Juneteenth celebrates the day that the Emancipation Proclamation, President Abraham Lincoln’s executive order freeing all enslaved people of the United States, reached Galveston, Texas. It took over two years to reach southernmost Texas. In the 20th century, Juneteenth became associated with red drinks, food, and desserts as a symbol of endurance and strength. The inspiration and the name of this Juneteenth cocktail come from a long history of African Americans not receiving their due for major contributions to American society and history.
The whiskey used in this drink is from Uncle Nearest, a distillery named after a talented distiller whose real name was Nathan Green. He originated the Lincoln County Process, which is essential to Tennessee whiskey distillation. He taught Jack Daniels the craft of distillation, putting in motion an American spirits tradition. His is just one of countless unsung inventions and creations by people of color.
“This Juneteenth cocktail helps me continually celebrate the paths we forge, as well as the paths forged by those who came before us who might go uncelebrated this Juneteenth,” says Cecil Usher.
“Unsung Heroes is a bittersweet cocktail that encourages us to uncover our history. It’s reminiscent of a cocktail in the Negroni family. The cocktail is special to me because it is part of my personal history. That’s also part of of what led to the founding of my company, Mindful Hospitality Group.”
Portrait of Cecil Usher, co-founder of Mindful Hospitality Group, by Michael ParentePrint
Fill a low glass with ice. Add spirits and stir with a bar spoon until chilled. Twist an orange peel over the drink. Run it around the rim of the glass, and add to the drink.
Sip slowly and contemplate.
For more about Cecil Usher, find him on Instagram: @mindfulhospitalitygroup, @mindful_bartender_
Recipe by Cecil Usher Photography by Michael Parente
Marlon Wayans plays Shorty in Scary Movie from Paramount Pictures.
Well, if the movies it spoofed are back, Scary Moviemight as well try again with a new film in 2026. Screamand Halloweenhave produced latter-day chapters with identical titles to their previous installments, so the Wayans brothers’ return to lowbrow, deliberately boundary-crossing parody was all but inevitable.
Does the Scary Movie Spoof Formula Hold Up in 2026?
Inevitably, you’ll find yourself laughing at Scary Movie. There are two reasons that this film, shaggy and overstuffed though it is, will have you unleashing guilty chuckles: there are some very funny performers, and there are so many jokes being hurled at you that some can’t help but hit.
It’s comedy by shotgun; more pellets are going to miss than hit, but the ones that land might do some damage.
Fortunately, most of the assembled roster is likable. Anna Faris and Regina Hall remain hilarious; Marlon Wayans travels way over the top but gathers plenty of laughs on the journey. The cast list is massive and predictably contains plenty of unannounced cameos; a few game players — Olivia Rose Keegan, Dave Sheridan, Heidi Gardner and Benny Zielke among them — rise above the noise.
Leave Your Inner Critic at the Door
Wayans has made it clear that a return to Scary Movie is an opportunity to transgress, deliberately playing with all manner of taboo or broadly offensive topics — and mocking the idea of offensive comedy itself. Just as inevitably as some jokes will make you guffaw, others will make you cringe; such lines cannot be approached without occasionally tripping over them.
It’s hard to take true offense, though; as Eminem said in a decades-old song borrowed by Scary Movie’s trailer, this film is “just obscene.” It does not seek to upset only to lampoon. While there are some modern sensibilities that won’t be able to accept that approach (and are perfectly justified in avoiding the film as a result), the intent is mostly harmless.
It’d be silly to call Scary Movie a fine example of filmmaking — and the series has never aspired to that goal. (Even rating it on a star meter like the one above feels slightly inappropriate.) It’s a collection of gags, gentle shots at recent hits and cheap laughs. In that attempt, it does just fine.
He-Man and One Jonas Brother Walk Into a Cinema
In Power Ballad, a compelling dram-edy from Oncedirector John Carney, Paul Rudd gets a night of rock-star attention that quickly turns sour. A wedding-band frontman and loving family man, he’s invited to a late-night jam session after a pop star (Nick Jonas) recognizes his talent. The drunken collaboration leads to a stolen song turned megahit, sending our hard-luck hero on a journey for recognition. Rudd’s elevated everyman persona works perfectly, and the script expertly tiptoes between realism and fantasy. It’s an undeniable crowd-pleaser … even if the signature song probably should’ve been a bit more catchy.
Rumor has it that there’s a new adventure for He-Man — the live-action beat-em-up Masters of the Universe — simply because the success of Barbiesent Hollywood on a quest for more marketable toy lines. Why did Amazon/MGM think the line of quasi-beloved, broadly forgotten ’80s action figures was worth 141 minutes and $200 million dollars in budget? Your guess is as good as mine. Early reviews are lukewarm, though, so if you still have Skeletor somewhere in your house, have at it.
Mayor Corey O’Connor, his wife Katie O’Connor, and several leaders of organizations with youth programming gathered to discuss the city’s strengths and opportunities when it comes to family-friendly policy.
