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City Cast Pittsburgh

Kevin Gavin

 July is National Ice Cream Month, so we’re testing your knowledge on some local frozen treats.

How much do yinz know about local ice cream lore? (Francesca Dabecco / City Cast Pittsburgh)

Francesca Dabecco

Juneteenth, short for “June Nineteenth,” is considered our 

 — a national holiday commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in 1865. Every year, Pittsburgh marks this historic day with a Grand Jubilee Parade, live music, and more cultural events across the city.

Here’s how to celebrate Juneteenth, also known as “Freedom Day” and “Emancipation Day,” in Pittsburgh 

 at Andrew Carnegie Free Library & Music Hall

 A Juneteenth Youth Fashion & Arts Showcase at Velum Fermentation

Celebrate Juneteenth in Pittsburgh with rollerskating, live music, the Grand Jubilee Parade, dance parties, a community garden day, and more.

The Best Juneteenth Events in Pittsburgh 2026

How to Celebrate Juneteenth in Pittsburgh 2026

Find the best of everything that Pittsburgh has to offer.

Pittsburgh’s Best

Pittsburgh's Best

Laura Tsutsui

Summer has arrived, and with it, pool season! We’re lucky enough to have 16 city pools open this year. To help you decide which pool(s) to visit, we’ve tapped “

” to share the ideal swimming experience 

If you've never visited a Pittsburgh pool before, 

 for how to get the most bang for your buck on pool tags and more tips for a fun day in the sun.

 There’s not an Aquarius who doesn’t think their sign is the best, so it’s fitting that they would most enjoy the “Patrick Mahomes of Pools” in Highland Park.

 Pisces’ whimsical and romantic nature should place them in the Perry Hilltop fortress, surrounded by nature and serenity, like at Riverview pool.

 Competitive, active Aries can play water polo and soak in the vibes of the Hill District at Ammon pool!

 Practical yet loving, Tauruses should take a dip at Ream where they can enjoy a view of the community garden in Mt. Washington.

For the Gemini twins, we offer two pools on two sides of town (Bloomfield and Ormsby in South Side), with similar social and urban vibes that are anything but boring.

 Family and friend-centric Cancer belong where you can wade into the shallow end with the kiddos and also chat by the diving wall with BFFs. This charming community space in Greenfield feels like a home away from home.

 (take your pick!): Leos don’t swim with plebes.

Virgos tend to shy away from center stage, and they can do that while enjoying a dip at this off-the-beaten-path gem. Perfectionist Virgos will also love the clean locker rooms at this South Hills neighborhood find.

The accessibility of this pool will appeal to Librans’ love of fairness and access for all. A love of the outdoors is also satisfied by the proximity to Schenley Park!

Passionate Scorpio loves the punk vibes at the West Penn pool in Polish Hill, especially during Skullfest.

 Bustling up on Brookline’s Pioneer Ave, you’ll find Moore pool which speaks to Sags’ extroverted nature. There’s plenty of space to swim away if you accidentally put your foot in your mouth.

While Sue Murray pool may have needed some TLC, its historic vibes in the Allegheny Center will appeal to Capricorn’s love of tradition and historical aesthetics.

Pittsburgh pools are open. Find a swimming hole that aligns with your astrological aura.

Find Your Pittsburgh Pool Based on Your Astrological Sign

Your Ideal Pittsburgh Pool Experience Based on Your Astrological Sign

Sophia Lo

You don't need to shell out for a gym membership to get in a good sweat. Pittsburgh has free outdoor exercise classes that cater to all fitness levels ⬇️

Sample all sorts of workouts at this summer fitness series. Classes are offered on select Thursday nights through Aug. 6. Build strength with Pilates or dance it out with boy band-themed classes.

On select Sundays through September, try workouts in the plaza from fitness studios across Pittsburgh. Classes include full-body workouts, strength training, and dance. All fitness levels are welcome.

Get your heart rate up with running groups that meet on Monday and Thursday nights, or slow it down with Saturday yoga in the sun. Plus, keep an eye on the calendar for one-off fitness classes, like a bootcamp with SHAPE Training on July 13.

Start your day by stretching on the water with YogaRoots. Classes are on Sunday mornings from 10-11 a.m., and advanced registration is required to participate.

Join 3 Rivers Outdoor Co. and the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy every Thursday through October at 6 p.m. for happy-hour yoga in front of the Carnegie Library. The class is drop-in and pay-what-you-can.

Take deep breaths under mature trees every Saturday at 10 a.m. on the North Side. This free, all-ages, and all-levels series by Counseling & Wellness Center of Pittsburgh runs through September.

