50th Annual A Fair in the Park Celebration at Mellon Park
Written by: Gloria Pytlak
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.
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.
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.
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.
Local Eateries Participating in Pittsburgh’s Summer Restaurant Week
Written by: Gloria Pytlak
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!
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.”
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.
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 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 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.”
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!
Tour Some of Shadyside’s Most Historic and Beloved Architecture
Written by: Gloria Pytlak
Who’s up for spending an afternoon walking through the historical and absolutely gorgeous town of Shadyside?
This neighborhood is known for more than it’s tree-lined sidewalks and many unique, local shops. There’s plenty of history here too. As a matter of fact, Franklin West is a proud steward of the historic landmark, Highland Towers! More than one hundred years old, Highland Towers was built in 1913 by Frederick G. Scheibler, Jr and is still considered one of Pittsburgh’s most wonderful examples of American Modern Architecture.
Today, Highland Towers maintains its 36 one-bedroom and two bedroom apartments that feature original stained glass windows, colorfully painted murals, and built-in mahogany cabinetry. Individual apartments have been renovated over the years, however, it’s historical charm will never be lost. It’s Franklin West’s mission to respect the rich architectural history of this amazing building.
If you’re interested in exploring Highland Towers, now you can! We are teaming up with Pittsburgh History and Landmark Foundation (PHLF) which will lead two separate tours through the eastern edge of the Shadyside neighborhood.
The Pittsburgh History and Landmark Foundation was originally founded on the belief that historic preservation is a true key toward renewing communities, lifting pride among residents, and reaching sustainable economic development. The tours and events held by the PHLF reflect this and Franklin West is more than thrilled to share in that belief as well.
Learn about the neighborhood’s unique apartment architecture on Sunday, June 16th and August 4th, 2019. Both tour dates will include historical sites like the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Sellers-Carnahan house, the former Hunt Armory, the Highland Towers and more! Hurry up and register; space is limited!
See all the available details for the PHLF tour here!
While you’re on the tour make sure you check out the treasured stained glass windows. Apartment 16A, that is currently available, features one of our favorite stained glass window pieces. You’ll find a mixture of art that brings dragons, butterflies, birds in flight, and a variety of flowers and foliage to life.
What honestly sounds better than exploring our charming Shadyside neighborhood for a few hours of architectural genius? We couldn’t think of anything better either. See you on the tour!
The Ace Hotel Upgrades a Local Fan-Favorite Event
Written by: Gloria Pytlak
A fan-favorite event at The Ace Hotel is getting one awesome upgrade. The popular culinary event, Sharing Knives, is now becoming Sharing Farms!
For one day during June, July, August, and September, this dinner series will have a farm-grown focus featuring, “…expanded chef collaborations and independent farmers and foragers that are the lifeblood of kitchens across the city of Pittsburgh.”
The best part, The Ace Hotel is a short walk away from many Franklin West properties and we’re excited to see local chefs from some of Shadyside’s best eateries involved! Let’s dive into the details.
Starting at 6 pm at the Ace Hotel on Wednesday, June 26th, the first Sharing Farms event will welcome chefs Csilla Thackery from Legume, Neil Blazin from Driftwood Oven, Kevin Sousa from Superior Motors, and Nate Hobart from Morcilla.
This crew of amazing chefs will showcase ingredients from Tiny Seed, Braddock Farms, and Goodness Grows.
For July’s event, The Ace Hotel is putting on a celebration for 20 years of the Penn’s Corner Farm Alliance. The chefs leading the show will be Lily Tran of Soba, Ben Sloan of Alta Via, Ryan Spak of Spak Brothers Pizza, and Kate Carney from Or, The Whale.
This fantastic four is bringing ingredients to life from Penn’s Corner Farm Alliance. Get your tickets for the Sharing Farms event, which starts at 6 pm on Wednesday, July 31st.
Bonus!
Are you a member of the Penn’s Corner Farm Alliance? If so, you get a 10% discount for this event at checkout! To get your discount, email aaron.clark@acehotel.com with proof of membership.
