{"id":259767,"date":"2026-08-05T16:56:15","date_gmt":"2026-08-05T16:56:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-pa\/259767\/"},"modified":"2026-08-05T16:56:15","modified_gmt":"2026-08-05T16:56:15","slug":"14-things-to-do-this-weekend-in-pittsburgh-from-steel-city-con-to-barrel-flow-fest","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-pa\/259767\/","title":{"rendered":"14+ things to do this weekend in Pittsburgh, from Steel City Con to Barrel & Flow Fest"},"content":{"rendered":"

What\u2019s going on in Pittsburgh this weekend, Aug. 6-9? Find out here.<\/p>\n

Don\u2019t miss our\u00a0Summer Concert Guide<\/a>\u00a0for details about the ongoing Allegheny County Summer Concert Series, plus music festivals and shows on the horizon. And check out our\u00a0NEXT in the Gallery<\/a>\u00a0series for more August art happenings around the region. Know of a cool event?\u00a0Email us<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Thursday, Aug. 6
Big Night Out in Aspinwall
6-9 p.m.
If you\u2019re been wanting to explore the quaint the Allegheny River borough of Aspinwall, this is the night to do so. Inviting residents and visitors alike to come together, the free community celebration<\/a> highlights the local businesses, artists, musicians, organizations and neighbors that give Aspinwall a sense of place. Organized by Aspinwall Neighbors, the community\u2019s largest annual celebration activates the borough\u2019s baseball fields with local programming and community spirit. Pack a picnic or purchase dinner and dessert from local restaurants on site. The night\u2019s entertainment and creative projects will showcase local talent, including the band Stealing Time band, DJ Doug and artist Alison Zapata.<\/p>\n

Swing by the 21+ Neighborhood Lounge to gather with friends and sip free samples from local beverage partners. Families can enjoy free popcorn and cotton candy, plus activities such as inflatable games, a foam party, balloon twisting, airbrush tattoos and a photo booth. Attendees can also meet local first responders and learn about the event\u2019s zero waste practices. Information<\/a>.
\u2028
Friday, Aug. 7
Unblurred: First Fridays Penn Ave Art Crawl
4-10 p.m.
Stroll into the weekend and along the avenue at Pittsburgh\u2019s longest-running art crawl. For the August installment of this neighborhood-wide open house, Unblurred shines a spotlight on the bustling East End corridor spanning 4800 to 5500 Penn Ave. Highlights include cultural destinations such as Pittsburgh Glass Center (where Boaz Frankel recently visited), The Irma Freeman Center for Imagination, Bunker Projects, Assemble, Boom Concepts, Silver Eye Lab, Pullproof Studio and many others. Information<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"\"All photos courtesy of Carnegie Museum of Natural History.\"\"\"\"<\/p>\n

Friday, Aug. 7
Camp Carnegie (18+) at Carnegie Museum of Natural History
6-10 p.m.
Craving that classic summer camp experience, but you know, for us adults?! Camp Carnegie is here to make all your summer camp dreams come true. Taking the camp experience indoors, the 18-plus event<\/a> blends museum exploration, camp-inspired activities and summer nostalgia. Campers will explore the museum after hours while enjoying hands-on science experiences and opportunities to connect with scientists. <\/p>\n

Take a flashlight tour of the museum\u2019s iconic wildlife dioramas, gather around a faux campfire and dig for fossils. Make your very own geology-inspired friendship bracelets and beaded bug lanyards, and hit the trails during a \u201cscat-venture hunt.\u201d Meet Pittsburgh Riverhounds coaches, players and mascot AMO during interactive soccer-themed activities. Tickets<\/a>. Read more about Camp Carnegie<\/a> in NEXT.<\/p>\n

\"\"Video still courtesy of the 2026 CatVideoFest.\"\"\u201cThe Real You.\u201d Video still courtesy of the 2026 CatVideoFest.\"\"Video still courtesy of the 2026 CatVideoFest.\"\"\u201cThe Real You.\u201d Video still courtesy of the 2026 CatVideoFest.<\/p>\n

Friday, Aug. 7-Sunday, Aug. 9
CatVideoFest at Row House Cinema
Various times
The planet\u2019s premiere purr-fest is prowling back into Lawrenceville<\/a> as part of a national tour. Feline fans will unite around this \u201cjoyous, communal, theatrical experience\u201d showcasing all the latest and greatest cat videos the world has to offer. Sit back and stretch as you watch an all-new, 70-minute \u201creel of the funniest, cutest and craziest cat videos culled from thousands of submissions,\u201d including irresistible animations, music videos and internet sensations.<\/p>\n

