Carnegie Mellon University
April 10 â 12
Various times
Website
Carnegie Mellonâs Spring Carnival, a cherished annual tradition at the university, is marking a huge milestone when it celebrates its centennial this weekend. The Carnivalâs three packed days include amusement park rides, live music, robot and buggy races, lecture and seminars, creative booth designs, films and gaming, unhealthy snacks, and much more.
So which events are free and open to the public?
Carnival kicks off with opening ceremonies on April 10th at 3 p.m., including remarks by CMU President Subra Suresh, Pittsburgh Mayor William Peduto and Spring Carnival committee members who make the event happen. Carnival-goers can also check out the intricate booths created by student organizations exploring the theme of âThe Best of The Best. Sometimes reaching two stories in height, this yearâs booths include Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Games Through The Ages and one not to miss, Pittsburgh: The Best City In The World.
Sweepstakes buggy races will be held on the mornings of April 11th and April 12th. Designed and built by student organizations, the buggies are aerodynamic pushcarts, each holding a driver who steers around a 4,400-foot course. Just one inch off the ground, the buggies can reach speeds of nearly 35 mph. Each team includes five students who push a buggy in a relay-style race up Oakland hills and toward the finish line.
The 20th annual Mobot Races, hosted by CMUâs world renowned School of Computer Science, begin at noon on April 11th, and will feature autonomous vehicles (read: Mobile roBOTs) constructed by students and alumni racing along a slalom-style course.
Headlining the Activities Boardâs highly anticipated Spring Carnival concert is Pittsburgh native and rap sensation, Mac Miller. Opening the show is Swedish DJ duo Icona Pop, along with a student act. The outdoor concert takes place on April 11th at 7:30 p.m. and does not require a ticket.