The Ace Hotel will host the third Sharing Farm on Wednesday, August 28th from 6 pm to 9 pm. This dinner experience is jam-packed with awesome chefs like Derek Stevens from Union Standard, Curtis Gamble of Station, Chad Townsend from Millies Ice Cream, Tony Giamarita of Pizza Taglio, Justin Steel from Bar Marco, and Dianne DeStefano of Independent, Hidden Harbor, Lorelei.
To wrap up Sharing Farms for the year, the last event will be held on Wednesday, September 25th. Full details of this event are still in the works.
So far, the September event will involve chefs Kate Romane of Black Radish, Jamilka Borges from Lorelei (Hidden Harbor and Independent Brewing), and Casey Renee from Confections. A few more chefs are expected to join this wonderful crew to showcase beef from Jubilee Hilltop Ranch and other regional farms.
Enjoy Spring in Shadyside with these 6 Awesome Events
Written by: Gloria Pytlak
Heads up, there are a ton of awesome events happening this month in Shadyside. Spring is here and has started to warm us up around the Burgh.
You’ll absolutely want to celebrate by seeing some gorgeous and unique flowers at Phipps Conservatory’s spring show or grab your bike for the Pale Ale Keg Ride.
Plus, the Great Shadyside Yard Sale is at the end of this month too!
Like we said, there are plenty of events to mark down on your calendar this month so let’s get started!
First on our list is Phipps of course! The Garden Spring show is happening now but will end on April 21. There really isn’t a better way to greet Spring.
Here are some of the items in the show that will definitely have you buying a ticket asap…
There’s a giant 9-foot-tall topiary peacock (need we say more?)
Become dazzled by the winding rainbow road of spring floral favorites
Make water jump and dance among captivating prism sculptures through a giant interactive fountain in the Victoria Room
Have fun with the interactive kaleidoscope of blooms
You’ll be mesmerized at the Himalayan blue poppies when they bloom
Pittsburgh’s University Center for International Studies are the hosts of this year’s Latin American and Caribbean Fest.
Immerse yourself with Latin American and Caribbean foods, arts, crafts, music and dance, plus information on local and regional organizations. Many vendors will also be there with amazing, handmade goodies!
Head out to the Galleria and Patio of the Wesley W. Posvar Hall from noon to 8 pm for one amazing experience!
Whether you own a home with a back yard or rent an apartment, the biggest trend this year is fully embracing nature. If you’re someone who wants to add more plants in your home this event is a must attend!
The Shadyside Nursery wants to make it easy for you to grow your green thumb by teaching Planting 101: How Not to Kill Your Plants. You’ll walk away from this class with tons of knowledge with planting and become a better plant parent.
You won’t go home empty handed either. The projects you learn in class, you’ll take home with you.
Class starts at 6:30 pm on Tuesday, April 16th so don’t be late!
You can bring the whole family out to this event! Kelly Strayhorn Theater is hosting the annual Fiesta Flamenca on Tuesday, April 16th. The doors open at 7 pm and the show will begin an hour later.
Fiesta Flamenca is a community celebration of music, dance, and friendship. The show will feature a flamenco performance from Alba Flamenca and the students at Flamenco Pittsburgh.
The Ace Hotel on Whitfield Street is hosting this month’s Made and Found Spring Market. You’ll discover over 25 of the region’s best vintage shops, makers, and artists!
Did we mention admission is free? Yep, this kid and dog-friendly market is completely free to enjoy, which means you don’t have to feel shy about buying more beautiful items from vendors. While you’re enjoying the vendors, coffee, brunch, and cocktails will also be available for purchase.
How does a bike ride through Pittsburgh with a ton of fresh, local beer in tow sound? It sounds pretty awesome to us!
On its fifteenth year, the Pedal Pale Ale Keg Ride is happening on Saturday, April 27. You will pedal along with an awesome group of people and stay refreshed with some delicious beer. Once the crew reaches the mystery destination, East End Brewing will reveal this year’s Pedal Pale Ale!
It’s not all riding and drinking though. This keg ride is also one of the biggest charity events of the year and raises money for the Auberle Foster Care Foundation!
Local Events and Shops with Unique, Vintage Treasures
Written by: Gloria Pytlak
Are you a fan of vintage items? There’s something special about treasures from the past and some people just can’t get enough of it.
