Pittsburg, PA
14+ things to do this weekend, from the Andy Warhol Bridge 100th Birthday Bash to OpenStreetPGH
What’s going on in Pittsburgh this weekend, June 25-28? Find out here. Know of a cool event? Email us.
Thursday, June 25, Friday, June 26, & Saturday, June 27
Pittsburgh Dance Workshop and Choreography Festival at the Charity Randall Theatre
Various times
Bringing together emerging and established choreographers from across the region and elsewhere to present original works, the Pittsburgh Choreography Festival provides a platform for artistic innovation, collaboration and the creation of new dance experiences for local audiences. Featured artists and companies performing this year include Anthony Alterio, Bodiography, Confluence Ballet Co., D.A.N.A Movement Ensemble, Ebony Cunningham, Get Down Gang, Jothika Gorur, PearlArts Movement & Sound, Shana Simmons Dance, Texture Contemporary Ballet and others. Festival performances take place on Friday and Saturday at the University of Pittsburgh’s Charity Randall Theatre at 7 p.m.
Looking for something more intensive and hands-on? In conjunction with the festival, the Pittsburgh Dance Workshop offers classes, workshops and performance opportunities. Drop-in public classes run through Thursday and are $20. Tickets.
Thursday, June 25
“The Birdcage” at The Plaza at North Shore
6 p.m.
Pittsburghers have a new open-air movie theater to add to their summer fun list. Watch flicks under the stars at one of the city’s newest outdoor venues when The Plaza at North Shore launches its summer movies series on the big screen. To celebrate Pride Month, the free series kicks off with a 30th anniversary screening of “The Birdcage,” starring Robin Williams and Nathan Lane. Produced and directed by Mike Nichols, the 1996 comedy follows a gay couple who own a legendary drag club in South Beach, Miami.
A special pop-up performance with photo opps featuring local drag artists will get the revelry started at 6pm. The film begins at 7:30 p.m. Hosted by local personality Joe King, the drag show will pay homage to The Birdcage’s iconic characters and songs. The Plaza’s on-site eatery, SugarBird, will get in on the fun with tropical cocktails, soft serve ice cream, fried chicken, popcorn and cotton candy for moviegoers. The Plaza will host free movies on select Thursday nights through September. Attendees are encouraged to BYOS (bring your own seat). Information.
Thursday, June 25-Sunday, June 28
“BEAUTIFUL: The Carole King Musical” at the Benedum Center
7:30 p.m., 1 p.m., 6 p.m., 2 p.m.
What do you get when you cross a musical, a biopic and a jukebox filled with hits? Find out when the Pittsburgh CLO presents this all-new production of “BEAUTIFUL: The Carole King Musical.” Sing your your heart out to iconic songs like “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman,” “It’s Too Late,” “So Far Away” and more when this production rocks the Benedum. Be inspired by the remarkable true story of “a girl from Brooklyn who became one of the most successful singer-songwriters in music history.”
The must-see musical stars Kyra Kennedy (Carole King), Dylan S. Wallach (Gerry Goffin), Lee Harrington (Cynthia Weil) and Barrett Riggins (Barry Mann). The creative team features Director/Choreographer Dan Knechtges and Music Director Catie Brown. Don’t miss the Talkback with Cast on Thursday, June 25, following the performance, and the Female Singer-Songwriter Brunch on Sunday, June 28, at 11:30 a.m. Tickets.
Friday, June 26
Turn It Upstream Music Festival in Frick Park Hollow
5 p.m.
There’s a new music festival in town with an important mission. To celebrate the organization’s silver anniversary, UpstreamPgh is hosting a music festival in Frick Park Hollow near Regent Square. Turning upstream and turning up the music, the 25th anniversary party is hosted by WQED television producer, writer and narrator Rick Sebak. Welcoming all ages, the vibrant summer evening features music by Beauty Slap, Colatura, NASH.V.ILL, the anonymous chronicles, and DJ BusCrates. Located along Tranquil Trail, the festival midway will be lined with local artists and vendors, interactive demonstrations and activities for all ages, including eco-friendly screenprinting.
