We may have finally arrived at the cozy moment many of us have been waiting for: When it’s finally time to don our sweaters, hoodies and layers. Still, though, we’ll spend time outside — just with added comfort. This week’s lineup includes outdoor music, movies and things that go bump in the night (it is spooky season, after all). And, just in case you’re looking for more events beyond what’s below, we have your guide to things to do in Pittsburgh any time of year.
Events in Pittsburgh September 21-27
Cocktails and Conversation: French Moderns
September 23, The Frick Art Museum Auditorium
For art aficionados, the story behind the curation and composition of an exhibition is often nearly as fascinating as the work itself. Even when an exhibit comes to a museum as an existing package — as is the case with French Moderns, the vibrant and illuminating survey currently on display at the Frick Pittsburgh — there’s a world of decisions and considerations between crates packed with masterpieces and a finished product. At this talk with Dawn Reid Brean, the Frick’s chief curator, you’ll hear about the behind-the-scenes process — with a cocktail (or mocktail) in hand.
What to Know: This is a ticketed event; grab your admission on the Frick’s website to avoid a possible sellout. The talk begins at 6 p.m., after standard operating hours for the exhibition itself (10 a.m.-5 p.m.), so you’ll have to arrive earlier in the day if you want to see the show before you hear about it — then pass the time with a lovely walk through the grounds.
A Landing Ovation
September 24, Arts Landing
Speaking of Arts Landing, earlier this week, several of Pittsburgh’s finest arts organizations will unite to preview a season of performance — and it’ll happen under the evening sky at Arts Landing. Pittsburgh Opera (with support from the Pittsburgh Opera Orchestra), Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre and Confluence Theater of Pittsburgh — the new organization resulting from the merger of the former Pittsburgh CLO and Pittsburgh Public Theatre — will offer performances and previews of upcoming shows at an event dubbed A Landing Ovation.
What to Know: This event is free, but advance registration is requested — and all registered attendees will be entered to win tickets to upcoming shows from all three organizations. The show is scheduled to begin at 6 p.m. Thursday; in the event of rain, come back at the same time Friday.
Four Chord Music Festival
September 25-26, F.N.B. Stadium
If you’re between the ages of 30 and 45, you may well have had a formative experience at the Vans Warped Tour. From the ’90s until the tail end of the ’10s, the annual concert tour brought punk, pop, metal and more to parking lots and amphitheaters from coast to coast. Like most of the package tours of the era, Warped has converted into a series of destination festivals — but if you want to experience that atmosphere again (with some considerations for the fact that we’re not teens anymore), get a ticket to the annual Four Chord Music Fest, a Pittsburgh-made marathon of the sounds that drew us all to the Warped Tour when we were teens. The lineup includes Knocked Loose, Pierce the Veil, Motion City Soundtrack, Mayday Parade, State Champs and many more.
What to Know: The event relocates this year to F.N.B. Stadium, the Station Square home of the Pittsburgh Riverhounds. That’ll put parking at a premium, so either arrive early and go for the garage across from the Sheraton or (better yet) utilize rideshare or public transportation. And wear sunscreen — it’s a long day out under the sun.
Phantom Fall Fest
Select Fridays-Sundays Through November 1, Kennywood
Kennywood’s annual autumnal celebration is two events in one — and both seem to expand every year. During the day, Phantom Fall Fest is an inviting and family-friendly festival packed with rides, trick-or-treating, photo ops and fall flavors; this year, the park has added a tasting experience (on Saturdays and Sundays), featuring signature food offerings including a potato and kielbasa skillet and hot-apple dumplings. At night, the park turns into a proper haunted attraction, with a bevy of haunted walk-through attractions and more ghouls roaming the walkways. Pick your poison and choose the daytime merriment or the nighttime frights — or, better yet, make it a long day and go for both. See what all is in store with our guide to Phantom Fall Fest.
What to Know: It’s weekends only from here on out. Kennywood will open its gates from 6-11 p.m. Fridays, noon-11 p.m. Saturdays and noon-10 p.m. Sundays through November 1 (before taking a week or so off and returning with its Holiday Lights programming). If you’ve got little ones who are a bit too scared for haunted attractions, arrive early on a Saturday or Sunday and head out by around dinnertime; there won’t be jump scares that early.
Batman at Arts Landing
September 27, Arts Landing
Yes — our Batman. The best Batman. The Michael Keaton Batman. Christopher Nolan’s Dark Knight Rises may have been filmed here, but our love for local favorite Keaton under the cowl makes Tim Burton’s 1989 film the flick of choice for Pittsburgh fans of the caped crusader. And — with respect to Nolan — Burton’s film remains the best film about the character, owing in large part to the perfect turn given by Jack Nicholson as the Joker. (And, unlike many Batman flicks, it’s actually fun.) You can see it for free at Arts Landing as part of the Great Lawn Movie Nights series.