Who can blame them? Some vintage markets have the most extraordinary items like retro T-shirts, unique decor, or even homemade items. Plus, these markets support local vendors so what better way to support your small businesses in Pittsburgh!
If that sounds like you, then definitely mark your calendar for these nearby vintage events!
This coming Saturday, get your shopping bags ready because Vintage Pittsburgh Retro Fair is back! Between 10 am through 3 pm, you’ll be able to shop unique, vintage items like clothing, home decor, vinyl records, and so much more!
From noon to 6 pm, enjoy the many vintage items from 20 different local vendors and collectors. This event is hosted by Retro Gems and Zeds LLC. Did we mention admission is completely free?
Just imagine two floors filled with unique and unusual pieces from over 30 local vintage sellers. Yep, you read that right. You’ll find authentic, vintage items and collectibles at the Pittsburgh Vintage Mixer Home Show!
Starting at 10 am (8 am if you have early bird access) to 5 pm, this vintage fair brings local collectors and small vintage businesses together to highlight, “community, creative inspiration, and nostalgia.” Tickets are only $5 for adults and free for kids under 12 years of age.
Want to shop for more vintage pieces? Check out the several antique shops right in our backyard of Shadyside, Pittsburgh.
Kozloff and Meaders on Ellsworth Ave
Merryville Antiques on Ellsworth Ave
Lily’s Antiques on South Highland Ave
Here’s How to Take Part in the Holiday Cheer this December
Written by: Gloria Pytlak
As temperatures begin to fall into the 20s and snow makes its arrival here in Pittsburgh, we know it’s officially time for the holidays. With joy and merriment in the air, we gathered a list of our favorite holiday events near Shadyside.
Here are some events you’ll want to mark down on your calendar for this month.
If you’re still in the market for a holiday tree, head over to the Shadyside Nursery! With a wide range of different types and sizes, you’ll definitely be able to find a tree you like. This year, the Shadyside Nursery is also selling locally made ornaments and holiday lawn decor too.
When you purchase a handmade Charity Wreath you’ll be supporting Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Pittsburgh. Over one hundred have been sold so far!
When you ask any Pittsburgh local what the best thing to do during the holidays, we would bet Phipps Conservatory is one of their suggestions. Phipps winter garden show is both breathtaking and mesmerizing!
The theme is “Let It Glow,” and they certainly pulled out all the stops. With a ton of new features, you’ll experience dazzling holiday tree displays, winter ice towers, color-changing architectural lights, and an array of gorgeous flowers. On select nights, Phipps will host a variety of musical entertainment. Check out the schedule here.
This weekend is the Gifts and Greens Market too! It’s a free event hosted by Phipps and welcomes guest vendors. Shop for fresh greens, garland, poinsettias, holiday decorations, and so much more.
If you haven’t yet been out to Phipps during the holidays, you definitely need to put it on your calendar this year.
On Saturday, December 15, East End Brewing will host Crafts and Drafts! Local artists and vendors will be present with arts, crafts, and gifts to help with your last minute shopping. Great food will also be available from La Palapa Mexican Kitchen and Leona’s Ice Cream Sandwiches.
Holiday tours at the Clayton Mansion are a must-see Pittsburgh tradition. The beautifully decorated Frick Family home will allow you to reimagine the events of 1908. This Saturday, December 8th, the Frick is also hosting a free event of holiday art-making and interactive tours. Check out their site for more events and ticket information.
There’s nothing more festive than towering evergreen trees dressed in lights and decorative ornaments! As you make your way to the Hall of Architecture, you’ll experience the Carnegie Trees and Neapolitan Presepio.
This year, CMOA collaborated with Carnegie International artist, Karen Kilimnik, to bring the five trees to life. Each one decorated with handcrafted ornaments. Displayed next to the trees is a lifelike and colorfully detailed 18th-century Neapolitan Presepio Nativity Scene. CMOA notes the scene was crafted by hand between 1700 and 1830.
CMOA’s holiday display will be up until January 7th. This one is a Pittsburgh tradition you’ll want to see for yourself.
If you want to do something unique during the holidays, you can always count on the Ace Hotel. They’re hosting several events this month. The first is Yappy Holidays: A No-Flea Market for Humane Animal Rescue and it’s this Sunday from 11 am to 3 pm. It’s a holiday pet market with plenty of pet-related vendors and bloody marys for you. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Humane Animal Rescue.
