{"id":185435,"date":"2026-05-06T16:12:14","date_gmt":"2026-05-06T16:12:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-pa\/185435\/"},"modified":"2026-05-06T16:12:14","modified_gmt":"2026-05-06T16:12:14","slug":"14-things-to-do-this-weekend-from-the-phipps-may-market-and-pittonkatonk-to-skate-the-square","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-pa\/185435\/","title":{"rendered":"14+ things to do this weekend, from the Phipps May Market and Pittonkatonk to Skate the Square"},"content":{"rendered":"

What\u2019s going on in Pittsburgh this weekend, May 7-10? Find out here. Know of a cool event?\u00a0Email us<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Thursday, May 7-Sunday, May 10: Skate the Square in Market Square
4-10 p.m. & 12-10 p.m.
Roller skating around an indoor rink with a disco ball shimmering above you is groovy, but what if you could show off your jamming and carving skills surrounded by skyscrapers Lace up and head to the heart of Downtown Pittsburgh to \u201cSkate The Square.\u201d Produced by the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership, the skating activation is transforming the newly remodeled Market Square into a pop-up roller rink. The Downtown space is not just for ice skating and farmers markets anymore.<\/p>\n

Running through May 25, the first-of-its-kind Burgh pop-up will feature a full-service bar, a rotating lineup of live DJs and plenty of retro vibes. Roll into Downtown to enjoy music, movement and active fun while taking in the energy of Market Square. Don\u2019t miss Thursday\u2019s kickoff festivities from 4 to 10 p.m. Admission:\u00a0$17 for 75 minutes (includes skate rental). Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.\u2028Information<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Thursday, May 7: Jazz Poetry Month Opening Night at Alphabet City
7 p.m.
For 22 years, this unprecedented exchange of music, language and ideas has brought trailblazing cultural figures to the Burgh for experimentation, collaboration and connection. Spanning cultures and genres, programs pair sets by jazz bands with readings and performances from local and international poets. Don\u2019t miss the kickoff event, when jazz composer and saxophonist James Brandon Lewis takes the stage with his punk-jazz fusion band, The Messthetics. All Jazz Poetry events are free and can be livestreamed<\/a>. Read more about Jazz Poetry Month in NEXT<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"\"Photos by Paul Vladuchick.<\/p>\n

Friday, May 8, & Saturday, May 9: May Market at Phipps
9 a.m.-7 p.m. & 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
With several late-April frost warnings, anyone who followed the old gardening rule of (green) thumb to wait until after Mother\u2019s Day to plant heeded wise advice indeed. Now that May is here, it\u2019s time to turn over the soil, fire up that weed whacker and sketch out your dream designs because gardening season is here. Mother\u2019s Day weekend is not only for spoiling matriarchs \u2014 it\u2019s also for tending to Mother Earth. And the best place to officially welcome the growing season is at this beloved market<\/a> bursting with quality offerings from 60 local nurseries, farms and vendors.<\/p>\n

From organic herbs, vegetable seedlings and tropical plants to succulents, perennials and more \u2014 it\u2019s your one-stop shop for digging into spring. You can even stock up on garden accessories, lawn decor, landscaping materials, botanical art, eco-jewelry and organic body care products. Even better? Get pro tips from Phipps horticulturists, owners of local nurseries and local growers. Information<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"\"Photo courtesy of Pittonkatonk. <\/p>\n

Friday, May 8, & Saturday, May 9: Pittonkatonk Fundraiser & Festival at the Schenley Park Vietnam Veterans Pavilion
7-10 p.m. & 1-11 p.m.
It\u2019s a spring experience not to miss when this one-of-a-kind Pittsburgh festival transforms Schenley Park\u2019s Vietnam Veterans Pavilion into a vibrant weekend celebration of \u201cculture, community and music.\u201d The homegrown festival marks 13 years of cheering, stomping and honking with bands from around the globe this year. The magical weekend kicks off with Friday night\u2019s Cevapi Dinner Fundraiser<\/a>. Ticket holders will be treated to an al fresco, family-style dinner featuring the flavors of cevapi (homemade Serbian sausage), paired with an exclusive live performance.<\/p>\n

