What’s going on this week in Pittsburgh, July 4-10? Find out here. Visit each organization’s website and social media for changing Covid protocols. Know of a cool event? Email us.
Monday, July 4: Celebrate America at Kennywood
11 a.m.-11 p.m.
There’s nothing quite like the glow and hum of Kennywood at twilight. The park’s aura will shine even brighter on Independence Day. With extended holiday hours, thrill-seekers can hop on the iconic rides, check out musical performances and indulge at new food booths around the lagoon. Cap off your July 4th fun with fireworks at 10:15 p.m. Don’t forget: Kennywood its now cashless! Buy tickets.
Monday, July 4: Fourth at the Fort at Fort Pitt Museum
1-4 p.m.
Before the main attractions in Point State Park, join museum staff, scouts and veterans for a raising of the 36-foot garrison flag in the Fort Pitt Block House yard – the region’s oldest building. The free family-friendly afternoon includes living history demonstrations and activities in partnership with Civic Season and Made By Us, held annually between Juneteenth and the Fourth of July.
Monday, July 4: Independence Day at 7507 Kelly St.
3 p.m.
The Episcopal Lutheran Alliance and Church of the Holy Cross are teaming up with local organizations to host this family-centered Independence Day celebration in Homewood. Chill and grill on the church lawn while enjoying live music, food and a screening of “Black Panther.” Reserve your spot by calling 412-242-3209.
Monday, July 4: Independence Day at Point State Park
4-10 p.m.
Make Point State Park your July 4th HQ with a family-style picnic, summer soul line dancing, demonstrations, games and more. As evening approaches, enjoy shows by the East Winds Symphonic Band and River City Brass. New this year is an immersive performance of Squonk Opera’s “Hand to Hand” featuring giant puppet fingers, rock music and dueling guitars. The night will sizzle when the Zambelli Fireworks display bursts into the air at 9:35 p.m.
Monday, July 4: Explosive Science! at Carnegie Science Center
6-11 p.m.
Fireworks look spectacular but what’s going on behind the sparkles and booms? Infuse your patriotism with star-spangled science and score the perfect view of the fireworks. Enjoy four floors of interactive exhibits, high-voltage shows and live music by My So Called 90’s Band. The explosive fun includes guaranteed parking, science demonstrations and even a Pittsburgh cookie table. Buy tickets.
Monday, July 4: Fourth of July Cruise on the Gateway Clipper
6:45 p.m.
If watching fireworks from the water is more your speed, hop aboard an iconic grand riverboat for a Fourth to remember. Stroll up to the third deck for breathtaking views, glide along the city’s tranquil rivers and enjoy an Independence Day-themed buffet dinner. The captain will share sightseeing anecdotes and First Class Entertainment DJs will provide the beats. Buy tickets.
Thursday, July 7: Dog Days of Summer at Boyce Park
6-8 p.m.
The dog days of summer are here and now Fidos around the region have a series just for them at Allegheny County parks. Enjoy a summer evening of free fun and games with your four-legged bestie, including a puppy pool and treat bags!
Friday July 8: Michael Macioce: Until Now at Fungus Books
5-7 p.m.
Writer Allen Ginsberg. Musician Sun Ra. Artist Christian Marclay. These are just a few of the legendary cultural figures captured on film by contemporary photographer Michael Macioce, who has been practicing photography from his East Village studio since 1982. Be the first to see Macioce’s work in Pittsburgh at the city’s newest — and smallest — book shop and meet the prolific artist at tonight’s free opening. It’s a rare opportunity to see images being printed and exhibited for the first time, including Macioce’s work with Beat-era icons, seminal Shimmy Disc bands, avant-garde giant John Zorn and more.
Friday, July 8: Traveling Beer Market and Music on the Mon at SouthSide Works
5-10 p.m.
The nomadic beer market run by Beers of the Burgh and the Pittsburgh Brewers Guild is popping up on the South Side to help Music on the Mon flow into summer. The taps will flow with brews from five local breweries while musicians Marabelle Skipworth, Julia Capuzzi, The Roof and The Stonethrowers rock the outdoor stage.
Friday, July 8: Traveling Show by Renee Piechocki at 820 Liberty
6:30-8 p.m.
The newest exhibition to open in the Cultural District explores deep connections between traveling and the creative process. The photographs, videos and books featured in Traveling Show represent a “multi-compilation of work” created by Renee Piechocki in response to her journeys and experiences throughout the U.S. and Canada, and while living in Japan, New Zealand, Mauritius, Chile and Ecuador. Two projects, “A Liberation Abecedary” and “Compass Roses,” include contributions by numerous Pittsburgh artists. Don’t miss tonight’s free opening reception when Piechocki will present a Gallery Talk.
Friday, July 8: “The Cherry Orchard” at OneValley
8 p.m.
