Looking for fun things to do around Pittsburgh this week? From a classical concert in the magical atmosphere of Phipps Conservatory to an outdoor nighttime trek that’ll have the whole family spotting nocturnal wildlife, the city is packed with events. Maybe you’ll bring your furry friend to their very own trunk or treat opportunity. Or, leave the kids at home and enjoy a date night out to a satirical comedy for a good cause. No matter what you choose, make sure you squeeze one of the events below into your busy week, you won’t regret it. In case you’re looking for more, view our guide for things to do in Pittsburgh any time of the year.
Fun Events and Things to Do in Pittsburgh This Week
Chrysanthemums and Classical
October 14, Phipps Conservatory
You could go see the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra in the regular setting of Heinz Hall but something about strings played against the setting of blooms at Phipps Conservatory simply feels magical. Immerse yourself in the music of flutes, violas, harps, and other string quartet instruments as you take in the fall blooms covering the conservatory. Then, after the performance, stick around to explore Phipp’s fall flower show, Alice’s Adventures in Autumn, featuring colorful chrysanthemums and intriguing displays depicting Alice’s fictional world.
Since you’re already in the Oakland area, make a night out of your visit and check out the bars and restaurants welcoming patrons all evening.
Creatures of the Night – Audubon Society of Western PA
October 16-24, Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve
The middle of the spooky season (AKA all of October) leaves you with plenty of options to explore the Halloween side of Pittsburgh and Western PA. For something different than the usual horror movie or stop by a pop-up bar, the Audubon Society of Western PA invites you on a nighttime walk through their nature trails to discover nocturnal creatures of the night. Throughout your trek, not only will you spot real-life creatures, but you’ll also come across some larger-than-life costumed critters who are ready to tell you about their lives in the woods. All those attending are invited to dress in costume as well, just remember you’re walking through the woods at dusk/night so you won’t want to wear anything obstructive.
In case you’re looking for more walks to celebrate Halloween, check out other ghost walks and talks happening around Pittsburgh.
Off the Record
October 15, Byham Theater
What could be better than laughing for a great cause? Off the Record returns for its 26th installment with a production of One Single Yinzer Nation, a hilarious musical comedy taking on local newsmakers and Pittsburgh culture through a spoof of A Chorus Line. Produced by SAG-AFTRA, The Newspaper Guild, and the USW, all proceeds benefit the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank. Pre-show reception starts at 6:30 p.m. with showtime at 8:00 p.m. for one night only.
Pittsburgh Coffee & Chocolate Festival
October 17, Monroeville Convention Center
Those with a sweet tooth or a love for caffeine will find heaven at the Pittsburgh Coffee & Chocolate Festival. Walk through booths of vendors offering coffee roasts you’ve never heard of before and new chocolate discoveries that will have you melting for more. The lineup consists of coffee shops, gourmet roasters, bakers, chocolatiers, and even wineries and distilleries for those who prefer something harder. Your ticket includes samples all day long, unlimited trips to the chocolate fountain, a re-usable coffee cup to take home, and a chance to meet and take photos with actress Rena Sofer from General Hospital, NCIS, Friends, and Two and a Half Men.
But if you can’t make it to the festival, you can always explore local Pittsburgh chocolate makers and coffee shops any time of year.
Haunted Pittsburgh Present: The Haunted Pierogi
October 17, Kelly Strayhorn Theater
We all know with Pittsburgh’s long and sometimes dark history, there have to be ghosts roaming the historical houses and streets around the city. But, what if we told you that someone has already investigated the supernatural phenomena? Now, for the first time, his findings are on display in this play from The Haunted Pittsburgh Players. You’ll learn the secrets of haunted Pittsburgh history straight from the mouths of Andrew Carnegie, HJ Heinz, Henry Clay Frick, Nikola Tesla, and even Jack the Ripper. It’s a mash-up of storytelling and spooky fun that’ll have you celebrating Halloween in a brand new way. If that’s not enough to get you to buy a ticket, did we mention TABLE Magazine Arts and Culture Editor Sean Collier has a part on stage?
