“Imagine what our real neighborhoods would be like if each of us offered, as a matter of course, just one kind word to another person.”

This Fred Rogers quote is featured on the official state website for 143 Day, the 143rd day of the year. Rogers regularly used 143 as his special code for “I Love You,” based on the number of letters in each word.

The day became an official state celebration in 2019. Last year, during the COVID-19 pandemic, residents were encouraged to honor local “helpers.”

This weekend, residents are encouraged to tweet about their acts of kindness using #143DayinPA. 

“Pennsylvania is a place where kindness and gratitude toward those who make up our community is part of who we are, and a weekend of kindness, after an especially difficult year, celebrates the spirit inherent in all Pennsylvanians,” Gov. Tom Wolf said in a statement. 

One way for families to celebrate this weekend is by joining Kidsburgh for a free virtual baking class hosted by local cookie expert Jasmine Cho. 

Families can register for the 4 p.m. Sunday class, where they’ll learn a recipe for two-layer Linzer Cookies with a peek-a-boo center. 

Special guests Gregg Behr and Ryan Rydzewski, the authors of “When You Wonder, You’re Learning: Mister Rogers’ Enduring Lessons for Raising Creative, Curious and Kids,” will be on hand as well. 

The Heinz History Center, which features the largest collection of original items from “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood” on public view, also began partnering with the City of Pittsburgh this week to offer “Kindness Zone” street signs.

The History Center will sell three different versions of the Kindness Zone sign, as well as magnets and stickers, at its Museum Shop and online. 

First unveiled in 2019, the Kindness Zone signs have been installed in dozens of locations around Pittsburgh. 

“We’re excited to partner with the City of Pittsburgh to help spread Fred’s universal message of kindness beyond the city streets and into the homes, schools and businesses in our community,” said History Center President and CEO Andy Masich in a statement.  

All proceeds from the Kindness Zone signs will benefit the museum’s educational programs and exhibitions.