On Saturday, the marquee world music festival fills the green space with community activations and unforgettable performances you can\u2019t see anywhere else. This year\u2019s impressive lineup features legendary Colombian accordion player Yeison Landero and Estonian folk duo Puuluup. Joining them will be national ensembles Undertow Brass Band, Detroit Party Marching Band, Mariposa Galacticas, along with local artists and youth performers. Arrive with an appetite because Pittonkatonk showcases a flavorful lineup of food and drink purveyors, from El Colibri and ShadoBeni to Mr Bulgogi and Goodlander Cocktails. Information<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Friday, May 8-Sunday, May 10: \u201cShakespeare\u2019s R&J\u201d at City Theatre Company
7:30 p.m. & 2 p.m.
Think you\u2019ve seen every adaptation under the sun of Shakespeare\u2019s iconic \u201cRomeo & Juliet\u201d? Think again. A new adaptation written by Joe Calarco, \u201cShakespeare\u2019s R&J\u201d is directed by J. Cody Spellman, the John Wells Fellow at Carnegie Mellon University. Via Calarco\u2019s \u201cbold and unconventional\u201d interpretation, Shakespeare\u2019s timeless tale of star-crossed lovers is now told through the lens of four young boys. <\/p>\n

Audiences will follow the story of the boys \u201cliving under rigid constraints that dictate what they can and cannot read. In an act of rebellion and curiosity, they begin to act out the forbidden text: Shakespeare\u2019s \u201cRomeo and Juliet.\u201d Starring Sam Lander, Silas Bright, Nate Dirksen and Christopher Rone, the play explores a wide range of themes: control, self-discovery, language. forbidden love, vulnerability, liberation and resistance. The production features a collaboration between Carnegie Mellon School of Drama alumni and current students. Tickets<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"\"Baltimore Oriole. Photo by Zach Vaughan.<\/p>\n

Saturday, May 9: World Migratory Bird Day at the Frick Environmental Center
9 a.m.-12 p.m.
Did you know that Pittsburgh\u2019s location along the Appalachian Flyway makes it a prime stopover for migrating birds needing to rest and refuel? Be an early bird and flock to the Frick Environmental Center for these avian festivities presented by Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy. With activities spanning the center\u2019s lawn, classrooms and surrounding environment, there\u2019s something for PittsBIRDers of all ages, abilities and interests. During this peak time for spring bird migration, you can hear a dawn chorus, get closeup with birds of prey, discover how beaks are used for feeding and more. <\/p>\n

Part of a global initiative to protect migratory bird populations, the free celebration features engaging programming presented in partnership with the National Aviary, Pittsburgh Park Rangers, Bird Lab, Allegheny Bird Conservation Alliance, Carnegie Museum of Natural History and others.<\/p>\n

The morning kicks off with the Intersectional Bird Club of Pittsburgh, followed by guided bird walks led by Bob Mulvihill of the National Aviary and local birder Eric Hall. Listen for the songs of migrating warblers and look out for a variety of species as you stroll through one of the region\u2019s top birding destinations. <\/p>\n

Highlights include Virtual Bird Banding, Bird Beak Challenge, Egg Matching Game and Discovery Time activities. Learn simple steps for how to make their homes and neighborhoods more welcoming to migrating birds with Allegheny GoatScape, DarkSky International, BirdSafe Pittsburgh and Building New Hope. The city\u2019s youngest birders will love the Junior Garden Buds Storytime and vegetable planting in the From Slavery to Freedom Garden. During the Accessible Birding program, attendees can explore the center\u2019s new Americans With Disabilities Act-compliant Outdoor Discovery Space and Sensory Nature Trail leading to an elevated viewing deck. Information<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"\"Pottery by Kelsey Bohnert.\"\"Pottery by Jenna Vanden Brink.<\/p>\n

Saturday, May 9: Mother of All Pottery Sales at Union Project
11 a.m.-4 p.m.
There are all kinds of mother figures \u2014 and this one the takes the top spot when it comes to pottery. Affectionately dubbed the Mother of All Pottery Sales, this colossal celebration of all things clay is a vessel for ceramics, creativity and community. The region\u2019s largest ceramic art market is also the perfect place to score a one-of-a-kind Mother\u2019s Day gift or a functional piece to cherish every day. As you shop for beautifully crafted bowls, mugs, planters and vases, statement jewelry and intricately designed sculpture, you\u2019ll feel good supporting local artists and putting dollars back into the creative economy. Showcasing the best of Pittsburgh\u2019s prolific pottery scene, the market features 45 ceramic artists, including 14 brand-new to the event. It\u2019s not only a place to select handcrafted ceramics and pottery, it\u2019s also a rare opportunity to meet the makers, and check out live clay demonstrations and participate in hands-on activities. With a $20 Early Bird Ticket<\/a>, you can get a first look at all the wares with one hour of crowd-free, first-access shopping. Information<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Saturday, May 9: August Wilson Birthday Block Party in the Hill District
11 a.m.-6 p.m.
On April 27, Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright and Pittsburgh native August Wilson would have turned 81. Now, the public is invited to celebrate Wilson\u2019s remarkable life and legacy at his historic childhood home. The very house where Wilson spent the first 12 years of his life \u2014 at 1727 Bedford Ave. in Pittsburgh\u2019s iconic Hill District \u2014 will be animated by this free, all-ages block party. <\/p>\n

