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Where to Watch March Madness Games in Pittsburgh

By
Kylie Thomas
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People sit at a bar watching a basketball March madness game on a TV.

Whenever March rolls around there are a few different things on our mind… spring… St. Patrick’s Day… and of course, basketball. March Madness takes us into the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Tournament that runs through 68 teams in just three weeks time. This year, March Madness starts March 17 and ends with the championship game on April 6. Plus, if you want an in-person sneak-peek of what’s to come, Pittsburgh is hosting the 2026 Atlantic 10 Men’s Basketball Tournament from March 11-15 whose winner automatically get a bid into March Madness.

But, if you can’t make it to the Pittsburgh tournament nor the major cities hosting the March Madness games, there’s a way to still enjoy the fun with other like-minded sports fans. All across Pittsburgh, bars and restaurants open up their seating to fans of basketball for all of March Madness. Whether you stop in for every game or just the championship one, these establishments make sure you’re taken care of from brews to delicious bites and beyond.

March Madness Watch Parties in Pittsburgh

On the Big Screen

March 17-29, Bakery Square Courtyard

With Bakery Square’s endless options for food and beverage, their courtyard makes the perfect scene for a March Madness watch party. Grab a beer from City Kitchen, split a pizza from Alta Via, as well as ice cream from Jeni’s as you kick back on the lawn.

March Mania Watch Party

March 19-April 6, BetRivers Sportsbook at River’s Casino

Bet Rivers has the ultimate way to experience March Madness with exclusive parties on each of the big game days. Every event includes a different buffet menu for either lunch or dinner as you watch the competition go down on their huge video wall.

March Madness at City Works

March 19-April 6, City Works

The massive HDTVs at City Works in Downtown are perfect for watching star athletes on the court. All throughout the tournament you can stop in to try their exclusive boozy Orange Crush, feast on limited-time loaded fries, and recieve a scratch-off ticket for a chance to win gift cards, bar bites, desserts, and more.

Other Places to Watch

While these sites have not announced official March Madness parties, they’re always a fun spot for watching important games and often run specials for them too.

Tom’s Watch Bar

Possibly the biggest and most popular sports bar in the city, Tom’s Watch Bar boasts over 80 screens, 50 beers, and 50 specialty cocktails to keep you busy all night long. You can even check out their event guide to be sure your team is playing on the screens but more than likely every game will see the spotlight at this bar.

Shiloh Plate and Pour

Up on Mount Washington, you may pass by Shiloh Plate and Pour on a regular day but when it’s game day, you won’t want to miss your seat. This little bar packs some of the most passionate sports fans into one spot to form a community through games and specials. Plus, you may even see sports radio host Mark Madden hosting a watch party or two.

Steel City Sports Bar and Grub

Not only does Steel City Sports Bar and Grub have the HD TVs and classic American comfort food you crave, but they also have free pool every Tuesday. Whether you’re up and interacting with other fans or chilling in a booth with loved ones, this bar makes sure you’re taken care of from the start to the buzzer.

Story by Kylie Thomas
Photo Courtesy of Tom’s Watch Bar

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Pittsburgh’s March Beer Bracket: 16 Brews Go Head-to-Head

By
Kylie Thomas
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Tall beer cans stand on a tray, reflected in the table below them.

On a chilly day, the TABLE Studios saw 16 elite contenders square off in a single-elimination competition, with glory and prestige on the line. Those contenders: Some of Pittsburgh’s finest craft beers.

An array of beer cans sit on a table.

A March Beer Bracket of Pittsburgh’s Best Breweries

To build excitement from the on-court NBA madness coming later this month, TABLE Magazine last week held its inaugural Beer Bracket. The rules were simple: Our panel of judges evaluated pairs of local, craft brews and decided which beer was superior.

The winner advanced. The loser went home. (In this case, home was a side table until it was inevitably consumed by a TABLE staff member.)

The results included some blowouts, some upsets and a number of very close matchups — until one brew emerged as champion.

A person pours beer into a wine glass.

Getting to Know the Judges

The spotlight was on the 16 competitors, but — much like the Olympics — the results were up to the judges.

A woman drinks beer from a wine glass.

A four-member panel assembled for a (mostly) impartial, (temporarily) sober assessment of the field. Leading the group — in spirit, if not in any official capacity — was Chef Jackie Page, a chef, caterer and bartender. Vitally, as she was quick to point out, Page is “officially a graduate of Point Park’s beer college,” having completed a course of study in beer appreciation and brewing techniques at the Downtown university.

Page was joined by RaeLynn Harshman Gigler, bar manager at Dish Osteria. “I’m thinking about talent,” she explained, “but I’m also thinking: What do I really want to drink now?”

A woman sips beer from a glass.

This rubric stood in contrast to that of fellow judge Dan Gigler, a food writer who has covered restaurants and dining extensively for TABLE, Shady Ave, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, and more. His standard of evaluation, he says, was “pure talent … this is when the top seeds come to play.”

Of note: Those last names are no coincidence. Dan and RaeLynn are married; while fallen competitors may have had cause to grumble about this close relationship, the two vowed not to collude on results. (Indeed, their bracket seemed to split more often than most judges, as Dan often supported an underdog.)

A man compares two glasses of beer.

Rounding out the panel: Ethan Chmura, TABLE’s Advertising and Editorial Coordinator. The youngest of the judges, Chmura took the opportunity to increase his beer knowledge — and study under Page’s tutelage. Midway through the competition, she began tutoring her fellow judge on proper tasting techniques. “Sniff your beer first — what do you smell?” Chmura thoughtfully noted these instructions as Page continued: “Swallow your beer and push the fragrance out through your nose.”

While his study seemed earnest, Chmura admitted that he was choosing winners “purely off of taste.”

A man drinks beer from a short glass.

Elite Seeds Rise

All tastings were completed without the judges knowing what brew they were sipping — or even its brewery of origin. As offerings from New France, East End, Hitchhiker, Lolev, Dancing Gnome, Cinderlands, 11th Hour, and Grist House suited up and took the court, there were some competitive but clear-cut wins in the early rounds.

Just one round into the bracket, however, the picks became difficult. The judges split on a quarterfinal matchup between New France’s Something Analog and Lolev’s Samo Pilsner; the two equally matched pilsners left the panel deadlocked. A method for breaking the tie was debated. Initially, someone proposed a simple solution: “If there’s a tie, disqualify Ethan.”

Two glasses sit above a printed bracket.

Cooler heads prevailed, and a fifth palate was called in: this writer, in what may have been a breach of sportswriting ethics, sipped the brews to break the tie. (I opted for New France’s offering, helping it advance to the semifinal.)

