What’s going on this week in Pittsburgh, April 25-May 1? Find out here. Be sure to visit each organization’s website and social media for Covid safety protocols. Know of a cool event? Email us.
Tuesday, April 26 through Saturday, April 30: Earth Month with Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy
Various times
Keep your Earth Day fun going during this free outdoor event series hosted by the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy. There are so many ways to go green around the Burgh, including Forest Bathing, Tree Hugger Yoga, Plant Walks, City Nature Challenges and more. View a schedule.
Tuesday, April 26: Riverdance at the Benedum Center
7:30 p.m.
Experience the spectacle that broke box office records during its 1995 world première in Dublin. Decades later, producer Moya Doherty and director John McColgan have completely revamped the thrilling show with innovative lighting, projections, stage sets and costume designs. Fusing Irish and international dance, the electrifying production is set to a Grammy-winning score by composer Bill Whelan. Buy tickets.
Wednesday, April 27: Society of Architectural Historians International Conference
Various times
Pittsburgh’s skyline boasts landmarks built by famed architects such as H.H. Richardson, Frederick Osterling, I.A. Pei, Daniel Burnham and Philip Johnson — so it’s no wonder that the Society of Architectural Historians selected our city for its 75th annual international conference. The great news is that leading experts will present 27 tours around Pittsburgh and all are are open to the public — from one-hour walking tours to all-day bus tours.
Thursday, April 28: Solar Soiree at the Energy Innovation Center
5:30-8:30 p.m.
Harness the power of the sun at this inaugural celebration hosted by the Pennsylvania Solar Center. The luminous evening will feature live music, a silent auction, dinner and drinks, and talks by solar industry professionals and advocates. Don your brightest cocktail attire and sun-themed accessories and help support clean energy across the Keystone state. Buy tickets.
Thursday, April 28: JFilm Festival at the AMC Waterfront Theater and online
7 p.m.
Cinephiles will gather in person again to experience 18 thought-provoking premieres — while also enjoying screenings from home — when JFilm returns. A program of Film Pittsburgh, the 12-day fest is presenting three in-person events and 15 virtual screenings that deepen an understanding of Jewish culture, tolerance and common humanity. There’s already a waiting list for tonight’s kickoff, where Pittsburghers will be the first to see Sundance winner “Cha Cha Real Smooth” before it premieres on June 17. Going beyond the screen with filmmaker Q&As and Film Schmooze chats. View a schedule and buy tickets.
Friday, April 29: Second Chance Prom on the Gateway Clipper
7-11 p.m.
Whether you want to relive or totally redo your high school memories, hop aboard for a throwback river cruise with the best views in town. Dust off that prom gown, wedding dress, dapper tux or wildest threads to join 100.7 Star personalities and TJ the DJ for a floating dance party you won’t regret. Buy tickets.
Friday, April 29: Blue at the August Wilson African American Cultural Center
7:30 p.m.
You’ve got two more chances to catch Pittsburgh Opera’s gripping production about a young Black couple raising their son. Featuring a libretto by NAACP Theatre Award recipient Tazewell Thompson and music by Tony-winning composer Jeanine Tesori, “Blue” merges modern opera with the harsh realities of 21st-century America. Directed by Thompson, the powerful opera explores race, violence, identity, loss, family and reconciliation. Buy tickets.
Friday, April 29: History Uncorked Black & Gold Bash at the Heinz History Center
7:30-11 p.m.
Pop some bubbly when Pittsburgh’s premier young professionals party returns to the Strip. Get uncorked with signature cocktails, a photo booth and an irresistible Pittsburgh cookie table. Make an entrance in your black and gold best to strike a pose in front of party scene backdrops, get competitive during a scavenger hunt and get your groove on at a dance party with DJ Bamboo. Buy tickets.
Friday, April 29: “Last Podcast On The Left” at the Benedum Center
8 p.m.
Spend your Friday night with “cults, killers and cryptid encounters.” Horror fans can’t miss this eerie evening with “Last Podcast On The Left” hosts Ben Kissel, Marcus Parks and Henry Zebrowski. From spooky subjects spanning werewolves, demons, serial killers, slashers and more, the show will delve into horrors both imagined and real. Buy tickets.
