⚾ Sports
It's a big week for Pittsburgh sports, folks. The Steelers kick off their preseason against the Green Bay Packers at Acrisure Stadium on Thursday, Aug. 13 at 7:00 PM. It's your first chance to see the new guys in black and gold, and honestly, there's nothing like that first glimpse of football under the lights. Even if it's preseason, the energy will be electric. Grab your Terrible Towel and get down there.
Then the Pirates host the Boston Red Sox for a three-game set at PNC Park. Friday, Aug. 14 at 6:40 PM, Saturday, Aug. 15 at 7:15 PM, and Sunday, Aug. 16 at 1:35 PM. The Bucs have been playing some solid ball lately, and a weekend series against a historic franchise like the Red Sox always brings a great crowd. The view of the city from the bleachers alone is worth the ticket.
And for soccer fans, the Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC take on Charleston Battery at Highmark Stadium on Saturday, Aug. 15 at 7:00 PM. The Hounds have been fighting for playoff positioning, and this is a crucial home match. The atmosphere at Highmark is always rowdy and fun, so bring your scarf and your voice.
🎵 Music & Nightlife
There's a little something for every music taste this week. If you're a classic rock fan, you won't want to miss Todd Rundgren at Stage AE on Friday, Aug. 14. The guy's a legend, and Stage AE is one of the best outdoor venues in the city. Grab a drink, find a spot on the lawn, and let the nostalgia wash over you.
Country fans have a couple of options. Jake Owen plays at Rivers Casino on Saturday, Aug. 15. It's a smaller, more intimate show, and you can make a night of it with dinner and a few spins at the tables. And on Thursday, Aug. 13, Zac Brown Band hits PPG Paints Arena. They always put on a high-energy show with incredible musicianship.
If you're into something a little more indie, The Mountain Goats are at Mr. Smalls Theatre on Sunday, Aug. 16 at 8:00 PM. John Darnielle's storytelling is unmatched, and Mr. Smalls is the perfect intimate venue for it. Also on Sunday, The Lemon Twigs play the free concert at Hartwood Acres Park Amphitheater. Pack a picnic, bring a blanket, and enjoy some seriously catchy power pop under the trees.
And for a blast from the past, the Goo Goo Dolls are at The Pavilion at Star Lake on Friday, Aug. 14. It's a trip down memory lane, but they still sound great live.
🎨 Arts & Culture
This is a huge week for theater in Pittsburgh. The Benedum Center has two big shows running: Disney's The Lion King and Hadestown. Both are spectacular productions. If you've never seen The Lion King's staging, it's pure magic. And Hadestown has been sweeping awards for a reason. You really can't go wrong with either.
Also, the August Wilson Cultural Center is hosting I WILL BELONG TO ONLY ME, a powerful new work that runs all week. It's a must-see for anyone who appreciates thought-provoking art.
For something a little different, check out the Bridges & Stages 10-Minute Play Festival, running Thursday through Sunday. It's a showcase of local playwrights, and you'll see a ton of creativity in a short amount of time. Also, The Lightning Thief, the Percy Jackson musical, is at the Geyer Performing Arts Center from Friday to Sunday. It's perfect for families or anyone who loves a good adventure story.
And don't forget the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis at the Byham Theater. That's a world-class jazz experience right here in Pittsburgh. Check the Cultural Trust calendar for exact times.
🍽️ Food & Drink
This week is all about eating and drinking your way through the city. Pittsburgh Restaurant Week runs Monday through Sunday, with special prix-fixe menus at dozens of restaurants across town. It's the perfect excuse to try that place you've been meaning to hit up. You can find the full list of participating spots and menus online.
And of course, Little Italy Days is back on Liberty Avenue in Bloomfield from Thursday, Aug. 13 through Sunday, Aug. 16. This is the real deal: Italian food, music, and community. I'm talking fresh pasta, cannoli, sausage sandwiches, and that unmistakable neighborhood vibe. It's one of the best weekends of the summer in this city.
If you're in the North Hills, head to Bellevue's Rhythm & Brews Festival on Saturday, Aug. 15. It's a street festival with local brews and live music on Lincoln Avenue. Great way to spend a summer evening.
👨👩👧 Family & Outdoors
Kennywood's Fall Fantasy is still going on through Sunday, so you can catch some rides and seasonal fun before the summer ends. It's a family tradition for a reason.
And don't forget about the free events at Arts Landing along the riverfront. They have food truck lunches, family karaoke, and pickleball with PUMP all week. It's a great spot to hang out with the kids or get some exercise with friends.
So there you have it. Get out there and enjoy this city while the sun's still shining. Whether it's a ballgame, a show, or just a plate of pasta in Bloomfield, Pittsburgh's got you covered.