Thanksgiving marks the time of year where both fall and winter festivities are in full swing. While some events are canceled this year due to COVID-19, some of our favorites are still happening. Don’t miss these highlights of the season Pittsburgh has to offer.

Image from Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium on Instagram

Zoo Lights

Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium has long been a family favorite destination. Strolling through the many exhibits in the summer is a great weekend outing. However, as the temperature drops and people wish to keep warm, the zoo adapts with some spectacular events.

This year’s Zoo Lights display promises a festive holiday drive-through complete with Christmas carols and thousands of environmentally-friendly LED lights. Grab a cup of hot cocoa and drive through in your car as you listen to a themed audio tour and see many of the zoo’s fascinating residents along the way.

Zoo Lights runs on select nights from November 27 – January 3, so look to their website today and plan your visit. Tickets must be purchased online in advance. Tickets cost $60 per vehicle for nonmembers and $40 per vehicle for zoo members.

Image from Phipps Conservatory on Instagram

Winter Flower Show: Home for the Holidays & Garden Railroad: Rails and Trails

Magic is always in the air at Phipps Conservatory. This year’s winter showcase features thousands of poinsettias illuminated by twinkling lights. The ‘Home for the Holidays’ theme is illustrated with living room furniture and decorations composed entirely of plants. Walk through the Victoria Room and admire the dancing reflections of the carousel on the pond below. Learn about animals’ winter habitats with trees cut to resemble foxes, groundhogs, bears, and more.

As you stroll through the illuminated glasshouse, you’ll also find the beloved miniature railroad display. This exhibit is meticulously crafted to bring to life a landscape complete with a boat gliding across a lake, and people riding horses, swimming, and camping. The touchless interactive stations allow you to activate the various scenes in the exhibit while the train chugs along its tracks.

Phipps is doing its part in curbing the spread of COVID-19, so timed tickets can be purchased online. Tickets cost $19.95 for adults, $17.95 for students (age 18+) & seniors (age 62+), and $11.95 for children (age 2 -18). Admission is free with a Phipps membership.

This display runs from November 20 – January 3, so don’t miss the holiday magic at Phipps. Masks must be worn at all times.

Image from The Rink at PPG Place on Instagram

The Rink at PPG Place

This holiday staple of downtown Pittsburgh celebrates its 20th year in 2020. The ice encircles a beautiful Christmas tree adorned with lights and ornaments. Bundle up and enjoy ice skating all season long. Bring your own ice skates or rent a pair onsite ($5). Prices (excluding skate rentals) are $11 for adults (age 13 – 49), and $10 for children, seniors, and with military I.D. Check PPG Place’s website for information on special group rates, holiday hours, and more special events. Masks are required while skating.

Visit your favorite animals at the Pittsburgh Zoo, revel in the beauty of Phipps Conservatory, or strap on a pair of skates at PPG Place. These local events will bring joy to all this holiday season, and they’re all within a 10-minute drive of Franklin West’s apartments in Shadyside.

Image from Think Shadyside

The busiest shopping season of the year is approaching, and planning ahead is more important than ever. Before you purchase all the items you need online from big brand retailers, head into Shadyside and support the many fantastic local businesses that help enrich this beautiful neighborhood. If you’re shopping for great deals, then mark your calendar for this year’s Small Business Saturday.

Small Business Saturday will take place on November 28 from 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM and will include shops along Ellsworth Avenue, Walnut Street, S. Highland Avenue, and many stores in between.

While you make your way from shop to shop, admire the holiday decor in storefronts participating in the Holiday Window Decorating Contest. Holiday window decorations are a familiar site during this time of year, but this year the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership has upped the ante by sponsoring this festive contest. Local businesses have paired up with talented local artists listed on the Pittsburgh Artists Registry in order to bring the public these spectacular, creative displays.

Pittsburgh Parking Authority (PPA) metered street parking and metered lots will be free for this event, so you’ll only need to pay for the great deals you discover. PPA lots in Shadyside include Shadyside Garage on 714 Bellefonte Street as well as the Ivy/Bellefonte lot at 726 Ivy Street. PPA parking is also free on Thanksgiving, Black Friday, and every Sunday. No matter where you choose to park, Shadyside is easily walkable and pedestrian-friendly.

