Pittsburgh’s 2023 Schedule of Festival Fun

As 2023 begins, it’s time to start thinking about the exciting events and festivals taking place in the year ahead

As 2023 begins, it’s time to start thinking about the exciting events and festivals taking place in the year ahead. And, what better way than to plan a new experience in an undiscovered destination such as Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Known for its vast arts and culture scene, award-winning culinary offerings and iconic Jazz history, Pittsburgh highlights its expertise through its year-round calendar of events.  

As the city builds on its tourism offering with new and exciting events and experiences, below are eight of the best to enjoy in 2023 in this must visit destination. 

CBX Festival (27 March-2 April)

A new week-long festival of events celebrating craft beverages throughout Allegheny County, CBX Festival will take place from 27 March – 2 April 2023 for the first time. Highlighting every element of the industry from production to bottling including beer, wine, spirits and more, CBX will be a county-wide celebration encompassing the craft beverage experience. CBX Experience is a consumer tasting event that will invite small batch vendors from across Allegheny County to showcase their products to industry partners and the general public. 

Pittsburgh Pride Revolution (2-4 June)

Kick off Pride Month with a multi-day celebration in Pittsburgh. Taking place from 2-4 June in multiple destinations across the city including Downtown and North Shore, Pittsburgh Pride Revolution 2023 will feature performances, vendors, a community march and free concerts featuring local and international artists. An inclusive celebration, Pittsburgh Pride is an epitome of love everywhere and welcomes one and all. Events vary in prices.  

Fourth of July (4 July)

With friendly locals and extravagant events, there’s no better place to experience the Fourth of July than in Pittsburgh. Kick off celebrations at the destination’s largest firework display taking place during the City of Pittsburgh Independence Day Celebration at Point State Park. For thrill seekers, head to Kennywood from 1-4 July for its Celebrate America event. Ride the theme park’s iconic roller coasters and witness a hot dog eating contest and the annual Wiener 100 dachshund race. In 2023, Kennywood will also be commencing its 125th birthday celebrations with an events calendar bigger and better than ever before. 

Black Music Festival (13-17 July)

Taking place across Point State Park and Market Square in Downtown Pittsburgh, the Pittsburgh Black Music Festival will return from 13-17 July. A renowned hub for Jazz, the free five-day festival honours the city’s talent with native Jazz artists George Benson, Art Blakey, Stanley Turrentine and more originating from the city. A festival for every music fan, visitors can enjoy a variety of music from Funk, Blues and Soul to Jazz, Hip Hop and RnB. The festival is free to attend.

Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix (14-23 July)

The Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix is the nation’s only vintage street race and the largest vintage race event, spanning 10 days with two race weekends, car shows, parties, parades and motorsport events. Car fanatics can spot vehicles such as retro Volkswagen Buses, a line of Ford Thunderbirds, DeLoreans and Ford Model T’s. Held in scenic Schenley Park, the fundraising event expects to see over 200,000 spectators, 150 racers and 2,500 show cars. 

Picklesburgh (July – date TBC)

Dedicated to Pittsburgh’s pickle history and the art of pickling, Picklesburgh is an annual three-day festival that takes place in Downtown Pittsburgh on one of the city’s iconic ‘Three Sister’ golden bridges. Headlined by a giant flying Heinz pickle balloon, the event offers live music, pickling and cooking demos, as well as the fan favourite – the Pickle Juice Drinking Contest. The event is free, with food and drink available for purchase. 

Pittsburgh Mixed Culture (July – date TBC)

Taking place for its second year, Pittsburgh Mixed Culture festival is hosted by Pittsburgh-based Cinderlands Beer Co. and Trace Brewing at Freedom Farms. The event celebrates saison, mixed-culture beer and the diverse community of beer-loving people in and around Pittsburgh, with live performances and food vendors. 

Pittsburgh International Jazz Festival (15-17 September)

Don’t miss this soulful weekend at Highmark Stadium with more than 140 jazz musicians. Pittsburgh International Jazz Festival sees world-renowned musicians grace the stages as well as new artists to watch. With numerous vendors, huge stages to bask in the talent and a friendly, lively crowd, this exciting weekend is a must for music lovers. 

For more information, please visit www.visitpittsburgh.com

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