As the competition continued, the judges persevered in the face of mild inebriation. Fatigue was not a factor, but the mental game remained paramount — particularly when the guests had to remember which unmarked glass contained which beer.

Glasses with beer in them sit on a table.

“It’s getting louder,” Dan Gigler reported. “We’re laughing a little more.”

The Finals

On the western side of the bracket, New France’s Something Analog faced Lustra, a standout pale ale from Dancing Gnome, in a semifinal matchup. On the eastern end, an upstart rose: Despite several judges admitting they were not normally a fan of the varietal, East End’s brown ale, Fat Gary, surged to a semifinal matchup against Lolev’s Lupula IPA.

Four different breweries, four different styles — and four formidable competitors.

The inside of a glass of beer beside a bracket.

Lustra, which had been a favorite throughout the tournament, continued its expected march to the finals, earning the support of three judges. Meanwhile, the Cinderella story continued: Fat Gary impressed three judges and toppled its favored foe. (The lone holdout in both semifinals: Dan Gigler, who preferred Something Analog and Lupula.)

The stage was set for a storybook final: The heavyweight favorite, Lustra, against the plucky underdog, Fat Gary.

A man drinks a glass of beer.

The judges sipped. They considered. And, quickly, they cast their votes.

Sometimes, Goliath beats David: Lustra was declared the champion by unanimous vote. The miracle run by Fat Gary finally came to an end.

A silver and gold can of beer on a black counter.

While any bracket must inevitably result in one champion standing tall among its fallen contenders, the Table Beer Bracket contained nothing but admirable brews. “A really nice selection,” RaeLynn said. Dan agreed: “Quality field.” Page took a moment to gather photos with her fellow judges and finish favored brews. This writer, noting that such good beer shouldn’t go to waste, selected several cans to polish off.

A woman holds a glass up.

As Lustra celebrated — as much as an inanimate can of beer can — eyes turned to next year’s competition, which will assuredly feature 16 equally worthy competitors. And, more immediately, to securing six-packs of these excellent beers before the actual tournament begins in a few weeks.

Meet the Beers

A bracket breakdown of beers from Pittsburgh Breweries.

Story by Sean Collier
Photography by Kylie Thomas
Production by Star Laliberte
Sponsored by Arsenal Beer Emporium

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Seeing Ourselves in ‘Lewis Hine Pictures America’

By
Kylie Thomas
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An orange gallery wall covered in photos.

The traveling exhibit Lewis Hine Pictures America, on view now at the Frick Pittsburgh, is a revealing glimpse into America’s past — and, for Pittsburghers, it’s a very personal exhibit.

Lewis Hine Pictures America Arrives at The Frick Pittsburgh

As I considered the dozens of photographs featured in Lewis Hine Pictures America, I paused in front of one: Slovak Immigrant Sleeping, taken in 1905 at Ellis Island. A thought occurred to me: This woman could be my great-grandmother.

I don’t mean that figuratively, I mean it literally: My great-grandmother was a Slovakian immigrant who passed through Ellis Island around that time. I don’t have any reason to believe it is indeed my ancestor — but I don’t have any reason to believe it isn’t, either.

Lewis Hine Pictures America exhibit wall at The Frick Pittsburgh.

Such is the local and personal relevance many Pittsburghers will find in Lewis Hine Pictures America, a touring exhibition showcasing the work of the artist widely cited as the “father of documentary photography.” The exhibit divides Hines’ work into categories: immigrants arriving at Ellis Island; workers building the Empire State Building; photographs from the Pittsburgh Survey, used to illuminate the socioeconomic conditions of the busy yet inequitable Steel City in the early part of the 20th century.

In those latter photographs, visitors will see the men and women whose labor made Pittsburgh. In all corners of this illuminating exhibit, however, viewers will find relatable and affecting work that resonates deeply, even 120 years later.

A framed photo of immigrant workers sits beside little photos in a collage.

Connecting With the Past

The first image in the exhibition, Italian Family Looking for Lost Baggage, is from 1905. But this photo could have been taken yesterday but for the period-appropriate clothing. Hine’s ability to capture natural expressions (even though some photographs were more or less staged, as was the custom at the time) brings the viewer into close contact with the subject.

That quality makes one section of the exhibit particularly jarring. For more than a decade, Hines photographed children at work in factories, mills and on the streets, exposing the realities of child labor in the early 1900s. These images are frequently shocking; in All These Small Boys child workers line up as if taking a school photo when they’re actually on a rare break from work at a cotton mill. Their faces bear the weary expression of adults; cigarettes hang from their mouths.

A gallery wall with three photos framed on it.

Hines’ work, partially supported by the National Child Labor Committee, helped raise awareness of the lack of protection for child workers. Change was slow — a national ban on child labor didn’t arrive until 1938 — despite Hines’ jarring photos being used as a lobbying tool.

“We tried to ground his photographs in the social and economic realities of that moment,” says Dawn Brean, the Frick’s Chief Curator and Director of Collections.

“Unfortunately, a lot of the conversations and issues that Lewis Hine is shedding light on [are issues that] we are continuing to grapple with.”

Reality Made Into Art

Serious though much of the subject matter may be, there’s plenty of joy in Lewis Hine Pictures America. In Engineman, PA, a train conductor operates his massive vehicle with obvious pride. In Topping the Mast, Empire State Building, workers focus on small details atop the then-tallest building in the world. There’s recreation in these photos, too; one, Slide, Kelly, Slide!, pictures a playground baseball game in Newark — and it may or may not feature a young Babe Ruth. 

A framed photo of an immigrant family on an orange gallery wall.

“Lewis Hine didn’t consider himself an artist,” Brean says. “He was a social reformer. So this is a perfect exhibition that does sit at that intersection of art and history. I think our crew is at our best when we’re playing with both of those ideas.”

Lewis Hine Pictures America continues through May 17. An evening Cocktails and Conversations session, featuring a talk about the exhibit paired with a specially prepared cocktail (or mocktail), is scheduled for March 5. Guests can also order a Lunch Bucket meal, themed to the exhibition, at the on-site Cafe at the Frick — complete with a limited-edition lunchbox.

Story by Sean Collier
Photos Courtesy of Seth Culp-Ressler

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Collier’s Cuts: After 30 Years, ‘Scream 7’ Sticks to the Formula

By
Kylie Thomas
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Ghost face from Scream 7 walks with a knife out at his side.
Ghostface in Paramount Pictures and Spyglass Media Group's "Scream 7." © 2025 Paramount Pictures. Ghost Face is a Registered Trademark of Fun World Div., Easter Unlimited, Inc. ©1999. All Rights Reserved.”.
A graphic for Scream 7 with a 3/5 star rating.