We hope to see you out and about supporting the many treasured businesses Shadyside has to offer. Stay tuned to the event’s official Facebook page for updated info on participating businesses.

Many thanks to PNC and UPMC for sponsoring this event and to Think Shadyside and Pedagogy for hosting.

This Halloween season we’re seeing a lot more masks. Not the kinds we usually see at this time of year, but fall is coming in full force regardless. Luckily we have all sorts of events we can look forward to in the weeks to come. 

We’re going over some favorites you can enjoy with friends or family all while practicing social distancing.

ZooBoo Drive-Thru Fundraiser

If you haven’t been to the Pittsburgh Zoo, then add it to your list for October 17th, 18th, 24th, & 25th. Pack up the car with your favorite people and head over for a unique trick or treating experience with ZooBoo Drive-Thru Fundraiser. 

Tickets are timed and you’ll need them in advance. Drive through the zoo seeing all the animals celebrating the fall festivities with you. They’ll get some tasty fall-themed treats as will any trick or treaters you bring along with you. There are various candy stops along the driving route and a Trick-Or-Treat Trail sponsored by Allegheny Health Network. 

If you love going all out for Halloween, decorate your car for part of this year’s CAR-stume parade. The ZooBoo Drive-Thru is happening rain or shine, so get your tickets here.

Photo credit: Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium Zoo Boo event

Owl-O-Ween

The National Aviary houses a variety of owls, falcons, sloths, penguins, and other amazing creatures. Owl-O-Ween is included with regular admission and takes place on October 24 from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. 

Kids will receive a fun, trick or treat bag filled with goodies and crafts they can assemble at socially distanced tables. Get to know the Spectacled Owl or the Eurasian Eagle Owl with one of the Aviary’s experts. Tickets are timed, so book them online in advance.

Family Days at the Carnegie Museum of Art

Whether you’ve long been an art connoisseur or simply enjoy the occasional stroll through a gallery, the Carnegie Museum of Art will never disappoint. This museum is home to paintings from van Gogh, Monet, and Gauguin and also holds an archive of over 70,000 negatives from photographer Charles “Teenie” Harris. 

There will be a series of Family Days with the next occurring on October 17 between noon and 4:00 PM. There will also be Family Days on November 15 and December 13, so get your tickets in advance. Bring your kids aged 3-18 and they’ll receive an Art Cat bag including some drawing materials, fun activities pertaining to the various galleries, and fun ideas they can use at home.

Super Science Saturday: Booseum Trick or Treat

Attached to the Carnegie Museum of Art is another favorite: the Carnegie Museum of Natural History. Learn about the natural wonders of the past in the many engaging exhibits in this beloved museum. 

For the Booseum Trick or Treat event, children can wear their Halloween costumes while hunting for stamps. Then, in the end, kids can redeem those stamps for goodie bags filled with fun, non-food treats. These goodie bags will only be available while supplies last, so head over and get started on your hunt. 

Also, safety masks must be worn in addition to any costume related masks for the safety of all patrons of the museum. Just like Family Days at the museum, this event will occur on Saturday, October 17 from noon to 4:00 PM. Make the most of the day by visiting both museums back to back for double the fun.

Photo Credit: Carnegie Museum of Natural History via Instagram

Pints For Paws at the Urban Tap Shadyside

Pets do so much for us and they just have a way of making the world a better place. Pay it back by supporting our furry, four-legged friends with a donation to Furkid Rescue at the Pints For Paws event. 

This indoor & outdoor patio event at The Urban Tap Shadyside will be a great opportunity for enjoying crisp October air with pooches aplenty. $15 will get you your own embossed Yuengling pint glass, beer included with three different choices of brews, and event-specific “Pints For Paws” koozie, some yummy tater tots, a ticket for the Chinese auction during the event. While $5 of your admission price will go directly to Furkid Rescue in support of all they do for animals in Pittsburgh.

Haunted Pittsburgh Downtown Ghost Tour

You may already know of Pittsburgh’s rich history as the Steel City, but this tour will steal your attention with spooky stories of the city’s darker side. Haunted Pittsburgh leads 90-minute walking tours on weekends through early November. 

If you enjoy scary thrills and historical walking tours, then this tour is for you. Tours commence at 7:00 PM in front of the City-County Building and tickets are only available online at $18 per adult and $10 for kids 12 and under. Get ready for a spooktacular tour of Pittsburgh.

