It may be tempting to sit at home and order friends or family gifts from Amazon or other online stores. But where’s the fun in that?

Go out and get involved in the holidays this year by supporting your local shops. These hardworking business owners can offer a better shopping experience and higher quality items anyway. Save yourself from the late deliveries, wrong sizes, and return hassle. 

At Franklin West, we love giving a shout out to our favorite shops within our Shadyside neighborhood! And what better time than during the biggest shopping season. 

Here’s your guide to all the sales happening over Thanksgiving weekend! Plus, we hear there’s free parking at city meters and lots this weekend only.

The Best in Fashion

The Picket Fence. When you walk into this women-owned boutique on Walnut Street on Black Friday or Small Business Saturday, you can expect a 15% discount on everything, special sales on the Tea Collection, complimentary treats, and free gift wrap. Plus, the first 25 purchasers will receive a $25 voucher for the next purchase!

EB Pepper. This contemporary women’s boutique on Walnut Street is hosting a holiday coupon event on Thursday through Saturday. Get $20 off a $100 dollar purchase. Ask about all the discounts with the holiday coupon!

Roberta Weissburg Leathers. Between Friday and Sunday, shop at Leathers for the new Uno de 50 Trunk Show jewelry, plus get a free cashmere scarf when you purchase outerwear. (This excludes items on sale as well as sweaters.)

Pursuits. Over on Filbert Street, you’ll find the clothing boutique called Pursuits! Over Thanksgiving weekend (Thursday – Monday) select clothing will be 30% off. If you make a purchase, your name will be put into a raffle to win a Pursuits gift card.

Dina Ellen. On Aiken Ave, Dina Ellen women’s boutique will be closed on Thursday for the holiday. But come Friday and Saturday, they will be ready for the shopping season with 20% off any item of your choice and free gift wrapping.

Caesar’s Designs Fine Jewelry Creations. This fine jewelry shop on Walnut Street is celebrating the season and giving 50% off select diamond and gemstone jewelry now until Saturday!

Your Inner Athlete

Patagonia Pittsburgh. The holiday can be really stressful. To mend that, Patagonia decided to host a free, community yoga class before the shopping madness ensues.RSVP for the class here.

Tennis Village. You have until closing time on Saturday to get in on the deals at Pittsburgh’s premier tennis shop. Receive 10% off on purchases between $50 and $100, plus, for any items above $100 you’ll receive 15% off

For the Home

Feathers. Starting Friday, visit Feathers for Pittsburgh’s best linens and downs and get 20% off select items from Yves Delorme, Sferra, Matouk, Scandia, and more! The sales at Feathers will extend to Tuesday, December 3rd.

Glassworks and Cheeks. During Friday and Saturday, you could get 20% off items at Glassworks (some exclusions apply), and 20% of all items from Cheeks.

Kards Unlimited. In the tradition of getting a new ornament to hang on the family tree? Receive 10% discount on ornaments at Kards Unlimited on Saturday and Sunday.

 

After all, the holiday season is about spreading joy and sharing. What better way than to support your neighbors with their business!

Go ahead. Dream of that roasted Turkey and sweet pumpkin pie. Thanksgiving is a short week away and that traditional dinner is the only thing getting us through the day. 

This gratitude inspired holiday also means spending time with family and friends. Plan a wonderful weekend with the fun activities and events happening in our community from holiday shopping to enjoying museum festivities. 

We gathered local events happening that you can enjoy with your favorite people during the rest of November. 

Phipps Magical Holiday Show

Here in Pittsburgh, the holidays don’t truly begin until Phipps opens its doors to their Holiday Magic Winter Flower and Light show! This indoor and outdoor exhibit opens the day after Thanksgiving but tickets are on sale now. 

As a family event, Phipps pulls out all the stops! Your eyes will gaze among millions of twinkle lights and gorgeous flowers. Phipps will also have Santa visits, family fun evenings, and musical entertainment on select dates. 

Photo Credit: Phipps Conservatory via Instagram

Sloane Street Truck Show

You won’t have to wait very long to enjoy the shopping season. Henne Jewelers on Walnut Street is introducing a new collection, Sloane Street Trunk Show, on Friday, November 22nd and Saturday, November 23rd. 

