Posted in Pittsburgh May 12, 2019 by

Journey To Mars For An Out-Of-This-World Celebration Without Ever Leaving Pennsylvania

Who’s up for an out-of-this world adventure? While human travel to the Red Planet remains some years away, we can still get insight into what it’s like to explore the planet that’s more than 33 million miles from Earth. Gather the whole family for this weekend-long festival near Pittsburgh that will feature plenty of interactive exhibits, speakers, live entertainment, and delicious food.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
Get ready for a weekend celebrating the Red Planet at The Mars Exploration Celebration Days in the town of Mars, just a half an hour from downtown Pittsburgh.
Flickr/NASA HQ Photo
The three-day weekend is set for May 31 through June 2, 2019. And, those three days will be jam-packed with activities for the whole family.
Facebook/Mars Borough
Dress up in your favorite costume - a Martian or a NASA astronaut, perhaps? - for the Friday evening costume contest. The evening will include plenty of exhibits, food, and entertainment before ending with a spectacular fireworks show.
Mars New Year
Carve out as much time as you can to visit the festival that will feature such exhibits as the Mars Science Display and the Mars Escape Room, both presented by NASA.
Flickr/NASA HQ Photo
In fact, NASA will have a full lineup of exhibits. Meet NASA's Rov-E (pictured below). Embark on a virtual reality tour of the Red Planet. And, snap photos of yourself or your kids as a NASA astronaut.
Mars New Year
Of course, you'll have plenty of opportunities to tap your foot and dance to the live entertainment. The Gothees, for example, will hit the main stage on June 1, 2019 at 6 p.m.
Facebook/The Gothees
Take the little ones to the Kids Zone too, where they can make crafts, get their faces painted, or play on several giant inflatable games.
Flickr/Tim Fuller
And, enjoy a delicious meal or snack from such vendors as Mama's Place, Hot Mama's Pierogies, and Posti's Pizza.
Flickr/elycefeliz
Visit the Mars Exploration Celebration Days May 31, 2019 from 5 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Or, stop by June 1 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. or June 2 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Flickr/NASA HQ Photo
Address: Mars, PA 16046
Flickr/NASA HQ Photo
Click here for the website of Mars Exploration Celebration. Or, go here for Facebook.

Have you ever been to this festival near Pittsburgh? Tell us about it in the comments! Then, click here to read more about the most unique town near Pittsburgh.