 

There’s plenty of spooky fun we can all enjoy this Halloween season, so enjoy the best of fall in Pittsburgh with these exciting attractions and events fun for the whole family!

Our Shadyside community and local businesses are finding creative ways to enjoy some of our favorite events this summer. Restaurants are making space on sidewalks or parking lots, vendors are moving inventory outside, and more transactions are becoming cashless.

We do miss our usual concerts, sports, restaurants, and museum outings, but fortunately, other things are popping up. In particular, Think Shadyside is coming in clutch with a brand new summer event: the Shadyside Summer Sampler.

It’s the community celebration of the summer that’s set to take place on August 12 – 16 all throughout Shadyside from 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM each day. You can expect participation from over 40 businesses right here in Shadyside for the Sidewalk Sale. Shopping for excellent deals and supporting small businesses is bound to work up an appetite. Many local eateries will have food and drink specials for you to enjoy.

This summer celebration doesn’t end there. The Shadyside Summer Sampler will also host several fun games. Plus, whenever you need a little break, you can relax and listen to live Jazz performances. Feeling lucky? This inaugural Shadyside Summer Sampler is sponsored by UPMC and the URA and includes various promos and giveaways.

Think Shadyside calls The Summer Sampler the “first, socially-distanced event of the summer”, so hopefully there will be more like it coming soon. Keep in mind, the entire event is subject to state safety regulations, so carry on practicing social distancing, hand washing/sanitizing, and wearing your mask. Help keep Shadyside safe and support this terrific community event!

Save this event in your calendar or head over to the official Facebook event page where you can mark going or interested. Either way, Facebook will send you a reminder about the event. Share it with your friends and neighbors too so they know all the details. Visit the Think Shadyside website for more announcements and for the full schedule of events!

Photo Credit: Think Shadyside

Adding a delicious twist to winter, Restaurant Week 2020 is here! Close to 100 restaurants are participating in Restaurant Week across Pittsburgh and it’s the best time to try something new. 

Plus, several eateries are just a short distance from Franklin West apartments. Here are a few fantastic and local eateries participating in Restaurant Week with 3-course dinners for $35.20.

Spoon

As one of Pittsburgh’s premier dining destinations, Spoon (South Highland Ave) is serving a new dish during Restaurant Week. The specials at Spoon will give you the choice with the 3-course meal. First is your choice of a winter citrus salad or a fennel and mushroom soup. A roast chicken breast or miso-glazed cod is your choice of entre, and finally, enjoy either pavlova or chocolate date cake for dessert!

Con Alma

Eat, drink, and listen to classic jazz at Con Alma (Ellsworth Ave) during Restaurant Week. To get you started, Con Alma is making roasted Brussel sprouts, crispy shallots, and cascabel chile-miso caramel. As an entre, you’ll get tandoori spiced jumbo prawn, pork belly, escarole with salsa verde, roasted yams. For dessert, enjoy Tres Leches.

Dinette

Focused on sustainable meals, try Dinette over on Center Ave during Restaurant Week. The first course is your choice of Soup of the Day, or Grilled Shishito Peppers with goat cheese, fried almonds and fleur de sel. For the entre, you’ll also have a choice of gourmet pizza with the freshest ingredients. But make sure to save room for dessert!

Fish nor Fowl

This American eatery celebrating Restaurant Week is over on Penn Ave. Fish nor Fowl is offering two choices for each course. Start with a house salad or charred broccoli. Then move on to the second course with your choice of Chicken Parmesan or Cacio e Pepe. Last but certainly not least, have Pannacotta or Affogato for dessert. 

 

Some honorable mentions with an expansive menu include Fujiya Ramen, Paris 66, and The Twisted Frenchman.

The week is coming to a close on Sunday, January 19th, marking the end of those specials. Visit Pittsburgh Restaurant Week to see all meal specials at several eateries across Pittsburgh. Your taste buds and wallet will thank you!

This festive month holds several awesome events for families and adults to enjoy. Dare we say, holiday cheer is in full swing in Shadyside!

It’s time to get into the holiday spirit as many of our favorite museums are pulling out all the stops, plus low key places like Patagonia and Shadyside Nursery has wonderful events in store too. 