Saturday, April 30: Youth Climate Action Summit at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center
9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Youth climate activists are enacting change all around the globe. Locally, teens ages 13-18 will gather at this summit hosted by Communitopia. Attendees will learn the basics of climate science and organizing from other youth via engaging speakers and collaborative conservations. Exploring the intersection of social justice and climate change, the summit includes a keynote talk by Mayor Ed Gainey, interactive breakout sessions, a guided action plan, networking and free lunch. Register for free.
Saturday, April 30: Handmade Arcade Spring Market at Construction Junction
9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Setting up shop within Construction Junction’s sprawling warehouse, this pop-up market will showcase 30 local makers. From home décor and ceramics to funky accessories and eclectic jewelry — it’s a great spot to find one-of-a-kind gifts for mom and dad — or a just-because treat for yourself. The free market will also feature blacksmithing demos, collaborative poetry writing and food vendors.
Saturday, April 30: Squirrel Hill by the Numbers with Doors Open Pittsburgh
10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Discover the hidden world of Pittsburgh’s Jewish numbers syndicate within one of the city’s most unique neighborhoods. During this tour led by historian and folklorist David Rotenstein, you’ll step into fashionable homes and popular clubs where numbers barons lived, socialized and plied their trade and visit sites raided by federal law enforcement between the 1930s and 1960s. Buy tickets.
Saturday, April 30: Romare Bearden: Artist as Activist and Visionary at The Frick Pittsburgh
10 a.m.-5 p.m.
A world-renowned artist with strong Pittsburgh roots is showcased in this major exhibition. Examining significant synergies between creative practice and social change, Artist as Activist and Visionary features the work of the African-American artist, author and songwriter. One of the 20th century’s most prolific artists, Bearden lived from 1911 to 1988 and worked in a wide range of media. As a teen, he lived with his grandparents in East Liberty, graduating from Peabody High School. The exhibition features a diverse collection of collages, watercolors, prints, reproductions, and rare archival materials, including the artist’s magazine covers and editorial cartoons.
Saturday, April 30: Bark & Brunch at Hazelwood Green
11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Our city’s furriest friends and their hoomans are invited to kick off the season of outdoor fun at Hazelwood Green. Shop for pup treats and gear at the vendor market, get your dog camera ready at the mobile grooming spa, support local rescues (and maybe take home one of your own!) and jam to music by DJ Femi. The free event will also feature canine caricatures, training demos, an agility course, a costume contest and more. Register for free.
Saturday, April 30: Arbor Day Celebration in Mellon Park
11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Join Friends of Mellon Park, the City of Pittsburgh and Tree Pittsburgh to celebrate Arbor Day surrounded by the natural beauty of Shadyside. Plant trees with Mayor Ed Gainey, play yard games and join a scavenger hunt. The free event will also feature science and art activities, guided tours, food, and music by Lee Robinson, Sunburst School of Music and the Barack Obama Academy P.E.P. Marching Band.
Saturday, April 30: Block Party at the August Wilson House
11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Head to the Hill to celebrate what would have been the Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright’s 77th birthday. The free, family-friendly event will feature vendors, children’s activities, dance performances, and opera, gospel and rap music. Block party-goers can support the restoration of August Wilson’s childhood home at 1727 Bedford Ave. by purchasing a personalized brick that will be incorporated into the site. Helping to launch the Legacy Brick Campaign is actor Russell Hornsby — who played Lyons in Denzel Washington’s film and Broadway adaptations of “Fences.”
Saturday, April 30: Logger Jam: A Celebration of Local Lagers at Allegheny City Brewing
12-3 p.m.
The lager and the laughter will flow freely in historic Deutschtown. Setting up shop in the brewery’s new East Ohio Street beer garden, the froth fest will showcase lagers from 21 local breweries, music by DJ Dini Daddy, custom tasting glasses and food trucks. Buy tickets.
Saturday, April 30: Immersive Shevchenko: Soul of Ukraine at 720 Lacock St.
