It may be Friday the 13th, but there’s a scary amount of fun stuff going on around Pittsburgh. Take a jaunt around town for tasty food, cool art or awe-inspiring homes.
Pittsburgh County Fair
Even in the city, it’s still possible to get homemade and homegrown products. Visit Allegheny Commons Park West on the North Side this Sunday for the Pittsburgh County Fair, bringing together the region’s makers and growers with local DIY wares.
Speaking of DIY, visitors can participate in lots of nifty make-it-yourself activities and workshops, including grape stomping and broom making. There will also be contests and bake-offs, music, a petting zoo and food and drink available.
Plus, there’s the farmers and artisan market, where sustainably made and grown items will be for sale by locals. The event will last from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., but don’t miss the farmers’ kickball game from noon to 2 p.m. Get informed at fermentpittsburgh.com.
Dormont Art in the Park
This Saturday from 3 p.m. until dusk, Dormont Park will be alive with music, art and fun. Art in the Park brings together all kinds of creativity in a community-focused event.
The lineup of live musicians includes a chance for attendees to hop in on a bluegrass jam from 3 to 4:30 p.m., plus more lively entertainment throughout the rest of the day. Food trucks will provide yummy eats as well. And those who come down to the park can view all of the art hung along the path or formed into immersive pieces. And don’t miss the chance to own some art of your own — vendors will be onsite as well.
Learn more at dormontarts.com.
The Original Pittsburgh Taco Festival
Who doesn’t love tacos? More than 25 food vendors will sell the delicious, versatile foodstuff — along with other treats — at Saturday’s Original Pittsburgh Taco Festival. The event is more than just tortillas wrapped around mouthwatering fillings, though.
Also included in the festival will be live music, salsa dancing lessons, activities for all ages and an artist market from Redfishbowl. It’ll be outdoors rain or shine and is expected to attract lots of taco lovers!
Even better, part of ticket proceeds go to Casa San Jose and the Pittsburgh Hispanic Development Corp., so everyone can have a fun and food-filled day for some great causes. It will take place at The Stacks at 3 Crossings in the Strip District. Get tickets at pghtacofest.com.
Mexican War Streets house tour
Head over to this historic neighborhood on Pittsburgh’s North Side for the 52nd annual Mexican War Streets House and Garden Tour. This is a prime opportunity to see some of the city’s most beautifully preserved older homes, along with stunning private and community gardens.
The house tours begin in front of the Inn on the Mexican War Streets on West North Avenue. They run 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Tickets are $30 apiece and can only be purchased in advance online. This event is also rain or shine, so bring an umbrella if the weather looks iffy!
Get your tickets now at mexicanwarstreets.org.
The Taylor Party: From The Vault
Swifties who are tired of only getting to dance to “Shake It Off” and “Anti-Hero,” this party is for you. Bottlerocket Social Hall in Allentown will host The Taylor Party: From The Vault with doors opening at 10 p.m. Friday.
Sing your heart out with other huge fans to deep cuts and “from the vault” tracks. A DJ will keep the party going late, so come ready to dance, and definitely don’t forget your Taylor-inspired outfit.
Get tickets now at bottlerocketpgh.com.
Alexis Papalia is a TribLive staff writer. She can be reached at apapalia@triblive.com.