PGH FFest

PGHFFestMonroeville Convention Center

May 15 & 16
Various times

Where can you travel the globe without leaving Pittsburgh?

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This weekend, explore music, food and culture from more than 25 countries around the world at the one-of-a-kind Pittsburgh Folk Festival. Two days packed with rich cultural experiences, the 59th edition of the festival runs from 4 to 10 p.m. on Friday and from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday.

Showcasing the diverse cultures of people in the Pittsburgh metro area, the festival kicks off with performances on day one featuring Lithuania, India, Hawaii, Slovakia and more.

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Savor flavors and foods reflecting all corners of the planet—from the Phillipines and Greece, to Lebanon and India—and learn new recipes and techniques during cooking demonstrations. It will feel extra good to eat at this festival because all of the fare is made by participating churches, temples and cultural organizations.

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Enjoy authentic performances of traditional music and dance from an impressive lineup of countries and cultures, and then learn some steps during folk dance classes and tango lessons.

Featured performers include Michael Mendoza of the Philippine American Association of Pittsburgh, world renowned Italian tenor Marco Fiorante, talented 15-year-old Pittsburgh native Gabby Barrett, Beaver County band Blu Soul and many more.

Learn more about each culture and country represented at the festival’s informative educational exhibits and peruse handmade goods in the International Marketplace.

Looking for kid’s programming? Head to the free craft area to participate in hands-on activities and attend special youth performances taking place on Saturday afternoon.

Founded in 1956 with 17 nationalities, The Pittsburgh Folk Festival works to promote unity in cultural diversity by presenting the annual event along with school programs.

The festival is a bargain at just $5 for adults or $6 at the door. The festival is free for children 12 and under and the military.

Jennifer has worked at the Mattress Factory, Brooklyn Museum of Art and Dahesh Museum of Art and is co-author of Pittsburgh Signs Project: 250 Signs of Western Pennsylvania. She also is co-coordinator of Handmade Arcade. Musically, she is in a band called The Garment District and is a founding member of Brooklyn's The Ladybug Transistor.