If you’re looking to get something incredibly special as a gift, visit one of Pittsburgh’s oldest and best jewelers. You can’t go wrong with their selection. 

Pittsburgh Pickers Vintage Market

Get your shopping on! After all, it is the shopping season for big deals and discounts. Instead of taking the fun out of the holidays and using Amazon, Ace Hotel is hosting one awesome holiday event called Pittsburgh Pickers Vintage Market.

Pittsburgh Pickers is an event series that highlights the local vintage community. The event is totally free with over 20 different vendors. Visit the Facebook Event page to see specific vendors and other details. 

Clayton Tour at Your Own Pace

The Frick Pittsburgh is another locals tradition during the holiday season. See a grand Victorian home decorated for the season as almost all items and furniture are original.

You’ll also discover local history and hear stories about one of Pittsburgh’s wealthiest families. Holidays at the Frick begins on November 21st. Visit the official site to learn more about ticket details. 

Photo credit: The Frick Pittsburgh via Instagram

Of course, Small Business Saturday is on November 30th this year, and many of our favorite local shops on Walnut Street are set to participate in all the fun! Shop local, give thanks, and enjoy the best time of the year. 

That’s right. There’s a new event coming to our Shadyside neighborhood this year to get us ready for the holiday shopping season! 

Think Shadyside shared the news, The Shadyside Holiday Trunk Show, to take place next week starting on Wednesday, November 13th to Saturday, November 16. It’s a shopping extravaganza just a short walk away with over 20 participating stores along Walnut, Ellsworth, S. Highland, and others.

We aren’t just talking about store sales. Our local shops are going all out with fashion shows, happy hours, trunk shows, giveaways, raffles, and more. 

Keep reading to discover what fun activities are in-store.

Caesar’s Designs

Caesar’s Designs Fine Jewelry Creations over on Walnut Street is hosting an exclusive Sapphire Trunk Show. You’ll undoubtedly have a twinkle in your eyes viewing the gorgeous sapphire jewelry and loose gemstones at 25% off during the Shadyside Holiday Trunk Show. 

PHOTO CREDIT: CAESAR’S DESIGNS VIA INSTAGRAM

Dina Ellen

Dina Ellen has no problem going all in for the four days of the Shadyside Trunk Show. Any guest is welcome to her store to enjoy daily specials on jewelry and shoes. Plus, why shop empty-handed when you can also sip on some wine and snack on yummy treats!

PHOTO CREDIT: DINA ELLEN SHADYSIDE VIA INSTAGRAM

Feathers

Feathers is taking the Shadyside Trunk Show to the next level on November 15th and 16th. You’ll want to run over to Walnut Street to get a peek at the beautifully crafted pieces by Dea Luxury Italian Linens. Fusing old-world methods with contemporary designs and fabrications, these bed, bath, and table pieces by Dea are no joke.

PHOTO CREDIT: DEA LUXURY LINENS VIA FEATHERS SHADYSIDE INSTAGRAM

Four Winds Gallery

With a short stroll on Walnut Street, you’ll come across the wonderful Four Winds Gallery. During all four days of the Trunk Show, Four Winds Gallery will present two talented artists at their store: Jorge Lovato, a miniature wood sculpturist and Shawn Bluejacket, a jewelry designer. 

Plus, when you purchase something during the Shadyside Trunk Show you’ll automatically be added in a drawing for a $100 gift certificate!

PHOTO CREDIT: FOUR WINDS GALLERY VIA INSTAGRAM

The Inn on Negley

During all four days of the Shadyside Trunk Show the Inn on Negley will kick things off every day at noon up to 6 pm. This luxury Bed and Breakfast on South Negley Ave will celebrate the season with 20% off gift shop items, a chance to enter to win tea or brunch for two, and offer their gourmet hot cocoa and cookies.

PHOTO CREDIT: THE INN ON NEGLEY VIA INSTAGRAM

Petagogy

Get ready for PAW-liday kick-off on November 15th and 16th by Petagogy. You’ll have the chance to call dibs on all limited edition holiday-themed pet toys and treats. Petagogy is also running a sale of 15% off all dog coats and sweaters to keep our furry friends warm this winter season. 

When you purchase a holiday-themed item, you’ll receive a free raffle ticket entry to win one awesome stocking stuffer gift basket!