It has been three decades since the subversive slasher Scream simultaneously satirized and revitalized its genre. Now, the seventh installment is content to play the hits.

Scream 7 Movie Review

From an opening visit to one of the original film’s key locations to a conclusion that — no spoilers — doesn’t reinvent the wheel, Scream 7 has no ambitions beyond … well, doing Scream stuff. New characters get slashed; old ones turn up (in one way or another). Nick Cave’s Red Right Hand plays. The chracters discuss rules of a horror movie. Sidney Prescott (Neve Campbell), now Sidney Prescott-Evans, confronts a cadre of masked killers.

That longer surname refers to our Final Girl’s attempt to settle into some kind of grown-up normalcy, in spite of 30 years of terror. She’s married — to a cop (Joel McHale), helpfully — and has a trio of kids. We find her sparring with her eldest, Tatum (Isabel May) over typical teen stuff. (The younger kids are off at grandma’s for the week, presumably to spare the audience the added tension of tots in peril.)

In spite of a high-end security system and ever-ready sidearm, though, Sidney is never at ease. And wouldn’t you know it: A caller claiming to be a foe from Sid’s distant past threatens Tatum, and we’re off to the races.

More Easter Eggs Than the Candy Aisle

For an hour or more, the film loads itself with references — some subtle, some painfully obvious — to its predecessors. Tatum’s beau (Sam Rechner) crawls through her window, repeating dialogue from the first film; the next morning, Tatum dons her mother’s old college jacket (as seen in (Scream 2), sparking a confrontation. The film is explicitly focused on its own lore; while that served as meta-commentary in the superior 2022 film (confusingly, also called Scream), it’s mostly just fan service here.

That dedication is wise at times and foolhardy at others. Undoubtedly, this is a series with devotees; at the opening-night screening I attended, nearly everyone in attendance arrived wearing official series merchandise. (Admittedly: That tally includes this writer.) While such hyper-awareness is canny, it can be overdone; at times, Scream 7 leans in too heavily.

Don’t Spoil the Ending — Not That You’ll Want To

Despite its indulgences, Scream 7 leads an ugly but steady drive up the field for most of its runtime — then fumbles the ball on the goal line. I would never even hint at the ending of a film in this franchise — a series inextricably linked to the rise of spoiler aversion among genre fans — but I will say that the conclusion is woefully unsatisfying. It’s hard to imagine either diehards or casual viewers will find these revelations compelling; it seems a case of trying to out-twist the audience rather than simply delivering a proper conclusion.

Does that matter? Yes and no. For fans, it may feel like a cop out; for less committed moviegoers, it will simply be confusing. But the blood is already good and shed at that point. Until the final moments, Scream 7 is often funny, generally compelling and even occasionally shocking — impressive after all these years.

And hey — they can always innovate next time. Scream 8 is reportedly in development.

No One Dares Confront Ghostface at the Box Office

Here’s a bit of movie trivia: So fevered was the anticipation for 1997’s Scream 2 that several high-profile releases delayed opening to avoid the competition. Chief among them: Titanic, which waited a week rather than square off with the Scream juggernaut. A James Bond film, Tomorrow Never Dies, did the same thing. Accordingly, Scream 7 mostly has the weekend to itself in terms of new releases — though the acclaimed Iraqi film The President’s Cake is receiving a limited release.

Among repertory showings, the harrowing western The Revenant is back in theaters to mark its 10th anniversary. Leonardo DiCaprio won an Oscar for The Revenant, though the most exemplary aspect of the film may be the striking, natural lighting.

Speaking of the Oscars, in-theater presentations of the nominated short films have increased in popularity. Look for showings of the nominated live-action, animated and documentary shorts at an arthouse or independent cinema near you.

Ghost Face is a Registered Trademark of Fun World Div., Easter Unlimited, Inc. ©1999. All Rights Reserved.

Story by Sean Collier
Photo Courtesy of Paramount Pictures‘ Scream 7

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Pittsburgh Events: Your Guide to March 16-22

By
Kylie Thomas
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An art painting hangs on a green museum wall at The Frick Pittsburgh.

Spring is officially here, Pittsburgh! That’s right, March 20 marks 2026’s spring equinox and we’re ready to celebrate. What better way could there be to welcome spring than to explore the events happening around the city from March 16-22. Take this time to get out of the house and get into your community!

Pittsburgh Events Happening March 16-22

Sew Club at Contemporary Craft
Photo Courtesy of Contemporary Craft

Sew Club at Contemporary Craft

March 18, Contemporary Craft

This craft workshop offers guests a chance to sew their wildest dreams. Bring your current project or you can even create something brand new from the community scrap bin, all while you enjoy the company of fellow sewists. Both hand sewing and machine sewing are welcome. In case you don’t have your own machine, the studio has a few you can rent too. 

A woman shaves a man's head.
Photo Courtesy of St. Baldrick’s Foundation

Bald of the Ball Second Chance

March 21, Sheraton Pittsburgh Hotel

Don’t miss an evening where fun meets fundraising. This Second Chance celebration is all about making memories and making a difference for children living with cancer. Your ticket not only supports the St. Baldrick’s Foundation but it also gets you a curated dinner, complimentary beverages, raffles all night long, dancing, and even live head-shaving. 

Saturday Community Yoga Class for Every Body
Photo Courtesy of Kingsley Yoga Studio

Saturday Community Yoga Class for Every Body

March 21, Kingsley Yoga Studio

Do you feel like the work week leaves you so stressed you can barely function? Let yoga be your guide to a healthier, happier weekend. Join Felicia of YogaRoots for a gentle Raja Yoga class designed for every body and with mats readily available. This two-hour session offers plenty of modifications to both enliven and restore no matter who you are.

Easter Cookie Decorating Class
Photo Courtesy of Black Dog Wine Company

March 22, Black Dog Wine Company

Kick back with a glass from Black Dog Wine Company for a sweet time learning the art of Easter cookie decorating. Grab your friends and learn how to decorate beautiful cookies for Easter and spring such as bunnies, chicks, colorful eggs, flowers, and so much more. Plus you can use your new skills at other holidays to impress your friends and family. 

An art painting hangs on a green museum wall at The Frick Pittsburgh.
Photo Courtesy of The Frick Pittsburgh

FAKES!: Fooling the Art World for Fun and Profit

March 22, The Frick Pittsburgh

Delve into the intriguing world of art fakes and forgeries during this engaging lecture by Dr. Kahren Jones Arbitman. Learn how to spot a fake on your own by asking yourself questions that an expert would. Are the materials age-appropriate? Is the style and handling right? Is the story of its “discovery” plausible?

