If you’re building your draft week game plan around one can’t-miss event, The Plaza’s Ultimate Tailgate Party with Steve Aoki deserves a top spot.
Happening Thursday, April 23rd, this all-day party blends classic tailgate energy with a full-scale live performance set at one of the North Shore’s newest outdoor venues.
What to Expect
Things kick off at noon, and this is very much an all-day, settle-in-and-stay-awhile kind of event.
You can expect:
- Tailgate games, cold drinks, and a crowd that’s ready to celebrate
- Food from SugarBird (Come hungry!)
- An opening set from DJ Hustle to get things going
- A few familiar Pittsburgh faces making their way through the crowd
Then, later in the afternoon, Steve Aoki takes over the stage.
If you’ve ever seen one of his shows, you know the deal—high energy, nonstop movement, and yes, a very real possibility of cake flying through the air. It’s the kind of set that turns a crowd into a full-on party.
Stick around after for a live screening of the NFL Draft in the evening, and you’ve got yourself a full day on the North Shore.
Why This One Stands Out
With so much happening across the city during draft week, this event manages to hit a sweet spot.
The Plaza is a locally owned venue that’s bringing in major names like Nelly, 2 Chainz, and Steve Aoki while keeping ticket prices approachable (starting around $40, with bundle options available if you want to catch multiple shows).
It’s designed to feel accessible, energetic, and distinctly Pittsburgh—giving locals a place to actually experience the draft, not just navigate around it.
Tips for Attending
- Get there early if you want the full tailgate experience.
- Don’t skip SugarBird, this is your sign to try the tendies and donuts!
- If you’re mainly there for Steve Aoki, aim to arrive around 3pm to grab a good spot and settle in.
Plan Ahead
It’s no secret—the North Shore is going to be busy.
But with a little planning, it’s completely manageable. For transportation tips, parking info, and getting around during the draft, VisitPittsburgh has helpful resources to make your trip smoother.
Worth It? Absolutely.
Yes, it’s going to be crowded and might take a little extra time to get where you’re going. But hosting the NFL Draft is a big moment for Pittsburgh—and one we don’t get every year.
If you want to lean into the special energy, the scale, the mix of football and live entertainment—this is the place to start.
This content was provided by a local, independent contributor to Made in PGH, a lifestyle blog.
