Check it out! Chess club is for all levels of players, even brand new to the game. Staff will find you a good match and help you learn some skills and tactics. Chess club meets every Thursday from 5-6.” More information is available here.

Big Band Jazz Conspiracy & Swing Dance Lessons at the Elks

The Big Band Swing with Beginner Swing Dance Lessons will be held on Thursday, Dec. 19 at Allegheny Elks Lodge #339, located at 400 Cedar Avenue. Dance lessons will be given from 7:15 to 8:00 pm at no extra charge. The Jazz Conspiracy Big Band starts swinging at 8:00 pm. This event is open to the public. No dance experience or partner is required. This event is also great for folks who want to enjoy live music without dancing. This event is $10 general admission and $5 students with student ID at the door. Families are encouraged to attend. More information is available here.

Friday, Dec. 20

Polar PJ Party at the Carnegie Science Center

“Children and families can enjoy holiday fun with a classic film in their pajamas! Before seeing the film, guests will enjoy a hot chocolate bar with liquid nitrogen frozen marshmallows and a light breakfast snack, make-and-take activities, Buhl Planetarium’s Stars Over the North Pole show, all four floors of Science Center exhibits, and the chance to take photos with Santa.” Event is from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Click here for ticket and event information.

Good Friday at The Andy Warhol Museum

“For a more social experience, The Warhol Museum is open until 10 p.m. on Fridays and offers half-price museum admission and a cash bar beginning at 5 p.m.” More information available here.

Saturday, Dec. 21

Behind-the-Scenes Tour at Penn Brewery

Join Penn Brewery at 1:00 pm on selected Saturdays, as one of their brewers leads a behind-the-scenes look at how they make their fine Penn beers. The $25 ticket price includes the tour, a 16 oz. beer, and your choice of either a Penn T-shirt or a filled growler. Space for each session is limited, so buy your ticket now on Showclix.com (links below). This event is for ages 21 and older. Please arrive by 12:30 pm and register in the restaurant. Please wear closed-toe and flat shoes to the tour for your safety. Please remember to tip your bartender. They appreciate your kindness. More information here.

Photos with Santa & a Penguin

“Santa is coming to the National Aviary and visitors will have the opportunity to take photos with Santa and a penguin! Learn about this endangered species and bring your camera to capture this memorable holiday moment!” Saturdays before Christmas. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Included with admission. More information is available on the Aviary’s website.

Homebuyer Education Workshop at Manchester Citizens Corporation

“If you are a Low Income Housing resident, Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher holder or a family who is not receiving but is eligible to receive HACP rental assistance the dream of owning your own home is no longer out of reach. If you are determined to help yourself, HACP�s Homeownership Program is determined to help you achieve your dreams. The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh’s (HACP) Homeownership Program is designed to provide low-to-moderate income families� the financial literacy and financial assistance needed to purchase a home within the city limits of Pittsburgh.” Workshop is from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at MCC, located at 1319 Allegheny Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15233. Call 412-456-5062 to R.S.V.P. by phone. For more information, click here.

Sunday, Dec. 22

Newsletter Volunteering for the Brighton Heights Citizens Federation

“Newsletter Volunteers Needed! It’s that time. NEWSLETTERS ARE IN!! And the timing couldn’t be more perfect, right? Meet at the office on Sunday after the Steelers game and help knock it out… Involves folding and labeling. If you have kids who like to help, bring them! Bring a snack to share. Four volunteers gets the job done in two hours. Six volunteers probably knocks it out in one. THE MORE THE MERRIER!!” Starts at 4:30 p.m. Office is located at 3629 California Ave. Click here to view the Facebook event page.

Youth Drop-Off Workshop: Candle Making

“Ever wonder how candles are made? Join us in Make Lab and learn how to hand dip candles just like the old days! This is a drop-off workshop for youth ages 10-14 that takes place in MuseumLab. Museum admission is not required. Advance registration is required.” Event is from 2 to 4 p.m. To register and for more information, click here.

Have an event you’d like us to feature online in the Northside Happenings? Every week on our website, we announce free or almost-free events happening in the Northside, Thursday through Sunday. Fill out our Google Form or email a paragraph detailing the name of the event, location, specifics and a website or contact information to editor@thenorthsidechronicle.com. Deadline is 4 p.m. on the Wednesday before the weekend.