East End Brewing Co. and Goodlander Cocktail Brewery will offer a mix of alcoholic and NA options. Food will be provided by local food trucks Mr. Bulgogi and La Palapa. The event’s silent auction showcases unique items like lunch with Rick Sebak and a private hike with renowned mushroom hunter, Barbora Batokova. Proceeds from the sustainable, zero-waste event will support UpstreamPgh’s community engagement, clean water advocacy, and green stormwater infrastructure programming. Tickets. Read more about summer music festivals in NEXT.
Friday, June 26: Gallery Crawl in the Cultural District
5:30-9 p.m.
Now that summer is officially here, that means you have even more ways — and more daylight hours — to explore the city’s creative offerings. With its expanded year-round schedule, the Gallery Crawl in the Cultural District makes contemporary art even more accessible. Head Downtown to find the sidewalk stop signs identifying the participating venues in this multi-venue “open house” presented by Pittsburgh Cultural Trust. Free to all, each crawl showcases what’s new in Pittsburgh’s dynamic art and entertainment scene Downtown. From visual arts, live music, dance, spoken word and more — it’s a chance to experience one of the liveliest nights in the city within a walkable footprint. Information.
Friday, June 26
Pride and Joy at The August Wilson African American Cultural Center
6 p.m.-12 a.m.
Keep your Pittsburgh Pride Month jubilation going right into summer, when the August Wilson African American Cultural Center hosts its fourth annual celebration “uplifting and honoring Black queer joy, creativity, music and community.” The festivities kick off with a special live podcast experience hosted by Rian-Louis. Dubbed RIANOUTLOUD!, the engaging conversation will feature “Black queer community and arts leaders and changemakers discussing creativity, identity, community impact and the importance of visibility and representation within the arts and beyond.” The program includes light refreshments and a cash bar.
Next, the party heats up with performances by Maya Universe and Manny Dibiachi, followed by an electrifying DJ battle between HUNY XO and Queen Father. Pride-goers are invited to “dance, celebrate, connect and experience a night centered on love, liberation and community.” Free STI testing and health resources will be available on-site through event partner, Central Outreach. Partygoers can also fuel up at Quick-E Food Truck. Register for free. Find more to do in the 2026 NEXT Pride Guide.
Friday, June 26
Sharif Bey: “Homecoming” Opening Reception at the Andy Warhol Museum
7-9 p.m.
For its next special exhibition, the Warhol Museum is showcasing the work and creative practice of Pittsburgh-born ceramic artist, sculptor and educator Sharif Bey. Celebrating Bey’s return to his hometown, the exhibit features “monumental ceramic sculptures” inspired by modernism, functional pottery and Oceanic and African art. Don’t miss tonight’s free opening reception featuring live music by the artist’s cousin, Ublai Bey and his band, Timeless.
Highlighting Bey’s “artistic development and emergence as a significant voice in contemporary art,” the works on view explore a range of themes, including childhood memories, Pittsburgh’s urban landscape, identity, home, personal history, memory, artistic roots and more. Bey’s work will be shown alongside artwork from the museum’s permanent collection by Andy Warhol and Jean-Michel Basquiat, underscoring how the three artists “engage deeply with themes of identity, culture and societal commentary.” “Homecoming” also aims to honor community arts education and Pittsburgh’s role in supporting artistic innovation. The exhibit will be on view through Oct. 12. Free with registration.
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Charmed at The Store at Contemporary Craft. Photo courtesy of Julie Celidonia. -
Charmed at The Store at Contemporary Craft. Photo courtesy of Julie Celidonia.
Saturday, June 27
Community Day and Charmed at Contemporary Craft
10 a.m.-4 p.m.
In conjunction with its next Community Day, the event will showcase handmade charms by 40 artists from around the country, including makers of contemporary jewelry along with Pittsburgh-based artists and regional craftspeople. All of the original charms are for sale to the public. Peruse a curated selection of pendants, keychains, charms and chains created by artists working in a wide range of craft media, such as metal, wood, beadwork and more.