Why Families Are Returning to Pittsburgh, According to Mayor Corey O’Connor
The numbers are in, and they are positive: Pittsburgh does indeed have a boomerang rate just slightly higher than the national average of about 28%. According to a 2025 study by the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland, 29.3% of Pittsburgh natives who strike out on their own from the Steel City wind up returning to settle down and raise their families, though this is a weaker rate than nearby cities like Cleveland or Cincinnati.
What brings people back? There are measurable reasons, like low cost of living and affordable real estate. There are the sports teams and high-quality cultural offerings that can compete with those of much larger cities, as well. But then, there are also intangible factors that tie in to the core of the city’s identity, things like the unique cultural identities of Pittsburgh’s neighborhoods, strong civic and private support for youth programming, and the gravitational pull of tight-knit communities, the likes of which are more often found in smaller metropolitan areas than in sprawling urban environments.
“My mom was born and raised in her house — she never left,” said Pittsburgh Mayor Corey O’Connor, seated around a dinner table at TABLE Magazine’s headquarters in Shadyside in late March. “And [it’s still in the family]. That’s the Pittsburgh story.” Mayor O’Connor, his wife Katie, and several other city leaders in children’s programming, healthcare, and workforce development shared a meal prepared by Chef Kevin Hermann of Bistro To Go to discuss the Steel City’s strengths as well as opportunities for improvement in the city’s relationship with families with children. The O’Connor’s two young children were present at the dinner, underlining the conversation with laughter and an occasional, high-pitched interjection.
How Partnerships Can Strengthen the City
Much of the remainder of the discussion centered around schools and public-private partnerships, and the consensus around the table was that the City of Pittsburgh offers a strong variety of programming for children of all ages through its schools and nonprofits. There are pre-K partnerships between Pittsburgh Public Schools and local nonprofit organizations, including the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh. And as children age, there are numerous support programs for children and families that take kids all the way through college applications and/or vocational training for a good-paying job. Nevertheless, hurdles remain, including the ability of the city and organizations to get the word out about programs.
“We’re up against a lot of competition for people’s attention, and we’re finding communications challenging because sometimes we’re communicating to the parent, sometimes we’re communicating to the child, and that is turning into more and more of a science,” said Rob Cherry, CEO of Partner4Work, a workforce development nonprofit currently expanding its youth offerings.
Aside from communications, Mayor O’Connor said that the city’s relationship with the Pittsburgh Public Schools needs to evolve so that both entities can better serve the region’s children and parents. And, finally, like other urban areas around the country, the city continuously loses population — especially young families — to the suburbs, a shift driven primarily by parents seeking better schools and more favorable tax rates.
Shared Responsibilities and Tech Education
Pittsburgh Public Schools and more than a dozen partnering organizations, including the Children’s Museum, do offer pre-K programs for students ages 3-5, but space is limited, and admission is currently based on eligibility and a lottery system. There are also childcare programs for children younger than 3 for income-eligible families, but again, space is limited. “Actually, the Children’s Museum might be one of the only museums to host public school pre-K classrooms, nationwide,” said Jane Werner, executive director at the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh, explaining that the museum’s direct partnership with the Pittsburgh Public Schools was trailblazing on a national level.
Pittsburgh’s literacy rate tracks relatively closely to other cities of Pittsburgh’s size and demographics, Katie O’Connor noted. But it has been dropping in recent years. According to Pennsylvania Department of Education data, only 44% of Pittsburgh third graders read at a “proficient” level at the end of the 2024-2025 school year, a little below the state’s overall rate of 48.6%.
The city’s nonprofits aren’t alone in supporting early childhood education. Duolingo, for example, pledged $1 million a year in donations to support childhood development in 2023. In 2025, the company supported 15 local childcare programs and distributed more than $750,000 in scholarships to families outside of eligibility for existing programs. “It felt like this went a little unnoticed, but it’s a very important thing,” said Katie O’Connor. “Giving that child a book… To me, there’s no more powerful thing you can give a child. You change the course of their life. And I think Pittsburgh Public is a key part of this story, as well.”
Care Doesn’t Stop After Early Childhood
Later, as children enter elementary and middle school, the school system and the city’s responsibility for their caretaking grows, said Mayor O’Connor, who noted that the city currently has little to no say in school policy, which is set by the school board. He also said that he is working to develop a collegial partnership with Pittsburgh Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Wayne Walters as a step toward better collaboration. “At 3 o’clock, when school’s over, I become responsible for your kids until 9 a.m. when they get back, and I’m responsible for every weekend, every holiday, every summer, which is why we should have a voice in that room,” Mayor O’Connor said.
This is no easy feat. Groups of kids have regularly made the news in downtown Pittsburgh and other neighborhoods for unruly afterschool behavior, a challenge hardly unique to the Steel City but one that leaders think stronger after-school programming could help solve.
Supportive Programs
Cherry points to programs like Partner4Work in helping youth focus their time and energy on career-building and emphasizing the need for public-private partnerships for workforce development programs. Over dinner, Mayor O’Connor also shared that the R.K. Mellon Foundation had pledged $1 million in funding to help Partner4Work expand its youth employment initiatives from summers to year-round, with Cherry adding that he hopes that as city and state leaders continue to discuss Pittsburgh as a hub for AI and robotics, “we should have places and spaces where our young people get a leg up on that, get exposed to it fairly early.”