Explore other spooky plays and musicals throughout October for more eerie entertainment.
Bark or Treat
October 18, Hartwood Acres Dog Park
Why should the humans get to have all of the Halloween fun? During the Pumpkin Chunkin Festival at Hartwood Acres, the Allegheny County Parks Department is filling the dog park with Bark or Treat, basically trunk or treat but for furry friends. For two hours you can dress your dog up as a mummy, pumpkin, or wherever your wildest dreams take you and bring them by for free treats and chances to sniff out tennis balls hidden around the park that you can trade in for prizes. Maybe you’ll even make a couples costume with your dog and become one of history’s favorite pairings like peanut butter and jelly or Bonnie and Clyde.
Don’t fret humans, there are still plenty of other chances for you to get your Halloween fun in with events around the city all month long.
October 19-25: Fun Things to Do in Pittsburgh
Recap Party: HBO’s The Gilded Age Season 3
October 20, The Frick Pittsburgh
Those who have kept up on HBO’s The Gilded Age know that the much anticipated fourth season starts on November 1, making now the perfect time for a recap on what you may have missed or forgotten about. Thankfully, The Frick Pittsburgh, home to objects and art of the gilded age, is hosting a party to rewatch the most intriguing clips and start the conversation on what to expect in season four. While you chat the evening away, sip on specialty cocktails in the utterly appropriate setting of The Frick.
To get you into the historical spirit, learn more about The Frick Family’s Gilded Tableware collection.
The Neighborhood Nosh
October 22, The Maverick
Hello Neighbor spends the year helping immigrant and refugee neighbors find their place in Pittsburgh. But, for one night only, those immigrant and refugee talents are on display at The Neighborhood Nosh. With all proceeds benefiting Hello Neighbor, your ticket gets you access to samples from immigrant-owned restaurants for the whole night along with dancing and an awards ceremony for the organization’s community partners. You can always upgrade to a VIP ticket too to enjoy early entry as well as complimentary hors d’oeuvres just for VIPs.
Check out our coverage of last year’s event to see what’s waiting for you.
Millvale Fright Night Market
October 24, Millvale
Since Halloween is just a week away, there’s no better time to stock up on spooky decorations, autumn-themed gifts for your loved ones, and homemade treats to get through the season. Walk through the blocks of Millvale to browse 40+ artists and Millvale vendors selling everything from jewelry to one-of-a-kind crochet projects. Not to mention, a DJ from Attic Records, zombies roaming the streets, and free salsa dance lessons means you can have fun even without spending a dime. Don’t forget to bring the whole family along because the little ones can trick or treat at vendors and businesses around the area.
In case you find yourself craving a little treat after this market’s over, let yourself explore these other fall festivals packing local vendors into their schedule.
Frankenstein With Bach Choir’s Live Score
October 24 and 25, Row House Hollywood
It’s one thing to see a silent movie in the year 2026 but it’s a completely different thing to see a screening with a live band and choir backing the soundtrack. Row House Hollywood hosts a showing of the 1931 classic, Frankenstein. But, instead of the regular instrumental track, you’ll hear an R&B-inspired live performance from the 90-member Bach Choir of Pittsburgh. It puts an entirely new twist on this Universal Monsters film that’ll have you seeing Halloween in a completely different light. Just be sure to hold on tight to your popcorn as the monsters take over the screen.
Looking for more horror movies to see in theaters? Sean Collier has your round-up of the 10 best movies, old and new, to see in theaters during October.
Trunk or Treat
October 24 and 25, South Park and Hartwood Acres Park
October 31 isn’t the only day for kids to get free candy. In fact, many parks and businesses throughout Pittsburgh host trick or treating, or in this case, trunk or treating so that all kids have a chance to dress up and take home candy. This weekend, you’ll have two opportunities to fill up those pumpkin buckets at South Park and Hartwood Acres Park. Both days encourage you to deck out your car and yourself for a walk through the park, collecting candy. Even if you don’t have any little ones to bring along, you can always sign up to pass out candy on Allegheny County’s website. It’s the perfect opportunity for those who may live alone or away from residential spaces to get involved in the holiday fun.