Representing a vast array of materials, sizes, and styles, many of the featured pieces were fabricated exclusively for “Charmed,” and will be only available at The Store at Contemporary Craft. Featured artists include Lauren Kalman, Terry Lavin, Dongyi Wu, Jason Stein, Maria Camera-Smith, Sarah Sindler, Amanda Stumpf, Andrew Thornton and many more. Get a first look at the “Charmed” preview on Thursday, June 25, from 5 to 8 p.m., where attendees can shop the collection early and participate in an artist-led activity with Andrew Thornton. Registration is encouraged, but not required.
Saturday, June 27
Andy Warhol Bridge 100th Birthday Bash
11 a.m.-3 p.m.
As America celebrates its 250th birthday, one of Pittsburgh’s oldest and longest Sister Bridges will mark its milestone centennial. Join Allegheny County to celebrate the only bridge in the country named for a visual artist. A free festival with games, music, food and summer fun, the unique bridge bash will also feature community art projects led by the Andy Warhol Museum and the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh. To celebrate the heritage of the bridge, local artist strawberryluna has created a special edition commemorative poster.
In 1925, Allegheny County awarded a contract to the American Bridge Co. to build the only three identically designed self-anchored suspension bridges in the world – now dubbed the Sister Bridges. Opened on June 17, 1926, the Seventh Street Bridge cost $1.4 million to build and is the oldest of the three Sister Bridges — and the longest, at 1,061 feet. In 2005, the Seventh Street Bridge was renamed to honor the King of Pop Art in celebration of the 10th anniversary of The Andy Warhol Museum just blocks away. The bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic for the free event. Information.
Saturday, June 27
Bellevue Pride at Andrew Bayne Park
12-4 p.m.
Head up the Ohio to Bellevue for the borough’s signature Pride celebration. For its fifth annual event, the festivities are revolving around the theme of “Fire and Dragons” to reflect concepts of transformation and renewal. The free community festival will fill Andrew Bayne Park with live stage entertainment, dozens of activities, scores of food trucks and more. Emceed by Gay Fieri, the festivities will feature accordionist Pat Septak, Pittsburgh-based cover band, Candy Ring, the Cool Kids Collaborative, DJs and more. Pop into the artisan fair featuring 40 booths showcasing local makers and area nonprofits. Organized by a consortium of local LGBTQIA+ volunteers and board members, Bellevue Pride aims to create an inclusive, welcoming and safe environment for the LGBTQ+ community all year long. Information. Find more to do in the 2026 NEXT Pride Guide.
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All photos courtesy of Alternate Histories.
Saturday, June 27
Yinzilla Day Block Party at the Alternate Histories Studio
3-7 p.m.
The monsters are due on Greenfield Avenue, and you’re invited to their friendly party. The studio’s second annual Yinzilla Day promises to be a “big celebration of Pittsburgh’s favorite monster.” Be there when Alternate Histories debuts this year’s new Yinzilla T-shirts and glassware, and shop in the mini maker market for everything from leather goods, artwork and zines, to illustrations, stickers and accessories. Check out screen-printing demos with Fio Avocado and make your very own Monongahela Monster T-shirt. Sample the new Yinzilla beer produced in collaboration with East End Brewing, enjoy summer tunes by local surf rock band The Yeggs and grab dinner from the La Palapa Taco Truck. Information.
Saturday, June 27
WYEP Summer Music Festival at Schenley Plaza
4 p.m.
Spread out a blanket and plop down a lawn chair to enjoy music with family and friends under the stars. Celebrating both national and homegrown music, this year’s festival will fill Oakland’s green space with live sets from Michigander, Ratboys, Jobi Riccio, Cam Chambers and Kahone Concept. The free rain-or-shine event is open to all ages. Looking for a bite to eat? The Porch at Schenley offers seated dining, and takeout is available through kiosks featuring cuisine from Asia Tea House, K Station and Omar’s Halal Grill. Information. Read more about summer music festivals in NEXT.
