August already? Who can believe that summer is going this fast? Soon enough we’ll be watching the Steelers and sending the kids back to school. But in the meantime, here are some ways to enjoy the summer we have left.
Nate Bargatze
This stand-up comedian has seen a meteoric rise in the past few years, finding himself as the highest-grossing comedian in the country in 2024. Now, Nate Bargatze is coming to Pittsburgh to perform at PPG Paints Arena on Friday.
The “clean comedian” is known for the lack of swearing in his act, as well as for his particularly deadpan style of delivery. He has hosted “Saturday Night Live” and awards shows including the Emmys. His stand-up has been featured on Netflix, Comedy Central and Amazon Prime.
The show starts at 7 p.m. Friday To get tickets, head to ppgpaintsarena.com.
Shadyside Sidewalk Sale
An annual summer tradition, this sidewalk sale gives patrons from Shadyside and beyond the chance to browse retailers while breezing around outside. Taking place up and down Walnut Street, stores have their wares available on the sidewalk for you to peruse all weekend, during normal business hours.
Also, on Saturday, the Spritz and Stroll will give 21-and-over ticket holders access to more than eight different delicious cocktails while they walk around the Sidewalk Sale.
The event is Friday, Saturday and Sunday along Walnut Street; the Spritz and Stroll is noon to 4 p.m. Saturday. To learn more, visit thinkshadyside.com.
The Black Keys
Ohio rock band The Black Keys are at Stage AE on the North Shore on Sunday as part of their Peachs ‘N Kream Tour.
The Black Keys are known for their garage rock and blues rock sounds, with early 2010s hits, including “Lonely Boy” and “Gold on the Ceiling,” gaining them national acclaim. They have a longtime dedicated fanbase and arena rock anthems.
The all-ages show is at the outdoor venue of Stage AE. Doors open at 6 p.m. with the show starting at 7:30 p.m., and Eddie 9V will open. To learn more, visit axs.com.
Lawrenceville Art Crawl
Join this artsy block party along Butler Street in Lawrenceville. The annual Lawrenceville Art Crawl showcases more than 200 artists over 16 blocks throughout the neighborhood.
Stop at more than 45 local businesses, galleries and venues throughout the Crawl to see amazing visual art, more than 75 live performers and a variety of vendors. There will also be delicious food and drinks to accompany the day of art and exploration.
The Art Crawl is Saturday on Butler Street from noon to 10 p.m. There’s a ticketed after-party at Redfishbowl Studios from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Saturday, featuring DJs and live music. To learn more, visit redfishbowl.com.
‘Once on This Island’
This award-winning musical with a tropical, summery feel is a crowd-pleaser for all ages. This weekend, the Alumni Theater Company will stage the vibrant and upbeat “Once on This Island” at the Charity Randall Theatre at the University of Pittsburgh in Oakland.
“Once on This Island” tells the story of a young girl in search of love who follows her heart through challenges, boundaries and even gods. Folklore fans will recognize it as a retelling of “The Little Mermaid.”
Performances are Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m. To learn more and get tickets, visit alumnitheatercompany.org.