Story by Kylie Thomas
Featured Photo Courtesy of The Frick Pittsburgh

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Lilith Owners to Open New Coastal Italian Restaurant Giulia in Bloomfield

By
Kylie Thomas
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The women owners of Lilith restaurant in Shadyside Pittsburgh behind a table of their food.

If you take a turn down a small residential street in Shadyside, the restaurant Lilith sits in all its glory, full to the brim with customers. Soon, fans of this establishment and its two owners, Jamilka Borges (current semi-finalist for the 2026 James Beard Awards) and Dianne DeStefano, will have a new spot to venture to called Giulia. 

Lilith Owners to Open Giulia, Your Introduction to Coastal Italian Cuisine in Bloomfield

Over in Bloomfield, the power-team of Borges and DeStefano just two weeks ago received the keys to their new project, a blend of coastal cuisine and authentic Italian food all with a Borges-DeStefano flair. Think sustainably-sourced seafood accompanied by local farm produce and custom flavors.

“Jamilka has a strong passion for seafood coming from Puerto Rico and then my family’s from Sicily,” explains DeStefano. “The food in Sicily is more seafood heavy but aligns closely with how island nations use it. It’s fishy, oily, simple, but complex at the same time.”

Unlike most Pittsburgh Italian restaurants, you won’t find red sauce here. Instead, Giulia focuses on keeping things light and fresh using vegetables, herbs, and seasonings to do the job rather than heavy sauces. But, at the heart of the menu is a mission that follows the same detail as Lilith.

“It’s bigger than Lilith, but it’s still a small intimate restaurant with a curated seasonal menu,” says DeStefano. “We are going to be making all the pastas and everything in house and we’ll be working with all the same farms that we work with now at Lilith.”

Bigger Kitchen, Same Exceptional Quality

The new restaurant also presents an opportunity to do what Borges and DeStefano do best, but on a larger scale. A bigger kitchen and larger dining space seats more guests (you can finally get that reservation!) and lets the pair consider other jobs they would normally not be able to take on such as catering. 

“Finally, we can spread out a little bit more,” says DeStefano and Borges. “We make pasta at Lilith with very limited equipment but now we’re going to have four full floor model pasta extruders, so we’re really going to be able to dive into our pasta game in a way that we are too restricted to do here [at Lilith]. We always have pasta on the menu, but it’s maybe one or two dishes at a time and so we’re excited to expand that.”

A Location Close to Home

Best of all, the new location of Giulia hits close to home for DeStefano. Her family actually has a long history in Bloomfield, so the project is somewhat of a homecoming for her. It’s something that also excites Borges since they’ll be joining a range of fantastic restaurants right along Liberty Avenue. 

“With my dad’s family being Sicilian and my family history, I spent a lot of time in Bloomfield growing up and it’s important to me to bring Italian cuisine back to it,” DeStefano says. “I’m so happy that Bloomfield has such a wide variety of restaurants now. The quality of the restaurants there is just like off the charts. Look at what Fet-Fisk, Brothmonger, and so many other restaurants are doing. It’s incredible. You can get a little bit of everything in Bloomfield and now you’ll be able to have Giulia too.”

Giulia is looking to open late in the 2026 summer season so keep an eye on the Lilith socials for more information.

Story by Kylie Thomas
Photo Courtesy of Lilith

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Your March 2026 Horoscope for the Full Moon in Virgo and Lunar Eclipse

By
Kylie Thomas
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A lunar eclipse moves over a full moon in the night sky, shining light out to the left side.

The Full Moon on March 3, 2026 falls in Virgo and coincides with a lunar eclipse, a condition that alters how fullness is experienced within horoscopes for the month. Unlike most Full Moons, which flood the sky with light, a lunar eclipse dims the Moon and casts a broad shadow. The effect can result in a single flash of revelation, but more commonly we find something diffused, like a gradual shift in one’s awareness. Attention moves toward what has been operating quietly, out of focus, or in the background, and the implications tend to unfold over an extended stretch of time, often across the following months.

The Lunar Eclipse’s Impact on Your Horoscope

Lunar eclipses have a way of loosening existing arrangements. Patterns that we ignored because they used to hold things together start to separate at the seams, and emotional responses are likely to be decided by the options you feel you have left. Activity may cluster close to the date itself, or it may disperse slowly, revealing consequences only as circumstances change. Either way, eclipses correspond with turning points whose significance becomes clearer through use, repetition, and experience – so don’t expect this full Moon to bring immediate resolution.

Virgo’s Hand in the Process

Virgo gives this eclipse a precise and grounded character. This is a sign concerned with discernment, craft, and the intelligent handling of material conditions. Virgo attends to maintenance, repair, and the quiet labor that keeps systems functional. Its intelligence is practical, investigative, and oriented toward improvement through careful adjustment. Emotional responses would benefit, then, by being filtered through observation and judgement, with an emphasis on what can be fixed, refined, or reorganized.

As an earth sign ruled by Mercury, Virgo connects thought directly to application. Decisions emerging under this eclipse often relate to work patterns and responsibilities, the routines in our lives that help or hurt our underlying state health (mental or physical), or the ‘everyday’. The symbolism will demand better discernment as the world addresses accumulated problems. The eclipse may not impact you directly, but you will certainly see themes around you that highlight where things have become inefficient, maybe even ineffective. This eclipse can help restore some balance through attentive, methodical effort rather than sweeping gestures.

Want to learn more about the zodiacal sign Virgo? It’s helpful to understand the ways the sign manifests if you hope to spot the influence of the Virgo lunar eclipse over the next six months (a lunar eclipse’s half-life, so to speak). See this article from astrologer Deborah Houlding on Skyscript, a site for astrologers, by astrologers. Plus, you can also read an article on how a March eclipse in 1987 (this one a solar eclipse in Aries) spelled disaster at sea, and how one astrologer attempted to warn the very company who would have to learn their lesson the hard way.  

All Eyes on Jupiter

One of the stabilizing features of this eclipse chart is the unusual emphasis placed on Jupiter. The Sun, Moon, and Mercury all move toward Jupiter by aspect, and several of the faster-moving planets gather in Pisces, a sign governed by Jupiter itself. That gives Jupiter an outsized role in shaping how this period behaves and how its pressures are processed.

