With so much happening around the NFL Draft from block parties to concerts, Pittsburgh will be buzzing from every corner as fans pour into the city to take in one of football’s biggest spectacles. But beyond the main stage on the North Shore and headline attractions in Point State Park, there’s an entire lineup of NFL Draft events that offer a different way to experience the excitement without missing a moment. These gatherings place you just outside the center of the action, where you can still feel the energy of draft weekend while enjoying a more relaxed, engaging atmosphere. Think lively watch parties, exclusive exhibits, and family-friendly fun too. It’s the perfect balance with all the thrill of the NFL Draft alongside spaces that let you actually enjoy it.
5 Must-Attend NFL Draft Events Around Pittsburgh
Michael Zagaris: 60 Years of NFL Photography
Through November 8, 707 Gallery
While you’re wandering through the NFL Draft events in Downtown, make your way into 707 Gallery where there’s an exclusive exhibit on NFL Photography. Michael Zagaris over his career captured 42 Super Bowls, 49-seasons with the San Francisco 49ers’, as well as a number of other sporting events and live concerts. This is your chance to view his rarely seen archives where the game-day action meets special, detailed action that no one else could capture. Curation of his 60 years of photography comes from Anastasia James, Director of the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust.
Taste of the Draft
April 22, The Tower at PNC Plaza
One of the most exclusive events of the NFL Draft is for the foodie lovers of Pittsburgh. Taste of the Draft presented by PNC Bank takes the top chefs in Pittsburgh and adds in special guests like star Steelers players to help support the national nonprofit GENYOUth who combat student food insecurity. You’ll taste the best of the best with dishes from Aunt Cheryl’s Café, Palm Palm, Chengdu Gourmet, Cafe Momentum, and much more. Then at the end of the night, all funds help tackle student hunger in Pennsylvania.
Pittsburgh Brewing Company & WTAE TV Official Pittsburgh Draft Watch Party
April 23, Pittsburgh Brewing Company
Want to celebrate the draft but don’t want to head directly into the chaos Downtown? Kick off the draft with a watch party by Pittsburgh Brewing Company and WTAE that will keep you away from the crowds but still wildly entertained. Head outside their taproom for a large fan zone with activities for the kids and big screens featuring the daily draft picks alongside a live WTAE broadcast. Besides Pittsburgh Brewing Company’s lineup of their own drafts (of beer) you can also look forward to food trucks from the area highlighting your favorite local cuisine.
Friday Night Lights: A New Exhibit at the Historical Society of Mt. Lebanon
Opens April 23, The Historical Society of Mt. Lebanon
We’ve heard all about the Steelers and Pitt football but why not celebrate the local, school football legacy throughout the city as well? Mt. Lebanon is showcasing their own rich history with a new exhibit opening thanks to the Historical Society. Friday Night Lights takes guests through years of Friday night football that features fan traditions and even the Blue Devil Marching Band. The exhibit is for all ages with interactive displays, local stories, and memorabilia taking us through a trip down memory land.
Draft Watch Parties
April 23-25, Bakery Square
The Courtyard at Bakery Square is gearing up to be your home the entirety of the NFL Draft. Located in East Liberty (which means you’re a ways away from Downtown and the North Side), their outdoor green is full of lawn chairs and tables that face Bakery Square’s large screen projector. Surround yourself with local cuisine from restaurants like City Kitchen who will have their patio open as well so you can sip, snack, and watch at the same time. You’ll also have a chance to snap a picture with their The Pick Is In photo op and even grab ice cream for a cooling and relaxing experience.
Story by Kylie Thomas
Featured Photo from Pittsburgh Brewing Company
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