This weekend in Erie, PA

Erie Bird Observatory and LEAF present an exploration of local bird life at Frontier Park. Participants can practice bird identification, with chances to spot wintering songbirds, raptors, and other species. The outing is beginner friendly, and no registration is required.

At the Millcreek Branch, adults can unwind with a relaxed coloring session held each Saturday. Focusing on a simple, creative activity can reduce stress and encourage a sense of calm while engaging motor skills, the senses, and imagination. Materials are provided, including coloring pages and colored pencils. Those who would rather read than color can explore the library’s collection for titles on the benefits of coloring, or even try a murder mystery that features coloring books. This is a recurring event, and it will not take place if the Millcreek Library is closed.

Gain a clear path to homeownership at a free, in-person pre-purchase workshop in the Community Classroom at Blasco Library, on the ground floor near the reference desk. Presented by St. Martin's Center with speakers joining virtually, this four hour class explores the roles of attorneys, inspectors, and other professionals, how to choose a realtor, available home-buying assistance programs, and how to make sense of the paperwork. Attendance is in person only. Registration is required to reserve a seat. Computer skills are not required. Because it is a longer session, participants are encouraged to bring a packed meal, and light snacks will be available. Please plan your route, as the Bayfront Highway will be closed and a posted detour on the Bayfront Parkway will direct through traffic. St. Martin's Center provides counseling and education for people pursuing homeownership or improving their finances, with a program certified by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and staff trained by the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency.

This is an open OA meeting that welcomes anyone interested in the program, including students, support people, and healthcare professionals. Visitors are expected to honor the anonymity of those present. The meeting space and restrooms are wheelchair accessible, and entry is through the rear double doors. Visitor etiquette guidelines are available for those who would like to review them in advance.

A family and dog friendly fall festival and fundraiser at Frontier Park in Erie features food, music, and plenty of activities while raising support for rescue animals in the community. Expect local food trucks, the Erie Beer Co. beer garden, vendors and makers from the area, activities for both people and dogs, and the Franklin Fund basket raffle. Funds raised support Because You Care’s mission, including medical care for rescued animals, food, shelter, enrichment, help for animals with special medical needs, and spay and neuter assistance. Because You Care is a volunteer-driven nonprofit rescuing and rehoming animals across northwestern Pennsylvania. Sponsor and vendor opportunities are available.

Female Feature Fest IV assembles artists from Michigan, Ohio, and Pennsylvania for a multi-genre music showcase that spans intimate acoustic sets and full-band performances. The lineup features Battle Chapel, Black Wolf & The Thief, BloodKlotz, Candace Campana, Deja Blue, Drown the Deep, GOOCH, Judy of Glass Aeros, KeKe Diamond Band, Li' Marie, Maxilla, Modern Fossils, Reign of Z, Snapcat Bandits, Storms Within, The Walk, Wasted Society, and Worship Your Path. Vendors include Wrapped Up Crafts, Hope's Heartstrings, Shadow Knight Curiosities, Wicked Pretties, The Raven’s Nest Oddities & Curiosities, and Fairy Gothmother Kreations. Photographers include JRH Imagery with Justin Heckathorn and PSPhotography with Noah Maloney. Food will be available from Redneck Grill Food Truck. More announcements, artist spotlights, and event details are forthcoming.

Flagship Steel Band presents a free performance open to all during the West Bayfront Porch Fest. The music will be outdoors, so bring a lawn chair or blanket for comfortable listening. Donations are accepted.