Others, including AnneMarie Lyons, executive administrator of the University of Pittsburgh Physicians Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women’s Health, agreed that AI and tech should be top-of-mind for educational and workforce development leaders. “In sonography tech, AI exists right now that we could learn to use to scan a uterus in 30 minutes,” Lyons said, explaining that she hopes to see training programs for youth and the workforce to help train the next generation of technicians. “That’s important to me, because techs are hard to find, and the tech education programs are closing. That innovation [in AI] is good when you can’t staff certain fields or industries for whatever reason.”
Suburban Flight and School Choice
In December, Pittsburgh Public Schools approved a $731 million budget for 2026 that included a 2% tax hike, another potential push for families to depart the city for the suburbs in this current period of declining enrollment. “We don’t have any say in that plan, but it’s going to affect how, when parents get their kids to middle school, they tend to go to the suburbs, and we lose population, so it’s got to be a better connection. And they go to the suburbs for a number of reasons, but schools are the main reason,” Mayor O’Connor said, noting that some city governments around the country are beginning to “take over” or become involved in school policy. “Now, we’re nowhere near doing that, but there is talk about merging schools, and we don’t have any say in that plan, either,” he said.
Guests also discussed their personal decisions about whether and where students will attend public or private school, with a variety of views represented. Cherry’s children attend private school, while Werner’s two children attended Pittsburgh Public Schools. “We were so committed to public schools, but at the end of it all, you wonder if you made the right choice,” Werner said. “Both of my sons attended Pittsburgh Public Schools — they have been able to handle any situation that we find ourselves in at any time in any country, because of their experience there. It was the real world,” she added, nodding to her son, Sam, seated next to her.
How You Can Do Your Part
To make a difference in Pittsburgh’s youth culture, regardless of where they attend school, leaders encourage readers to attend school board meetings and to help get the word out about community programs in their areas. They highlighted the area’s growing number of senior residents as a particularly powerful voting bloc in the city’s children’s policy. “I think that real innovation comes with unlikely partners,” Werner said. “I keep thinking about the AARP — they’re the folks who vote, and they vote on kids’ issues as well, right? We actually allow adults into the museum without kids, because being around kids is healthy for them, too, in terms of social connection and cognition.”
Readers looking to support area youth organizations and programming can also donate to, or volunteer at, the organizations listed below.
“Be present and get involved. As trite as it sounds, the kids are the future,” Werner said.
What We Talked About
Pittsburgh’s boomerang rate
Creative pre-K options
The city’s relationship with Pittsburgh Public Schools
Youth workforce development
AI and tech training
Public vs. private education
How to get involved
Youth Programs in Our Area
Consider supporting Pittsburgh’s youth by giving to or volunteering with one of these local organizations.
There’s no reason to stay inside the house when the weather is beautiful in June and Pittsburgh’s neighborhoods come alive with events. The week of June 15-21 keeps you busy with historical tours, Pride celebrations, and various opportunities for one-on-one time with your partner.
Enjoy the budding summer weather with a walking tour from the Historical Society of Mt. Lebanon. You’ll start at the intersection of Washington Road, Castle Shannon Boulevard, and Lebanon Avenue where history surrounds you. Then, head to the Southminster Presbyterian Church to hear about their stained glass and church bell history. Finally, learn the history of Mt. Lebanon Public Library with a behind-the-scenes tour.
If you’re a fan of pop-art and you’re looking to add new art to your wall, make it yourself at this Paint and Sip session. Instructor Celia and the Classpop!™ team will supply you with all the materials and guidance you need, taking things step-by-step. Not to mention sipping on wine the whole time makes the whole experience so much more chaotic in the best way.
Licensed Massage Therapist Christian Bean wants to teach you to give your partner the best massage possible. Help both you and your loved one relax with grounding exercises, massage techniques for trigger points, and how to form a compassionate presence in the process. All classes take place in an intimate setting so you can really connect with the person you bring along.
Whether you’re an ally or a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, you’re welcome to come celebrate Pride Month with Poetry Lounge. All evening, you can mingle with local LGBTQIA+ artists and listen to multi-genre local music acts Dysphoric Void, Lucky Us, millie DREAD, and Anni Mai. Be sure to grab a drink from the bar and feel the support around you.
Do you love limoncello? You won’t want to miss Vallozzi’s Cello Fest where you’ll have the chance to try 10 different cellos in various flavors. Besides the delicious sips, the festival extends past the bar, keeping you busy with craft cocktails, Italian-inspired bites, plenty of games, DJ entertainment, photos from Oh Snap Pgh, and Caricatures by Howard Bender.
Plus, check out our calendar for other events this week and beyond!