In practical terms, Jupiter operates as ballast. Eclipses tend to unsettle familiar patterns, exposing strain or imbalance in systems that have been overloaded for some time. Jupiter does not remove that discomfort, necessarily, but it does provide a wider frame in which it can be understood and managed. Its influence supports repair through growth rather than contraction, offering perspective where things have begun to feel narrow, overburdened, or misaligned. Relief comes from making your world bigger, not refinement alone as an eclipse in Virgo might suggest if read in isolation. Adding space, experience, and range creates options that endless reorganization inside a tight container never can.

The Planet Alongside the Moon

The Moon’s supportive connection to Jupiter softens emotional responses without dulling them. Feelings still surface, but they should move more easily toward meaning and integration. There is a sense that reactions can be placed into a larger story, one that includes recovery, learning, and continuity. Emotional experience expands rather than tightening into reactivity.

The Sun’s trine with Jupiter reinforces this theme at the level of purpose and direction. Confidence returns through orientation rather than assertion. Decisions should feel easier to stand behind when they align with a broader sense of coherence, ethics, or long-term benefit. Growth ought to be framed as something earned through understanding, and it always comes with trade-offs. As the Sun perfects its trine to Jupiter, it effectively pulls Jupiter through the station and into direct motion. That shift is the price of admission: the trine delivers some lift, but it requires a pivot, including the backward-feeling phase that comes with planets changing direction. After the turn, movement is cleaner and purpose is easier to maintain.

Mercury’s in trine with Jupiter too, but comes with an important qualification. Although Mercury is in productive relationship with Jupiter, it’s moving retrograde, indicating that the developments it brings depends on review and correction. Conversations, plans, or interpretations from the recent past may need to be revisited in order to access Jupiter’s benefits fully. Insight grows through reworking language, assumptions, or agreements that previously missed the mark.

The Red Planet Mars Enters Pisces

Mars has just entered Pisces, and because this is the beginning of a sign, its presence is felt more strongly than usual. Mars is a planet that thrives on clarity of target and direct engagement. Pisces offers neither. Instead, it diffuses force into a fluid, emotionally saturated environment where motivations multiply and certainty dissolves. The result is not weakness, but misdirection. Drive remains intense, yet it moves through feeling, conscience, and impression rather than strategy or confrontation.

In Pisces, Mars still presses forward (how could it not?), but it does so through more indirect streams. Action is shaped by empathy, belief, and the surrounding emotional climate with this signature. Conflicts tend to arise through confusion, mixed signals, or misplaced loyalty rather than open challenge. Energy can surge suddenly, then ebb just as quickly, especially when inspiration fades or boundaries blur.

At its best, this placement channels courage into healing, protection, and creative effort. Mars becomes the surgeon rather than the soldier, willing to cut only where repair is possible. At its worst, frustration leaks sideways, stirred by exhaustion, avoidance, or the temptation to escape discomfort instead of meeting it cleanly. This is force moving through water: powerful, impressionable, and capable of reshaping its surroundings when guided with care. This signature will remain with us until mid-April.

Fixed Stars Zosma and Coxa

As the lunar eclipse passes over Zosma and Coxa in Leo, attention falls on a subtle but potent form of expression. These stars mark the hips and base of the Lion’s spine, the place from which thrust, movement, and force originate. In older traditions, this region was linked to prophetic utterances, words with power and meaning. Along the Euphrates, Zosma and Coxa were associated with the Oracle, suggesting speech that anticipates outcomes before they fully take shape.

With the Moon involved, words spoken during this period tend to carry emotional charge and memory. Joined to the South Node, the emphasis leans toward release, loss, or reckoning with what has already run its course. Statements may pass without immediate reaction, yet prove accurate as circumstances unfold over the following months. Tone can matter as much as content. Disparaging remarks, careless predictions, or fatalistic assumptions can echo longer than intended.

This symbolism calls for attentiveness rather than fear. Listen closely to what is said, especially in moments of fatigue or frustration. Choose language with care, and avoid lending momentum to narratives of decline. Speech moves an idea in our minds into outward direction, so it’s important to remember that words mean things. Even when what you have to say seems small, it can move events in quiet but lasting ways.

Seasonal Guidance: Mid-Winter Check-In for Your Zodiac Sign

Late winter is a threshold period. Cold still dominates, but moisture begins to accumulate, and the Earth prepares to release great potential in spring. This is a time for clearing so we can have a fresh start next season, easing congestion before momentum returns. Attention turns to circulation, digestion, and gradual reawakening. Heavy habits that kept you cozy earlier in winter are likely to feel burdensome soon. Small adjustments now help stir us out of a state of interia. Regular meals, consistent sleep, and gentle movement support the shift ahead. Think in terms of making room for spring rather than rushing to meet it.

Fire Signs (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius)

Maintain warmth while giving restless energy somewhere to go. Favor steady movement such as walking, light strength work, or stretching. Avoid pushing intensity too far, especially when sleep or meals slip. Keep food warm and nourishing, but simplify where possible. Short periods of activity followed by rest work better than long exertion. Social contact helps morale, though smaller gatherings remain easier to manage.

Earth Signs (Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn)

Keep routines intact, but soften rigidity. Introduce more movement into the day and reduce heaviness where it has accumulated, especially in food and workload. Warmth supports joints and digestion, while gentle stimulation prevents stagnation. Use this time to finish repairs, clear storage, and simplify systems. Space made now supports steadier momentum later.

Air Signs (Gemini, Libra, Aquarius)

Structure remains important as mental activity increases. Support circulation with regular movement that engages breath and coordination. Warm drinks and simple meals help focus. Limit excess screen time and scattered conversation. Choose fewer commitments and give them proper attention to keep energy from dispersing.

Water Signs (Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces)

Keep rhythms consistent while allowing gradual change. Warm foods and steady sleep remain important, but avoid excess heaviness. Movement supports emotional flow, especially walking or gentle stretching. Creative outlets and quiet connection help transition feeling into form. Avoid extremes of withdrawal or over-giving; steady engagement works best.

Sabian Symbol for 12° Virgo: A Powerful Statesman Overcomes a State of Political Hysteria

The Sabian image for this eclipse shows a figure who steadies a volatile situation through composure and authority. While only a handful of us hold public office, the symbol translates easily into everyday life. A “statesman” describes anyone able to bring perspective to an emotionally charged environment. Political hysteria, in this sense, points to group anxiety, rumor, or reactive thinking that spreads quickly and clouds judgement.

Applied practically, the image highlights the value of measured response when emotions run high. It favors calm leadership within families, workplaces, or communities, especially when fear or outrage begins to drive decisions. Authority is working in this image too, and appears – from the wording of the symbol – to come from within rather than from an external show of force. Words chosen carefully, timing observed, and restraint exercised can shift an entire dynamic. This symbol reminds us that influence often lies with the person who sets the pace, often slowing us down to restore some proportion, refusing to amplify collective agitation.