Various times
For just one night, Pittsburgh’s newest arts venue is focusing its lens on Ukraine. It’s a rare opportunity to explore the work of the seminal Ukrainian poet, writer and artist Taras Shevchenko (1814-1861). Through his paintings, illustrations and writings, Shevchenko depicted the everyday people and natural beauty of Ukraine. The benefit exhibit supports the National Bank of Ukraine Fund and First Theatrical Charitable Foundation. Buy tickets.
Saturday, April 30: Sad Karaoke at Golden Age Beer
7 p.m.
Some of the best music ever made makes us sob, so why not embrace the saddest songs and sing along? We’re so happy that Andrea Laurion and Matt Buchholz are teaming up to host another round of Sad Karaoke at Golden Age Beer, which boasts a beer garden, full menu and outdoor performance stage. Donations will benefit Write Pittsburgh.
Saturday, April 30: The Phenomenal Woman at Mellon Institute Auditorium
7:30 p.m.
Don’t miss international superstar soprano Takesha Meshé Kizart-Thomas, when she makes her Pittsburgh debut in this one-night-only concert. Showcasing the prolific contributions of women who shaped 20th-century music, the performance will feature arias honoring opera heroines. The unforgettable night will also spotlight jazz standards popularized by Ella Fitzgerald, art songs by contemporary Black women composers and new commissions. Buy tickets.
Saturday, April 30: PAAR’s Teal Ball at the Windham Grand Pittsburgh
6-11 p.m.
There are so many reasons to support one of the country’s oldest crisis centers for people who have experienced sexual violence. Marking its 50-year milestone with a refreshed brand and renewed message of hope and inclusivity — and raising awareness during Sexual Assault Awareness Month — Pittsburgh Action Against Rape is bringing its marquee fundraising event back to Downtown after a two-year hiatus. Don’t miss this chance to PAARty for a great cause — VIPers will enjoy an exclusive reception overlooking Point State Park. Can’t attend in person? Join the gala from home via the event’s Virtual Celebration in a Box. Buy tickets.
Sunday, May 1: Dick’s Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon
7 a.m.
Marathon weekend ushers in the Burgh’s outdoor event season. There are many ways to get moving — the full marathon, half-marathon, relay, 5K, kids marathon, toddler trot and pet walk. Everyone can find a race — and a pace — that’s perfect for them, so lace up to join 32,000 participants from 50 states and 11 countries. New this year are fitness classes, a zero-waste partnership and a collaborative collage. Spectators can check out the course maps and encourage runners in a cheer group, partake in musical entertainment along the course and join the finishing line festivities in Point State Park. Register here.
Sunday, May 1: Opening Day at Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village
10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Head to Avella to explore the archaeological wonder where the region’s earliest inhabitants dwelled 19,000 years ago. Step inside a 16th-century Monongahela Indian wigwam, learn to toss a prehistoric spear-thrower and visit an 18th-century Frontier Trading Post. Swinging its doors open for the season, the National Historic Landmark features a massive rock overhang used by the region’s first inhabitants for shelter, three re-created villages, hands-on activities and much more.
Sunday, May 1: Crafts and Drafts at East End Brewing
2-6 p.m.
In need of a last-minute gift for mom that’s both handmade and heartfelt? Craft wares and craft brews will be on tap when this outdoor event returns to the Larimer brewery’s outdoor patio. Organized by Matt Buchholz of Alternate Histories, the pop-market features 12 local artists, makers and small businesses, including Triple Moon Alchemy, Triple AAAnimals. lipping Records and Tapes, Visceral Jewelry and many others.
Sunday, May 1: “The Garbologists” at City Theatre
7 p.m.
Hop into the cab of a 19-ton garbage truck to follow this contemporary “odd couple comedy” portraying the unlikely bond between two NYC sanitation workers — rookie Marlowe and veteran Danny. Equal parts off-beat and heartwarming, Lindsay Joelle’s “The Garbologists” is a co-world premiere with Philadelphia Theatre Company. Directed by Monteze Freeland, the play stars Jason Babinsky and Bria Walker. Buy tickets.
For more things to do in Pittsburgh, read 10 April events not to miss in Pittsburgh, from a Beer Barge to a Car Bazaar.
For live music, check out The 25 best concerts coming to Pittsburgh in April, from Jack White to Girl Talk.
