The NEXTpittsburgh event guide is underwritten in part by the Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council.
What’s going on this week in Pittsburgh, Aug. 15-21? Find out here. Visit each organization’s website and social media for changing Covid protocols. Know of a cool event? Email us.
Monday, Aug. 15: “Greyland” at the Harris Theater
7:30 p.m.
While gearing up for its ReelAbilities festival next month, Film Pittsburgh heads back into the theater to host this one-night screening of “Greyland,” a powerful Rust Belt story that will resonate with local audiences. Filmed over six years, Alexandra Sicotte-Lévesque’s documentary follows an urban archaeologist and a single mother in their mission to revitalize Youngstown, Ohio — once a “booming pillar of American industry.” The event includes a Q&A with the creative team and a performance by film subject Rocco Sait. Buy tickets.
Tuesday, Aug. 16: Just Summer Series at The Highline
7:30 p.m.
Known for their fresh take on chamber music, C Street Brass will fill Pittsburgh’s newest riverfront destination with their dynamic mix of jazz, tango, classical and Broadway music. The CMU ensemble is guaranteed to get you grooving during the free concert. Make a night of it with drinks and food from Sly Fox Brewery and De Fer Coffee & Tea.
Thursday, Aug. 18-Sunday, Aug. 21: Piano Sale at Pittsburgh Opera
Various times
Ready to tickle the ivories? Always wanted a piano for your family room? If you’re in the market for a gently used piano don’t miss this highly-anticipated sale of top brands such as Solich, Yamaha, Bösendorfer, Clavinova, Baldwin and Estonia. More than 100 pianos will be sold at prices not available in retail stores, including grands, uprights, digitals, hybrids and Disklavier player pianos. Schedule an appointment by calling 412-206-5582 or registering online.
Thursday, Aug. 18: Teen Night at Carnegie Museum of Natural History
4-8 p.m.
Teens can channel their inner Greta Thunberg at this climate action and sustainability event for 13 to 18 years olds. Explore the Nature’s Amazing Machines exhibition, learn how museum scientists study the impact of climate change and hear from local organizations about how you can help protect the planet. The future needs you! Register for free.
Thursday, Aug. 18: In Bed By Ten at Pittsburgh Opens
4:30-8:30 p.m.
Clock out early and dance your way through iconic PPG Plaza. The skyline at twilight provides a dramatic backdrop for this outdoor dance party hosted by Pittsburgh’s own In Bed By Ten. Nosh on tasty tacos, sip summery cocktails and craft brews and create keepsakes in the 360-degree selfie station. Part of the free Pittsburgh Opens series, the event includes oversized games and gift card giveaways.
Thursday, Aug. 18: Summer PAARty at Square Café
5-8 p.m.
Spend a magical hour in East Liberty with Pittsburgh Action Against Rape (PAAR) to celebrate the nonprofit’s milestone 50th anniversary and support its mission. While taking in fantastic rooftop views and bidding on cool raffle items, PAARty-goers will enjoy signature drinks, festive bites and music by Selecta. Buy tickets.
Thursday, Aug. 18-Sunday, Aug. 21: Little Italy Days in Bloomfield
Various times
Live “la dolce vita,” support independent businesses and enjoy a bustling street fair that’s 10 football fields long. Marking its 20th anniversary, the region’s largest heritage festival boasts 30 acts on three stages spanning an elongated footprint with food vendors, pizza stretching demos and live music. Be transported to the Old Country with strolling Italian accordion players, opera singers and the dramatic procession. This year Steelers icon Franco Harris leads the celebrity bocce tournament.
Friday, Aug. 19-Sunday, Aug. 21: MotoAmerica at Pittsburgh International Race Complex
Various times
Fasten your seatbelts — the country’s premier motorcycle road racing series is rolling again. Watch in awe as top racers compete across seven classes and vie for the championship title. Cheer your heart out and be immersed in the high-octane races and stunt shows via the open paddock. The family-friendly event includes food vendors, autograph sessions, carnival games, a Kids’ Zone and camping. If you dare, try the Fan Lap to ride your own motorcycle around the track. Buy tickets.