Here’s everything that’s happening around our neighborhood during the rest of December. 

Mansions on Fifth

Explore this gorgeous mansion all done up with beautiful lights and holiday decor. Mansions on Fifth hotel is hosting a Christmas Concert, Cocktails, and tours event on Thursday, December 19th. 

Snack on tasty snacks and complimentary Christmas specialty cocktails or hot chocolate then enjoy an evening of festive music! Jen Vanella and the Rainbow Angels will begin the performance at 6 pm. 

Get all the info for this holiday event here.

Photo credit: Mansions on Fifth via Instagram

Patagonia

Over on Walnut Street, Patagonia is bringing its own Celebration to the Season on Thursday, December 12th.

Come out and shop around during a festive night of live music and munch on specialty popcorn from PGH Popcorn Company. Patagonia will also have a cookie decorating station set up for the kiddos.

Plus, there’s much more to this event like the Worn Wear program, upcycled gifts, and donations will go towards the local non-profit, Paws Across Pittsburgh.

Carnegie Museum of Natural History

Decked out for the season, the Carnegie Museum of Natural History is hosting a double feature inspired by the holidays. Come meet Sven the reindeer while you’re at it!

On Saturday, December 14th, a special “Holiday Around the World” edition of Super Science Saturday allows visitors to discover holiday-themed stations throughout the museum. Different cultures will be highlighted by sharing tradition, amazing artifacts, and hands-on activities. This won’t be the only time to experience this event.

Sensory Friendly Saturday will take place on the 28th of December and will meet the same festive theme between 8:30 am to 10 am. This specific event is catered to wonderful families with members on the autism spectrum or who otherwise easily experience sensory overload. It allows a chance to explore the museum during a quieter experience in a more controlled environment.

Tickets for Super Science Saturday here.

Information for Sensory Friendly Saturday here. 

Photo credit: CMNH via Instagram 

Frick Pittsburgh 

The Frick Pittsburgh goes all out during the holiday season. Not only can you experience fabulous holiday decor at Clayton house, but also enjoy performances with The Pittsburgh ballet theater or the C Street Brass Quintet. 

Head to the Frick Cafe for delicious treats and tea as well as browse through the holiday-themed merchandise at the gift shop.

Get all the details on upcoming holiday programs here.

photo credit: Frick Pittsburgh via Instagram

Phipps Conservatory

Phipps is a Pittsburgh favorite. The holiday show is one to take the breath away, but there are more activities to explore at Phipps too.

Making the holiday light show even more magical, on specific weekend nights live musical entertainment will play throughout the museum for a treat for the eyes and the ears. See the full performance schedule here.

On Tuesday, December 17th, Chefs from Phipps Cafe will put a wonderful holiday buffet dinner together from 6 to 8 pm. Get more information on tickets here.

Phipps is also planning a New Year’s Eve family celebration on December 31. Your family will be able to enjoy all kinds of activities, live music, crafts, and more.

We hear Santa will make a few appearances too.

Shadyside Nursery

Shopping for a beautiful, live tree for the holidays? Head over to the Shadyside Nursery and find an abundance of locally farmed trees available to purchase. 

Don’t stop short at the trees though. Handmade ornaments made by local artists will also be available for sale along with charity wreaths. All sales from the wreaths will go to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Pittsburgh.  

Get all the info here. 

photo credit: Shadyside Nursery via Instagram

Carnegie Museum of Art

The Women’s Committee within the Carnegie Museum of Art has put on another phenomenal holiday display. Your eyes will surely light up walking in the Hall of Architecture to find giant evergreens dressed in handcrafted ornaments along with CMOA’s 18-century Nativity scene!

This Friday, December 13th come out to CMOA for a Winter Wonderland 21+ party. The celebration begins at 7 and will last till 10 pm. Grab your friends, get fancy, and have a blast on Friday night!

CMOA is also hosting several festive events throughout this month. This upcoming Saturday is the Winter Wonderland Pajama Party! This family-friendly, 2-hour event presents a special storytime, a dance party for the kiddos, and plenty more activities.

Still shopping for a few gifts? CMOA can help you out with the unique merchandise at the museum store. Enjoy special discounts and browse freely without exhibit admission fees. 

 

We’re wishing all our friends and neighbors a wonderful and safe holiday. Enjoy the season!

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 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.