Enjoy the newly-renovated Market Square with free yoga classes on Sundays, 10-11 a.m. Prefer sweating it out after work? Head over to PPG Plaza on Tuesdays for yoga, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Both locations run their classes through September.

All Bodies Welcome Yoga hosts a free, relaxing and inclusive class in the library’s backyard every Thursday through August at 5:45 p.m. Stop by to stretch, then check out a book after your workout.

Free yoga by the river, strength-training in an outdoor plaza, groovy dance classes, and more.

Where To Workout for Free This Summer in Pittsburgh

8 Spots for Free Summer Outdoor Workout Classes in Pittsburgh

⏪ Looking for a previous Pittsburgh crossword? Find it here:

A crossword puzzle all about Pittsburgh news and fun facts. 

Can You Fill Out This Pittsburgh Crossword Puzzle?

Try This Pittsburgh Crossword Puzzle

What Pittsburghers have been wondering. We break down why things in Pittsburgh are the way they are and how they work.

Pittsburgh, Explained

 fan of dinosaurs, and it all traces back to Diplodocus carnegii — the massive, long-necked sauropod discovered in an excavation funded by steel mogul Andrew Carnegie in 1899. A life-size statue of the dinosaur, nicknamed “Dippy,” sits outside the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, and a reconstruction of its skeleton is displayed inside the museum.

The discoveries still continue today! A paleontologist with the museum recently co-led a team who found a 

 in China — Jian changmaensis. This feathery creature is similar to a velociraptor and lived more than 120 million years ago. Researchers found part of a shoulder and forelimb, which they believe will help them learn more about how birds evolved to fly.

You can see a replica of this fossil at the Carnegie Museum of Natural History and have more dino-mite fun this summer at the events below ⬇️

DinoFest at Carnegie Museum of Natural History

 and prehistoric life on June 13. Visitors can interact with museum scientists, explore active research, and discover how fossils help us understand Earth’s history. Don’t miss the PaleoLab talks to learn about how the museum cares for the fossils on display.

, from dragonflies to Triceratops, across the garden’s 65 acres of stunning green space. The installation is created by artist Dale Lewis and made from recycled metal and found objects. Be sure to see the shiny pterodactyl on your way in and look for her nest and babies hidden in the gardens! It’s on display through Oct. 31.

Check out over 30 giant creatures from the Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous periods 

 throughout the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium. The display runs until September 7 and includes photo opportunities, fossil dig pits, and more activities.

Have you ever noticed the colorful dinosaur sculptures placed all over Pittsburgh? The Carnegie Museum of National History led a public art project in 2003 called 

, and you can still see some of these figures around town. I wrote about how you can take a DIY tour in my book, “

100 Things To Do in Pittsburgh Before You Die

.” One of my favorites is the Ketchupsaurus at PPG Place!

See these prehistoric creatures at Carnegie Museum of Natural History, Pittsburgh Botanic Garden, the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium, and more in summer 2026.

4 Roaring Dinosaur Events in Pittsburgh This Summer

4 Ways To Have Dino-mite Fun This Summer in Pittsburgh

How do you get through the ups and downs of living in Pittsburgh? No, really — we have one of the hilliest cities in the U.S.

The answer: a network of hundreds of public stairways locally referred to as “city steps.” This unique infrastructure was the first public transportation system in Pittsburgh.

Today, locals can walk these paths of the past to connect with our city’s history, explore neighborhoods, and get free outdoor exercise.

City Steps of Pittsburgh: A History & Guide

 to share a field kit to these steep and storied staircases.

If you’re just getting acquainted with city steps, here are author 

’s recommendations for the best flights for urban hikes ⬇️

 are the city's longest walkable flight. They're connected to trails that lead to the South Busway and Brookline Memorial Park. (You can catch 

 is the fourth-longest flight in the city. It's walkable, but it has a severe case of scoliosis! This flight once led residents to the East Street Valley neighborhood, which is now I-279. 👟 Want more Fineview fun? Sign up for the 

 from Shaler Street, and you'll find yourself surrounded by Emerald View park trails. Follow the half-mile 

 for a gorgeous tree canopy and sweeping views of the West End.

Enter at either Cowley-Goettman Park or Province Street to get a stunning view of the city at the 

. There’s a bench where you can relax and take in the vista. 👟Explore more of 

 span the hill in, well … the Hill District. These stairs are near the 

, the grand Victorian home of a well-known bootlegging family from the 1920’s and 30’s. 👟 Explore more of 

The National Negro Opera House, currently undergoing preservation, sits directly across from the 

➡️ All of these flights appear on the 1923 city maps, so you can literally "walk in the footsteps" of those from 100 years ago.

) for taking a field trip with the City Cast Pittsburgh team!

Discover Pittsburgh’s best city steps for urban hikers.

