March 20 is the birthday of Pittsburgh’s favorite neighbor. Here’s how to celebrate the life and legacy of Fred Rogers.
1. See the Set
Head to the Heinz History Center in the Strip District to check out the largest collection of original items from the “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood” television show. Highlights include the entryway and living room set that he walked through at the beginning of each show, King Friday XIII’s Castle, the Great Oak Tree, and Mr. McFeely’s “Speedy Delivery” tricycle.
2. Stand With His Statue
Take in the view of Downtown while sitting next to the “Tribute to Children” monument on the North Shore. This 10-foot bronze statue depicts Rogers sitting and tying his sneakers, just like in every episode. Music composed and sung by Rogers plays through speakers in the background, making you feel like it truly is a beautiful day in the neighborhood.
3. Turn On the TV
Reminisce with old episodes and clips of “Mister Rogers Neighborhood” on WQED, watch the documentary “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?”, or catch Tom Hanks starring as Mister Rogers in the film “A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood.” And if you have a kiddo around, turn on “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood.”
Find Mister Rogers-themed books at White Whale Bookstore in Bloomfield. (Francesca Dabecco / City Cast Pittsburgh)
4. Buy Some Themed Merch
You can find so many sweet gifts inspired by Mister Rogers at Pittsburgh gift shops, including a whole section at the Heinz History Center. I’m a big fan of the “It’s cool to be kind” pennant, “good vibes” tote, and Kindness Zone road sign. Plus, Mix Candle Co. in Lawrenceville has a Mister Rogers' Neighborhood scent that’s “cheerful, calming, and wonderfully familiar.”
5. Ride (or Admire) A Trolley
OK, so unfortunately we don’t have trolleys anymore, but you can imagine going back in time on streetcar lines at the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum in Washington, Pennsylvania. Or go to one of my favorite coffee spots, Reginald’s in Bethel Park, and sip on a latte next to the old South Hills trolley parked outside the shop.
6. Learn About His Fight for Public Media
In 1969, Fred Rogers became public media's most famous defender when he testified in front of Congress, urging lawmakers not to cut $20 million in federal funding. Rogers shared the importance of television that nurtures and supports children's development. We can only imagine what Rogers would say about the state of public media today; the Corporation for Public Broadcasting is now dissolved after nearly 60 years because of funding cuts from the Trump administration.
- Hear more in Reveal's podcast episode: "Mister Rogers and the Flight for Public Media."
7. Visit the Children’s Museum
The North Side institution was recently named the number one children’s museum in the country by USA Today. To celebrate, they’re offering free admission on Mister Rogers’ birthday. See one of Fred’s iconic sweaters, original puppets from the show, and more.
8. Thank A Neighbor
Rogers once said, "Listening is where love begins: listening to ourselves and then to our neighbors." Perhaps the best way to celebrate this local hero is to carry out his mission of neighborly kindness and compassion.
