As the leaves start to change and the air (hopefully) starts to cool, Pittsburgh is back at it again with another batch of fun, creative, and intriguing events. This month it’s all about the art, music, and beer. You’ll have the chance to rock out with the Chainsmokers, grab a beer at the zoo, and hunt for clues (and cash prizes) in the Strip District.
Thrival Festival
Thrival isn’t any ordinary music festival. It features lively, smart presentations on subjects like technology, sustainable food, culture, and entrepreneurship, as well as a litany of awesome bands. This year, you’ll be able to get your groove on with featured bands the Chainsmokers, CHVRCHES, and Thievery Corporation. Sept. 20-24.
Festival of Combustion @ Carrie Furnace
Have you ever thought about blacksmithing? How about glassblowing? If so (and even if not), this is your big chance. Despite the explosive name, this festival is extremely family-friendly, and promises to be fascinating and fun. Try firing some ceramics or casting a design in iron while rocking out to local band The Bessemers. Sept. 3.
Re:NEW Festival @ Downtown
With a focus on sustainability, reuse and ecology, the Re:NEW Festival provides a chance to take a look at art from a new perspective. During the month-long fest, you’ll get to visit the North American premiere of Drap-Art, an international festival that showcases pieces of art made from found and recycled materials. But that’s not all — there will be music, workshops, film, performances and, of course, many exhibits. Sept. 9-Oct. 9.
ZooBrew: Oktoberfest @ Pittsburgh Zoo
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This is your chance to become a true party animal. Head on down to the Pittsburgh Zoo for great music, great food and all your favorite craft beers while you socialize with your friends, two-legged and four-legged alike. Make sure you get your ticket now, as tickets are limited. Sept. 9.
Mexican War Streets House & Garden Tour
Take a stroll through one of Pittsburgh’s most breathtaking neighborhoods to check out one of its most compelling charms — the colorful homes of the Mexican War Streets. If you find yourself getting a little thirsty or in need of a snack, there will be plenty of vendors and food trucks waiting for you. It’s the perfect opportunity to get some fresh air and feast your eyes on some exceptional architecture and greenery. Sept. 11.
Silk Screen Film Festival
If you enjoy movies and learning about different cultures, this is the festival for you. It places a spotlight on Asian and Asian-American contributions to arts, history and, of course, film. Movies shown will be from Japan, China, Turkey, Lebanon and many other countries. Food will be plentiful as well. Sept. 16-25.
Search & Sip in the Strip @ Bayardstown
It’s time to break out your deerstalker and your magnifying glass, because the Strip District has a mystery set up for you this fall. Work alone or partner with a friend in order to search for clues and solve puzzles throughout the area, and if you win, you’re in luck, because the first prize is $500. Afterward, don’t forget to stop at the Bayardstown afterparty featuring drinks by the East End Brewery and treats from Millie’s Ice Cream. Sept. 17.
Clemente Fundraiser @ Clemente Museum
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Give back to America’s favorite pastime this fall by attending the Clemente Museum’s 6th annual fundraiser. The museum, most notably featuring artifacts centered around legendary Pirate Roberto Clemente, will be showcasing brand new exhibits, and there will be food and Engine House wines available. Sept. 17.
Cultural District Gallery Crawl
We always encourage you to stop down at the quarterly gallery crawls held by the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, and this is no exception. Come spend an evening basking in creativity as you wind your way through the coolest art galleries in the downtown sector. As always, the crawl is followed by the Night Market, a pop-up showcase of crafts, food, and drinks. Sept. 23.
After Hours: Books First @ Carnegie Library of Oakland
Many of your favorite Netflix shows sprang from equally awesome novels, and the Carnegie Library aims to show you that reading is just as much fun as binge-watching. Meet up with other literary fans and sample themed drinks from Full Pint Brewing, Wigle Whiskey, and Rock Bottom Brewery. There will also be live music from some great local bands, and plenty of cool activities. Sept. 30.
September Concerts
Bruce Springsteen and his band will be visiting Consol Energy Center on Sept. 11. Longtime indie favorites Yo La Tengo will be at the Carnegie Music Hall of Oakland on Sept. 14, and our very own Mac Miller will be at Stage AE on Sept. 18.
This content was provided by a local, independent contributor to Made in PGH, a lifestyle blog.