What to Know: The film will be projected on a screen in front of the stage; bring a blanket or lawn chairs and snacks (no alcohol, please). The listed start time is 7:30 p.m., but that may fluctuate slightly based on the sunset. Arrive early and stake out a spot relatively close to the screen; Downtown noise may interfere with the sound if you’re farther away.
Pittsburgh Events Happening September 14-20
The Lion King
September 9-27, Benedum Center
After nearly 30 years, it’s easy to forget how revolutionary The Lion King was upon its 1997 debut. Director Julie Taymor’s original production cast aside the trappings of ’80s and ’90s musical theater in favor of inventive and gorgeous puppetry, soaring voices and a lush focus on light and color. The show also boasts some of Disney’s best songs — hiring Elton John and Tim Rice will do that — and an easily captivating story. Even if you’ve seen it before, go again; it’s a stirring experience.
What to Know: Even with 24 performances, shows are selling out, so act now if you don’t already have your tickets. Arrive early to avoid the crowds at the door. And remember the paradox of the Benedum: Downstairs level always has shorter lines at the bar, while the promenade always has shorter lines for the restroom.
Turnstile
September 15, Stage AE
Even the Recording Academy can’t figure out what genre Turnstile is in. Last year, the band was nominated as a rock band, an alternative band and a metal band … for the same music. Other songs on their hit album Never Enough are more cleanly categorized as punk or pop. In brief: You can’t categorize it, but you can definitely rock out to it. The band returns to Pittsburgh this Tuesday for a headlining set at Stage AE; it’s their first area appearance since opening for blink-182 at PPG Paints Arena in 2023.
What to Know: Turnstile’s tour hasn’t kicked off yet, so we can’t guess at set times — but there are four acts on the bill, so it’s a safe bet there will be some distance between the time doors open (5:00 p.m.) and the time the headliners take the stage. If you’re determined to know the schedule, call the Stage AE box office on the day of the show.
Ansel Adams: Majestic Lands
Through May 2, 2027, Westmoreland Museum of American Art
In an era where billions of images from around the world are in our pockets at all times, how can we still appreciate remarkable landscapes? At the risk of a simple answer: Through the eyes of a gifted artist. Majestic Lands gathers more than 40 landscapes by the preeminent photographer and environmentalist Ansel Adams, taking the viewer to remarkable vistas throughout the United States. The exhibit is “presented in dialogue,” as the museum puts it, with Victoria Sambunaris: Altered Lands, a series depicting human incursion into the natural landscape.
What to Know: While admission to the rest of the Westmoreland Museum is free, these exhibits are ticketed. Stop by the museum’s front desk to grab a ticket on arrival; $10 gets you into both Majestic and Altered Lands. Plus, check out the Play Ball! art of baseball exhibit while you’re there. Making the trip to Greensburg for the exhibition? Add a dinner reservation at J. Corks, a lovely and inviting elevated-American spot known for excellent service.
Coen Brothers Week
September 19-24, Row House Lawrenceville
It’s folly to try to rank the best films by the Coen Brothers. The prolific and distinctive filmmaking duo has proven adept at so many different genres — the modern noir of Fargo, the pure comedy of The Big Lebowski, even westerns such as True Grit — that any attempt to declare their finest work will inevitably be met by strong disagreement. So don’t think of the four-film lineup for Row House’s Coen Brothers week as a ranking; rather, it’s just a collection of four very good movies. See The Big Lebowski, No County For Old Men, Blood Simple and O Brother, Where Art Thou? throughout the week at the Lawrenceville cinema.
What to Know: You won’t lack for pre-show drink options in Lawrenceville, but one of the best is under your feet. Sister business Bierport Lawrenceville sits underneath Row House and boasts a formidable draft list; you can even take your brew into the theater, if you’d like. It’s the perfect place for a post-film movie discussion. But, there are plenty more places to grab a bite and explore in the Lawrenceville area, too.
Trapped
September 17-26, Kelly Strayhorn Theater
The late congressman Jim Traficant was a folk hero, then a pariah, in nearby Youngstown. Once seen as a champion of the working class and a powerful rising star in Washington, Traficant was convicted of taking bribes from figures in organized crime. Even more than a decade after his death — alone, on his farm, in a tractor accident — debates about his life and crimes continue. Iron Horse Theatre Company, normally found in Ambridge, heads to East Liberty’s Kelly-Strayhorn Theater with a world-premiere play about Traficant, finding the disgraced politician in solitary confinement, considering how he got there.