Free activities, including live musical performances, a bustling vendor marketplace, food trucks, children\u2019s activities and interactive entertainment are a part of the celebration. Guided tours of the house, now a community arts center, will provide attendees with the rare opportunity to \u201cstep inside history and connect with the legacy of a storyteller whose work continues to define American theater.\u201d The block party also showcases local entrepreneurs and artists, while underscoring the Hill District\u2019s significant role shaping Black arts and American culture. Information<\/a>. Read more about the block party in NEXT<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Saturday, May 9: Bealtaine: A Celtic Fire Festival at The Pump House
12-5 p.m.
Head to Homestead to celebrate the midpoint between the spring equinox and the summer solstice. Produced by the Pittsburgh Irish Festival in collaboration with ANAM Arts, the immersive experience will transform the historic Pump House into a dynamic Beltaine festival with a contemporary twist. <\/p>\n

The Pittsburgh community is invited to explore this ancient festival \u201cas a living, breathing expression of creativity and connection.\u201d The second installment of the team\u2019s Celtic Fire Festival series, the event follows fresh on the heels of the sold-out Imbolc festival presented in February. With roots dating back to ancient Celtic traditions, Bealtaine (pronounced byal-ten-uh) marks the arrival of summer and the \u201cheightening of light, fertility and creative energy.\u201d Enjoy the richness of Irish and Celtic traditions through movement, music, ritual and shared experiences. Nurturing a spirit of communal gatherings, the event will showcase live music and dance performances, immersive art and cultural activities. Signature highlights include a ceremonial fire experience, hands-on workshops and specialty cocktails inspired by Celtic tradition. Tickets<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"\"\u201cA.I.M\u201d by Kyle Abraham. Photo by Alexander Diaz.<\/p>\n

Saturday, May 9: A.I.M by Kyle Abraham at the Byham Theater
7:30 p.m.
Trailblazing choreographer and Pittsburgh native Kyle Abraham is celebrating a milestone anniversary with a stop in his hometown. For two decades, A.I.M by Kyle Abraham has \u201cbeen at the forefront of contemporary dance, becoming one of the most acclaimed touring companies in the world.\u201d Lovers of contemporary dance have only one night to experience this mixed repertory program presented by Abraham\u2019s acclaimed touring company. Abraham\u2019s powerful homecoming performance will close out the 2025-2026 Pittsburgh Dance Council season showcasing the company\u2019s \u201clush movement, infectious music and magnetic dancers.\u201d Based in New York City, A.I.M performs works by Abraham as well as new and existing works by choreographers who have influenced the choreographer\u2019s artistry. Born in Lincoln-Larimer in 1977, Abraham began dancing when he was young at the Civic Light Opera Academy and the Pittsburgh Creative and Performing Arts High School. Don\u2019t miss the free after\u2011party open to all attendees in the Byham Theater lobby with Pittsburgh DJ Nate Da Barber. Tickets<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"\"Wynton Marsalis. Photo by Gilberto Tadday.<\/p>\n

Saturday, May 9: Wynton Marsalis with the PSO at Heinz Hall, \u201cAll Rise\u201d
7:30 p.m.
Any fan of jazz music and groundbreaking trumpeter Wynton Marsalis cannot miss this one-night-only performance presented in partnership with MCG Jazz. Part of the Lift Every Voice program, the special production brings together the world-renowned Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Marsalis, the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra led by conductor Benjamin Northey, the Mendelssohn Choir of Pittsburgh with Music Director Daniel Singer, and the Lift Every Voice Unity Choir under the direction of Nikki Porter.<\/p>\n

Described as a \u201cgenre-bending symphony,\u201d Marsalis\u2019 iconic work fuses musical influences from around the globe, including everything from ancient Greek harmonies, New Orleans brass bands, clave rhythms and classical music, to samba, to jazz, blues and Chinese parade bands. Exploring themes of struggle and redemption, \u201cAll Rise\u201d will feature more than 200 artists on stage, performing music inspired by a wide range of world traditions. In the words of Marsalis, the work explores \u201chow [we] will translate our differences into a collective creativity.\u201d Tickets<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"\"The Neighborhood Flea. Photo by Nathan J Shaulis\/Porter Loves.<\/p>\n

