What’s going on in Pittsburgh this weekend, Oct. 29-Nov. 1? Find out here.
Check out our Live Music Guide for details about festivals and concerts on the horizon this fall. For a comprehensive guide to October art happenings around the region, see our NEXT in the Gallery series.
Note: For outdoor events, please check each event’s social media pages and websites for updates about weather-related cancellations and postponements.
Have a cool event we should know about? Email us.
Thursday, Oct. 29
Cee Jay Awards at the New Hazlett Theater
7 p.m.
We all have to wait patiently until until March 17, 2027, for the 99th Academy Awards, but we can strike a pose on the green “thrift carpet” to support a great local cause. Dubbed “the Oscars of Reuse,” the third annual Cee Jay Awards & Fundraiser is hosted by the region’s hub for building material reuse and conservation: Construction Junction. Don your best upcycled look for this lively evening celebrating sustainability, creativity and community impact on the North Side. The eco-festivities will spotlight “exceptional reuse projects and the behind-the-scenes heroes who make them happen” in the Burgh.
Be there to find out who will receive this year’s iconic Cee Jay trophy during the main awards ceremony. Mingle with the winners, bid on fantastic prizes and check out salvage art displays. The festivities will also feature delectable drinks and appetizers. Built in 1889 as the first Carnegie Music Hall (and dedicated by President Benjamin Harrison), the New Hazlett Theater provides a historic setting for the event. Tickets.
“Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror.” Film still courtesy of the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust.
Thursday, Oct. 29
“Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror” with live score by Tom Roberts at the Harris Theater
7 p.m.
More than 100 years ago, a menacing vampire dubbed Count Orlok was unleashed on the silver screen by world-renowned director F. W. Murnau. Why stream this iconic horror film on the small screen when you can watch it in all of its Gothic glory at Downtown Pittsburgh’s historic Harris Theater. Even better? In the city that birthed the nickelodeon and zombies — this is your rare opportunity to see the seminal German Expressionist film like never before as acclaimed pianist, composer and arranger Tom Roberts provides a captivating soundtrack.
Follow Thomas Hutter as he travels to remote Transylvania and “witnesses a nightmare come to life in the shape of a vampire.” What will transpire when the count has a craving for Hutter’s wife? When the flick premiered at Berlin’s zoological gardens in 1922, it became an instant cultural icon — and a subject of controversy — because the estate of “Dracula” author Bram Stoker sued Prana studio over copyright claims and won. While some copies of the film survived, the majority of Hans Erdmann’s score has been lost. Tickets.
“Hadestown” national tour. Photo courtesy of the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust.
“Hadestown” national tour. Photo courtesy of the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust.
“Hadestown” national tour. Photo courtesy of the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust.
Thursday, Oct. 29-Sunday, Nov. 1
“Hadestown” at the Benedrum Center
7:30 p.m., 2 p.m., 1 p.m., 6:30 p.m.
You only have a few more chances to experience this show-stopping production that’s been decorated with eight Tony Awards plus a Grammy for Best Musical Theater Album. Showcasing music, lyrics and book by acclaimed singer-songwriter Anaïs Mitchell, the theatrical experience explores themes of industry, nature, doubt, faith, fear, love and poverty. Reimagining two ancient Greek myths — the intertwining love stories of Orpheus and Eurydice and of Hades and Persephone — the blockbuster musical spotlights the innovative stage direction of Rachel Chavkin.
Descried as a “genre-defying new musical that blends modern American folk music with New Orleans-inspired jazz to reimagine a sweeping ancient tale,” the production is performed by a vibrant ensemble of actors, dancers and singers. Taking audiences on “a hell-raising journey to the underworld and back,” the show combines seductive melodies, poetic direction, mesmerizing storytelling and more. Equal parts haunting and hopeful, “Hadestown” was the most honored show of the 2018-2019 Broadway season. Tickets.
Image courtesy of the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy.
Friday, Oct. 30
“Hocus Pocus” at the Plaza at Schenley Plaza
3-9 p.m.
Looking for some family-style Halloween fun? Join the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy for this festive night under the stars, as Oakland’s green space transforms into a Halloween HQ with engaging activities, carousel rides and a classic movie. Meet the film’s legendary Sanderson Sisters during a special appearance of Winifred, Sarah and Mary portrayed by Fairytale Princess Visits.
