Following the relaunch of British Airways’ direct flight from London Heathrow to Pittsburgh on 3 June and the relaxation of testing requirements for fully vaccinated travellers entering the US from 12 June, there is no better time to plan a trip to Pittsburgh. An incredible line up of summer festivals and events awaits visitors over the next few months, including unique celebrations and returning favourites that visitors can find Only in Pittsburgh. Here are six events you can’t miss this summer in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania:
Independence Day Celebration (4 July)
There are numerous Independence Day celebrations set to take place across Pittsburgh this July, but a family favourite is the Fourth of July firework display at the city’s iconic Point State Park. From 4pm, the park will host family-friendly activities including face painting and games, with live music and dancing throughout the evening. The event will culminate with a breathtaking firework display above the Pittsburgh skyline at 9.35pm.
Black Music Festival (14-17 July)
Taking place across Point State Park and Market Square in Downtown Pittsburgh, the Pittsburgh Black Music Festival will return for its fourth year this July. Pittsburgh is renowned as a hub for Jazz and the 2022 festival is taking place in honour of Pittsburgh native, Phyllis Hyman. Across the four-day event, visitors can enjoy a variety of music from Funk, Blues and Soul to Jazz, Hip Hop and RnB – a festival for every music fan.
Picklesburgh (15-17 July)
Dedicated to Pittsburgh’s pickle history and the art of pickling, Picklesburgh is an annual three-day festival that takes place in Downtown Pittsburgh. Headlined by a giant flying Heinz pickle balloon, the event will offer 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 Vintage Grand Prix (15-25 July)
The largest vintage street race in the US, and the only one to run on public roads, returns to Pittsburgh this year to celebrate its 40th annual race through the streets of Schenley Park. Taking place over 10 days, the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix will bring thrilling racing, car shows, parties, parades and motorsport events with over 3,000 show cars expected.
Pittsburgh Mixed Culture (30 July)
The inaugural Pittsburgh Mixed Culture festival is set to take place at the end of July, hosted by Pittsburgh-based Cinderlands Beer Co and Trace Brewing at Freedom Farms. The event will celebrate saison, mixed-culture beer and the diverse community of beer-loving people in and around Pittsburgh, with live performances and food vendors.
Barrel & Flow Fest (13 August)
Shining a light on Black-owned breweries, artists and small businesses, Barrel & Flow Fest returns to the vibrant Strip District in August. The event is set to host more than 50 breweries, distilleries and wineries, with over 55 unique collaboration brews with Black artists, as well as 150 vendors and live performances from musicians, DJs and visual artists.
For more information on events in Pittsburgh, please visit www.visitpittsburgh.com