Friday, Aug. 19-Saturday, Aug. 20: Health & Wellness Weekend at Multiple Locations
Various times
There are countless ways to get active at this event created by local businessman, avid runner and health advocate Ronald Scott as a day for African-American families. The community celebration has evolved into a transformational weekend supporting physical, emotional, spiritual, economic and environmental health. From a health expo and speaker soirée to a 5K and vendor market, activities will empower participants to make simple and sustainable lifestyle changes.
Friday, Aug. 19: Ramp Crawl in Oakland
4-7 p.m.
For its eighth anniversary, this innovative event hosted by Oakland For All returns to its pub crawl format to raise awareness about the importance of accessibility. Kicking off under the big tent at Schenley Plaza, the crawl continues with self-guided stops at participating businesses in Oakland’s central business district and along South Craig Street, where food and drink specials will be featured. Register for free.
Friday, Aug. 19-Sunday, Aug. 21: Style Week Pittsburgh at Studio Atelier and Emerald City
Various times
After a two-year hiatus, the runway will rock again. Debuting at Studio Atelier, the KULTURE Fashion Show features local designers, models and vendors, a Vogue performance and a dance party with DJ Cue. Haute couture highlights include a Business of Fashion Brunch with author, educator and designer Lesley Ware. The fashionista fête culminates at Emerald City, where the Style Awards will recognize area businesses, creatives and organizations for their achievements and impact. Buy tickets.
Friday, Aug. 19: Soul Asylum at South Park
7:30 p.m.
If you need proof that the 1990s are back, look no further than tonight’s concert by Soul Asylum at the Allegheny County Summer Concert Series. Formed in 1981 in Minneapolis, the iconic alternative rock band released its 12th studio album, “Hurry Up and Wait,” just as the pandemic lockdown began. In 1993, Soul Asylum nabbed a Grammy for the hit “Runaway Train” and performed at President Bill Clinton’s inauguration.
Saturday, Aug. 20: Yinzer 4.12K on the North Shore
8:30 a.m.
Lace up — and dress up — for a terrific cause. Benefiting Light of Life Rescue Mission the Yinzer 4.12K and Lil’ Yinzer Fun Run kicks off at the corner of Art Rooney Avenue and North Shore Drive. Runners of all levels are invited to don imaginative costumes representing the Burgh — think black and gold duds, local landmarks or your fave friendly mascot. Register now.
Saturday, Aug. 20: Wheels & Wellness in Westinghouse Park
10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Bike Share Pittsburgh is teaming up with a host of local cycling groups to get people up on their feet and rolling on two wheels. There’s so much to check out at this free festival in North Point Breeze — bike helmets, test rides on e-assist bikes and trikes, a bike obstacle course, massages, mental health workbooks, DJs, crafts, and food trucks. Attendees can also join free yoga, Zumba, spin and HIIT classes.
Saturday, Aug. 20: Messfest at Carnegie Science Center
10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Ready to make a massive mess? The city’s youngest scientists are invited to explore surface tension by making bubbles longer than a car, build a contraption that can protect an egg from a 16-foot drop, and create super soaker graffiti art. Next, make slime, test your coordination at the Science Dunk Tank and create an exothermic reaction using an elephant toothpaste experiment. Buy tickets.
Saturday, Aug. 20-Sunday, Aug. 21: Pittsburgh Renaissance Festival in West Newton
Various times
Where can you watch sword fighting, sway to bawdy tunes and munch on steak on a stake in the lush Pennsylvania woods? Calling all knights, maidens, pirates, princesses and wizards to Opening Weekend at the Renaissance Festival. Equal parts time travel, 16th-century amusement park and medieval merrymaking, there’s nothing like the sights, sounds and scents of this sprawling extravaganza. Meander down village pathways to encounter artisans plying ancient crafts, chivalrous knights jousting, rollicking performers and wafting aromas of turkey legs. Buy tickets.
Saturday, Aug. 20: EntheoCon at Union Project
10 a.m.-5 p.m.
If you’re interested in exploring the field of psychedelics — from research and academia to science and human consciousness, this first-of-its-kind Pittsburgh event is worth checking out. Raising awareness and ending the stigma of psychedelics through education, community-building and advocacy, the salon-style even allows participants to shape conversations surrounding the tenets of connection, healing and integration. The empowering vibes will continue at The Funhouse at Mr. Smalls for the AfterGlow Party. Buy tickets.