Bring your own blankets and lawn chairs to find your favorite spot on the lawn for a special screening of the 1993 Halloween classic “Hocus Pocus.” Set in Salem, Massachusetts, on Halloween night, the fantasy film follows the adventures of a “comically villainous trio of witches” portrayed by Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker and Kathy Najimy. Hop on the historic Schenley Plaza Carousel for rides throughout the event (additional fee required). The movie will start at 7:30 p.m. Information.
Friday, Oct. 30
Gallery Crawl in the Cultural District
5:30-9 p.m.
Friday’s weather forecast promises an idyllic autumn night for strolling the streets of Downtown and visiting venues throughout the Cultural District and experiencing the vibrancy and energy of the city. A signature production of the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, the expanded crawl schedule features free arts programming, exhibition openings and creative experiences every final Friday, so find the sidewalk stop signs identifying participating venues to get started. Showcasing Pittsburgh’s dynamic art and entertainment scene, the multi-venue open house highlights visual art, live music, dance, film, outdoor installations, spoken word and more.
The October Crawl gets extra spooky with a Halloween Party at Wood Street Galleries, definitely a stop to make on your rounds. The event features a record release show by noise artist Aaron Dilloway, projections, sculptures and installation by Sandy Loaf, Isabella Schubert-Jones and Tyler Thompson and Halloween artwork by Gab Wound. While at Wood Street Galleries, check out “Sound of the City,” an immersive audio installation by NYC-born artist and composer Hprizm, co-founder of the seminal hip-hop group Antipop Consortium. Don’t miss the opening of “Charlie Wallace: The Stars Are Watching” at 707 Gallery and “Public Utility Commission” at SPACE Gallery. Stroll throughout Arts Landing to explore a wide variety of artwork by prolific Pittsburgh artists. Information.
Photo courtesy of Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall & Museum.
Photo courtesy of Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall & Museum.
Image courtesy of Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall & Museum.
Friday, Oct. 30
“The Silence of the Lambs” Cage Night at Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall & Museum
5:30-10:30 p.m.
Halloween in the Burgh is not complete without this ultimate cinematic creep-fest in Oakland. Before watching Jonathan Demme’s 1991 film starring Jodie Foster and Anthony Hopkins, check out a replica of the haunting cage located exactly where the escape scene was shot, complete with a live Hannibal Lecter and the original rug and bed frame from the film. Find frights around every corner as the historic building is transformed into two floors of Halloween entertainment and attractions. Brave souls can snap selfies with Hannibal and check out the original cage blueprints created by the movie’s metal fabricator Joe Steinmetz.
Visit the “Creepy Vendor Market” to shop for macabre merch from Wicksburgh, CreepXCouture, Buffalo Bill’s House and many more. The eerie event also features entertainment from caricature artist Howard Bender, exorcist bishop Victor Cianca, oracle readings, Raven’s 3rdEye Tarot and more. Watch “The Silence of the Lambs” screening on the auditorium’s theater-sized screen — if you dare — and attend a dance party with DJ Teddy T in the ballroom. Tickets.
Photo courtesy of Needs More Fog.
Photo courtesy of Needs More Fog.
Halloween Hangout runs Oct. 3-31 at The Plaza at North Shore. Photo courtesy of ScareHouse x The Plaza at North Shore.
Photo courtesy of ScareHouse x The Plaza at North Shore.
Friday, Oct. 30, & Saturday, Oct. 31
Devil’s Night & The Final Hangout at The Plaza at North Shore
6-10 p.m.
If you have yet to venture into The Halloween Hangout, you have one more weekend to experience the latest ScareHouse attraction at The Plaza at North Shore. This weekend, the haunted attraction hosts a doubleheader of frightful merrymaking. With a maritime twist on the haunted house concept, the larger-than-life Halloween attraction is not to be missed. Anchoring the immersive experience is a haunted pirate ship where the “dead are docking on the North Shore.” Kick off the weekend of sinister revelry with Devil’s Night, promising “a wicked dose of waterfront madness.” Step into the nautical nightmare realm to encounter bizarre ScareHouse creatures, Stolen Stitches Sideshow freak-show acts, fire performers, a psychic and more. See live mermaids make a splash inside a colossal 41,000-pound tank and groove to spooky tunes with DJ GeeNoMoney.