PHOTO CREDIT: PETAGOGY VIA INSTAGRAM

Roberta Weissburg Leathers 

Roberta Weissburg Leathers is showcasing an exclusive Trunk Show Collection to celebrate the first Shadyside Trunk Show. During all 4 days, shop for one of a kind winter outerwear. When you do find the perfect outerwear you’ll receive a free Cashmink scarf with every purchase. 

Stay hydrated with complimentary beverages, shop till you drop, and get the chance to win a $100 gift card to Leathers.

PHOTO CREDIT: ROBERTA WEISSBURG LEATHERS VIA INSTAGRAM

Sub Zero Nitrogen Ice Cream

Ice cream in winter? Absolutely! Sub Zero Nitrogen on South Highland Ave is one of the newest additions to our neighborhood opening its doors earlier this year. 

Stop by Sub Zero to enjoy a delicious treat and spin the wheel to win discounts or free items! For guests who want to stay warm, try gourmet hot chocolate flavors in pumpkin cheesecake, orange spice, or chocolate-covered cherry.

One more thing, Sub Zero will also collect toy donations for Pittsburgh nonprofit, Beverly’s Birthdays. When you donate you’ll receive 25% off your entire purchase.

PHOTO CREDIT: SUB ZERO SHADYSIDE VIA INSTAGRAM

Ten Toes

The chilly weather also means the best of boot season. Ten Toes on Walnut Street will join all 4 days of fun during the Shadyside Trunk Show. The team at Ten Toes will feature the entire fall line from J. Renee. Plus, prizes will be drawn daily for free shoes (yes, a free pair of shoes) along with other specialty items.

PHOTO CREDIT: TEN TOES VIA INSTAGRAM

TILE & DESIGNS, INC. 

Last but absolutely not least, Tile and Designs, Inc on Spahr Street is jumping in on the Shadyside Trunk Show excitement. They’re running a 20% off select items sale. But the real fun is the mini scavenger hunt. Tile and Designs will hide a gift in their showroom for visitors to find. When found, the gift would be yours to keep! 

PHOTO CREDIT: TILE AND DESIGN VIA INSTAGRAM

See the full list of participating shops through Think Shadyside.

Experience the splendor of the holidays. Shadyside local shops are pulling out all the stops this year giving you a wonderful shopping season. 

What warms the soul better than pumpkin and apple flavors. The crisp weather has us ready to cuddle up in a warm sweater by a fire with some of Fall’s wonderful flavors. 

Where can you experience these yummy flavors? From endless desserts to tasty meals with favorite Fall veggies, here are some of the eateries around our Shadyside neighborhood you should visit to warm your bones. 

Gluuteny Bakery

The sight of delightful Sugar Skull cookies and the sweet smell of caramel apple macarons has us running to the Gluuteny Bakery. But this isn’t your average bakery. 

Gluuteny Bakery is on a mission to offer wonderfully tasting and allergy-friendly treats daily. Yes, that includes gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan and soy-free options. 

Photo credit to Gluuteny Bakery via Instagram

Prantls Bakery

Bakeries are an excellent place to shake off the chilly weather. Prantls Bakery makes for a great stop! A walk over to Walnut Street, Prantls has a Fall menu of fantastic treats with apple pies, cranberry nut loaf, pumpkin spice cake and so much more.

Photo credit to Prantls Bakery via Instagram

Brueggers 

Sidestepping the sweet treats for just a moment. Let’s move to a different kind of dough. Bagels! 

Brueggers is serving up pumpkin bagels, pumpkin cream cheese, and pumpkin spice latte. Grab the fall taste with authentic NYC-styled bagels right here in our Shadyside neighborhood.  

Photo credit to Brueggers via Instagram

Honeygrow 

Delivering high-quality, wholesome, and simple foods, Honeygrow has a passion for “creating awesome things through the lens of nourishing foods.”

The Fall menu is out now. Head over to South Highland Ave for some Harvest Soba, or a stir-fry with seasonal vegetables like roasted parsnips, curly kale, and pomegranate seeds.

Photo credit to Honeygrow via Instagram

Mad Mex Shadyside 

Mad Mex brings a unique blend of American, Mexican, Southeast Asia, and Spanish cuisines to their dishes creating something special and incredibly delicious. But, for this blog, we’re more interested in one of their drinks. 

