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How To ‘Clean Up’ in the Pittsburgh Garbage Olympics

Posted on August 15, 2025   |   Updated on September 30, 2025
Francesca Dabecco

Francesca Dabecco

City of Pittsburgh trash can in a park

Get to know Pittsburgh’s trash and recycling rules. (Francesca Dabecco)

Does your neighborhood need redd up? You can make a difference by channeling your competitive spirit in the 2025 Garbage Olympics on Saturday, Sept. 13 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

The annual competition to see which neighborhood can pick up the most trash started in 2017, and it’s been growing every year since. Last year was the biggest yet, with nearly 600 volunteers representing more than 50 neighborhoods.

Mt. Oliver won first place in 2024; Allentown and South Side Flats won second and third, respectively. Communities are even awarded special prizes, like for the strangest item found. Last years’ weird find was a tall, skinny Santa-shaped candle.

Bags, gloves, safety vests, and litter grabbers will be provided by Public Works and the Clean Pittsburgh Commission.

➡️ Register to join your neighborhood team. Afterwards, celebrate at the closing ceremony at Velem Fermentation from 1-3 p.m.

🎨 Are you a creative? The Pittsburgh Garbage Olympics is looking for artists of all ages and skill levels to create pieces celebrating community that will go on display at the Closing Ceremonies. Submit original artwork here.

Happy cleaning!

♻️ Know These Trash & Recycling Rules

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