Winter is on the way, but things are heating up in Pittsburgh thanks to November’s event line up.
You’ll have your choice of beer-themed festivals, art shows and, of course, Light Up Night. Stop by the PGH Vintage Mixer or the Freaky Flea & Offbeat Craft Fair at Spirit to pick up some one-of-a-kind gifts.
But don’t forget to treat yourself! Head to the Carrie Furnace Winter Warmer, the Brewtal Beer Fest, or another one of these events that’ll have you eating, drinking, and dancing all month long.
CRAFTED 2016 @ Contemporary Craft
How often do you think about the bowl you slurp cereal from, or the mug you use for your precious coffee? CRAFTED 2016 aims to take your everyday dining utilities and elevate them to pure art. You’ll get the chance to check out work from over 30 artists around the world, and, of course, there will be food and drink available. Plus, it’s time to get started on holiday shopping, and you’re not planning on putting that off until the last minute again… right? It’s a perfect opportunity to pick up some cool gear for a friend and even yourself. Nov. 4
Up and Comin’: Musicians’ Showcase @ Ace Hotel
There’s only one thing we love more than hanging out at the Ace Hotel, and that’s hanging out at the Ace Hotel while jamming to the coolest up-and-comers in the Pittsburgh music scene. The winners of a local music competition, including Half Spring, Tek Bennet, and Lights La Soul, will be playing a can’t-miss show in the ballroom and lobby bar. Afterward, stick around to catch a DJ and get your dance on. If you’re worried about the health of your wallet with the holidays approaching, you’re in luck — the event is free. Nov. 4
Winter Warmer @ Carrie Furnace
Sometimes the only way to beat the cold-weather blues is with a glass of delicious, perfectly brewed beer. Carrie Furnace is about to kick off your winter in the best way possible: a festival featuring 35 of the top breweries in the surrounding area. From hearty stouts to IPAs, every kind of beer will be represented, and we’re pretty sure you’ll want to try them all (responsibly, of course). If you get hungry, grab some food from Pittsburgh Smokehouse, Voodoo Foodoo, and more. And yes, there will be pumpkin beer. Nov. 5
Pancakes & Booze Art Show @ Spirit
Art! Pancakes! Dancing! There’s no way you’ll want to miss out on Pittsburgh’s biggest underground art show at one of our favorite venues in the city. Dozens of artists will be showcasing their fascinating work in a variety of mediums, and who knows — you might even end up taking something home for that bare space on the wall above your couch. You can even BECOME art, as there will be body painting, as well as a DJ and a free (read it again, free) pancake bar. Nov. 5
PGH Brewtal Beer Fest @ Spirit
You might be wondering if Pittsburgh can even fit any more awesome festivals into the lineup. Brewtal is your answer: the metal-and-punk-centric beer festival curated by the owners of Spoonwood and Rock Bottom is about to up the fest game just in time for the tail end of fall. Come rock out to some live local bands and taste a variety of limited-edition beers. In fact, four of the band have collaborated with four different breweries to offer you some truly unique — and brutal — brews, and after tasting, don’t forget to vote on your favorite. Nov. 6
Houdini 100
On November 6th, 1916, Harry Houdini performed a very dangerous stunt at the corner of Liberty Avenue & Wood Street in downtown Pittsburgh. Now 100 years later, Lee Terbosic, Pittsburgh’s magician extraordinaire, is preparing to recreate the performance. Lee will hang upside down while escaping from a straightjacket before a captivated crowd of onlookers. Make your calendar and spread the word about this free event. Nov. 6
Freaky Flea & Offbeat Craft Fair @ Spirit
Halloween might be over, but that doesn’t mean that the spooky fun has to dissipate just yet. The Freaky Flea & Craft Fair offers you the perfect chance to get your friends and family some of the most unique crafts, jewelry and clothing that the ‘Burgh has to offer. Combining music, rare books, collectibles, and other trinkets, there’s no way you won’t be the star of every holiday party you attend. And there will be brunch. Need we say more? Nov. 13
Homebrewers Competition @ Wigle Whiskey
Haven’t had enough beer yet? Stop down to Wigle Whiskey mid-month to catch some more beer tasting — this time, it’s all homemade. Pittsburgh beer crafters and enthusiasts are encouraged to enter their creations into the competition and tasting, and attendees get to reap the rewards. You’ll get to try some unique, ultra-small-batch brews that you can’t grab on draft at your favorite bar. Plus, Evil Swine BBQ will be catering, and there’s no better companion for a beer than some hot barbecue. Nov. 13
3 Rivers Film Festival
Attention all movie lovers: Pittsburgh’s four-day, ultra-fun film festival is gearing up, and if you want to be the first to set eyes on indie and international films, this is your chance. You won’t catch these flicks at the local Cineplex. Afterward, local filmmaker Evan Wolfson will be holding a Q&A about his same-sex marriage documentary The Freedom to Marry. There’s even live music — the Alloy Orchestra will be performing alongside a silent film on the 19th. Nov. 16-20
Light Up Night 2016 @ Downtown
It’s not really the holiday season until Light Up Night hits Downtown Pittsburgh. Bundle up and gather your friends and family together to celebrate the beginning of all things festive, including music, food, pop-up markets, and a variety of fun games and activities. This year, the night will feature a light installation on the Rachel Carson Bridge as well as the traditional tree-lighting. Later, all you have to do is look up to catch the dazzling array of fireworks — Zambelli’s, of course. Nov. 18
PGH Vintage Mixer @ Spirit
The Steel City has so much to offer when it comes to vintage clothing and wares. With new vintage shops opening up and current shops curating their collections to perfection, it’s certain that this winter’s Vintage Mixer will be absolutely spectacular. Spend the day sifting through the decades and you’ll be able to find some truly unique pieces to wear and treasure. Vendors will include Highway Robbery, ARTica, and Retro on 8th. Later, there will be food available and a DJ so you can dance the day away. Nov. 19
50 Years of Hockey in PGH @ Heinz History Center
Here in Pittsburgh, hockey is serious business. If you want to learn more about the Penguins, you won’t want to miss this retrospective and panel. It features a Post-Gazette photography exhibit of Pens pics throughout the years, followed by a panel including PG writers and photographers. Hockey legends David Morehouse, Mike Lange and more will be speaking as well. Afterward, you’ll have free access to the Western PA Sports Museum. The event is free — all you have to do is register online. Nov. 28
November Concerts
Stage AE is heating up the ‘Burgh this month. On the 4th, Troye Sivan will take the stage and keep you dancing all night. Tegan and Sara will also be visiting the venue on the 5th. Comedy fans will be thrilled to know that Lewis Black will be at the Carnegie Music Hall of Homestead on the 12th, and rap darlings Atmosphere will be at Stage AE on the 18th.
This content was provided by a local, independent contributor to Made in PGH, a lifestyle blog.