What to Know: Trapped will be performed Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m., plus a 2:00 p.m. matinee on Sunday, September 20. Make a night of it with dinner reservations at nearby Garabino’s.
All Content Below by Kylie Thomas
Pittsburgh Events September 7-13
Steelers Run Walk
September 7, North Shore
No matter if you’re walking or running from home or the North Shore, you can help raise funds for the Art Rooney Scholarship Fund that supports local students in the area and the Chuck Noll Foundation. If you’re heading to the walk/run in person, look forward to a 3.1-mile level course that even ends right inside Acrisure Stadium on the warning track. Plus, all participants get this year’s shirt, metal, and a goody bag.
Pittsburgh Lebanese Festival
September 10-13, Our Lady of Victory Maronite Catholic Church
Pita, shawarma, grape leaves, and all your other favorite Lebanese eats take the spotlight during the Pittsburgh Lebanese Festival. Over three days you can feast to your heart’s content on Lebanese cuisine, listen to live music, check out traditional Dabke dancing, enter a raffle for a brand new Toyota Corolla, and bask in the joy of community.
Clemente Bridge Fest
September 11, Clemente Bridge
The Clemente Museum holds its annual fundraiser right on the Clemente Bridge with unbeatable views of the city at all angles. Stop down to try food from local vendors like Lola’s Eatery and DiAnoia’s Eatery as well as participate in workshops, kick back to live performances, and even spot a few special guests. Be sure to bring the whole family for kids’ activities and more opportunities for fun.
Pittsburgh Irish Festival
September 11-13, Carrie Blast Furnaces
The luck of the Irish is back in town at the Pittsburgh Irish Festival, celebrating its 35th year in action. Take a drive out where Irish culture comes alive with a large vendor market, authentic Irish eats, Celtic dancers, musicians, and plenty more to keep you busy. This year, don’t miss performances from TikTok sensation Ally the Piper, all-female trad supergroup BIIRD, and music from Celtic ensemble The Bow Tides.
Hobbit Fest
September 12, Quality Gardens & Bloom Cafe
Do you find yourself relating to the little hobbit creatures in the Lord of the Rings series? Or, do you just simply love the renaissance era? Venture forth to Quality Gardens & Bloom Cafe for a friendly-friendly fall festival with a hobbit-theme. Everyone can participate in a costume contest, feel the spirit of Middle Earth from live folk music, shop artisan vendors, as well as try out activities like tarot readings, crafts, story time, a scavenger hunt, and outdoor games. But in case you’re still looking for that renaissance vibe after Hobbit Fest ends, check out these bars and taverns that carry an old world feel.
Events in Pittsburgh August 31-September 6
Oktoberfest Bier Keg Tapping
September 2, Hofbräuhaus Pittsburgh
Hofbräuhaus Pittsburgh welcomes guests for the official keg tapping of the 2026 Oktoberfest Bier from Hofbräuhaus München, offering the first chance to enjoy this year’s festive brew. The celebration features live music, a traditional Oktoberfest parade, and the ceremonial keg tapping, creating an authentic Bavarian atmosphere filled with music, beer, and plenty of Oktoberfest spirit. Weather permitting, additional entertainment will take place in the Biergarten. The Oktoberfest fun doesn’t stop there either, see our full guide for months worth of fun.
Early Childhood Morning
September 3, National Aviary
Early Childhood Morning at the National Aviary offers young learners a fun and engaging way to explore the world of birds through art activities, sensory play, books, and immersive habitats. With a school-year theme, children can enjoy a bird-themed Count the Bugs game while discovering new sights and experiences throughout the Aviary. Each Early Childhood Morning features a rotating theme and activities, making every visit a fresh and exciting adventure for little learners. Plus, there are plenty of other kid-friendly things to do around the city while you’re out.
Order Now and Personalize: Book Release and Artist Talk
September 3, Brew House Arts
Centa Schumacher’s book Order Now and Personalize documents Pittsburgh photographer’s photographs onto sheet cakes that were then eaten. To celebrate the book’s release, Centa brings cake artists Laurie Trok and Indigo Baloch along for a panel discussion on how cooking and baking can be a creative expression. And of course, there will be plenty of cake for tasting. But, if you still find yourself with a sweet tooth after, check out these best spots for cakes in the ‘Burgh.
Pittsburgh Soul Food Festival (A Soulful Taste of the Burgh)
September 4-6, Market Square
A Soulful Taste of the Burgh returns to Downtown Pittsburgh for Labor Day Weekend, bringing a free outdoor festival celebrating the city’s vibrant culture and community. Bring the whole family down to enjoy cultural activities, live entertainment, local vendors, food competitions, and plenty of opportunities to try soul food in the heart of Pittsburgh. Check out our preview of last year’s festival to get a taste of what’s to come.