Learn more about the Sabian symbols here.

What Does the March 2026 Full Moon and Lunar Eclipse in Virgo Mean for Your Horoscope?

For some readers, this eclipse will coincide with personal turning points that feel unmistakable. For many more, its effects register indirectly — through shifts in workplaces, families, institutions, or the broader political and social climate. Eclipses tend to reveal where pressure has been building, whether experienced firsthand or observed at a distance. The clearest way to understand how this eclipse engages your own chart is through a consultation with a professional astrologer (I can be booked here: calendly.com/wadecaves/natal-consultation). What follows offers sign-by-sign themes and practical guidance for engaging thoughtfully with this period, whether it arrives close to home or plays out around you.

Aries

A lot of energy is pulling you outward toward friends, causes, or shared plans, but daily life still needs tending. Make sure work, health, and basic routines aren’t getting crowded out by other people’s priorities. Small fixes matter more than grand gestures, and a good place to check in is with diet and physical activity. Are you feeling content with these areas of your life? Notice where you’re overcommitting, and scale things back before frustration sets in. When your home base and schedule feel manageable, the eclipse’s hints at themes of collaboration become energizing instead of draining.

Taurus

Direct effort toward goals that actually matter to you, not just the ones that look impressive from the outside. Professional pressure can be energizing, sure, but progress depends on coordination rather than barreling through. Stay connected to allies, colleagues, and networks that share your longer-term aims. Conversations, planning, and learning play a practical role in moving things forward, so keep communication open and concrete. Ambition works best when it’s informed, collaborative, and paced. Steady movement, clear messaging, and realistic timelines help turn drive into results you can stand behind.

Gemini

Give some attention to how your work and your resources speak for you. Be clear about priorities, especially where responsibility and visibility overlap. Say what you mean in professional settings, and keep plans grounded in what you can reasonably support financially and practically. Ambition benefits from structure and building repeatable habits. Small adjustments to how you present ideas, manage time, or handle money can strengthen confidence and make progress feel more secure rather than rushed. Jupiter’s placement suggests you might want to check that effort is being matched with compensation or stability.

Cancer

Let curiosity lead you this season, but keep expectations realistic. Big ideas and new perspectives feel energizing, especially when they improve existing partnerships. Say what you mean simply, and listen for what’s underneath the exchange instead of rushing to conclusions. Writing, teaching, or short trips help sort feelings into something usable. Confidence grows through honest dialogue and follow-through, not grand statements. When learning stays connected to everyday life, insight turns into understanding that actually travels with you.

Leo

This eclipse will shake up how shared commitments affect your sense of security. Conversations with partners benefit from honesty about money, boundaries, and expectations, even if the topic feels charged. Strong emotions tend to surface around fairness and control, so keep exchanges focused on practical outcomes rather than winning a point. Review spending, shared funds, and obligations with care. New arrangements can be negotiated through clear agreements and follow-through on what you agree to. If you’ve been saving for a big financial goal, this period will test your resolve – hold firm, dear Leo!

Virgo

Pay attention to how much of yourself shows up in your closest relationships. It’s easy to default to cooperation or problem-solving, but your own needs and reactions deserve space too. Speak plainly about what you’re feeling, even if it feels slightly uncomfortable or unfinished. Conversations work best when they stay grounded and mutual. A good keyword is reciprocity; notice where you’ve been adjusting to keep things smooth, and where that’s starting to cost you energy. Balance requires shared participation – no one’s asking you to disappear into agreement.

Libra

Work is asking for consistency, but that doesn’t mean everything has to feel dutiful or flat. There’s room to enjoy what you’re doing, even on busy days, if you give pleasure a little structure instead of squeezing it in haphazardly. Creative energy and romantic interest want expression, but they work best when they don’t derail your schedule or commitments. Think about how you pace yourself. When enjoyment and responsibility support each other, progress feels satisfying rather than exhausting. Your ruling planet is pulling into better position in the coming weeks, so I expect this eclipse period will improve with time.

Scorpio

Creative work, romance, or time spent doing what you love benefits from a solid base at home – and that’s a good place to invest your time over the coming weeks and months. Pay attention to domestic tensions before they spill into other areas of life. Conversations about living arrangements, family roles, or emotional boundaries help clear space. Broader interests or long-range plans provide perspective, especially when daily life feels intense. Widening your outlook while keeping foundations steady should open new doors for you, giving pleasure and ambition somewhere to land.

Sagittarius

This eclipse is likely to drive your attention to where private obligations and public responsibilities intersect. Make room for conversations money you’re borrowing from others, your debts or support systems, especially where they touch family or long-term security. Step into professional roles with steadiness rather than bravado, and stay aware of how emotions shape visibility. Recognition comes more easily when foundations at home feel tended and agreements behind the scenes are clear. Aim for transparency and follow-through so ambition rests on something stable instead of pressure and intensity.

Capricorn

Learning, travel, or big-picture questions sit closer to the surface, especially those opportunities that are shaped through partnership one way or another. Other people act as mirrors for belief, purpose, and direction right now, which makes dialogue useful but also revealing (if you pay attention). Ideals need testing against reality before they’re taken too far. The full Moon on your 9th cusp incline toward something exploratory, and should strengthen ground shared with others, so long as it doesn’t pull away from long-term commitments.

Aquarius

Time to tap into your ruling planet Saturn and slow down enough to check in with what’s going on before acting on impulse. Look closely at what you’re spending time, money, and effort on, and whether it matches what you actually value. Physical activity helps work off pressure, especially when paired with a concrete goal – so stay active. Saturn is conjunct Neptune in this eclipse, so if an idea has been carrying more hope than structure, give it firmer edges before committing more energy. Progress will feel more stable when effort, resources, and intention are all aligned.

Pisces

Pay attention to how you’re presenting yourself and what you’re willing to step forward with. If something matters to you – a creative idea, a pleasure, a relationship – give it a bit more shape and follow-through instead of letting it drift. Showing up consistently does more than a burst of enthusiasm ever will. Notice how people respond when you commit openly (and you might watch for the inverse, too). Momentum will build when enjoyment is paired with effort, and when confidence shows up through what you actually do.

Horoscope Author

Wade Caves, based in Brooklyn, NY, is an astrological consultant and educator specializing in problem-solving applications of astrology. He teaches astrological divination and astronomy at the School of Traditional Astrology. Wade also publishes his work on world astrology through Skyscript’s In Mundo publishing desk. He even hosts the World Astrology Summit. A conference dedicated to the advancement of astrology for global problem-solving. Website: wadecaves.com • skyscript.co.uk/inmundo. Email: hello@wadecaves.com.

