From bombastic battle demonstrations to silent parties, a variety of events will be taking place around Pittsburgh this weekend. It’s always a good time to try something new. Find an activity to fit into your busy summer schedule here!
Quiet Reading Party
Haven’t managed to finish that beach read just yet? Is the hustle and bustle keeping you from curling up in a cozy corner for an afternoon? Check out the Silent Reading Party this Saturday at the main branch of the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh in Oakland.
The party will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, with the time from 2 to 2:30 p.m. dedicated to arriving, finding a comfortable place in the first-floor quiet reading room and even snagging a free cup of coffee, tea or a pastry. From 2:30 to 3:30 p.m., attendees will quietly engross themselves in their chosen book. Then, from 3:30 to 4 p.m., everyone will get a chance to socialize and discuss what they’ve been reading.
The event is free. RSVP at carnegielibrary.org.
Battle of the Monongahela 269th Anniversary
Did you know that arguably the most recognized battle of the French and Indian War happened right here in Western Pennsylvania? Braddock’s Battlefield History Center in North Braddock has an anniversary event this Saturday and Sunday to commemorate it.
With gallery talks, musket and mortar demonstrations, tours and kids’ activities, this is a great opportunity to learn local — and global — history in a fun way.
Tickets are $5 and free for kids 17 and under. The event will be happening from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday. Learn more at braddockbattlefield.org.
Dick LeBeau book launch
Steelers legend and Hall of Famer Dick LeBeau will appear at the Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum to launch his new book, along with Scott Brown and George Von Benko, “Legendary: The 2008 Pittsburgh Steelers Defense, the Zone Blitz, and My Six Decades in the NFL.”
LeBeau, Brown and Von Benko will hold a discussion at the event on Sunday. Appearances by Steelers veterans, including Brett Keisel, will also be a part of the event. LeBeau will sign copies of the book for attendees after the proram.
Admission is $20 for non-museum members and $10 for members. Doors will open at 1:30 p.m., with the program going from 2 to 3:30 p.m. in the museum’s fifth floor Mueller Center. Learn more and do the required preregistration at heinzhistorycenter.org.
Squirrel Hill Night Market
Bring the whole family to Murray Avenue in Squirrel Hill (between Forbes and Beacon) for the Squirrel Hill Night Market. Held Saturday from 6 to 10 p.m., this is an event with fun for everyone.
The Night Market will feature more than 75 “I Made It!” Market artists selling different crafts and wares. There will also be live music performances and art for entertainment. If you get hungry, check out offerings from Squirrel Hill restaurants and a plethora of food trucks. This is a perfect event for a date night or family outing.
The Night Market is free and open to the public. See more at uncoversquirrelhill.com.
Hartwood Acres summer concert series: Patty Griffin
Folk singer Patty Griffin will be performing at Hartwood Acres this Sunday for their Summer Concert Series. Griffin has been making music for more than 30 years, and her stripped-down sound is perfect for a summer evening.
Starting at 6 p.m., food trucks, wine and beer will be on site for purchase, and the show will begin at 7:30 p.m. with opener Lucy Wainwright Roche. The show is free at the Hartwood Acres Amphitheater and will take place rain or shine. To learn more abou the artist, visit alleghenycounty.us.