Sunday, June 28
OpenStreetsPGH through Downtown Pittsburgh and the South Side
10 a.m.-2 p.m.
If you’ve ever wanted to stroll, bike, skate or dance through the middle of the city’s streets with nary a car in sight, mark your calendar now for the kickoff of OpenStreetsPGH. Transforming Pittsburgh roadways into vibrant car-free spaces, this season’s inaugural event takes urban adventurers on a route through Downtown Pittsburgh and the historic South Side — including the rare chance to traverse an iconic tunnel and bridge without cars.
Hosted by BikePGH, the free event celebrates active transportation and community connection while highlighting the city’s neighborhoods, landmark architecture and dramatic topography. Join the 2-mile journey from Downtown Pittsburgh through Market Square, up Forbes Avenue and through the Armstrong Tunnel. Continue your journey across the scenic 10th Street Bridge to the South Side’s eclectic East Carson Street commercial corridor. Pop into Activity Hubs along the route to join fitness classes for all ages and abilities, participate in art activities and relax at cooling stations. Visit the Duquesne Light Co. Community Wellness Hub in Market Square to participate in BikePGH’s “off the course banana-themed Side Quest” and fitness classes hosted by the YMCA. At the Edgar Snyder Kids Hub, BikePGH will lead a “Learn to Ride” course for youth on East Carson between 19th and 21st streets. View a map. Read more about the event in NEXT.
Sunday, June 28
Queer Craft Market: Pride Edition at City Theatre
2-6 p.m.
Get crafty during Pride Month. This year, Pittsburgh’s premier queer DIY market takes the wares over to the South Side to set up shop in two spaces within City Theatre’s campus for the first time. Showcasing Pittsburgh’s talented LGBTQ+ maker community, the eclectic marketplace will feature more than 40 local vendors selling a wide variety of handmade Pride goods, from pins to prints to pens and more. Follow the market on Instagram to get a sneak peek of the wares on sale this weekend. Information.
6 more things to do this weekend in Pittsburgh
Thursday, June 25-Sunday, June 28: In Your Write Mind Writers Workshop at Seton Hill University in Greensburg
Friday, June 26: Jamie Baum Septet at MCG Jazz, 7:30 p.m.
Friday, June 26, & Saturday, June 27: Pittsburgh Noise Fest at Little Giant Studios
Saturday, June 27: PGH Social Club at the Schenley Park Overlook, 3-6 p.m.
Saturday, June 27: Reel Q presents “She’s the He” at The Glitterbox Theater, 7 p.m.
Sunday, June 28: Days Gone By Vintage Market at Velum Fermentation, 12-5 p.m.
Don’t miss the NEXTpittsburgh 2026 Pride Guide
Pittsburg, PA
Parent group claims Pittsburgh Public Schools’ closure plan violates children’s civil rights
The Pittsburgh Public Schools board of education has been under intense scrutiny since its “Future Ready Plan” was first introduced — and then eventually approved — in late May. But a group of parents has filed a complaint with the Pennsylvania Human Rights Commission in an effort to prevent it from being carried out.
Advancement Project, a national civil rights organization, along with 412 Justice and the Education Rights Network, have filed a complaint against the school board on behalf of five PPS students, claiming the plan, which will close or repurpose several district buildings across the city, violates those students’ civil rights.
Those students represented in the complaint attend Miller Pre K-5 in the Hill District, Manchester Pre K-8 on the North Side and Woolslair Pre K-5 in Bloomfield, all of which would close under the plan, with the students relocating.
“This is part of what we’ve seen across the country, this national school closure crisis,” said Adaku Onyeka-Crawford, a staff attorney and director of education justice for Advancement Project. “We’ve seen it play out in urban, suburban and rural communities, affecting Black and brown children, and it has come to Pittsburgh.”
The complaint is calling for an investigation into the plan and for the district and school board to act in good faith during that investigation. They hope it will lead to a preliminary injunction, allowing the commission to get a court order for the district to stop the implementation of the plan.