These felines are not just making their silver screen debut \u2014 they\u2019re helping to raise money for cats in need through partnerships with local charities, animal welfare organizations and shelters. Presented by Oscilloscope Laboratories, the event is family-friendly. Row House is adding even more friskiness to the mix by screening feline features this weekend. On Friday, don\u2019t miss Ralph Bakshi\u2019s 1972 movie, \u201cFritz the Cat\u201d based on Robert Crumb\u2019s iconic comic strip. On CATurday, Aug. 8, sing along with \u201cJosie and the Pussycats\u201d starring Alan Cumming, Parker Posey, Rosario Dawson and Tara Reid. Schedule and tickets<\/a>. <\/p>\n

Saturday, Aug. 8
L\u00daNASA Celtic Festival at Arts Landing
3-8 p.m.
Pittsburgh\u2019s newest summer festival will illuminate the Cultural District at the midpoint between the summer solstice and the fall equinox. Debuting in Downtown Pittsburgh\u2019s new Arts Landing, L\u00daNASA explores \u201cbelonging, resilience and our shared responsibility to one another and to the places we call home.\u201d In the Celtic calendar, L\u00daNASA marks the beginning of the harvest season, traditionally celebrated as a time of gratitude, abundance and gathering. Situated near the confluence of Pittsburgh\u2019s three rivers, the free festival provides an interactive cultural gathering space encouraging participatory activations, rituals and experiences for all ages.<\/p>\n

As the summer\u2019s light begins to wane and shadows grow, revelers are invited to dance, sing, make music and \u201cmark the Earth to cultivate sustenance for community resilience.\u201d Check out live Irish, Celtic and Appalachian music, savor first harvest-inspired food and beverages and enjoy art-making activities. Watch traditional Irish dance performances, and see creations by local artists, makers and vendors. Putting a contemporary spin on an ancient seasonal festival, L\u00daNASA will also feature a reimagining of the Planetary Dance ritual led by Conor and Garrett Coleman and Alyssa Jurewicz-Johns. Registration is suggested. <\/a><\/p>\n

\"\"All photos courtesy of Barrel & Flow Fest.\"\"\"\"\"\"<\/p>\n

Saturday, Aug. 8
Barrel & Flow Fest at The Stacks at 3 Crossings
3-9 p.m.
Black brewers, artists and entrepreneurs are gearing up for the sixth delicious edition of Barrel & Flow Fest. Returning to the Strip District site, the event is driven by a mission to present programming \u201crooted in culture and elevated by collaboration.\u201d The country\u2019s first Black beer festival has become one of the region\u2019s top summer destinations for fresh libations, innovative creativity and community connections.<\/p>\n

What\u2019s on tap for 2026? Anchoring the festivities will be 30 Black-owned breweries from more than 15 states and 30 highly-anticipated collaborative libations created exclusively for Barrel & Flow. The event also showcases Black-owned food purveyors, visual artists, comedians and writers plus community organizations. Bring the kiddos, because the STEAM Tent offers interactive activities for all ages. Barrel & Flow-goers will also enjoy a dynamic lineup of DJs and musicians, along with live visual artists and speakers. Head to the South Side for the Barrel & Flow After Party at Velum Fermentation from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Read more about Barrel & Flow<\/a> in NEXT.<\/p>\n

Friday, Aug. 7-Sunday, Aug. 9
Steel City Con at the Monroeville Convention Center
10 a.m.-8 p.m. & 10 a.m .-5 p.m.
Where can you pose for selfies with actors Jamie Campbell Bower, Nia Vardalos, Juliette Lewis, Virginia Madsen, Jaleel White and Ken Jeong, meet renowned musicians Bootsy Collins, Huey Lewis and Lou Gramm, and rub shoulders with 17-time WWE world champion John Cena? Encompassing all manner of television, film and entertainment, the pop culture star power will be in the building at one of the country\u2019s largest comic conventions<\/a>. Step into a 100,000-square-foot pop culture playground bustling with 600 vendors, 30-plus special guests and your one-stop shop for discovering comics, collectibles and memorabilia.<\/p>\n