Return on Saturday for The Final Hangout to close out Halloween with one last spine-tingling adventure on the haunted high seas. Ramping up the thrills, the immerse shipwreck will come alive with pirates, ghostly creatures and mysterious characters interacting with attendees. Dress to slay and make waves for the colossal costume contest awarding $500 and $200 prizes (think: cursed captains, sinister sirens and vamp-pirates). The Final Hangout will also feature gravity-defying feats by O’Ryan the O’Mazing, tarot readings, music by TJ the DJ and more. Both nights will feature themed food and beverages for sale from SugarBird, like Mummy Dogs, Pumpkin Martinis and Spiked Caramel Apple Cider Slushies. Information.
Friday, Oct. 30, & Sunday, Nov. 1
“Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1” at Heinz Hall
7 p.m. & 2:30 p.m.
If witchcraft and wizardry are more your cup of tea, don’t miss this special night with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra. Experience “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows” like never before in this thrilling Halloween weekend production. Watch the feature film on the big screen at Heinz Hall as Harry’s last year at Hogwarts arrives. Conducted by Jacob Joyce, the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra adds to all the onscreen drama by performing Alexandre Desplat’s score live. Discover why the “final battle for Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry has never been so emotional.” Tickets.
Friday, Oct. 30
Phipps After Dark: House of Haunts at Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
7-10 p.m.
Gather under the glowing glasshouse as Phipps transforms into a haunted garden for just one night. Pre-game Halloween by exploring the spookier side of botany at the local landmark. Dress in your most creative Alice in Wonderland-inspired costume and slide down the rabbit hole for a fantastical night to remember. As dusk descends, snap costume pix in front of captivating botanical backdrops and listen to historic tales told by the Psychic Vincent Sisters. The haunted happening also features airbrush artists, sweet treats from Nectar Candy Cart. A cash bar will be open until 9:30 p.m. Be one of the first 300 guests to arrive and receive a free potted mum to take home. Tickets.
Pittsburgh Art Book Fair. Photo by Sean Eaton courtesy of Carnegie Museum of Art.
Saturday, Oct. 31, & Sunday, Nov. 1
Pittsburgh Art Book Fair at Carnegie Museum of Art
10 a.m.-5 p.m.
One of Pittsburgh’s most breathtaking indoor spaces provides the backdrop for printed matter of all kinds. Moving the publications from the Hall of Sculpture to the ornate Carnegie Music Hall Foyer, the fourth annual Pittsburgh Art Book Fair will showcase more than 70 exhibitors selling original publications. New this year will be five Carnegie International artists featured in the lineup: Gabriela Pinilla, Mathili Bavkar, Priyesh Gothwal, ungovernable study and Fe Avila. Expanding the definition of the art book, the free celebration brings together local, national and international artists, publishers, collectives and independent presses.
Held during the run of the 59th Carnegie International, this year’s fair “highlights artists as publishers, storytellers and producers of knowledge.” Step beneath the soaring 50-foot ceiling of gilded baroque décor and pillars of marble from five different countries to peruse and purchase artist books, zines, publications and new releases. What’s wonderful about this homegrown event is that attendees can also meet and talk with the makers, publishers, and communities who create the original works presented. Go beyond the page to explore the people, process and perspectives at free programming offered during the fair. On Saturday, don’t miss a performance in the Music Hall by asinnajac. Return on Sunday for programming led by Sweet Abyss. Information. Read more about the fair in NEXT.
Lee Terbosic. Photo by Justin Boyd.
Saturday, Oct. 31
Houdini 100 – The Great Firetruck Ladder Escape at Arts Landing
7-9 p.m.
If you’ve been mesmerized by his acclaimed “In Plain Sleight” show at Liberty Magic, you won’t want to miss what’s next in the wild world of Lee Terbosic. One of the magic industry’s top performers — who also happens to be a Steel City native son — is taking to the skies to attempt an epic Halloween night escape that has deep ties to Pittsburgh. Merging magic and history, Lee will attempt an upside-down straitjacket escape suspended 100 feet above Arts Landing from a Pittsburgh Fire Department ladder truck — “with a burning lifeline creating a dramatic race against time.” The awe-inspiring event marks 100 years since Harry Houdini’s passing and a decade since Lee’s own Houdini 100 escape above Downtown Pittsburgh.