Classic Chekhov staged at a slick startup space? If anyone can pull it off, Quantum Theatre can. Company founder Karla Boos takes the stage as Madame Ranevskaya in Libby Appel’s acclaimed adaptation of Chekhov’s greatest and final play. Directed by Katie Brook, Boos is joined by the entire theatrical Lehane/Klatscher family — in a Pittsburgh first. Within a set built into the banks of the Mon, audiences will discover what unfolds when Ranevskaya “steps off the train from Paris on a journey back to her treasured cherry orchard.” Buy tickets.
Saturday, July 9: Urban Farmers Brew Market & Fundraiser at Sankofa Village Community Farm and Garden
12-4 p.m.
Calling all locavores: If you’re as excited as we are about the next Barrel & Flow Fest in August, don’t miss this chance to support the city’s urban farms. Barrel & Flow is teaming up with Farm to Table Buy Local to provide opportunities for the Black community to partner with the food and drink industries. In addition to a farmers’ market, the event will feature music by DJ Slim Tha, children’s activities, career resources and vendors. Buy tickets.
Saturday, July 9: Inside Out at Carnegie Museum of Art
12-5 p.m.
Fill your Saturday with free creative experiences in the CMOA sculpture court. Museum-goers can groove to Cuban jazz by Hugo Cruz and Caminos and hit the dance floor with DJ Mary Mack. Carnegie International artist Rafael Domenech will lead hands-on activities and attendees can grab lunch or dinner from local food trucks.
Saturday, July 9: Carnegie Arts Walk in Carnegie
12-6 p.m.
Get to know the artsy side of the borough southwest of Downtown. Highlighting Carnegie’s unique connection to the arts, the inaugural event includes numerous art exhibits, music and dance performances, historical tours, hands-on demonstrations, and a broad range of local businesses. Not to miss is the Pup-up Art Exhibition just for canines at Double Dog Studios.
Saturday, July 9: Kinky Boots at the Benedum Center
2 p.m. & 8 p.m.
You have two more nights to catch the “exhilarating true story about a struggling shoe factory that will lift your spirits to high-heeled heights.” Winner of six Tonys, the show features a score by Cyndi Lauper and book by Harvey Fierstein. Equal parts hilarious and heartfelt, the musical bursts with elaborate costumes, soaring choreography and a powerful story. You won’t be able to resist dancing in the aisles. Buy tickets.
Saturday, July 9: Headspace at Zynka Gallery
5-8 p.m.
Head to Sharpsburg to find some Headspace. Don’t miss tonight’s free opening reception of this must-see exhibition pairing Guyana-born, Pittsburgh artist Gavin Benjamin and Dutch-born artist Hans Neleman — “who were once mentor and protege in New York City.” Benjamin’s exhibition schedule includes three solo exhibitions this fall. One of NYC’s leading photographers, Neleman is also acclaimed for his advertising work and videos for bands such as The Psychedelic Furs and Toad The Wet Sprocket.
Saturday, July 9: Drag N’ Dance at Mill 19
6-9 p.m.
Drag, dancing and bingo will converge at Hazelwood’s eco-friendly tech hub Mill 19. Play rounds of drag queen bingo then dance the night away while being treated to entertainment by Shana Simmons Dance, drag queen Alora Chateaux and DJ Deesus. Proceeds from the outdoor benefit bash will support the upcoming Shana Simmons Dance show “HYBRID.” Buy tickets.
Saturday, July 9: Marcia Belsky at Bottlerocket Social Hall
7-11 p.m.
Pittsburgh’s newest comedy club is actually a retro social hall in Allentown. A highlight of July’s roster is comedian and musician Marcia Belsky. Says Bottlerocket: “Her song ‘100 Tampons’ about Sally Ride’s trip to space went viral during quarantine — but that’s only the tip of the iceberg of her talents.” Belsky’s been selling out shows across NYC and LA, so don’t miss her. Buy tickets.
Sunday, July 10: Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix Kick-Off Rallye at Dual Devils Garage
10 a.m.-5 p.m.
One of the region’s most distinctive summer events turns on the motors in Houston, Washington County. Imagine cool cars, country roads and a scavenger hunt all rolled into one. It’s a terrific way to spend a Sunday and kick off this year’s expanded Grand Prix. The casual event includes a cookout dinner, Rallye awards, Helltown brews, and a tour of the car exhibits. Buy tickets.
Sunday, July 10: Garden Tour on the South Side
11 a.m.-4 p.m.
South Siders have very green thumbs as evidenced by this tour presented by the South Side Community Council. Stroll through 11 enchanted spaces — from large gardens with water features to tiny pockets of flowery wonder. Pick up your tour map at 18th and Carson streets. Buy tickets.
For more things to do, read 13 top things to do in Pittsburgh in July from the Furries to Picklesburgh. For live music check out Concerts in Pittsburgh this July: Our guide to 16 can’t-miss shows. For family events, see 10 fun-filled Pittsburgh events for kids in July.