On Sunday, December 16th, the Ace Hotel is hosting the Anemoia Vintage’s Made + Found Holiday Market. It will feature over 50 of the regions vintage and handmade vendors! Admission is free and light drinks and brunch will be available for purchase.
If you’re looking for New Years Eve plans, check out the Fiesta at Steel Cactus. Make dinner reservations before 8 pm and get your new year celebration on with a DJ and dancing starting at 9 pm.
That’s a wrap on our list of holiday events, and yes, we checked it twice! Don’t forget to follow us on social media for more updates on events in Shadyside and so much more during December.
Get into the Holiday Spirit at The Frick Pittsburgh
Written by: Gloria Pytlak
Pittsburgh is home to many winter traditions. One local favorite and our must-do winter tradition is visiting The Frick Pittsburgh. From the historic home of the Frick family and the 5 plus acres of gorgeous gardens to the truly awe-worthy art exhibitions, The Frick is absolutely Pittsburgh’s hidden gem!
The Frick’s Clayton Holiday tours are such a site to see! The Clayton Mansion is lavishly decorated with holiday splendor that is reminiscent of the 1900s. General admission is only $15 and the celebrations last up until January 6th.
Plus, every Friday evening, The Frick hosts Holiday Harmonies! A trio of carolers strolls through the Frick grounds singing traditional holiday songs up until the last Friday of the month. The wonderful carols paired with brilliantly decorated lights, it’s a wonderful way to get into the holiday spirit!
While you’re enjoying the Clayton Home, The Frick is also showcasing the amazing Isabelle de Borchgrave: Fashioning Art from Paper during the winter season. You haven’t seen paper like this before.
Borchgrave’s breathtaking work reflects Renaissance Italian gowns and modernist costumes of the Ballet Russes. Her life-size, works of art is completely made of painted and manipulated paper. That’s right, simple paper.
On Fridays starting at 2 pm The Frick hosts Gallery Talks. Join art admirers in a conversation on Borchgrave’s work. This week, the conversation will focus on Succès de Scandale: Picasso, Satie, and the Ballets Russes.
Isabelle de Borchgrave: Fashioning Art from Paper exhibit is open to the public from now until January 6th. If you have a love for fashion or art, we can’t recommend this exhibit enough. Want to learn more about Isabelle de Borchgrave’s process? You can find a short excerpt about her and her amazing art here.
Beers of the Burgh: One of Pittsburgh’s Favorite Festivals
Written by: Gloria Pytlak
Want to expand your love for a good brew? Are you new to the Burgh and looking for something to do? Beers of the Burgh is returning. This year, the best fest is happening at Hunt Armory in Shadyside!
Whether you’re a beer connoisseur or someone who’s up for a good time, Beers of the Burgh never disappoints. This event will feature more than 30 diverse breweries, all local to Western Pennsylvania, including Grist House Craft Brewery, Hitchhiker Brewing, East End Brewing Company, Eleventh Hour Brewing, and a ton more. See the full list on the official site.
General admission costs $45 for Beers of the Burgh with the doors opening at 5 pm. The three-hour event offers a keepsake tasting glass, live music, and entertainment. But maybe you and your friends are the kinds of people who love an exclusive pass. Early admission is starting at $59 per person and you get access to all the tasty brews an hour before general admission. That sounds pretty good to us!
Safety is a top priority during Beers of the Burgh. After 3 or 4 hours of drinking, no one should even think about driving home. So for all those designated drivers out there, your ticket is only $20.
This awesome ‘Burgh event is sponsored through Variety. This charity’s mission is to help children with disabilities live a full life! All proceeds will benefit Variety and their mission.
We can’t forget to mention that Beers of the Burgh also strives to help keep Pittsburgh Green! The Beers of the Burgh team pledges to keep the event sustainable and environmentally friendly by reducing the events carbon footprint. Beers of the Burgh has partnered with Pennsylvania Resources Council and Zero Fossil Energy Outfitters.
So what’s better than enjoying an evening of good people and delicious brews? We couldn’t think of anything else. Get your ticket here and we’ll see you at Hunt Armory on Saturday, November 3rd!