Kennywood’s annual Bites and Pints Festival turns your day at the theme park into a delicious, globetrotting experience. The event — held Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through June 28 — features eight food stations representing fare from eight different countries, including a pair of European favorites returning from 2026. Buy a tasting card in advance of your trip (they’re available in 8- and 12-bite packages, and are significantly cheaper online) and you’ll spend your day going from rides to snacks and back again. These are no mere nibbles, though; you’ll find some hearty portions of surprisingly flavorful food. Here are our five favorites from this year’s offerings.
What to Order at Kennywood’s Bites and Pints Festival
Croque Monsieur in France
The return of the French booth means a very welcome comeback for the Croque Monsieur, one of Bites and Pints most substantial offerings. You’ll get half a sandwich featuring ham and gruyere, topped with a tasty bechamel sauce and delivered between thick slices of French Bread. It’s not only one of the best ways to fill up at Bites and Pints; it’s a delicious sandwich you’d gladly order any day of the week.
Currywurst in Germany
Head to the returning Germany booth for this curious, but surprisingly delectable, offering. Instead of drowning bratwurst in traditional mustard, this dish blends a curry sauce and coats both sausage and sauerkraut with a spicy blend. This is the type of dish you’ll try to recreate at home. Germany also offers a good number of pairings for the Currywurst, including two solid beer offerings and a tempting Bavarian Pretzel.
Tramezzini alla Caprese in Italy
The basil pesto soaks into the bread in this delicious half-sandwich, which feels indulgent despite its healthy ingredients (burrata, roasted tomatoes, arugula and pesto on ciabatta). The Italy booth also features a tempting Short-Rib Ragu and Piadina, a refreshing dessert choice featuring ricotta, peaches, pancetta and a hot-honey drizzle. (The wines aren’t Italian, as most of the focus this year is on offerings from the Lake Erie wine region, but you can get a pour of Birra Italia.)
Gua Bao in South Korea
You’ll get two bites in one with this choice at the South Korea booth. This offering packs two Gua Bao onto your plate, each featuring an appealing mix of pork belly, pickled cucumber and sesame slaw topped with green onions. Like the Croque Monsieur, this is a dish that can help fill you up and stretch your bite card throughout the day. Pair it with a pour of the Asahi Super Dry — or pay a la carte for a beer and save your bite card for food.
Tacos de Carnitas in Mexico
Every bite we had was tasty; this dish may have been the best in show. Head to the Mexico booth for a pair of tacos so overfilled with ingredients that we needed forks to find the tortillas. The braised pork pairs perfectly with the pineapple for a surprisingly fresh taste in a hearty dish. The line was long at this both, as the other featured bites — a Baja-Style Crab Cake and Tacos de Camaron — were drawing raves as well.
If there’s one thing about me, it’s that I look forward to my morning routine as I get ready for bed the night before. There’s truly nothing like an iced coffee to get me out of bed. However, when I know my morning will also contain a Pittsburgh breakfast moment of some sort, you know I’ll be up extra early. Whether you prefer a sandwich with a sunny-side-up or fried egg, American or cheddar cheese, sausage or bacon, this list is for every palette and preference.
Starting the list off strong with one of the most talked about spots, and probably the most photographed. After all, the cross section of every sandwich, breakfast burrito, or pastry here is a work of art. Not to mention their daily selection of freshly prepared salads, spreads, meals, and more. Clearly, I could talk about them all day, especially considering their staff is some of the kindest and hard-working people I’ve met. If I had to suggest just one sandwich to order, it would be the Comeback Kid: eggs, cheese, hashbrowns, comeback sauce, and your choice of sausage or bacon. For this one, I suggest opting for the bacon.
Nestled at the top of 18th Street in the South Side, 350 Bakery remains one of my favorite breakfast sandwich spots of all time. Although my expertise is in bagel breakfast sandwiches, their f luffy yet sturdy biscuit creations steal the show. I truly need to keep myself in check some weeks, so I don’t go every day they’re open. My go-to is the classic biscuit with egg, cheese, sausage, and pepper jelly. For bacon lovers, there’s also an option with bacon and onion jam. And while you’re there, you might as well snag one of their rotating flavors of handpies.
This classic spot in the heart of East Carson Street serves up genuinely good eats with zero frills: cash only, friendly service, and a menu that never changes. All of this makes it a perfect contender for this article. My go-to order: Sausage, egg, and cheese on an English muffin with a side of well-done hash browns. That’s it, that’s the order. A headsup: they close at 1pm and are closed on Mondays, so be sure to plan accordingly.
DiAnoia’s is widely regarded as a desirable dinner spot, but I argue that their breakfast and lunch counter service is highly underrated. Catch one of my favorite breakfast sandwiches Tuesday through Saturday: their own Pane é Pronto Kaiser Roll with Egg, American Cheese. Add some prosciutto. You can also choose your egg style, but I highly recommend a fried egg. And if you’re feeling extra in “treat yourself” mode, order a side of the roasted potatoes with Calabrian mayo or the zeppole… or text your group chat and order both to share.