Meet your fave TV and film celebrities, attend Q&As and panels and visit the Artist Alley. There\u2019s an attraction for every pop culture fanatic, from cosplay and trivia to the Charity Quick Sketch benefiting Children\u2019s Museum of Pittsburgh. It\u2019s not lost on us that Pennsylvania\u2019s largest pop culture convention<\/a> is located adjacent to the mall immortalized in George Romero\u2019s 1978 cult classic, \u201cDawn of the Dead.\u201d Featured guests this year include Adam Savage of \u201cMythbusters\u201d and Pixar animator, writer, storyboard artist and voice actor Jeff Pidgeon. Schedule and tickets<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Saturday, Aug. 8
Rock Reggae & Relief in Downtown Pittsburgh
11:30 a.m.-11:30 p.m.
The deep grooves, goodwill and summer vibes will flow when this signature music festival returns to its roots on Forbes Avenue. Also new this year, the festival is expanding its footprint to create an urban oasis in Market Square. Bringing international acts and acclaimed locals together for a great cause, this year\u2019s sizzling lineup features the UB40 with Ali Campbell, The Elovaters, Tribal Seeds, The Hip Abduction, G. Love & Special Sauce, The Expendables, Surfer Girl, FUBAR, and Emily Brimlow. We love that proceeds will directly benefit Caf\u00e9 Momentum, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering justice-involved youth. In between acts, festival-goers can pop into the \u201cChill Ville,\u201d filled with a diverse array of vendors specializing in artwork, food and drinks.<\/p>\n

Fusing reggae, ska, funk and rock with unity, compassion and lending helping hands to neighbors in need, the event<\/a> is marking its ninth year. Presented by the Piatt Family Foundation, the annual charity concert has raised more than $250,000 for local nonprofits since its inception. Tickets<\/a>. Read more about Rock, Reggae & Relief<\/a> in NEXT.<\/p>\n

Friday, Aug. 7-Sunday, Aug. 9
U.S. Blind Tennis National Championship at Brady\u2019s Run Park Tennis Center
Various times
The Pittsburgh region is home to countless firsts, and a new one will make history this weekend. Be there for all the action as top blind and low-vision athletes from across the country compete in singles and doubles tournaments across multiple sight classifications when the first-ever U.S. Blind Tennis National Championship<\/a> debuts in Beaver County. The inaugural U.S. Blind Tennis National Championships marks a momentous milestone and a first-of-its-kind sporting event. While competing for a national title for the first time ever, leading blind and low vision athletes will also have the opportunity to \u201cdemonstrate the skill, determination and passion that define the sport.\u201d<\/p>\n

Currently experiencing rapid growth around the world, blind tennis has emerged as one of the fastest-growing adapted sports with the International Blind Sports Federation. Participation has expanded through local programs, clinics, and tournaments led by the U.S. Blind Tennis Association<\/a>. Information<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Saturday, Aug. 8
Iron City Riverfront Throwdown Country Music Festival\u00a0at Pittsburgh Brewing Company
1-11 p.m.
There\u2019s a brand-new music festival in town and it\u2019s turning up the volume on summer. Country music fans will flock to Creighton for this inaugural event along the scenic banks of the Allegheny River at the Pittsburgh Brewing Co. HQ<\/a>. Headlining the inaugural Iron City Riverfront Throwdown is high-octane country musician Chris Higbee. The festival will also showcase special guest performances by Josie Sal, Joe Patrick, and Four on the Floor and more. Keeping the festivities extra country will be keg lassoing, boot strut and fanciest cowboy\/cowgirl hat contests. Sip refreshing Pittsburgh Brewing Co. suds while taking in the sweeping riverfront views and celebrating a new Western Pennsylvania tradition. Tickets<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Sunday, Aug. 9
Neighborhood Flea at SouthSide Works
10 a.m.-3 p.m.
With a curated mix of local makers and vintage purveyors, the summer flea showcases 120 vendors along with live music and food trucks. Stroll through the open-air market sipping coffee while scoring fab one-of-a-kind finds \u2014 from retro home decor, clothing and collectibles, to furniture and handmade goods. New this Sunday will be live performances by bands from the School of Rock South Hills. Bonus: Use the Flea\u2019s QR code for discounted rates at one of SouthSide Works\u2019 four parking garages. Information<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Sunday, Aug. 9
Reuse Reunion at Westinghouse Park
12-4 p.m. (Weather permitting)
Get crafty with Pittsburgh Center for Creative Reuse<\/a> while surrounded by summer\u2019s verdant outdoor environs. Commune with art, nature and fellow creatives at this casual gathering that\u2019s free to all ages in the East End green space. Participate in hands-on crafting activities, peruse the tables of free creative materials and bring a piece for the artwork swap. From 2 to 4 p.m, guest teaching artist Angela Oddling will lead a special creative project. Bring up to two bags of clean, gently used fabric, yarn or other fiber materials to swap \u2014 and take as much as you want home with you. Information<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"\"Summer Reading Extravaganza at Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh. Photo by Annie O\u2019Neill \/ Annie O\u2019Neill Photography.\"\"Summer Reading Extravaganza at Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh. Photo by Annie O\u2019Neill \/ Annie O\u2019Neill Photography.\"\"Summer Reading Extravaganza at Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh. Photo by Annie O\u2019Neill \/ Annie O\u2019Neill Photography.<\/p>\n