The Apple Cider Margarita with its caramel-sugar coated rim causes quite the commotion during the Fall season.

Is it five o’clock yet?

Photo Credit to Mad Mex via Instagram

Salud Juicery

If fresh-pressed, healthy juice and smoothies are more your style, Salud Juicery is your place. This team is serving a few Fall-inspired juices like Pom Cha-Cha that features pomegranates, apple and chia seeds, or The Beet Goes On featuring beets, apples, ginger and more. 

Photo Credit to Salud Juicery via Instagram

The best of Fall flavors are all over our neighborhood. A little chilly weather can’t stop us from visiting these local, tasty eateries. Enjoy Fall while it lasts. After all, Winter will be here sooner than we know it. 

What a great way to close out October than with a few Halloween festive events in our Shadyside neighborhood. Whether you’re in the mood to enjoy a night of music or ready to dress up in an awesome costume and mingle with new friends, there’s something for you. 

Some of Pittsburgh’s frightfully awesome events are right in our back yard. Here’s your guide to all Halloween-themed activities happening in the Shadyside area.

Booseum Trick or Treat | Carnegie Museum of Natural History

The Carnegie Museum of Natural History getting ready to host a hair-raising, spine-tingling event with Booseum Trick or Treat! This family-friendly event will take place on Saturday, October 26th from 12 to 4 pm. 

Have a blast meeting live animals, enjoy a big-screen movie, and trick or treat around dinosaurs and mummies! Don’t forget to put on your costumes. You may win a small prize!

Halloween Tech Trivia | Mario’s East End Saloon

Trivia night is always a good time. It’s become a staple social event to share with friends or co-workers. 

On Tuesday, October 29th get your team name ready because at 6 pm Mario’s East End Saloon is hosting a Halloween edition of Tech Trivia. This event is a 21+ event and in the spirit of Halloween, costumes are encouraged.

Nightmare on Hellsworth | Free Outdoor Concert on Ellsworth Ave

Who’s up for an outdoor concert? On Friday, October 27th head over to Ellsworth Avenue to see pop icon and broadway star, Debbie Gibson take the stage! She’s sold more than 16 million albums worldwide and has competed on the 25th season of Dancing with the Stars. 

This is a free event for everyone. Though anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. If you’re up for it, there are $30 tickets for the VIP area that includes complimentary cocktails, and of course, witches brew!

Jam on Walnut | Outdoor Concert on Walnut St

Speaking of concerts, we can’t forget to mention the last Jam on Walnut music session of the year. One of Pittsburgh’s best block party is coming to an end after Saturday, October 26th. 

The headline for this Halloween-inspired event is Velveeta. This local Pittsburgh band is all about the best and cheesiest of 80s music. Don’t forget, Jam on Walnut benefits our furry friends! Funds are being raised to support the Humane Animal Rescue!

Halloween Fiesta | Steel Cactus

Steel Cactus is hosting a Halloween Fiesta on October 26th from 5 pm to 2 am. If you’re still looking for plans on Saturday night, this is it! 

Come hang out and get excited about new flavors on a revamped menu. Plus, this event is the same night as Jam on Walnut. Listening to great music on the patio bar at Steel Cactus sounds pretty good to us.

Day of the Dead Beer Dinner | Con Alma

There are several ways to celebrate the spooky season. Day of the Dead is a Mexican holiday meant to remember family and friends who have passed. 

This year Con Alma on Ellsworth Avenue is partnering with Hop Farms beer to host a Day of the Dead Beer Dinner on Wednesday, October 30th. Make your reservations for a 5-course Baja-Mexican cuisine with beer pairings. 

Halloween Happening | Phipps Conservatory

Halloween Happening at Phipps Conservatory is one of our favorite events. Phipps pulls out all the stops for this spooktacular, family-friendly event. 

With regular admission, your family can enjoy the ghoulishly delightful festivities like face painting, Halloween-inspired games, carve pumpkins, pot creepy plants and much more!