This is another spot I’ve loved to watch evolve over the years. I’ll never forget visiting Wise County Biscuits at the Bloomfield Farmer’s Market in 2018, right after I moved here. Talk about a core memory. Now they have an incredible space on the North Side where people flock for their unforgettable biscuits and biscuit sandwiches. I always opt for the Sallie’s Snack, which is their house-made pimento cheese, chow chow (a vinegar-based, crunchy, chopped slaw of sorts), and egg, and I add a house-made pork sausage patty, because why not?
I’ve spent so many summer weekend mornings waiting in line for these beauties, and even a few rainy weekday mornings when there’s no line. Thyme Machine is temporarily closed due to a fire, but they more than deserve to be on this list, especially in anticipation of their reopening. They bake bread and doughnuts and do prep work inside, and they grill and assemble every sandwich on their cart outside. You either need to get there early, wait in line, or both, because when they sell out, they sell out. There’s a sandwich here for everyone, but I’ll note they’re probably best-known for The Morty: Fried pistachio mortadella, cherry pepper mayo, marinated peppers, fried egg, provolone, and a poppy seed bun.
One of my favorite parts of living in Pittsburgh for as long as I have is being able to see businesses evolve. I remember the first time I had a Lola’s Eatery bagel at one of their early pop-ups in East Liberty, and look at them now! They have a cute, cozy, and bright space in Lawrenceville serving up Filipino classics alongside more mainstream combinations.
I haven’t had a chance to try one of their McSteamy creations (their take on a fast-food staple), but the Taylor Gang is what does it for me. As a proud New Jerseyan, Taylor Ham is a way of life; a quick explanation for those not familiar with it would be that it occupies the middle ground between Canadian bacon and regular ham. It’s salty, crispy when cooked right, and ideal between two fried eggs, two slices of American cheese, and Lola’s tangy sauce, which is exactly what you can expect when ordering the Taylor Gang.
This spot is a recent discovery, recommended by a friend, for both the breakfast sandwich and the doughnuts. It’s a bit off the main road, but very worth a visit no matter how far you are. All of their bread is baked inhouse, and their English muffin may be one of the best ever. That was my vessel of choice for my sausage, egg, and cheese, but you can also get a sandwich on one of their glazed doughnuts, which sounds like a combination that may be on someone’s food bucket list.
I only wish I had discovered Kevin’s while I was a student at Pitt. Not only is the food delicious and always crafted with love, but Kevin himself is behind the counter every day, coming up with new creations. Whether you’re craving a giant chicken salad (topped with fries, of course), a cheesesteak, or a classic breakfast sandwich, you can find it all at Kevin’s. My go-to is a bacon, egg, and cheese on a roll with salt, pepper, and ketchup. Because sometimes, simple is best. And it’s and all you need to power through a workday or cure a hangover.
TABLE contributor Kenny Gould tracks down the best of Pittsburgh’s summer food (and drink) festivals. Whether you’re planning a weekend around craft beer, craving comfort food, or just looking for a reason to wander downtown with something tasty in hand, these festivals are some of the best ways to eat (and drink!) your way through the Steel City.
Pittsburgh’s Best Summer Food and Drink Festivals 2026
June 15-19, Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church, 123 Gilkeson Road, Mount Lebanon
A beloved kickoff to festival season, the Pittsburgh Greek Festival is all about big flavors and warm hospitality. Expect expertly grilled souvlaki, overstuffed gyros, flaky spanakopita, and enough baklava to satisfy even the strongest sweet tooth. Beyond the food, there’s music, dancing, and that unmistakable feeling of being welcomed like family—even if it’s your first visit.
June 13, The Carrie Blast Furnaces, 801 Carrie Furnace Blvd, Rankin
If you’ve ever wanted to try beers from 50+ of Pittsburgh’s amazing breweries in one place, you’re in luck! Beers of the Burgh brings together local breweries as well as food vendors in the dramatic, industrial setting of the Carrie Blast Furnaces. Although it’s primarily a beer festival, the food offerings are far more than an afterthought—many of the city’s favorite food vendors show up to pair their bites with the city’s best IPAs, lagers, and experimental brews.
August 8, The Stacks at 3 Crossings, 2875 Railroad Street, Strip District
Few festivals are as unique as this one. Rated as one of the best festivals in the country, Barrel & Flow Fest spotlights Black-owned breweries, chefs, musicians, artists, and vendors. It’s a true community celebration, and one of the most welcoming—not just in the city, but in the country. Unlike many festivals, Barrel & Flow is less about rushing from tent to tent and more about soaking in the atmosphere while enjoying food, drink, art, and music from top craftspeople around the United States.
Branded as “A Soulful Taste of the Burgh,” this festival is a full-on celebration of Southern and soul food traditions. Expect everything from barbecue and fried favorites to family recipes passed down through generations. Add in BBQ competitions, craft vendors, and live entertainment, and you’ve got a multi-day feast that fills downtown with music, aromas, and energy. JULY 16-19 Downtown Pittsburgh picklesburgh.com Only in Pittsburgh could a pickle-themed festival become a massive annual event—and Picklesburgh fully embraces the absurdity. From pickle pizza and pickle beer to pickle juice slushies, games, as well as novelty items, this specialty food festival is equal parts delicious and delightfully weird. Even pickle skeptics tend to leave impressed. See if you can beat Ryan Thompson, last year’s “Duke of Drinking,” who chugged a quart of pickle juice in 3.69 seconds.