Saturday, Aug. 20: PA Brewery Running Series at Strange Roots Experimental Ales
11 a.m.
This Saturday, combine your love of running and imbibing. Starting and ending at the Millvale brewery, this welcoming 5K-ish fun run is on a mission to get people outside and moving while supporting local businesses. Neighbors FA Climbing will lead a warm-up, School of Rock will rock out (natch) and proceeds will support 412 Food Rescue. Buy tickets.
Saturday, Aug. 20: Bocce Tournament & Festival at Acrisure Stadium
11 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
Whether we accept the new name Acrisure Stadium, it’s now the new home of the History Center’s signature bocce bash. Sponsor a team of four in the double-elimination tournament or cheer on players during the free games. Adding a festival flair will be entertainment by The Aces, Shari Richards, New Pure Gold and The Jaggerz and Italian cuisine from Common Plea Catering.
Saturday, Aug. 20: Rock, Reggae & Relief in Downtown Pittsburgh
12:30 p.m.
Reggae icons and local luminaries are banding together to support Café Momentum Pittsburgh. Headlining the music fest along the 200 block of Forbes Avenue is legendary Jamaican band The Original Wailers along with English reggae and pop chart toppers UB40. Also heating up the stage will be Maxi Priest, Big Mountain, The Movement, The Elovaters and others. Keep the vibes flowing at the Roots of Reggae after-party. Buy tickets.
Saturday, Aug. 20: Open House at 1 Hood Media
12:30-3 p.m.
This free event is a great opportunity to see 1Hood Media’s new Blaxk Box space at 460 Melwood Ave. in North Oakland, where the public can also hear from local leaders and learn more about the organization‘s work in the arts, social justice and education.
Saturday, Aug. 20: CatVideoFest at Rangos Giant Cinema
5:30 p.m.
Everybody’s favorite feline flick fest will look purrrfect on Pittsburgh’s largest and most technically advanced theater screen. The compilation reel of the latest, greatest cat videos is culled from countless hours of submissions, sourced animations, music videos and internet sensations. The festival benefits the Wexford-based shelter lounge Cats N’At. Buy tickets.
Saturday, Aug. 20: Pittsburgh Whiskey & Fine Spirits Festival at Rivers Casino
7:30-10 p.m.
Whiskey lovers will hit the jackpot on the North Shore, where the casino hosts this showcase of premium distilled spirits. Along with tastings of everything from whiskey, scotch, vodka and gin, to rum, tequila, cordials and cocktails, festival-goers can meet distillers and brand ambassadors, shop and pop into the spirits lounges. Buy tickets.
Saturday, Aug. 20: “Invasion of the Bee Girls” at Parkway Theater
10:30 p.m.
Jump Cut Theater returns to McKees Rocks for its latest roadshow hosted by Wayne Massey. Denis Sanders’ campy 1973 sci-fi flick stars Anitra Ford as a mad scientist at the Brandt Research Laboratory who uses “radiation-mutated bee serum to create an army of female beauties who seduce men to death.” Bonus: The theater’s lounge features a full bar and Abjuration Brewing. Buy tickets.
Sunday, Aug. 21: Horror Fan Flea Market at Library Volunteer Fire Company
11 a.m.-4 p.m.
The 10th anniversary of this local event puts a frightful twist on the classic flea market. Peruse collections of horror-themed flicks, books, posters, and memorabilia and mingle with fellow fans and collectors of the genre. This year, the market in South Park is adding artwork, crafts and handmade items to the lineup.
Sunday, Aug. 21: Michael Franti & Spearhead at Hartwood Acres
7:30 p.m.
Fans of Michael Franti won’t want to miss the acclaimed musician, poet and activist when he headlines tonight’s Allegheny County Summer Concert Series. Known for his contributions to numerous musical projects and his dedicated support for social justice issues, Franti & Spearhead blend hip hop with eclectic musical elements, including funk, reggae, jazz, folk and rock. Opening the free concert is the Atlanta hip hop group Arrested Development.
For more things to do, read 13 hottest Pittsburgh events in August, from Barrel & Flow to Party at the Pier. For live music, check out 19 best concerts in Pittsburgh this August, from Thundercat to Matmos. For family events, see 10 best August events for fun-loving kids in Pittsburgh.