Story by Wade Caves
Photo Courtesy of Evan Leith

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Lamb and Ham Recipes for Easter and Beyond

By
Kylie Thomas
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0
An aerial view of a cooked ham with blueberry yuzu glaze sitting in a white roasting tray with blueberries, thyme, and lemon garnishing the meat.

Ham appears at both the Christmas and Easter dinner tables, but it’s also a kitchen staple that sits at that coveted intersection of easy to make and delicious. It’s that perfect food that you can make look restaurant-perfect, while behind the scenes it’s an easy prep-and-cook process. The meat is tasty by nature, so it doesn’t need a whole lot of dressing up. It’s no wonder it’s such a popular holiday food.

Lamb acts the same way and becomes more flavorful with further additions. You’ll see it in special occasion meals and it often becomes a symbol during Easter time.

Why Do We Eat Ham on Easter?

The tradition of eating ham on Easter partially comes from practicality. If you were curing meats all winter, they were ready by the time Easter came around. Pigs are also symbols of prosperity and decadence—after a long Lenten season, eating ham on Easter is a way to indulge. If you’re looking to ham it up this Easter, try these ham recipes, but also keep them in your back pocket as easy but gourmet meals for any time of year.

Why Do we Eat Lamb on Easter?

Many Christians eat lamb at Easter because it symbolizes sacrifice, redemption, and new life. The tradition has deep roots in the Jewish festival of Passover, when a lamb was sacrificed and its blood marked on doorposts as a sign of protection in the biblical book of Exodus. Early Christians connected this imagery to Jesus Christ, who is often called the “Lamb of God” because his death and resurrection are seen as a sacrifice that brings salvation. Not to mention, the luxury of lamb was perfect for a special occasion.

Ham and Lamb Recipes for Easter and Beyond

Easter Dinner Ham Recipes

Ham, Beans, and Greens

An aerial view of a light brown bowl filled with Ham, Beans, and Greens

Things are classics for a reason, like a good old beans and greens recipe. This makes a great appetizer for an Easter meal or a quick-and-easy weeknight dinner with English mustard and crusty bread on the side. If you’re not in the mood for a full on glazed ham, ham with beans and greens is a great alternative.

Ham with Blueberry and Yuzu Glaze

An aerial view of a cooked ham with blueberry yuzu glaze sitting in a white roasting tray with blueberries, thyme, and lemon garnishing the meat.

This is a traditional Easter ham with a twist. The glaze on this ham uses yuzu-cha which can can be found in Asian markets. Yuzu-cha is a marmalade-like product that you can combine with water to make delicious tea (“cha” means tea), but for this recipe, it adds a tartness to the blueberry glaze on the ham. A hint of bourbon mixes with the blueberry, yuzu, and brown sugar to create (we think) one of the most delicious hams out there.

Apple Cider Glazed Ham from Food and Wine

An. apple cider ham on a white background with green beans on the side.
Greg DuPree / Prop Styling by Missie Crawford / Food Styling by Ali Ramee.

If you miss the flavors of fall, an apple cider glaze can add some of that savory spice to your ham. This Food & Wine recipe can be for any holiday and make even the pickiest of ham skeptics want to try it. The mouthwatering apple cider glaze is just the right amount of sweetness with a full-bodied, savory taste that brings back memories of pumpkin spice season. Garnishing with oranges makes a nice complement, too.  

Sous Vide City Ham wiith Balsamic Brown Sugar Glaze from Serious Eats

Slices of sous vide city ham on a white background.
Photo J. Kenji López-Alt / Courtesy of Serious Eats.

Sous vide cooking is a fun way to spruce up your ham technique. For this recipe from Serious Eats, you’ll need to submerge the ham in the sous vide cooker for 3-8 hours—perfect if you have a busy day and want a no-fussing, no-frills route to deliciousness. As a note, if the ham you buy doesn’t come in packaging, you will want to put vacuum-sealed packaging around it for it to retain moisture while it’s in the sous vide cooker.

Ham, Bacon, and Cheddar Breakfast Pastry Puffs

Six Breakfast Pastry Puffs sit on butcher paper as a bit of blackberry topping peaks in from the right side.

Start the celebration early. These Ham, Bacon, and Cheddar Breakfast Pastry Puffs are a fast-and-easy morning meal. These puffs also could make an adorable breakfast to give the kids with their Easter basket to make the day extra special.

Easter Dinner Lamb Recipes

Spring Lamb Chops

A plate of spring lamb chops with smoky roasted radishes.

A bright and fresh take, our Spring Lamb Chops bring together juicy, farm-raised lamb chops seared to perfection with a vibrant mint chimichurri, silky leek purée, and caramelized radishes. Market produce and herbaceous accents make this dish a standout.

Bourbon Glazed Lamb Chops

Grilled lamb chops with herb garnish

Sweet meets smoky. These Bourbon Glazed Lamb Chops, take grilled chops and brush them with a rich bourbon-honey and white wine vinegar glaze. Then, it’s all finished with a sprinkle of bright fresh mint for bold, finger-licking flavor.

Burgundy Braised Lamb Shank Dinner

A white plate holds a lamb dinner with burgundy braised lamb shank, roasted vegetables, and a homemade dressing, all on a white table.

Looking for a way to make lamb chops even more elegant? This Burgundy Braised Lamb Shank Dinner sinks fall-off-the-bone tender lamb shanks in a burgundy-infused sauce. We’re pairing this main with a medley of roasted root vegetables and bright caper-tarragon gribiche.

Santa Maria-Style Dry Rub Lamb

A leg of lamb with a dry rub santa maria-style seasoning sits on an orange plate with a fork and knife cutting it open.

Since the weather is starting to warm up, why not take your lamb to the grill? A peppery, herb-spiked dry rub forms a spicy, garlicky crust as your lamb leg roasts and finishes on the grill. Not to mention, it complements any side you desire.

Crown Roast of Lamb with Mint Sauce

A crown roast of lamb with min sauce from the gilded age sits among a bed of figs and potatoes and greens.

We’re big fans of making an impact and in case you need to show up and out this Easter, this is the dish for you. The next time your parents complain about something in your life, remind them of this beautiful Crown Roast of Lamb with Mint Sauce you succeeded in making.

Story by Kylie Thomas

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Pineapple Season Starts with These Recipes

By
Kylie Thomas
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0
Baked salmon topped with pineapple mango salsa sits on a white dishes.

