The 2026 NFL Draft presented by Bud Light is officially taking over the Steel City April 23rd – 25th and yeah, this is one of those once-in-a-lifetime Pittsburgh weekends.
The three-day event will stretch across both sides of the river:
- The Draft Theater + Main Stage will sit outside Acrisure Stadium on the North Shore
- The NFL Draft Experience (aka the free fan festival) will take over Point State Park downtown
Even better? Entry is free. You’ll just need to download the NFL OnePass to register, get event info, and access everything throughout the weekend.
Expect three days of football, live entertainment, local pride, and a whole lot of black and gold energy as fans from across the country roll into Pittsburgh.
Steelers Country at the NFL Draft: The Ultimate Fan Experience in Pittsburgh
If you’re trying to keep things very Pittsburgh, Steelers Country is where you’ll want to post up.
Located inside the Draft Experience at Point State Park, this 12,000-square-foot space is basically a hub for Steelers fans to hang, explore, and fully lean into Steelers Nation. Here’s what to expect:
Steelers Nation Unite Bar
A global Steelers bar experience featuring rotating locations from Steelers bars around the world
Immersive Fan Cave
A 1970s-inspired Pittsburgh basement setup that feels straight outta a classic yinzer home
Six Super Bowl Rings Display
Larger-than-life replicas celebrating all six championships
Live shows + player appearances
Q&As with Steelers legends and current players, plus the Draft Countdown Show
Terrible Towel Art Installation
A tribute to one of the most iconic symbols in sports
Games + photo ops
Interactive moments for fans of all ages
Right across from Steelers Country, you can also check out the actual Lombardi Trophies on display so don’t skip that.
Hours:
Thursday: 12pm – 10pm
Friday: 12pm – 10pm
Saturday: 12pm – 10pm
Admission is free with registration on the NFL OnePass.
Quick Tips for Attending the 2026 NFL Draft Commencements
If you’re planning to catch the 2026 NFL Draft live, here’s what to know:
- It’s free, but you’ll need the NFL OnePass to register and access viewing areas
- The Draft Theater is outside Acrisure Stadium, with additional screens and viewing spots at Point State Park
- Crowds build fast – especially for Round 1– so go early if you want a good spot
- Expect security checks and lots of walking
Where to Shop Steelers Gear During the NFL Draft
If you’re coming without Steelers gear, that’s about to change.
- Steelers merchandise trailer inside Steelers Country
- Temporary Pro Shop on the North Shore
- Exclusive NFL Draft merch + limited-edition Terrible Towels
Consider this your official Draft weekend uniform upgrade.
More Things to Do During NFL Draft Weekend in Pittsburgh
NFL Draft Concerts (Free + Main Stage Moments)
The main stage outside Acrisure Stadium is pulling some serious names:
Wiz Khalifa + Bret Michaels perform ahead of rounds 2-3 on Friday, April 24th at 5:15pm .
Kane Brown closes out the Draft on Saturday, April 25th after the final pick.
All shows are free (first come, first served), so if this is on your list, register and get there early.
More Live Music Around the North Shore
The main stage is just part of it – Draft week is basically a citywide music festival.
You’ll find additional shows and pop-ups happening all over the North Shore and Downtown, including ticketed and free performances at the North Shore Plaza and nearby venues (think: Steve Aoki, 2 Chainz, and more throughout the weekend)
- Nelly, 2 Chainz, and Steve Aoki at The North Shore Plaza and/or Shorty’s
- The Pitt Block Party at Arts Landing
- Women Who Rock Draft Pop-Up Experience
There’s also plenty of ways to celebrate the draft with concerts across the ‘burbs.
“The Football Town” Film Experience
If you want something a little more low-key, head to Carnegie Science Center for free showings of The Football Town – a film all about Western PA’s deep football roots narrated by Pat McAfee.
Taste of the Draft Pittsburgh (April 22)
Kicking things off before the chaos, this food-meets-football event hosted by Andrew Zimmern brings together local chefs, NFL legends, and live entertainment – all supporting a great cause to help End Student Hunger.
TL;DR: How to Do the NFL Draft in Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh hosting the Draft is a big deal and the kind of weekend that puts the whole city on display.
Yes, it’ll be crowded. Yes, you’ll hit some lines. But between the riverfront setup, the free fan experiences, and Steelers Country bringing the energy all weekend long, this is one you don’t skip.
- It’s free (register on NFL OnePass)
- Explore both the North Shore + Downtown
- Make Steelers Country your main stop
- Plan for concerts, food, and plenty of walking