One of the main claims in the complaint is that the school board “based school closure decisions on utilization (enrollment divided by building capacity), despite being notified that doing so would disproportionately close schools in Black neighborhoods. Black students make up 62% of students that will lose their schools, but only 49% of students district-wide.”
“Utilization has no ties to education quality at all,” said Onyeka-Crawford. “In fact, smaller class sizes are tied to better outcomes for students. Community members had flagged that relying on this metric would disproportionately harm Black students.”
Onyeka-Crawford said alternatives were presented to the school board, some that have had success in other cities, but the district went forward with their own plan instead.
“We need to ask: who is Pittsburgh Public Schools and the board accountable to?” she said. “It’s the parents and families, and if this is what parents and families are asking for, it’s up to them to be accountable to those communities, and give parents and students the education and resources that they need.”
KDKA reached out to the district, but it said it will not comment on pending litigation.
It’s going to be another hot week in the Pittsburgh area with high temperatures back into the 90s.
Any Alert Days Ahead? I have us hitting 90 degrees starting on Tuesday through Friday, so that stretch of 4 days are First Alert Weather Days. A severe storm setup looks to be in place for Saturday, so we may also see a FAWD issued for Saturday.
Aware: So far this year, we have seen five 90° days. Tuesday may be our 6th of the year.
Heat index values today are expected to be in the mid-90s, near 100 degrees.
The hottest days of the week will be on Wednesday & Thursday. I have both days seeing highs at 92°.
Rain chances start to tick back up on Friday, late in the afternoon. I have Friday highs still hitting 90, with highs in just the mid-80s on Saturday and Sunday.
There still remains a concern for severe weather on Saturday, with all the ingredients in place. Right now, the chance looks low due to morning rain keeping instability numbers low.
Congress again considering making Daylight Saving Time year-round
I am not surprised that the U.S. Congress is taking up making Daylight Saving Time standard year-round again. The Sunshine Protection Act is the latest attempt by Congress to solve the issue of time and daylight. It’s a plan that you may not realize has been attempted before, and people disliked it so much that it didn’t even last a year.
Let’s start with a brief history of changes to the clock and what we will call Daylight Saving Time. Before World War 1, there was very little in the way of guidelines for states to follow when it came to time. WWI changed things, as the government dictated that Daylight Saving Time be in effect until the war was over in the hopes of conserving energy. Farmers were glad after the war to see the changes come to an end because the later sunrise in the winter meant less time to get out in the fields and get produce to market. Overall, the move to permanent DST was seen as unpopular.
The next big push for DST came during World War 2, and again, the reason for the change was the conservation of energy. Franklin Roosevelt, the president, called year-round DST ‘war-time.’ Once again, after the war, states were allowed to do their own thing. There remained no real federal policy on DST through 1966. That all changed in 1966 with the passing of the Uniform Time Act, signed into law by Lyndon Johnson. This put into effect a mix of daylight saving time and standard time, similar to what we have today; standard time lasted around 3 months longer than what we have today.
Our next energy crisis came in 1967 with the worldwide oil embargo by the Organization of Arab Petroleum Exporting Nations (OAPEC). Our Congress decided to try out a year-round DST across the country. They put the trial period beginning at the start of 1974 and going through the spring of 1975. What could go wrong, right? Well, everything. The public hated the changes, and even worse, nearly 10 kids were killed in early morning hours that first winter period due to low visibility. A program that was supposed to last just two winter seasons was cancelled before we even got to the second winter.
It appears to be a big push again to get Congress to push for permanent Daylight Saving Time hours. I hope they are considering the impact on everyone. For Pittsburgh, that would mean sunrise on some days in the winter around 9 a.m. Sunsets during that time would still be before 6 p.m. The issue is that during the wintertime, Pittsburgh only has around nine and a half hours of ‘daylight.’ We have to figure out the best way to align our clocks to that time. I think what we are doing right now is pretty close to perfect. What do you think?
Pittsburg, PA
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