The Best City Step Hikes in Pittsburgh

A Guide to Touring Pittsburgh’s City Steps

Everything to know about Pittsburgh neighborhoods: Where to go, eat, shop, drink, and more.

Pittsburgh Neighborhood Guides

Neighborhood Guides

Paint the town rainbow! Don’t miss the annual 

 June 6 and 7 in Allegheny Commons Park and 

 on June 7. There’s nothing quite like seeing a sea of color flow through the city — all in celebration of love and equal rights. The parade starts in the Strip District, goes through Downtown, and ends on the North Side at the Pride Festival in Allegheny Commons Park. Check out vendors, organizations, performances, and more.

For more pride, look no further than your own (or nearby) neighborhood! There are additional celebrations in 

Find all sorts of handmade arts and crafts at the 

, the Arts Landing in the Cultural District, June 5-7 and 11-14. Expect to see hundreds of arts and crafts vendors and a variety of live music performances, from rock to alternative hip hop to pop-folk. (

.) Don’t miss Pittsburgh’s art-rock troupe Squonk turn Arts Landing into a “kinetic, music-filled playground.”

What’s better than popcorn under the stars? Pittsburgh has a new 

 in the Strip District. Lounge in a sling chair, put on headphones, and snack on treats at The Stacks at 3 Crossings — every fourth weekend of the month, May through October. Or, bring your blanket and get cozy on the lawn for free movie screenings in 

Experience Pittsburgh from a new perspective at Bike Pittsburgh’s annual 

 event June 28. Miles of city streets will be shut down to cars and open for residents to walk, run, bike, skate, and roll. There will also be free fitness workshops, kids’ biking classes, local food vendors, and more family-friendly activities. 

Find Treasures at Mexican War Streets Yard Sale

. Not only can you find secondhand gems, but it’s a chance to see inside historic rowhouses and charming courtyards. Fuel up at my favorite coffee shop, 

Pittsburgh has a new 21+ night festival happening every weekend this summer! Starting June 20, East Carson Street will transform into one of Pittsburgh’s biggest outdoor nightlife destinations with live music, cocktails, vendors, and more entertainment. 

Celebrate the Warhol Bridge’s 100th Birthday

Hang out with City Cast Pittsburgh! We’re joining Allegheny County for an afternoon of music, food, games, and art to celebrate the Andy Warhol Bridge’s 100th Birthday on June 27. 

Make more plans for June! Tune into the City Cast Pittsburgh podcast to hear 

June 2026 in Pittsburgh: Three Rivers Arts Festival, Pride celebrations, Mexican War Streets yard sale, South Side Street Festival, and more.

The Best Pittsburgh Events in June 20206

7 Things To Do in Pittsburgh in June 2026

In which neighborhood can you meet Vivien, a two-toed sloth?

Where did Mister Rogers raise his family?

What neighborhood has the second-tallest education building in the world?

This neighborhood has a popular overlook perched more than 700 feet above the Ohio River, offering a unique view of Downtown.

Pittsburgh's only public indoor pool, Oliver Bath House, just reopened after years of renovations. Where can you find it?

Famous actor Jeff Goldblum grew up in this Pittsburgh neighborhood.

This neighborhood has a ceramics studio located inside of an old church

Which Pittsburgh neighborhood has the steepest street in the U.S.?

This borough is surrounded on all sides by city neighborhoods

How well do you know Pittsburgh neighborhoods and the surrounding areas? Take our quiz to find out!

Pop Quiz: Fun Facts About Pittsburgh Neighborhoods

Think You Know Pittsburgh Neighborhoods? Take This Quiz

People, places, and scenes from Pittsburgh's past.

Pittsburgh History

July is National Ice Cream Month, so we’re testing your knowledge on some local frozen treats.

Pop Quiz: Pittsburgh Ice Cream History

How Well Do You Know Pittsburgh’s Ice Cream History?

The latest on the hottest places to eat, drink, socialize, and talk about in Pittsburgh.

The latest on the best and newest restaurants and bars in Pittsburgh. We'll help you find where to eat, drink, and socialize.