The Freaks Come Out | The Ace Hotel Pittsburgh

For a special Halloween night, Ace Hotel is hosting the Darkness is Spreading: The Freaks Come Out in the Lobby Bar on Thursday, October 31st. Break out those costumes! This event is opening with local DJ Huny and then DJ Stylus will take over. Come out for the music, candy, good food, better drinks, and an all-around spooky time!

 

Happy Halloween!?

RADical Days are back! This year, RADical Days will take place over the next 25 days in celebration of the 25 years that RAD has existed hosting special events and wonderful family activities.

Never heard of RAD before? Here’s what you need to know. The Regional Asset District (RAD) supports libraries, parks and recreation, cultural organizations, sports and civic facilities, and more within our local Allegheny County area. 

You can find the full list of events and activities for RADical Days 2019 here, but we are going to cover all that’s happening near the Shadyside community. 

Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall & Museum

This Friday, September 20th, you can head over to visit Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall and Museum with free admission between 10 am and 4 pm. If you’ve haven’t checked out this wonderful museum yet now is the time to do it. 

Soldiers and Sailors is a unique military memorial dedicated to honoring all of those who have served our country. 

Photo credit: Darnell Creates via Soldiers and Sailors Hall Instagram

Kelly Strayhorn Theater

Participating in this year’s RADical days, the Kelly Strayhorn Theater is offering free admission on Saturday, September 21 from 10 am to 12 pm. Bring the kiddos (3-12 years of age) out for a pre-ballet and hip-hop demonstration then your whole family can put on those dancing shoes for Zumba session, line dancing and more!

Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh

Get excited about free historical tours through Andrew Carnegie’s Main Library on Sundays from 1 pm to 3 pm, and Wednesdays from 11 am to 1 pm. Join the crew at CLP for a peek into the amazing architecture and wonderful art that lies within this historical landmark. 

Registration for this event isn’t needed but is strongly recommended. 

Photo credit: Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh via Instagram

Phipps Conservatory & Botanical Gardens

All-day free admission at Phipps! Yes, you read that right. On Wednesday, October 2nd, from 9:30 am to 8 pm, anyone is welcome to enjoy the awe-inspiring splendors of Phipps Conservatory. 

Wander through 15 acres of a 14-room glasshouse filled with 23 distinct gardens and three of the greenest buildings in the world. Right now, Phipps is showcasing a brilliant exhibit based on impressionist painter, Van Gogh.

Pittsburgh Glass Center

On Friday, October 4th, enjoy the sights within the Pittsburgh Glass Center during free admission between 10 am and 9 pm. A full day of heat defying acts from glass blowing to flameworking demonstrations. You’ll also get to experience the opening of a new exhibit called, Cuando el Rio Suena.

Photo credit: PGH Glass Center via Instagram

The Frick Pittsburgh

Come one, come all! The grounds at the Frick Pittsburgh are gorgeous this time of year and on Saturday, October 12, you and your family will get to enjoy free admission from 10 am to 5 pm. The Frick Pittsburgh will host many free family activities as well as open their museum to visitors to view the famous, restored Frick family mansion and art museum.

Photo credit: RADworkshere Instagram

Franklin West apartments are located throughout the Shadyside and East End areas allowing our residents to experience the best our community has to offer from local museums to parks, and eateries to local shops. Plus, we’re so lucky to have many seasonal festivals and events like RADical Days that happen right in our back yard.

Have fun, get RADical!

Fall is on the way and many awesome events are coming to Shadyside this month too! From a fabulous fashion trunk show and tasty food crawls to a neighborhood house tour. 

Decades + Diana Mistic | Tuesday, September 10th

The king of vintage, Cameron Silver is giving a lecture at Diana Misetic Fashion Studio & Boutique on Tuesday from 1 pm till 5 pm. Silver is the founder of Decades Inc. and continues to be a leader in pre-loved vintage, neo-vintage, and contemporary designer clothing. 

Get your chance at being the first to view and shop the specially curated collection of vintage apparel and accessories with a focus on Chanel jackets, bags, belts, and more! 

Save your seat now for VIP access

Shopping and trunk show will continue to Wednesday, September 11th from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm.

Mansion on Fifth – Whiskey Sampling | Wednesday, September 11th

Mansion on Fifth is hosting a final Whiskey Sampling Summer event on Wednesday, September 11 from 6 pm to 7 pm. This hour-long event is curated by Deb Mortillaro of Palate Partners and Dreadnought Wines and will feature whiskeys of Mexico!

