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Whether it’s their heritage, the arts, or a holiday, Pittsburghers always have something to celebrate. The following is a list of upcoming festivals and/or events. For more information or additional events, call the Greater Pittsburgh Convention & Visitors Bureau at 800-366-0093 for updates, or visit the website at www.visitpittsburgh.com.

The event dates are subject to change. The phone numbers may be used to verify dates.

DINOSAURS IN THEIR TIME—T. REX RETURNS
Carnegie Museum of Natural History, Oakland
ongoing
412-622-3131
Tyrannosaurus Rex returns to the museum, but it is not alone. In one of the most dramatic paleontological displays ever constructed, Carnegie Museum of Natural History’s original T. Rex is joined by a second T. Rex, and the two are frozen in a confrontation over the remains of an Edmontosaurus, a plant-eating dinosaur.

PENGUIN PREMIERE SHOW
National Aviary, North Side
ongoing
412-323-7235
Meet one of the Aviary’s four African Penguins! Daily at 1:00 PM Free with general admission. www.aviary.org

RAPTOR ENCOUNTER
National Aviary, North Side
ongoing
412-323-7235
Meet one of the Aviary’s exciting raptors or owls, from the favorite Snowy Owl to a regal red-tailed hawk. Daily at 10:30 AM. Free with general admission.

ROCKY MOUNTAIN EXPRESS
Carnegie Science Center, North Side
ongoing
412-237-3400
Travel back to 1885, the “age of steam” and experience the rise of the Canadian Pacific Railway. Take the Rocky Mountain Express on a magnificent journey through the breathtaking vistas of the Canadian Rockies.

TORNADO ALLEY
Carnegie Science Center, North Side
ongoing
412-237-3400
Join Sean Casey, of Storm Chasers, on his quest to witness the evolution of tornados. Get swept as this adrenaline-charged film reveals the beauty and untamed power of the breathtaking weather events.

ANIMALOPOLIS
Carnegie Science Center, North Side
ongoing
412-237-3400
Animalopolis is a roaring-good time for children ages 8 and under and for all who are young at heart. Seussian- Style narration puts the perfect finishing touch on this magical journey into the animal kingdom.

GLASS: SHATTERING NOTIONS
Senator John Heinz History Center, Downtown
ongoing
412-454-6000
Before it was known for steel, Pittsburgh was America’s Glass City. Pittsburgh-produced glass has been used in fine tableware for five U.S. presidents, as tiles for the walls of New York City’s great tunnels, and in searchlights at the Panama Canal.

HENRY BUHL, JR PLANETARIUM
Carnegie Science Center, North Side
ongoing
412-237-3400
Catapult into space in the Henry Buhl, Jr. Planetarium and travel from the Solar System to the outer reaches of the galaxy and beyond.

LASER SHOWS IN THE HENRY BUHL JR PLANETARIUM
Carnegie Science Center, North Side
ongoing
412-237-3400
Enjoy the sounds of The Doors, Pink Floyd, Celine Dion, and more with live laser shows choreographed with lasers and special effects all blended together on the cosmic backdrop of the Planetarium sky.

FEBRUARY

FLAMINGOFEST
National Aviary, North Side
February 11, 12
412-323-7235
Frolic with the Flamingos at the National Aviary! Meet the newest flamingo, Marilynn, and take part in activities.

MURDER MYSTERY DINNER THEATER
Spaghetti Warehouse, Strip District
February 14, 17, 25
412-261-6511
Enjoy a murder mystery dinner. Reservations are required. $32.95 per person inclusive, 6:45 PM.

PITTSBURGH INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW
David Lawrence Convention Center, Downtown
February 17-20
412-565-6000
A Pittsburgh tradition featuring automobiles from local dealerships as well as manufacturers’ prototypes of future models. www.pittsburghauto.org

MARCH

PITTSBURGH HOME AND GARDEN SHOW
David Lawrence Convention Center, Downtown
March 2-11
412-565-6000
See what’s new at over 1,500 exhibits! The show features over nine acres with everything for your home. www.pghhome.com

PITTSBURGH ARTS & CRAFTS SPRING FEVER FESTIVAL
Monroeville Convention Center, Monroeville
March 16-18
724-863-4577
The 13th annual Spring Fever has over 160 booths of arts and crafts and food vendors. Face painting and balloon animals with clowns Glitter Dot and Dapper.

MASTERS OF THE SKY: RAPTORS!
National Aviary, North Side
March 17, 18
412-323-7235
Experience the thrill of the hunt as some of the National Aviary’s most stunning birds-of-prey make a special appearance. Includes a special talk with an expert on Peregrine falcons in Pennsylvania.

ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE
Downtown
March 17
412-621-0600
Annual parade in downtown Pittsburgh sponsored by The Irish Society for Education and Charities Inc., this festive parade features lots of green to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. www.pittsburghirish.org/parade

SPRING FLOWER SHOW
Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, Oakland
Mid March – Early April
412-622-6914
Phipps welcomes the arrival of spring with a colorful indoor flower display at the Schenley Park conservatory. Call for more information on this popular spring display. Visit during the annual Mother’s Day Flower Sale. www.phipps.conservatory.org

APRIL

ANTIQUES SHOW AT THE CARNEGIE
Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh, Oakland
Mid April
412-622-3131
Show and sale featuring fine quality glass, furniture, jewelry, porcelain, silver, and works of art. www.cmoa.org

MAY

VENTURE OUTDOORS FESTIVAL
Washington’s Landing
May
412-255-0564
The region’s premier outdoor recreation event. Sample canoeing, kayaking, biking, dragon boating, rock climbing, inline skating, fishing, yoga, and more. www.ventureoutdoors.org

PITTSBURGH WINE FESTIVAL
Heinz Field
May
412-281-2681
Considered “one of the top 10 wine festivals in the country,” the festival is host to some of the world’ finest wine makers, educators, and chefs. www.pittsburghwinefestival.com

DICK’S SPORTING GOODS PITTSBURGH MARATHON
www.pittsburghmarathon.com
May 6
412-392-1021
The Dick’s Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon winds through the wonderfully historic neighborhoods of Pittsburgh. Community celebrations, cheering spectators and music throughout the course welcomes runners from all over the world.

SILK SCREEN ASIAN AMERICAN FILM FESTIVAL
Multiple theaters
May 6-15
724-969-2565
Diversity and multi-cultural appreciation through film. Also experience Asian and Asian-American art and events around the city. www.silkscreenfestival.org

INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN’S FESTIVAL
University of Pittsburgh campus, Schenley Plaza,
Oakland
May 11-15
412-321-5520
Oakland will sparkle with a showcase of dazzling professional theater from Russia, Spain, South Korea, Canada, the United States, and more, presented by Pittsburgh International Children's Theater and Citiparks. The theater shows will be complimented by fun hands-on cultural and educational activities. www.pgh.kids.org

PITTSBURGH FOLK FESTIVAL
Monroeville Convention Center, Monroeville, PA
May 18-20
412-278-1267
Pittsburgh’s 20-plus nationalities celebrate their heritage with colorful costumes, authentic folk dancing and mouth-watering delicacies. www.pgh.folkfest.org

GREEK FOOD FESTIVAL
St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral, Oakland
Mid May
412-682-3866
More than 20,000 people stop in for an appetizing dose of Greek food and culture. The festival includes dancing and live entertainment each evening. www.stnickspgh.org/festival

JUNE

SOUTH PARK SUMMER CONCERT SERIES
South Park
June 1-August 31 (Friday Evenings)
412-835-4810
Free outdoor concerts. Local, national, and internationally acclaimed performers. www.county.allegheny.pa.us/parks

THREE RIVERS ARTS FESTIVAL
Gateway Plaza and Point State Park, Downtown
June 1-10
412-281-8723
Arts, crafts, and food are part of this festival, where new exhibitors are introduced daily. Visitors can enjoy the free performances and the artists’ market at Gateway Plaza and Point State Park. www.artsfestival.net

HARTWOOD MUSIC AND DANCE FESTIVAL
Hartwood Acres, Saxonburg
June 3-August 26 (Sunday Evenings)
412-767-9200
Local, national, and international music, dance, and theatre talents are presented by the Allegheny County Bureau of Cultural Programs on the grounds of Hartwood Mansion. All performances are free. www.county.allegheny.pa.us/parks

JULY

PITTSBURGH THREE RIVERS REGATTA AND FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION
Point State Park
July 3, 4
The Fourth of July Celebration combines with the annual Pittsburgh Three Rivers Regatta for a family-oriented festival featuring water sports, hot air balloons, musical entertainment, and fireworks. www.threeriversregatta.net

THE STEPHEN FOSTER MUSIC AND RIVER HERITAGE FESTIVAL (DOO DAH DAYS)
Lawrenceville
Early July
412-605-0966
Celebrates the life and music of Pittsburgh native, Stephen Foster, one of the most influential songwriters in American history. Folk bands, educational tours of the Allegheny Cemetery, costumed re-enactors, food, and more. www.doodahdays.com

PITTSBURGH VINTAGE GRAND PRIX
Schenley Park, Oakland
July 21, 22
412-471-7847
Considered the premier vintage grand prix event in the United States, this race attracts fans of all ages, who line the beautiful Schenley Park streets to cheer for their favorite antique autos. www.pittsburghvintagegrandprix.com

AUGUST

PITTSBURGH RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL
Late August-Late September (Weekends)
724-872-1670
The Pittsburgh Renaissance Festival is a recreation of a 16th century village that brings together craftspeople, acting troupes, combat jousting, musicians, and food purveyors to celebrate the arrival of the king and queen. www.pgh-renfest.com

SHADYSIDE – THE ARTS FESTIVAL ON WALNUT STREET
Walnut Street, Shadyside
August 25, 26
412-682-1298
With more than 100 designers of American collectibles exhibiting their wares, it’s no wonder this festival attracts more than 200,000 people annually. Novelties like recycled art and neon art complement thousands of two- and three-dimensional pieces. www.shadysideshops.com

19TH ANNUAL PENNSYLVANIA ARTS & CRAFTS COLONIAL FESTIVAL
Westmoreland Fairgrounds, Greensburg
August 31, September 1-3 (Labor Day Weekend)
724-863-4577
Over 220 exhibit booths of artists, craftsmen, and food vendors from 17 states. Voted one of the best “traditional” craft shows in America.

