From eye-popping horticulture to a yinzer race to the Peoples Gas Holiday Market, November is getting festive with cool events happening online, outdoors and at socially distanced destinations.
1. EQT Pittsburgh 10 Miler: November 1-30
Even when competing, Pittsburghers love to bond. The ultimate Pittsburgh race experience is coming directly to runners no matter where they are. Each mile of this virtual course celebrates an authentic local characteristic — with sections dedicated to Pittsburghese, “Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood,” famed athletes — and even pickles and pierogies. Participants will receive a Pittsburgh Celebration Box, finisher’s medal and tech race shirt. New this year is a Pittsburgh-themed fitness series for kids. Register here.
2. Carrie Carpool Cinema: November 6 & 7, 6 p.m.
Rivers of Steel is delving into the goldmine of cult cinema with a double feature fall weekend, proving that drive-ins are not just for summer. The fun kicks off with Friday’s science fiction doubleheader, perfect for viewing at a former steel mill. Ridley Scott’s dystopian masterpiece, “Blade Runner,” will be paired with Alex Cox’s sardonic story, “Repo Man.” Return Saturday for Spike Lee’s trailblazing “Do the Right Thing,” followed by The Fish That Saved Pittsburgh, a groovy sleeper filmed locally. Buy tickets.
3. The Frick Reflects: Looking Back, Moving Forward: November 8
Get an in-depth look at rarely seen objects from The Frick Art Museum and Clayton. Focusing a critical eye on its permanent collection, the exhibition examines the social context surrounding the lives of Frick family members during the Gilded Age. Visitors will gain new insights about Helen Clay Frick’s motivation for establishing the institution and the values and viewpoints revealed by the collection. Inspired by The Frick Art Museum’s 50th anniversary, this exhibition includes paintings, decorative art, books, archival images, and more. Reserve free tickets.
4. Pittsburgh Arts & Lectures 30th Season Fundraiser with Margaret Atwood: November 9
These days can often feel like a dystopian novel such as “The Handmaid’s Tale.” Fans of Margaret Atwood won’t want to miss this opportunity to hear from the rock star Canadian writer when she celebrates Pittsburgh Arts & Lectures‘ milestone 30th anniversary. Atwood has just published “Dearly,” a poetry collection exploring love, loss, time — and zombies — and ticket holders will receive a copy. She’ll join an online conversation with fellow Canadian novelist Esi Edugyan.
5. Contemporary Craft’s Heart of Craft: November 11, 4 p.m.
Contemporary Craft has settled into its cool new home in Lawrenceville and you can support the organization by joining this virtual celebration. The crafty festivities will feature live presentations by members of the staff, board and community about the organization’s 49-year history, as well as a special message from acclaimed artist Caledonia Curry (aka Swoon). Curry’s first solo exhibition in Pittsburgh, The Heart Lives through The Hands, is on view as Contemporary Craft inaugural exhibition. Register for free.
6. Film Pittsburgh Fall Festival: November 11-22
Pittsburgh’s cherished cinematic events are converging during this expansive 12-day festival. Screening virtually, the festival showcases independent films from around the globe that promote innovative visual storytelling and diverse voices. There’s truly something for every cinephile — with 137 Pittsburgh Shorts, 30 Three Rivers Film Festival features, highlights from ReelAbilities and JFilm, an Asian sidebar, a script competition and more. New this year are shorts from 37 countries with 47% directed by women. View a schedule and buy tickets.
7. Yinz Citizen Concert and Fundraiser with 412 Food Rescue: November 12, 8 p.m.
All-star musical figures — from Wiz Khalifa and Anti-Flag — will gather virtually to combat hunger and food waste. A socially-distanced version of 412 Food Rescue’s annual Sunday Supper, the event concept is inspired by Lady Gaga’s Global Citizen concert. Hosted by Natalie Bencivenga and Day Bracey, the benefit will feature Joe Gruscheky, The Commonheart, Donnie Iris, DJ Bonics, The Boilermaker Jazz Band, Byron Nash, INEZ, Squonk Opera and many others. Register for free.
8. The Chocolate Bar Home Edition: November 14,6:30 p.m.
Be Willy Wonka for one delectable evening benefiting the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust. Chocolate will cure your epic case of cabin fever with home deliveries of decadent A519 truffles, a virtual happy hour and digital culinary master classes hosted by Natalie Bencivenga. Amanda Wright of A519 Chocolate will share her expert truffle crafting techniques and Akil Babb of Bridges & Bourbon will demonstrate how to create the perfect chocolate-inspired cocktail. Buy tickets.
8. Winter Flower Show at Phipps: November 20
Wander into a snowy forest with a cozy cabin, a canopy of twinkling lights and purple, white and silver plants. Meet topiary bears, foxes and groundhogs, see dazzling orbs and cones and inhale fragrant decorated trees. Watch as living room furniture springs to life with intricate plant materials and be captivated by the reflections of a glimmering carousel in a tranquil pond. Phipps’ trees adorned with thousands of patterned poinsettias and paper star lanterns will make your spirits bright. Buy tickets.