You don’t have to be a whiskey connoisseur to enjoy this event. Taste 3 special whiskey samplings including Black Corn Whiskey, White Corn Whiskey, and Red Corn Whiskey. Then dive into a discussion of the final products and learn about the different distilling techniques, ingredients, and philosophies. Some light, palate-cleansing food will be included. 

The cost of this sampling is $25 per person. Get your tickets here!

Benefit YOGA Pop-up| Wednesday, September 11th

The Shadyside Nursery on Maryland Ave is welcoming yogi Chelsea for Benefit Pop-Up Yoga from 7 pm to 8 pm this Wednesday. Bring your mat, some water, and arrive 15 minutes early to grab yourself a spot! 

For a one-hour session, this yoga class will cover all levels in a fun flow that will emphasize alignment. All proceeds will benefit the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy ?

Click here to learn more about yogi instructor, Chelsea. 

6th Annual Educational Foodie Crawl | Thursday, September 12th

The Young Leaders Group’s annual Foodie Crawl featuring the Restaurants & Bars like Acorn, The Yard, and Frances/Franks from Shadyside is happening on Thursday, September 12th.

This isn’t your average foodie crawl. Each stop will feature restaurant representatives and real estate developers who will discuss the history and future of the Shadyside dining scene.

Check out the local dining scene and grab your ticket $25 for Urban Land Institue Members or $50 for Non-Members!

5TH ANNUAL Pittsburgh Chinese Cultural Festival | Saturday, Sept. 14th

This year’s annual Pittsburgh Chinese Cultural Festival will take place at Mellon Park on Saturday, September 14th, and celebrate the rich culture of China through entertainment, music, art, food, and exhibits!

It’s a fun-filled festival free to the public! You’ll experience local performances, renowned UNESCO Masters of Arts & Crafts from Wuhan, China, and exhibits of handcrafted items, information and much more. Plus, taste authentic food from Pittsburgh’s most delicious Chinese Restaurants!

East Liberty Wine Festival | Saturday, September 14th

Hundreds of Pittsburghers will head to the main street of South Liberty for the Explore East Liberty Wine Festival on Saturday, September 14th from 2 pm to 6 pm.

At the Wine Festival, you can expect to enjoy 25 eateries and product vendors, awesome live music, and a tour of the region’s best wineries! Some of those wineries include Narcisi Winery, Pittsburgh Distilling Co., KingView Mead, Threadbare Cider & Mead, and so many more

Tickets are on sale now for $25 or $35 for VIP treatment!

Thrival Interactive | Wednesday, September 18th

Carnegie Museum of Art partnered with Thrival Festival for the 3rd consecutive year of Thrival Interactive on Wednesday, September 18th! Come out for an evening that dives into the intersection of art and technology. This fest features workshops, art installations, performances, and all that explores the theme “Digital and Virtual Worlds.” 

In case you get hungry there will be good food, alcoholic drinks, and non-alcoholic beverages will be available to purchase. Keep in mind it will be cash only. Get the day’s details here!

Fall Fest at Steel City Cactus| Saturday, September 21st

On Saturday, September 21st, Steel Cactus is pulling out the stops for Fall Fest! Their crew will launch fabulous fall cocktails and margaritas. Sip on some tasty drinks, munch on the best Thanksgiving Burrito in The Burgh, and live music by Michael Festa.

Shadyside House Tour | Sunday, September 22nd

At the end of September, get ready for one of the biggest neighborhood house tours! The Shadyside Action Coalition is hosting the 40th annual Shadyside House Tour on Sunday the 22nd from 11 am to 4 pm.

Get all the details on ticket sales on this awesome self-guided tour beginning at Winchester Thurston School on Ellsworth Ave. Look out for the complimentary shuttle bus that will be circulating the route all day.

Rain or shine, A Fair in the Park never disappoints! Thousands of visitors flock to this free, fine arts and crafts festival every year to enjoy the natural splendor of Mellon Park, the creative talent, musical entertainment, and some tasty bites.

Hosted by the Craftsmen’s Guild of Pittsburgh, A Fair in the Park will take place during the first weekend of September.  Times vary based on the day, see below. 