It’s not the only chance you have for family-friendly Halloween fun either. There are events going on all month long that bring the spooky festivities to all ages.
October 26-November 1: Fun Things to Do in Pittsburgh
A Midnight Feast
October 29, Community Kitchen Pittsburgh
The final dinner of the year from Community Kitchen Pittsburgh is one for those wishing to indulge in an atmospheric Halloween dinner. The four-course dinner comes from Chef Dan Czerpak and all guests also receive a complimentary beverage upon arrival. You’ll kick off the night with charred half-shell oysters featuring toppings like absinthe-tarragon foam, chili oil, and black garlic dust. Then, dive into a gorgeous radicchio salad with star anise-roasted beet coffins, stuffed crawfish heads over rice, slow-braised beef short ribs over grits, and for dessert, a dark chocolate and chicory coffee ganache tart.
Learn more about Community Kitchen Pittsburgh from last year’s Giving Guide.
The Silence of the Lambs Cage Night 2026
October 30, Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall
If you’ve ever seen the thrilling horror movie The Silence of the Lambs, you may just recognize a Pittsburgh landmark. The Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall over in Oakland is home to multiple scenes from the movie, including the famous cage that Dr. Hannibal Lecter is trapped inside. Celebrate the movie’s 35th anniversary by watching the film right inside The Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall where a life-sized replica of the cage sits for those brave enough to go near it. Besides greeting your photo with a piece of history, explore the vendor market and grab a spooky refreshment to coax you through the tense movie.
Discover another way to celebrate the 35th anniversary of The Silence of the Lambs right outside of Pittsburgh at a nearby filming location.
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1
October 30 and November 1, Heinz Hall
When fall arrives, there’s nothing quite like switching on one of the Harry Potter films as the leaves fall outside and you curl up into your blanket for warmth. Rather than watching the second-to-last film at home this year, see Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1 like never before with a live orchestra. The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra projects the film high above the musicians as they accompany the film with a live score. It’s like seeing the movie back in theaters but better. Plus, part one means that inevitably part two will be on the calendars to return for more.
Head towards the venue early or stay late to explore the restaurants and bars of Downtown.
Pumpkin Palooza
October 31, Kelly Strayhorn Theater
Gather the whole family prior to trick-or-treating times to joining Kelly Strayhorn Theater’s Pumpkin Palooza. In the early afternoon, dress in your best costume to fill up your candy bucket, make spooky-themed crafts to take home, and even participate in a costume parade for all the kids. There’s even a performance program at 2 p.m. that showcases performers from K-Theatre Dance Complex, Yanlai Dance Academy’s K-pop Class, PMT Conservatory’s Creative Learning, and others.
In case your kiddos need a last minute costume, we have six easy DIY ideas.
Slovak Heritage Festival
November 1, Cathedral of Learning
Fall festivals aren’t quite over yet and the Slovak Heritage Festival is one to go to if you’re craving haluski or wanting to dance the polka. As you travel through the Cathedral of Learning and Czechoslovak room you’ll discover vendors with cultural cuisine, traditional music and dance, and information on the culture as a whole. It’s a day to get out and learn about where you came from or just simply about one of the cultural hubs of Pittsburgh. Not to mention, parking is free on Sundays and so is admission so it costs nothing to attend.
Stick around Oakland after to discover what this part of the city has to offer.
Check out our calendar for other events this week.
About the Author
Kylie Thomas is TABLE Magazine’s Online Editor, covering Pittsburgh food, drink, and going out, including the Things to Do in Pittsburgh column. A Point Park University graduate, her work has also appeared on The Takeout, QBurgh, and Empire Extreme. She also runs the photography business Photos by Ky.
Featured Photo From Audubon Society of Western PA
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