What’s happening in Pittsburgh this weekend, August 23-25? Find out here. Know of a cool event? Send us an email.
Friday, August 23: Phipps After Dark at Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
7pm-10pm
There’s nothing quite like the glow beneath the famous Phipps greenhouse. The setting of this horticultural event becomes even more magical at night. As darkness falls, explore the stunning Summer Flower Show, where the underwater displays and vegetation are ablaze with a brilliant rainbow of colour and light. Grab a drink at Phipps Cafe, strike a chic pose in the Clicks Burgh photo booth and dance to the sounds of DJ Jimmy. Tickets.
Friday, August 23 – Sunday, August 25: Pittsburgh New Works Festival at Duquesne University’s Genesius Theater
8pm & 2pm
Be the first to see 15 world premieres as the Pittsburgh New Works Festival teams up with local theater groups for its 33rd season. On opening weekend, a couple’s theater night is turned upside down when a prison escapee jumps into their car in Scott Gibson’s “Evie and Frannie Take a Detour.” In “They Said, They Said,” parents address their twin sons’ behavior at Hebrew school. “I Do?”, written by Johnstown native FJ Hartland, documents the drama of a wedding party just before the ceremony. The festival runs five weekends through Sept. 22, with performances Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets.
Saturday, August 24: yART sale at Pittsburgh Center for Arts and Media
10am-4pm
There’s no need to get up before sunrise to search for estate sales everywhere when you can attend a massive art sale in one convenient location. This free, outdoor market features works from a variety of mediums. It’s equal parts flea market and art market, but also offers B-stock, discounted goods and studio supplies. This year’s event welcomes 25 vendors, six nonprofits and refreshments from Kilimanjaro Flavor, Frios Gourmet Pops, Redstart Coffee Roasters and Two Frays Brewery. Information.
Saturday, August 24 and Sunday, August 25: Oddities & Curiosities Expo at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center
10am-6pm and 10am-4pm
If you want to learn the art of rat taxidermy, you’ll find just what you’re looking for at this eccentric exhibit. The Bizarre Bazaar is back for a second day, bringing a full weekend of weirdness to Pittsburgh. Channel your inner weirdo as you shop for Halloween art (it’s never too early!), eccentric antiques, handcrafted curios and metaphysical accessories. The collection of all things weird and strange even promises funeral collectibles, taxidermy and insect-fixing classes. Featuring 150 vendors from across the country, the unique traveling exhibit includes tarot readings, sideshow performers and food vendors. Tickets.
Saturday, August 24: Bocce Tournament and Festival at Acrisure Stadium
10am-5.30pm
Support the Heinz History Center’s Italian-American program and cheer on the shooters and pointers at this 13th annual event. The free festival, which highlights the sport first played in Italy in the 18th century, features a double-elimination tournament with 36 bocce teams of four. Spectators can purchase Italian fare from Common Plea Catering and find Italian-American-themed gifts at the History Center’s pop-up shop. The day’s musical entertainment will be provided by Shari Richards and the Aces, The New Pure Gold and The Jaggerz. Information.
Saturday, August 24: Disability Pride Celebration at Schenley Plaza
11am-4pm
Help make Pittsburgh more accessible for all as you celebrate the 34th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Free festivities begin with a parade around the Plaza. Enjoy live performances by comedian Gab Bonesso, poets of the Live/Ability Project and musicians Ryan Gilfillian, Friends of Tom Band and Miss Cassidy Creates. Keynote speaker is disability rights activist Josie Badger. Stop by the National ADA Disability Caravan to learn about choice, story-gathering activities and dynamic exhibits. Participate in accessible games and activities, visit the sensory-friendly room and check out vendors. There will also be food trucks, giveaways and speakers. Individuals requiring accommodations are asked to register in advance. Information.
Saturday, August 24: Water Lantern Festival at Allegheny Commons Park
5:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m.
Before the transition from summer to fall, it’s a great time to share wishes for the future and release them into the universe. Compose a message of hope, happiness or healing and toss your homemade lantern into the calm waters of Lake Elizabeth. The lanterns are made from eco-friendly rice paper, wood and recycled LED candles and will be cleaned up after the event. The festival includes food trucks and live music. Tickets.
Sunday, August 25: Ballet under the Stars at Hartwood Acres
5:30 p.m.–10:00 p.m.
This free outdoor performance is a central part of the Allegheny County Summer Concert Series and has become a cherished family tradition. Arrive early with your youngest ballerinas in tow to participate in pre-show family activities, including food trucks, craft stations and dance classes. Or opt for the paid Picnic in the Park to join other ballet enthusiasts and PBT Artistic Director Adam W. McKinney for drinks, dinner and a reception featuring PBT artists. At sunset, PBT presents a mixed repertory performance of classical and contemporary ballet works, including George Balanchine’s “Allegro Brillante,” Susan Jaffe’s “Bolero” and excerpts from “The Wizard of Oz,” “The Nutcracker” and “Peter Pan.” Information.
There’s even more to do this weekend…
Riverlife Party on the Pier is the place for Friday night fun on the rooftop deck above the David L. Lawrence Convention Center. The organization is celebrating 25 years of catalytic projects transforming the waterfront with a gala-themed event (VIP tickets are going fast; general admission tickets were sold out at press time). On Sunday, August 25, you can take part in Pennsylvania’s largest one-day bike ride on two wheels, starting and ending at Allegheny Commons Park. A fantastic and invigorating way to experience the city in a new way. PedalPGH offers four routes for all fitness and experience levels. It is also the opening weekend for the Pittsburgh Renaissance Festivalso put on your cape and corset and head into the forest to experience medieval festivities.
Find more things to do in Pittsburgh, including live music, outdoor recreation, farmers markets, movies and family activities.