September 11-13, The Carrie Blast Furnaces 801 Carrie Furnace Blvd, Rankin
Come celebrate 35 years of tradition! While the music, dance, and heritage events take center stage, the food and drink at the Pittsburgh Irish Festival are not to be overlooked. Traditional Irish fare, hearty comfort foods, and plenty of beer make this a satisfying way to close out summer festival season— especially as the weather starts to cool.
The Pittsburgh Chinese Culture Festival is the largest outdoor celebration of Chinese heritage in Western Pennsylvania—and it’s completely free to attend. Going on its 11th year, the festival blends food, performance, and hands-on cultural experiences into a fullday event that’s welcoming for all ages. Food is a major highlight, with authentic Chinese cuisine available as well as sweet treats. On stage, you’ll find traditional dance, music, and martial arts demonstrations, while the surrounding grounds host cultural exhibits, calligraphy, crafts, and interactive workshops.
Pittsburgh’s theater community is vibrant, varied, and busy — so much so that it’s easy to get a great night of entertainment any night on the calendar, more or less. Innumerable worthy troupes, from touring productions to community theaters, are doing thoughtful work in Western Pennsylvania. These eight choices, however, may emerge as the standout productions of 2026. Support and patronize theater wherever and whenever makes sense for you… but make a special point of seeing these shows.
Pittsburgh Theater Shows You Need to Grab Tickets to in 2026
June 25-July 12, Little Lake Theatre, 500 Lakeside Drive, Canonsburg
Rob Reiner’s movie adaptation of A Few Good Men, revisited by many viewers after the director’s tragic death last year, is one of the best courtroom dramas ever committed to film — a tense and vexing question of honor, duty and moral accountability. While the Hollywood hit (and especially Jack Nicholson’s sneering performance) is the definitive version, A Few Good Men started as a play — the show that made Aaron Sorkin’s name, in fact, thanks to a hit Broadway run. The words carry the thing in any venue. In the intimate confines of Little Lake’s inviting home, the tension should be thick. Whether you draw any parallels to accountability (or the lack thereof) in the modern era is up to you.
July 17-August 23, Quantum Theatre at Carrie Blast Furnaces National Historic Landmark, 801 Carrie Furnace Boulevard, Rankin
Quantum Theatre’s prior stagings of Shakespeare at Carrie Blast Furnaces — 2019’s King Lear and 2023’s Hamlet — are among the most lauded and popular in the company’s history. A return to the historic site was inevitable; this production, however, will take on added significance in the history of the company. The Tempest will represent a curtain call for company founder Karla Boos; the playwright, director and performer is retiring from the company she founded after directing this production. There’s certainly resonance in scheduling a farewell on Prospero’s island, just as there’s local significance in placing that lost kingdom within the region’s grandest relic of the industrial past. Expect a surprising and poignant evening under stars and steel.
Photo From SUFFS Tour with Tulia Rameriz as Inez Milholland
July 21-26, Benedum Center, 237 7th Street, Downtown
If one were so inclined, one could draw a direct line between the historical events depicted in Suffs — the fight for women’s suffrage in the early 20th century — and the struggle to preserve voting rights today. It would certainly be an easy parallel to draw during a midterm election year fraught with potential and fully realized changes to the way Americans vote. While such connections can be made, they shouldn’t steal the focus from the undeniable appeal of Suffs as a work of theater — especially the show’s story and music, for which creator (and original star) Shaina Taub claimed Tony awards for both Best Book and Best Score. Suffs, presented by Pittsburgh CLO, is also a fairly rare example of a touring production hitting the Benedum in the middle of summer — every season is Broadway season, after all.
August 14-23, Front Porch Theatricals at New Hazlett Theater, 6 Allegheny Square East, North Side
When US airspace closed on Sept. 11, 2001, a lot of planes had nowhere to go. Thirty-eight of those crafts found their way to the small town of Gander, Newfoundland, depositing about 7,000 passengers on the remote Atlantic island. This more or less doubled the number of people in Gander instantly — and, with no way to move those passengers along for days, made for an unusual and taxing week.
That story became the musical Come From Away, a Broadway and West End hit by Irene Sankoff and David Hein. An audience favorite when the show’s national tour came through Pittsburgh in 2019, Come From Away gets a fresh production from Front Porch Theatricals. Aaron GalliganStierle, who last summer starred in Front Porch’s hit Sunday in the Park With George, directs. It’s worth noting that this production will run just weeks before the 25th anniversary of the attacks — but Come From Away is more focused on small, human stories than grand acts of remembrance. Maybe that’s as it should be.