Back in 2016, Pittsburgh legends Franco Harris, Rocky Bleier and Tom Savini helped secure Terbosic in his straitjacket. This year’s special guests will remain a surprise. A nationally touring magician, actor, comedian and daredevil, Lee was born and raised in Pittsburgh. He has performed for major universities, Fortune 500 companies and audiences that include Aaron Paul, Jack Black, Wiz Khalifa and Michael J. Fox. The free Houdini 100 event features music by DJ Midas and DJ Bonics from 7 to 8:30 p.m., followed by a stunt program at 8:30 p.m. and Lee’s escape at 8:45 p.m. Costumes are encouraged. Information.
Saturday, Oct. 31-Sunday, Nov. 1
“Night of the Living Dead ‘N At” at City Theatre Company
8 p.m. & 2 p.m.
Immersive theater fans will rejoice that Bricolage Production Company is back just in time for some homegrown Halloween shenanigans. The company’s signature Midnight Radio series returns this fall with not one but two “Pittsburghian parodies presented in partnership with City Theatre.” Where better to stage “Night of the Living Dead ‘N At” than in the very city that birthed zombies on the big screen? Watch as “slippy stalkers shamble all over tahn to feast on all yinz brains.”
Adapted by Bricolage co-founder Tami Dixon, the new twist on the horror classic features musical guest Cello Fury. Dubbed a “blood curdling night of aural anarchy,” the spooky show is directed by Bricolage co-founder Jeffrey Carpenter. Musical director for this “night of living jags” is Deana Muro. Reinventing the classic 1940s radio broadcast, Bricolage’s Midnight Radio format is augmented by commercial parodies, musical underscoring and live Foley sound effects. Running through Nov. 15, the show is presented in The Lillie Theatre. Several shows are already sold-out so get those tickets now.
Saturday, Oct. 31
Tirips Redrum: Halloween Party & Costume Contest at Spirit
8 p.m.-2 a.m.
Step into the ominous Overlook Hotel for Spirit’s 11th annual Halloween Party & Costume Contest. To help create one of the city’s go-to Halloween destinations, local artist and designer Thommy Conroy will transform both floors of the Lawrenceville venue into the iconic setting for Stanley Kubrick’s 1980 film “The Shining.” Fusing opulence, glitz and glamour with “terror lurking around every corner,” the haunted happening will include dance performances by Slow Danger, specialty boozy snow cones and lots more. A marquee attraction is Spirit’s highly anticipated costume contest hosted by the Moon Baby, which boasts impressive prizes include $500 cash, Spirit’s Golden Ticket (a year of free admission to Spirit shows), and a pizza party courtesy of Bacardi. Channel your inner Johnny, Wendy or Danny as you test your skills with the outdoor maze lounge and ax throwing. Neon De Facto will reimagine The Shining’s eerie score, and local bands will heat up the snowdrift-themed Lodge. Keep the dance party vibes going late into the night in the Gold Room with sounds by Teen Wolf Too, B2B, Brotha Mike and DJ Minx closing out the night. Tickets.
12 more things to do this weekend
Thursday, Oct. 29: Spirits in the Garden at Pittsburgh Botanic Garden, 4-7 p.m.
Thursday, Oct. 29: A Cat Lover’s Halloween Party at Rescue & Relax, 6-10 p.m.
Thursday, Oct. 29: Michi Tapes 5-Year Anniversary at Thunderbird Cafe & Music Hall, 7 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 30: Greenwood Week 2026: Coworking Day, at Emerald City Pittsburgh, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 30: Pittsburgh Honky Tonk Halloween: Zombie Tonk at Spirit, 7-11 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 30-Sunday, Nov. 1: “Shrek the Musical” at Robert Morris University Theatre, 7:30 p.m. & 2 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 30: Trevor Austin at the Pittsburgh Improv, 9:30 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 31: Pumpkin Palooza: An East Liberty Halloween Adventure at the Kelly Strayhorn Theater, 1-4 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 31: “Horror of Dracula” (1958) new, uncensored 4K restoration at the Harris Theater, 2 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 31: Nightmare on Greenfield Avenue Halloween Party at Mondays Brewing, 6-10 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 31: Stop the Violence Pittsburgh Halloween Boat Party on the Gateway Clipper Fleet, 9:30 p.m.
Sunday, Nov. 1: Walk4Friendship and Friendship 5K in Squirrel Hill starting at 1922 Murray Ave. and finishing with a carnival celebration at the Bartlett Street Playground, 9 a.m.
October 7, 2026October 7, 2026
October 1, 2026October 8, 2026