Friday, Sept. 6th: 1 – 7 pm

Saturday, Sept. 7th: 10 am – 7 pm

Sunday, Sept 8th: 10 am – 5 pm 

Come hang out with more than 100 regional and national artists and crafters that specialize in unique work like clay, fiber, wood, jewelry, glass, metal, mixed media, and two-dimensional art. The talent at this Mellon Park event is an absolute must-attend weekend.

Photo credit to local artist, Stevo Sadvary, featured by A Fair in the Park Instagram

Arts and crafts aren’t the only media taking charge at this festival. You’ll be excited to hear all the talented bands and musicians scheduled to play during the weekend-long event. See the 2019 music schedule here.

Not to worry about getting your grub on. There will be plenty of food options at A Fair in the Park with diverse menus and some local favorites like Mac & Gold Truck, PitaLand, Randita’s, South Side BBQ Company, Wood Fired Flatbreads, Zeke’s Coffee Pittsburgh and in the lower section, grilled cheese with the Fermented Chef and Rita’s Italian Ice. Get the details on each of these fabulous vendors here.

One of our favorite parts about A Fair in the Park is its family-friendly activities for the kiddos. The event sponsors are happy to encourage teaching young kids the power of art and music by presenting several hands-on activities. Check out the Blick Art booth, the Pittsburgh Center for the Arts and Media booth, Calliope and many more!

This event is absolutely one you won’t want to miss! A Fair in the Park is a celebration of culture, talent, and one the whole family will enjoy.

Photo credit to local artist, Katie Koenig, featured by A Fair in the Park Instagram

 

 

*Header photo credit to A Fair in the Park homepage.

Once a simple street fair has now evolved into one of Pennsylvania’s most beloved and impressive art shows. The Shadyside Art Festival on Walnut will return for its 23rd year! 

Walking through this annual festival, you’ll experience around 150 beautifully skilled artists showcasing a variety of mediums from painters to jewelry makers, and sculpturists to wood-workers. 

An absolute must-see event, this year the Art Festival on Walnut falls on Saturday the 24th and Sunday the 25th of August. It is a day time event. Both days will open at 10 am while Saturday will close at 7 pm and Sunday will wrap up a bit earlier at 5 pm. 

It’s an opportunity to meet the people behind all the wonderful art and maybe add a few pieces to your home. If you’re interested in checking out some of the exhibitors beforehand, visit the official website for the Shadyside Art Festival here. 

photo credit: Howard Alan Events Instagram

Here are a few unique artists you’ll see at the festival this weekend!

?Tony Landolina is a Pittsburgh artist that specializes in an ancient technique of encaustic painting. What does this really mean? Landolina’s paintings are created with beeswax, a propane torch, and razor blades. Talk about unique! Check out his work on Instagram and make sure to stop by his tent this weekend. 

?Another PA native, Julie Hill is a furniture maker that will have a booth at the Art Show. Hill mainly focuses on rustic-style, wood pieces where she offers custom pieces and refinishing work. She has said, “All of my work is made from scratch and finished to perfection – although the occasional imperfection is exactly what makes each of these pieces special.” She has debuted some artwork on Instagram that she plans to showcase at the Shadyside art show, check it out here. 

?Brining whimsey back, acrylic artist Alexandra Hall plays with tons of color bringing wonderful life to mundane things. She says, “It is my hope that I force my audience to exercise their imagination, that my works inspire conversation and that they evoke joy.” Hall has public and private collection for sale across the US and is a must-visit during this weekend’s event.

?Last but not least, Justin Noelke specializes in bronze and wood abstract sculptures. Noelke best selling piece of work is custom, hand-carved coolers made from local KY materials called Copperbox Cooler. Yes, this artist makes coolers out of antique crates, insulated, and lined with hand-bent copper. Check out his site for more details!

There will be over a hundred more unique vendors at this weekend’s art show. If any of the ones we mentioned interest you then head over to Shadyside, you won’t be disappointed by what you see.

Ready for one of the most delicious times of the year? This year’s Summer Restaurant Week is happening now in Pittsburgh and we’re excited about good food at awesome deals! 