SEPTEMBER

GREEK FOOD FESTIVAL
Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, North Side
Early September
412-321-9281
From moussaka to baklava, all your favorite Greek specialties are served. www.holytrinitypgh.org

WINGS OVER PITTSBURGH AIRSHOW
The 911th Airlift Wing, Moon Township
September 8, 9
A military air show featuring aerial demonstrations and static displays as well as lots of children’s activities. www.wingsoverpittsburgh.com

A FAIR IN THE PARK
Mellon Park, Fifth and Shady Avenues, Shadyside
September 14-16
412-431-6270
Sponsored by the Craftsmen’s Guild of Pittsburgh, this contemporary craft show features more than 100 nationally known crafts artists, live entertainment, good food, glass-blowing demonstrations, hot air balloon rides, and hands-on crafts and activities for children. www.craftsmensguild.org

PITTSBURGH IRISH FESTIVAL
Riverplex
September 14-16
412-422-1113
Traditional and contemporary Irish entertainment. Feast on Irish cuisine, delight in musical performances, and even participate in traditional Gaelic sports. www.pghirishfest.org

PITTSBURGH DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL
South Side Riverfront Park
September 15
Event features traditional Asian music, dance, and food. www.pdbf.org

RICHARD S. CALIGUIRI, CITY OF PITTSBURGH GREAT RACE
Frick Park to Point State Park
September 30
412-255-2493
About 11,000 runners from around the world, many donning hilarious costumes, compete in this annual race, one of the largest of its kind in the country. www.rungreatrace.com

OCTOBER

HEAD OF THE OHIO REGATTA
Allegheny River banks, Clemente Park, North Side
October 6
412-231-8772
Rowing teams from the local area as well as from throughout the United States and Canada race on Pittsburgh’s rivers to benefit Mercy Hospital’s Burn Center. www.headoftheohio.org

FALL FLOWER SHOW
Phipps Conservatory, Oakland
Mid October – Early November
412-622-6914
Phipps celebrates the splendor of autumn with a colorful indoor flower display at the Schenley Park conservatory. Call for more information on this popular fall display. www.phippsconservatory.org

18TH ANNUAL PENNSYLVANIA ARTS & CRAFTS CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL
Washington County Fairgrounds
October 19-21, 27, 28
724-863-4577
More than 200 booths of arts & crafts and food vendors. All displays indoor in heated buildings. Call for more information.

NOVEMBER

THREE RIVERS FILM FESTIVAL
Downtown Pittsburgh, Oakland, Regent Square
Early November-Mid November
412-681-5449
Exciting two-week celebration features over 40 films and is the region’s premier film festival. www.3rff.com

3RD ANNUAL WEST VIRGINIA ARTS & CRAFTS CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR
Mylan Park Expo Center, Mogantown WV
November 9-11
724-863-4577
Over 175 booths of arts and crafts available. Call for more information.

LIGHT UP NIGHT
November 16
412-566-4190
The city's dramatic skyline is the backdrop for an evening of holiday activities, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display. Light Up Night features live entertainment, strolling carolers, tree lighting ceremonies, and the unveiling of the holiday window displays.

15TH ANNUAL GREATER PITTSBURGH ARTS & CRAFTS HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR
Monroeville Convention Center, Monroeville
November 16-18
724-863-4577
This annual show features over 250 booths of artists, craftspeople, and food vendors from 14 states. Bring the kids to see Santa.

DECEMBER

HOLIDAYS AT THE CARNEGIE
Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh, Oakland
December 1-31
412-622-3131
See the annual Christmas tree exhibit illuminate The Carnegie’s elaborate interior while traditional Christmas carols echo throughout the great halls of this museum. A variety of concerts are performed. www.clpgh.org

HOLIDAYS AT THE NATIONALITY ROOMS
University of Pittsburgh, Oakland
December 1-31
412-624-6000
Start a new holiday tradition. Visit the Nationality Rooms and see them decorated for the season. The 26 rooms depict the city’s diverse ethnic heritage through authentic examples of architecture and decor from Eastern and Western Europe, Scandinavia, the Middle East, Asia, and Africa. www.pitt.edu/natrooms

CANDLELIGHT EVENINGS AT PHIPPS CONSERVATORY
Oakland
Mid December-Dec. 31
412-622-6914
Phipps will be dressed for the season with lights and festive decorations. The conservatory will remain open later on these evenings and special tours can be arranged. www.phippsconservatory.org

FIRST NIGHT PITTSBURGH
Downtown
December 31
412-201-7380
First Night Pittsburgh is an annual New Year’s Eve Festival, which celebrates the arts, cultural, and entertainment vitality of Pittsburgh. Downtown Pittsburgh is your stage to participate in a magical celebration. www.firstnightpgh.com

 


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