August 19-September 20, Pittsburgh Playwrights Theater Company at August Wilson House, 1727 Bedford Ave, Hill District
There’s undeniable resonance to watching classics by August Wilson in the playwright’s childhood backyard. Pittsburgh Playwrights has presented several of Wilson’s masterpieces at the home’s outdoor performance space in the past. It would not be in keeping with Wilson’s mission, however, to exclusively present one artist’s work; if we can presume, we’re pretty sure he would want new work to appear in the space. Good news, then, that writer a.k. payne’s intergenerational drama BURNBABYBURN will receive its world premiere at the August Wilson House this August. The show, set in the Hill District and Homewood, follows four generations of women as they seek understanding and healing.
September 19-October 11, City Theatre Company, 1300 Bingham Street, South Side
A theatrical production combines many disciplines of art: acting, writing, music, décor, and design. It’s less common, though, for a trip to the theater to involve ceramics — yet In Clay not only concerns the life of lauded ceramicist Marie-Berthe Cazin, it tasks the actress with throwing clay live on stage. Directed by Kimberly Senior (who previously helmed Little Gem at City), In Clay makes its way to Pittsburgh after a well-received run at DC’s Signature Theatre. A onewoman musical, In Clay tackles questions of art and identity while telling the life story of its under-appreciated subject; the show will “incorporate Pittsburghbased artists,” says Clare Drobot, City Theatre’s artistic director. “Pittsburgh has such a rich visual-arts community.”
October (Dates TBA), Barebones Productions, 1211 Braddock Avenue, Braddock
The process of making art is often rife with ego, conflict, and volatile conversations. That’s another way of saying that making art often… makes for good art. (Theater is about conflict, after all.) Last summer, Barebones’ sold-out (and then some) run of The Shark is Broken showed how three gifted actors became a powder keg when trapped on a certain vessel off of the fictional Amity Island. This October, the Braddock-based company presents another tale of turbulence in the creative process. In Ulster American, an actor (American), director (English), and playwright (Northern Irish) butt heads in a pre-rehearsal meeting. The funny and timely play was an Edinburgh Fringe hit, leading to a well-received 2023 London run featuring Woody Harrelson, Andy Serkis, and Louisa Harland. New York’s Irish Rep staged the U.S. premiere of the show in March; it’ll make it to Pittsburgh less than half a year later.
December 29-January 3, Benedum Center, 237 7th Street, Downtown
In a review that compared Maybe Happy Ending to recent hits The Band’s Visit and Kimberly Akimbo, New York Times critic Jesse Green wrote, “Under cover of sci-fi whimsy, it sneaks in a totally original human heartbreaker.” The tale of two retired androids navigating life without human roommates, Maybe Happy Ending was originally produced in 2014 Seoul. The Broadway version, which opened in late 2024, earned six Tony awards, including Best Musical. That makes Maybe Happy Ending an exceptionally current choice for the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust’s Broadway in Pittsburgh series; the show is still going strong in New York and will make its Pittsburgh bow only three months after its first national tour begins.
Story by Sean Collier Featured Photography by Heather Mull
June is a month full of celebrations. It’s the start of summer, graduation season, and most importantly, home to both Pride Month and Juneteenth. Whenever this time of year rolls around, Pittsburgh Black Pride finds their organization busy in the best type of way as they work to support the LGBTQIA+ community as well as Black community members. It’s their mission to celebrate representation through Pride and Juneteenth celebrations, education, and investment in the future. We speak with Pittsburgh Black Pride leaders President Tausha Bonner, Vice President Michelle Flewellen, Sergeant-at-Arms Terrence McGeorge, and Youth Leader Dawn Martin to find out why Pride and Juneteenth matter as much today as in the past, why they do what they do, and how you can help build a more inclusive and empowered community year-round.
Talking Pride Month and Juneteenth with Pittsburgh Black Pride
TABLE Magazine: What’s new this year for Pittsburgh Black Pride and what are you looking forward to?
Pittsburgh Black Pride: This year, Pittsburgh Black Pride focuses on expanding impact, visibility, and meaningful connection within our community. We are continuing to create spaces that center joy, culture, wellness, leadership, and belonging to Black LGBTQIA+ people and our allies. From dynamic programming and community engagement to wellness initiatives and celebratory experiences, we are intentionally building opportunities for people to feel connected, empowered, and affirmed.
What excites us most is witnessing community in action—seeing people come together across generations, backgrounds, and lived experiences to celebrate who we are. Pride is more than an event; it is a reminder that our stories, our joy, and our existence matter. We are looking forward to creating moments that inspire healing, celebration, visibility, and hope.
TM: Why is it so integral to have both “Black Pride” and Juneteenth celebrations in Pittsburgh?
Pittsburgh Black Pride: Black Pride and Juneteenth are both celebrations rooted in liberation, resilience, and collective progress. For Black LGBTQIA+ communities, these moments are deeply interconnected because they reflect multiple histories of struggle, survival, resistance, and joy.