For a full week, you can grab a bite to eat at some of Pittsburgh’s best eateries whether you’re downtown, Southside, and yes, even Shadyside. Here’s a list of the local Shadyside eateries participating with awesome menus for Restaurant Week!

BRGR 

If you’re in the mood for a gourmet burger and handmade shake, you have to go with BRGR in Eastside. This Pittsburgh burger joint is a great place for a classic American dinner. 

During Restaurant Week, BRGR has a lunch or dinner for two special for $20.19 that comes with 2 Average Joe burgers, a basket of fries, and 2 PBRs’ or Miller Lites!

Plus, eating at BRGR during summer means it’s patio season. With a variety of places to sit, the patio offers a chance to have a meal and enjoy the fresh air. One Yelp reviewer has even said, “The rooftop bar and seating area is GORGEOUS! The flowers and lighting gave such a summery vibe.”

Paris 66

Paris 66 Bistro has been awarded Pittsburgh’s Best French Restaurant time and time again. The authentic French Bistro on Centre Ave prepares every meal with local, fresh ingredients. 

For this week only, Paris 66 is serving up a special, 3-course menu for lunch and dinner. Moules Marinière-Frites or mussels prepared with white wine, and a NY Strip Steak are just two of the many options you might see on the menu. Paris 66 also has a wonderful outdoor area!

Paris 66 ranks at a whopping 4.6 of 5 in reviews on Facebook with one reviewer saying, “Great dinner. For the fans of true French taste.”

A cool extra experience that isn’t a part of Restaurant Week, but one you can enjoy any time of year is the cultural and educational program. Paris 66 hosts this program dedicated to immersing yourself in the French language, wine, and culture. Check it out here.

Spoon

For nearly a decade, Spoon has been keeping Pittsburgh’s food scene at the top! This eatery has a modern-American vibe with a “farm to table” menu as well as a unique cocktail and wine selection.

For Restaurant Week, Spoon is also serving a 3-course meal featuring delicious plates like crispy zucchini blossoms, and chicken with heirloom tomatoes and spaghetti squash. Yum!

A recent review from Yelp has said, “Very enjoyable dinner meeting tonight. Service was good.  Food was fantastic especially a number of the appetizers.”  

Fish Nor Fowl

Fish Nor Fowl is another awesome pick for a night out during Restaurant Week. This eatery is on Penn Ave and it focuses on a contemporary approach to American cuisine. The menu is inspired by ingredients and techniques from around the world. 

It’s truly a unique dining experience at Fish Nor Fowl! During Restaurant Week, their crew is offering exceptional entres like Mushroom Bolognese and BBQ Halibut Collar. Plus, Fish Nor Fowl’s open-kitchen concept only adds to the truly organic dining experience. 

A recent reviewer from Facebook says, “Excellent menu of eclectic dishes! Each one is better than the next. Terrific ambiance, in a small, personal setting. Will definitely revisit it again????”

Fujiya Ramen

Fujiya Ramen came to life through a passion for Japanese cuisine and the dream of a father and son. If you’re in the mood for authentic ramen, this is where you get it!

Taking part in Restaurant Week, Fujiya Ramen is preparing lunch and dinner specials that include Tonkotsu Ramen Spicy Miso Ramen, Pork&Chive Gyoza Tempura Shrimp, Katsu Curry and more! Don’t forget to save room for dessert and get any flavor of mochi ice cream.

At this local Shadyside eatery, you’ll be transported to Japan culture. One recent reviewer from Yelp says, “I think Fujiya has the best ramen I’ve tasted in Pittsburgh so far. I usually get their tonkatsu ramen and their broth is rich and delicious.”

The Twisted Frenchman

Last but certainly not least, The Twisted Frenchman is a modern french restaurant on Baum Boulevard with a mouth-watering menu!

For Restaurant Week, this local eatery is serving up a two-course dinner with meals like Parisian Gnocchi Alla Ratatouille, Sweet Pea Risotto, Bouillabaisse and much more.

With a 4.8 of 5 rating on Facebook, the reputation at The Twisted Frenchman won’t disappoint. One reviewer has said, “This has to be the best-kept secret and best bargain for fine dining in Pittsburgh.”

If you’re living in Franklin West’s apartments, you can easily walk to any one of these fantastic eateries and enjoy the splendors of Restaurant Week!