Between pre-Buc game happy hours, non-stop Ducky Tour operations and The Point fountain in full bloom, summer is undoubtedly the best time to be Pittsburgher. Downtown remains as vibrant as the weather allows, and it’s nearly impossible to keep up with all the activities taking place during the sunny months. To narrow it down, there is actually an impressive list of absolutely free activities that’ll keep you and your entourage entertained all summer long.

 

Dollar Bank Cinema In The Park

Free movies in the park is back and better than ever! Which park? The event has expanded to eight locations, so you catch a quality flick closest to your neck of the woods. The schedules range from June 4 to August 31 throughout the locations, with selections ranging from new releases to timeless classics. So grab a couple parking chairs and hit up a couple of these screenings.

 

Picklesburgh

It’s kinda a big dill. Did you miss your Instagram photo-op with the giant inflatable pickle last summer? Well no worries, Picklesburgh is making its triumphant return July 28-29 on the Clemente Bridge. This year’s bold line-up, additional to more pickles than you can fit in your pockets, includes food vendors and musicians throughout the city of all flavors to keep you satisfied till next year (or at least we hope!)

 

Three Rivers Regatta

Boats, food, fireworks, and flying homemade contraptions, all making a splash during this annual summer favorite on the North Shore. Simply put: “You Gotta Regatta!”

 

Gallery Crawl

The cultural trust actually hosts gallery crawls on selected dated throughout the year, and the last two of 2017 are coming up soon on July 7 and September 22. On these scattered Friday nights, the galleries along the cultural district knock off their admissions prices and extend their hours till late night. Definitely mark your calendars for a celebration of great local art, networking and quality conversation.  

 

Farmer’s Market

Work in the city and want a break from your usual lunch break? Then the Farmer’s Market every Thursday from 10AM-2PM in Market Square is your new go-to spot. Great local vendors, musicians and mid-day fun now through October 26th.

A similar, slightly toned down replica of this event also takes place in the form of a Night Market every Saturday night through the last weekend in October. Both are hosted by Downtown Pittsburgh Partnership and are equally fantastic.

 

2017 Heinz Field Kickoff and Rib Festival

Pretty much says it all; can’t think of a better way to kick-off another season of Steelers than quality entertainment and a crowd of nationally acclaimed rib-masters. Bring your game day buddies and appetite for all things Pittsburgh to the field of champions August 31-September 4.

 

I don’t know about you, but my schedule is packed. Hope to see you out and about at some of these events this summer or along the river walk on my bicycle.  Did I miss anything that I should add to this list? Comment your recommendations below!

 

Happy summer yinzers! Be safe and love all things free.