Rev’em Up for Kids MEGA Car Cruise Event
September 6, Corrigan Drive At South Park
Looking to see some vintage cars and support a great cause? All car admission sales to this cruise go directly to Pittsburgh Children’s Hospital Foundation. With over 1,000 cars to walk around and view, make a day of the event by visiting the food court, participating in raffles, and taking the kiddos to meet some of Pittsburgh’s favorite mascots. While you’re in the area, discover places to grab a bite to eat, see a show, or even spot bison.
Pittsburgh Events Happening August 24-30
Story Time!
August 26, Happenstance Cafe
You may think story time is for kids but a crew of comedians at Happenstance Cafe are proving that notion wrong. Join this group as they tell hilarious true stories. This month’s theme is Worst Jobs so expect to hear relatable tales that’ll have you in stitches from laughing so hard. Not to mention, the audience gets to choose which comedian wins a cash prize. When you’re done at Happenstance, there’s plenty more to explore on your night out in Lawrenceville and we have just the guide to lead your evening.
Homeschool Day
August 27, The Westmoreland Museum of American Art
We know school is on the horizon (or already started) and the kids are dreading it, but The Westmoreland Museum of American Art offers a Homeschool Day where you can explore the museum a little more deeply. Participate in your own art-making, learn about the different galleries with guided activities, and experience the museum in a different way. In case you’re still looking for more fun after Homeschool Day, stick around for the museum’s new Putt-a-palooza: Art Inspired Mini Golf. You’ll putt through artistic mini golf courses and children three and under get to play for free.
10th Annual Yoga in the Park
August 29, Allegheny Commons West
Imagine spending your morning stretching your body under the trees of Allegheny Commons West as you breathe in a fresh breath of blooming flowers, cut grass, and trickling water in the lake nearby. Join the Counseling and Wellness Center of Pittsburgh and Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy for their 10th Annual Yoga in the Park, celebrating healthy bodies and minds. All you need is a yoga mat or large towel and a ride down to the park. The rest is free. Now that’s a way to start your weekend. If yoga gets you in the mood to spend the rest of the day in Pittsburgh’s parks, we have recommendations for what parks are worth you and your family’s time.
4th Annual Building Bridges Day
August 29, Roberto Clemente Bridge
Connection within your community is one of the most rewarding parts of living in the city. To help promote that community connection and atmosphere, the 4th Annual Building Bridges Day brings together people and leaders from all walks of life. Join in on conversations and activities about how to make Pittsburgh a better place for all who live here as you bask in cultural performances, live music from local artists, activities for kids and adults alike, food trucks, and the beautiful views from the Roberto Clemente Bridge. After you’ve enjoyed Building Bridges Day, you can walk over to the heart of Downtown Pittsburgh and explore some of the best bars and restaurants in the city for dinner or a relaxing drink.
BaconBurgh
August 30, SouthSide Works
Whether it’s strips on a burger, wrapped around your favorite appetizer, or chopped up into small pieces and mixed into a salad, bacon just makes everything better. Thankfully in Pittsburgh, there’s a whole festival dedicated to bacon lovers that’s even free to attend. Stop down in the SouthSide Works for bacon on a stick, and just about every other way you can think of. Plus you can grab bourbon, beer, or a cocktail, shop the vendors market, ride a mechanical hot dog, listen to live music, and even get a photo with the Oscar Mayer Wienermobile. But if you can’t make it to BaconBurgh, you can always cook up bacon-loaded recipes at home like Smoked Bacon and Wild Mushroom Rigatoni, Pork Chop with Bacon and Pickled Peppers, and Sweet Potato Rounds with Bacon & Pecan Glaze.
Check out our calendar for other events this week and beyond. Or, view our guide for things to do in Pittsburgh anytime of the year.
About the Author
Sean Collier is the editor-in-chief of Shady Ave and the arts and culture editor of TABLE Magazine. Before joining the TABLE Media team, he spent nearly 15 years as a writer, editor and columnist at Pittsburgh Magazine. As the in-house film critic for the top-rated WDVE Morning Show since 2009, he’s been Pittsburgh’s most widely heard voice on movies for nearly two decades. A Pittsburgh native, Sean has since 2020 appeared weekly on KDKA-TV’s popular Pittsburgh Today Live talk show. He’s the co-founder of Vigilance Theater Group and an active stand-up comedian and event host. He can be found on Instagram and Twitter at @seancollierpgh.
Featured Photo by Kylie Thomas
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