Juneteenth reminds us of the ongoing journey toward racial justice and freedom, while Pride honors the fight for visibility, dignity, equality, and self-expression. Together, they invite us to celebrate the fullness of identity and acknowledge that liberation is never one dimensional. In Pittsburgh, celebrating both matters because representation matters. Community matters. These celebrations create spaces where people can feel seen, valued, and empowered while honoring those who fought for the freedoms we continue to defend today.
TM: How do you plan to uplift the community for Black Pride and Juneteenth?
Pittsburgh Black Pride: Our goal is to uplift the community by creating spaces that inspire joy, healing, connection, education, and empowerment. We believe celebration and service go hand in hand. That means providing opportunities for cultural expression, health and wellness engagement, leadership development, advocacy, storytelling, and authentic community-building.
We also understand that uplifting the community means meeting people where they are. Sometimes that looks like celebration and joy; other times it looks like access to resources, support systems, affirming spaces, mentorship, and reminding people that they belong. Pittsburgh Black Pride is committed to helping people feel not only celebrated during our events in July but supported throughout the year.
TM: What can community members do to help support others during Black Pride and Juneteenth?
Pittsburgh Black Pride: Support begins with intention. Show up. Listen. Learn. Celebrate. Advocate.
Community members can support others by attending local events, supporting Black owned and LGBTQIA+-owned businesses, volunteering, sharing resources, checking in on loved ones, and amplifying organizations doing meaningful work. Just as importantly, support means creating environments where people feel safe, respected, and valued for who they are.
The strongest communities come from everyday acts of care. Sometimes support looks like advocacy, and sometimes it simply looks like making sure someone knows they are seen, heard, and not alone.
TM: What initiatives can the city, Pittsburgh Black Pride, or even community members take throughout the rest of the year to uphold the values we celebrate in June & July?
Pittsburgh Black Pride: The values we celebrate in June & July —equity, liberation, dignity, belonging, and community care—must extend beyond a single month. A real impact happens when celebration turns into sustained action.
This means investing year-round in culturally responsive healthcare, mental wellness, housing stability, youth mentorship, education, economic opportunity, and safe affirming spaces for Black LGBTQIA+ communities. It also means strengthening partnerships across organizations, institutions, and neighborhoods to create systems rooted in inclusion and accountability.
For community members, the work can begin with simple but meaningful actions: volunteer, advocate, mentor, support local organizations, educate yourself, and commit to showing up consistently. Building stronger communities is a shared responsibility.
TM: What’s one easy way to celebrate Black Pride or Juneteenth even if you’re not headed to one of the big events?
Pittsburgh Black Pride: Celebrate with intention in ways that feel personal and meaningful. Support a local Black owned or LGBTQIA+-owned business, learn about the history behind Black Pride or Juneteenth, have conversations with family and friends, volunteer, donate, or spend time reflecting on the importance of freedom, visibility, and community.
Celebrations do not only happen on stage or in large crowds. It happens in everyday moments—through education, kindness, joy, visibility, and acts of collective care. Even small actions can help strengthen community and honor the spirit of Black Pride and Juneteenth.
We are lovers of a buffet that can take you all around the world in one go and now Pittsburgh is getting its own global dining center at Opal Buffet, coming to The Waterfront in late summer/early fall. A project from Opal Group, the brains behind popular dumpling spot Nan Xiang Xiao Long Bao in SouthSide Works, Opal Buffet plans to bring luxury to the buffet world with stylish serving stations, ambient dining, private rooms for parties of over 200 guests, as well as a large central bar that the whole place operates around. It’s not just a place for dining, it’s a place for enjoyment.
New Opal Buffet Set to Debut at The Waterfront with International Cuisine
At Opal Buffet, you’ll be able to dish up just about every type of cuisine you can think of. Craving something of a Chinese buffet? What about a fresh seafood bar? Already have your mind on dessert? Don’t worry, Opal Buffet will house all this and so much more that even your stomach won’t be sure where to start with so many options.
“Opal Grand Buffet is an international style dining experience,” says Andy Qian from Opal Group. “It features food from diverse cultures like Brazilian churrasco, Southeast Asian grilled seafood, fresh sushi, and different regions of China are represented as well.”
All ingredients for Opal Buffet focus on quality first, meaning a seasonal, rotating menu is in store and changes as the year goes on. But, don’t worry if you’re not much of a food traveler, America is absolutely one of the core parts of international dining. After all, it’s where so many cultures come together to create something new and widely appealing.
“It [Opal Buffet] will feature a wide range of menu options based on seasonality,” explains Qian. “American food culture will certainly be part of the fusion.”
Where’s the Location?
The buffet comes to The Waterfront area in the previous Rock Bottom space that’s right across from Dave and Buster’s and near the AMC Waterfront Theater complex, providing a place for families, coworkers, and friends to gather no matter if it’s for lunch or dinner. After Opal Group’s time running Nan Xiang Xiao Long Bao, the buffet establishes another hub for community members to experience what Pittsburgh has to offer from the restaurant itself to the area surrounding it.
“Opal is rooted in Pittsburgh and a good representation of Pittsburgh’s diverse culture in addition to the food,” says Qian. “The experience and selection will be a good destination dining spot for local communities.”