Sunday, May 10: Neighborhood Flea Opening Day at SouthSide Works
10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Hurry up and make a dent in your spring cleaning so you can make space for all the treasures you\u2019ll score at The Neighborhood Flea. Kicking off a new season of plein air shopping, the curated pop-up market features 130 vendors. Look for jewelry, housewares and textiles, clothing, accessories and baked goods. The dog-friendly event also includes a rotating lineup of local DJs and food trucks. Make it a complete Mother\u2019s Day outing with your mom, auntie or bestie while enjoying brunch at SouthSide Works. Bonus: Use the event\u2019s QR code for discounted rates at the Ladle and Hot Metal parking garages. Information<\/a>. Read more about the Neighborhood Flea in NEXT<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"\"L-R: Pittsburgh\u2019s First Lady of Drag Kierra Darshell; Miss Continental Newcomer 2025 Joey Young.<\/p>\n

Sunday, May 10: Drag Your Mother To Brunch at The Forge Winery Bar
1-3 p.m.
Pittsburgh\u2019s First Lady of Drag is here to solve an age-old conundrum: \u201cWhat should we do for Mother\u2019s Day?\u201d Booking a brunch reservation is never a drag when it means your meal is served with a sizzling side of dazzling divas. Head to Homestead to experience a feel-good, family-friendly performance along with brunch catered by Miss TS Tasty Eats. Sure to make the weekend memorable, the Mother\u2019s Day Drag Show features a shimmering lineup of Pittsburgh\u2019s leading drag performers, including Miss Continental Newcomer 2025 Joey Young. This high-energy show will include a mix of live vocals, \u201cfierce lip-syncing\u201d and big helpings of entertainment, style and laughter. Don\u2019t forget to bring cash to tip these talented queens. Tickets<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"\"Grapow Pittsburgh Asian street food eatery is participating in Oakland Restaurant Week, running May 10-16. Photo by Cody Baker, Creatives Drink. \"\"Pitt Eats. Photo by Cody Baker, Creatives Drink. \"\"The Cafe Carnegie. Photo by Cody Baker, Creatives Drink. <\/p>\n

Sunday, May 10: Oakland Restaurant Week at 25+ locations
Various times
Oakland is not just a place to attend college and work. Eat your way through the iconic neighborhood during Oakland Restaurant Week. For seven delicious days, more than 25 restaurants across the neighborhood will roll out special menus. Whether you\u2019re looking for quick midday bite to tide you over, or you\u2019re planning a night out on the town, the week offers a diverse range of ways to \u201cexperience Oakland through food.\u201d<\/p>\n

Special lunch offerings include the BYO Mediterranean Bowls from Jolina\u2019s 2, Loaded Mashed Potatoes from GG\u2019s Express Caf\u00e9 and the Caribbean Shrimp Roll Combo from Atarashi Sushi. Chef-driven menus will feature restaurants such as Caf\u00e9 Carnegie, Cork & Crust, The University Club and The Porch. Information<\/a>.<\/p>\n

8 more things to do this weekend<\/p>\n

Friday, May 8: Lodge in Bloom Fundraiser<\/a> at the Allegheny Elks Lodge No. 339, 6-9 p.m.<\/p>\n

Saturday, May 9, & Sunday, May 10: Nurture in Nature: A Women\u2019s Wellness Retreat<\/a> at the International Conservation Center, 9 a.m.-7:30 p.m. & 7 a.m.-2:30 p.m.<\/p>\n

Saturday, May 9: Toypalooza<\/a> at the Monroeville Convention and Events Center, 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m<\/p>\n

Saturday, May 9: Pennsylvania Brewery Running Series<\/a> at Aslin Beer Co., 11 a.m.<\/p>\n

Saturday, May 9: at Allegheny City Brewing, 1-10 p.m.<\/p>\n

Saturday, May 9: Women\u2019s Center & Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh and UPMC Health Plan present Celebrating Survivors<\/a> at Nova Place, 5:30-9 p.m.<\/p>\n

Saturday, May 9: \u201cBill Nace: Works on Paper\u201d Exhibition Opening<\/a> at Fungus Books, 6-8 p.m.<\/p>\n

More\u00a0things to do<\/a>\u00a0with NEXT: 12 must-do May events, from Chalk Fest to the Carnegie International to the Strawberry Jell-O Pretzel Salad Standoff<\/a> and NEXT in the Gallery: Preview Pittsburgh summer with a \u2018Pity Party,\u2019 dog sculptures and so much more art<\/a>.
\u00a0<\/p>\n