When the days grow longer and the spring ingredients start to arrive, one tropical favorite begins to steal the spotlight: pineapple. Pineapple season typically peaks from March through July, though in some regions it can extend into early fall. During this time, the fruit is at its sweetest, juiciest, and most vibrant, perfect for adding to various recipes.

More About Pineapples

Native to South America and later cultivated extensively in places like Hawaii, Costa Rica, and Philippines, pineapple thrives in warm, tropical climates. Thanks to modern growing regions around the world, it’s available year-round but true pineapple season brings peak flavor and natural sweetness that simply tastes like sunshine.

Health Benefits

Beyond its bold, refreshing taste, pineapple is packed with vitamin C, antioxidants, and bromelain, an enzyme known for its digestive benefits. Its balance of sweetness and acidity makes it incredibly versatile too, allowing you to bake and grill it.

As pineapple season begins, it’s the perfect time to embrace this golden fruit at its best with these recipes.

Pineapple Recipes for Springtime

Grilled Pork Chops with Grilled Pineapple

Pork chops, pineapple, and peaches on the grill make for a sweet summertime meal.

One of our favorite ways of serving Pineapple after giving it a moment on the grill. The bit of char adds a smokiness to this sweet fruit that cannot be beat. To match, we’re adding on a pair of Grilled Pork Chops and a Grilled Peach salad on the side.

Strawberry Pineapple Agua Fresca

Three glasses of strawberry pineapple agua fresca sit in glasses on a white picnic table surrounded by strawberries and slices of pineapple.

Head to your local farmers market to grab the ingredients to make your own agua fresca at home. Let the warm weather in with this refreshing drink that uses fresh fruit, sparkling water, and a bit of honey. Plus pineapple and strawberry blend well for their differing profiles of tangy and sugary.

Bacon Wrapped Scallops with Mango and Pineapple Salsa

Four bacon wrapped scallops with fruity mango pineapple salsa sits on a blue plate.

Scallops are one of the best seafood mains for mixing with other ingredients with it’s subtle taste that takes on whatever it’s cooked with. We wrap tender scallops in crispy bacon and serve atop a pineapple and mango salsa with a bit of spicy jalapeño.

Cranberry Pineapple Upside Down Cake

An aerial shot of a pineapple Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe

While you could rely on canned pineapple slices atop this decadent and moist upside down cake, we think cutting the slices from a whole pineapple makes it so much better. Brown sugar, butter, and cranberries finish things off so you can feel good about the dessert you’re serving.

Grilled Swordfish with Pineapple Salsa

A white plate with a piece of grilled swordfish with a pineapple salsa on top and a salad on the side. A fork and knife also sit on the plate.

Salsa doesn’t have to have tomatoes. Instead, substitute in pineapple for something different and tropical. Then mix in jalapeño peppers, red onion, bell peppers, herbs, and balsamic vinegar. This dresses up your swordfish without overwhelming it.

Salmon With Pineapple Mango Salsa

Baked salmon topped with pineapple mango salsa sits on a white dishes.

In case you prefer salmon over swordfish and don’t mind savoring another springtime favorite, try this dish for one of your weeknight dinners. The pineapple mango salsa here brings island flavors to a fresh fillet of salmon.

Story by Kylie Thomas

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Pit Firing Pottery in the Winter

By
Kylie Thomas
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0
A gloved hand pulls a still-smoking, primitive-fired ceramic pot from a pit of glowing coals after an overnight outdoor firing session.

What happens when a group of friends makes something together? Creativity sparks. The workaday world fades away. People draw closer thanks to pit firing in the wintertime.

Handmade clay pottery pieces wrapped in copper wire and foil sitting on a wooden bench in front of a roaring campfire for primitive outdoor firing.

A Group of Friends Bond Through Winter Pit Firing Pottery

There’s something deeply human about the urge to create. When that instinct is shared with others, it becomes something even more powerful. Getting together with friends to make something, anything, can shake you out of your daily routine and bring an energy that’s hard to find anywhere else. It’s not just about the end result. It’s about the process, the mess, the momentum, and the connection that happens when everyone is in it together.

A group of friends sits around a roaring campfire in the woods with a dog, watching a primitive pottery firing in a galvanized metal pit.

A few of us recently spent the night at my friend Kim’s cabin to try something none of us had tried before. Stephan has been getting into pottery and wanted to test primitive firing techniques in a natural setting with some of the pieces he made. We built a fire deep in the woods, layering sawdust, copper wire, foil, horsehair, banana peels, and oxides, then tucked the pots inside and fed the flames late into the night.

A person pouring wood shavings into a smoking galvanized metal fire pit while preparing an outdoor primitive pottery firing in the woods.

The Pit Firing Process

Dan kept the fire roaring so we could get maximum heat. The comforting smell of campfire smoke clung to our clothes as sparks rose into the dark. In the morning, we uncovered still glowing coals and pulled out the pots, each one marked by smoke, flame, and the unusual mix of materials it had touched.

A woman smiling while using a wooden tool to pack or shape a ceramic pot in a forest setting, with a brindle dog resting nearby.

We rinsed them in a mountain stream, the cold water revealing raw and beautiful results we could never have planned. It was messy, imperfect, and unforgettable. And it reminded me why I love making things with people I care about. Each person brought their own curiosity, skill, and spirit to the experience. That’s what made it special.
So many people stick to what they know, fall into rhythms, and forget how good it can feel to try something unfamiliar just for the sake of it. This is your reminder to break that pattern. Grab a few friends and make something together. It doesn’t have to be perfect. It doesn’t even have to make sense.

A smoke-stained ceramic pot sitting among ashes and burnt foil after being fired with horsehair in a primitive outdoor kiln.

Just get your hands dirty. Choose the unfamiliar. See what happens. You might walk away with something unexpected, something lasting and not just the thing you made, but the memory of who you were with when you made it.

A person scrubbing a small, fired ceramic pot with a brush in a sparkling mountain stream to reveal its natural finish.

A Word from Stephan

“I had some bisque pots I wanted to finish in a way that felt more raw and more open to chance. Pit firing is one of the first ways people fired clay, it’s as old as pottery itself, and I wanted to see what the fire would leave behind. I hoped for color from the oxides, texture from horsehair, carbon from the flame. We got some of that. But more than anything, I wanted to share the experience with friends, enjoy the time outside, the work, and process by firelight, with food, and good company.” – Stephan Caspar

A man using a long metal tube to blow air into a roaring campfire to increase the heat for a primitive pottery firing in the woods at night.

Story and Photography by Matt Dayak

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