Pittsburgh Food & Drink

Food & Drink

Whether you’re craving dippy eggs and home fries or a towering stack of pancakes, there's a spot in the city for you. We’re dishing on the meals worth waking up for on the 

 — and sharing a few of our best brunch tips ⬇️

Head to this South Hills gem on Saturday or Sunday for Greek twists on breakfast classics: like French toast made with sweet Easter bread or a Croque Madame stacked with rosemary ham, gruyere cheese, and béchamel. Order pastries for the table like Loukoumades (Greek honey puffs). Tip: Check out the cute patio outside, perfect for sunny days with sunny-side up eggs. — 

Francesca Dabecco, senior newsletter editor

Nosh on all-you-can-eat classics, plus roasted veggies, carved meats, fresh doughnuts, cold salads, and more inside the ornately-restored former home of the Pittsburgh & Lake Erie Railroad Station on the South Side. Brunch is served Sundays from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Don’t skip the cocktails and coffee. You definitely want a reservation. — 

Heinz might be king in Pittsburgh, but the banana ketchup on the Spam n'at is the perfect sweet and tangy complement to the rice and meat. Brunch isn't just for Sundays here; there are rotating specials during their weekday hours. The breakfast egg rolls, lumpia, hash browns, and home fries are all fried to perfection — so bring friends to share them all. Bonus points for having a bagel with pork roll on the menu, which makes my New Jersey heart so happy! — 

Grab a window seat in this cozy, sunlit spot on a Sunday and enjoy a fresh bagel with horseradish and dill schmear or a perfectly spicy shakshuka. If you like a little booze with your brunch, order from the impressive seasonal cocktail menu. On my last visit, I tried their “curry me banana” with cold brew concentrate, coffee liqueur and banana-curry foam. It was the ideal brunch beverage! — 

Dig In to More of Our Favorites! 💗

Whether you’re craving dippy eggs and home fries or a towering stack of pancakes, there’s a Pittsburgh brunch spot for you.

The Best Brunch Spots in Pittsburgh

4 Pittsburgh Brunches We Don’t Want To Live Without

City Cast Pittsburgh Staff

Want to try some of the best bites and bevs in the Burgh? Save room for these spring food and drink events, from food truck festivals to taste test contests.

📍St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral, Oakland

Celebrate this 64-year tradition with music, dancing, and of course, 

 like gyros, spanakopita, baklava, and moussaka. (

Stop into businesses along Forbes and Murray Avenues to try 15 different wines at this 

. You can stroll (and sip) at your own pace!

Join Humane Action Pennsylvania to explore our city’s 

. All week long, participating restaurants will offer discounts and specials. (I’m keeping my eyes peeled for what Chef Michael Godlewski is cooking up at 

, contestants compete to see who can make the best strawberry pretzel-inspired treat while raising money for a nonprofit of their choice. Tickets are $15 to taste test and vote on your favorites.

Enjoy brews and bites with proceeds benefiting nine parks through the Allegheny County Parks Foundation. There will be a kids fun zone, raffle baskets, live local music, and more at this 10th annual celebration. 

 while tasting specialty cheeses and desserts, browsing craft vendors, and grooving to live acoustic sets. The $27 ticket gets you a festival-branded glass and all the wine you can drink.

📍 Hollywood Casino at the Meadows, Washington

Head about 25 miles south of Pittsburgh to dig into grub from 

, take in live entertainment, cheers with craft beer and wine, and shop from regional artisans and vendors.

Celebrate craft and creativity at the first annual 

. It’s part culinary competition, part block party. Enjoy live music and get slices from Pittsburgh favorites like Badamo’s, Driftwood Oven, Spak, 77 Club, Slice on Broadway, Rockaway, and more.

📍 South Hills Village Mall, Bethel Park

Try gourmet dishes and sweet treats from 

, and shop from dozens of artisans showcasing handmade jewelry, art, and crafts. It’s free and family-friendly!

 with an iconic industrial backdrop. Live tunes, a roundup of food trucks, and arts and craft vendors will keep you busy while you tour the site. Not into drinking? Buy the cheaper designated driver ticket, and sip on nonalcoholic bevs.

Mark your calendar for Vegan Restaurant Week, Strawberry Pretzel Standoff, Pittsburgh Pizza Olympics, and more.

Pittsburgh’s Best Spring Food and Drink Festivals 2026

10 Food and Drink Festivals in Pittsburgh This Spring

Getting a good bagel in the Burgh is like going on a secret mission. We’re nothing like New York or New Jersey, where nearly every corner has a spot as good as the next. But that doesn’t mean we don’t have tasty bagels and schmears here!

So what’s the best we have to offer? The City Cast Pittsburgh team 

. For our research purposes, we only ordered from brick-and-mortar shops that specialize in bagels. And for consistency, we got everything bagels and cream cheese from each spot — plus a bunch of specialty flavors for fun.

Tune into the City Cast Pittsburgh podcast to 

 — from best texture to most flavorful — then scroll for more team favorites.

The City Cast Pittsburgh team tried some of Pittsburgh’s best bagel shops. Dig into our favorites.

Food & Drink

How Well Do You Know Pittsburgh’s Ice Cream History?

Kevin Gavin

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Food & Drink

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10 Food and Drink Festivals in Pittsburgh This Spring

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