Sunday, Aug. 9
Summer Reading Extravaganza at Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh \u2013 MAIN (Oakland)
12-5 p.m.
As summer slowly begins to wind down, it\u2019s the perfect time to jumpstart your reading list. Bookworms of all ages and reading levels will slide over to Oakland, where the grounds of the Main Library in will overflow with a diverse array of dynamic experiences and activations. Award-winning author and illustrator Melissa Iwai will present the Dig into A Garden for Lili interactive story-time, and dozens of CLP partners will host engaging hands-on activities.<\/p>\n

Don\u2019t miss Squonk\u2019s large-scale musical sensation dubbed \u201cJoy Machine.\u201d Audiences are invited to help power the performance by \u201cactivating a playground of immersive sculptures, fanciful instruments and kinetic machines.\u201d Next, follow Inky the Cat and Albert the Dog on an adventure as they attempt to solve the Mystery of the Purrrsburg Library during a show by Pittsburgh Puppet Works. This year\u2019s festivities correspond to the CLP\u2019s 2026 program theme of \u201cGROW,\u201d featuring local partners such as Burghblooms, PSU Extension Master Gardener Program of Allegheny County, Phipps Conservatory, The Black Urban Gardeners and Farmers of Pittsburgh and The Hood Garden. The signature community celebration also features local food and drink purveyors. Information<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Sunday, Aug. 9
Slappers N Bangers 400 Degreez Summer Block Party at the Stacks at 3 Crossings
4-9 p.m.
Whether you\u2019re looking to end your Barrel & Flow Week festivities on a high note or dance your way through August, don\u2019t miss Pittsburgh\u2019s premiere hip hop, R&B and trap experience. Returning to an outdoor format, Slappers N Bangers<\/a> brings the summer block party vibes to the Strip District. Join thousands of visitors from across the country who are in the Burgh for the country\u2019s award-winning Black beer festival to continue celebrating on the al fresco the dance floor.<\/p>\n

At the helm of August\u2019s lineup<\/a> is Slappers N Bangers co-founder, tastemaker and resident DJ Ari Cole, who will keep the afternoon energy uplifting while connecting with the crowd. Also on the decks delivering unforgettable sets will be Digital Dave, DJ KK and QRX. Dance party-goers can also enjoy multiple bars, local food vendors, specialty cocktails from Black-owned beverage purveyors, and an atmosphere that welcomes both hometown supporters and visitors from across the country. Tickets<\/a>.<\/p>\n

6 more things to do this weekend in Pittsburgh<\/p>\n

Friday, Aug. 7-Sunday, Aug. 9: Shindig Charity Music Festival<\/a> benefitting the Community Liver Alliance at Zelienople Community Park, various times<\/p>\n

Friday, Aug. 7 & Saturday, Aug. 8: fireWALL Dance presents \u201cBehind The Wall<\/a>\u201d at the Greer Cabaret Theater, 7 p.m.<\/p>\n

Friday, Aug. 7-Sunday, Aug. 9: Jon Tai in \u201cRoad Signs<\/a>\u201d at Liberty Magic, 7:30 p.m., 5 p.m. & 8 p.m.<\/p>\n

Saturday, Aug. 8: Brookline Breezefest 5K and Street Festival<\/a> along Brookline Boulevard, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.<\/p>\n

Saturday, Aug. 8: Authors in the Steel City<\/a> at the Pittsburgh Marriott North, 11 a.m.-11:30 p.m.<\/p>\n

Saturday, Aug. 8: Inside Out Day: Let\u2019s Sogetsu<\/a>! at Carnegie Museum of Art, 12 p.m.<\/p>\n