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Whether it’s their heritage, the arts, or a holiday, Pittsburghers always have something to celebrate. The following is a list of upcoming festivals and/or events. For more information or additional events, call the Greater Pittsburgh Convention & Visitors Bureau at 800-366-0093 for updates, or visit the website at www.visitpittsburgh.com.

For more information for Laurel Highlands, call Laurel Highlands Visitors Bureau at 800-925-7669 or check out www.laurelhighlands.org.

Other bureaus in the region that may be helpful also include Butler County Tourism & Convention Bureau at 866-856-8444, www.visitbutlercounty.com; Beaver County Tourism at 800-342-8192, www.co.beaver.pa.us; and Monroeville Convention Visitors Bureau at 800-527-8941, www.visitmonroeville.com.

The event dates are subject to change. The phone numbers may be used to verify dates.

MARCH 2005

PENGUIN PREMIERE SHOW
National Aviary, North Side
ongoing
412-323-7235
Get up-close-and-personal with our NEW baby African Penguin “Stanley,” indoors in our atrium. www.aviary.org

SPORTSWORKS
Carnegie Science Center, North Side
Permanent Exhibition
412-237-3400
36,000 square feet of scientific fun completely dedicated to sports! Come and find out for yourself how your family and friends can discover the science in sports, push their bodies to the limit, and embark on wild virtual journeys. www.carnegiesciencecenter.org

HARMONY MUSEUM
Harmony, Butler County
daily
724-452-7341
Exhibits on Native Americans, George Washington’s 1753 mission that precipitated French & Indian War, Harmony’s 1804 founding by German Separatists organized as the communal Harmony Society, 1815 Mennonite resettlement, fine 19th century Charles Flowers longrifles, and more. Guided tours 1-4 p.m. daily except Mondays.

RINGWORLD
Carnegie Science Center, North Side
Henry Buhl Jr. Planetarium
ongoing
412-237-3400
After nearly a seven year journey the spacecraft Cassini/Huygens will encounter Saturn in July 2004. The mission will investigate the atmosphere, rings, and interior of Saturn. It will also explore the atmosphere and surface of Saturn’s moon Titan.

ORCHID SHOW
Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, Oakland
through March 6
412-622-6914
The Sunken Garden at Phipps will be transformed into a flower-filled photographic gallery. The photography of Don Robinson will be displayed at the Conservatory.

FORCES OF NATURE
Carnegie Science Center, North Side
Rangos Omnimax Theater
through June
412-237-3400
Audiences experience the spectacle of tornadoes, floods, erupting volcanoes, hurricanes, and their aftermath. Viewers gain insight, as they learn how these natural disasters occur and what scientists and engineers are doing to predict and prepare for future events.

GHOSTS OF THE ABYSS
Carnegie Science Center, North Side
Rangos Omnimax Theater
through June
412-237-3400
Join master storyteller James Cameron as he journeys back to the site that inspires his Academy Award winning movie, Titanic. With a team of the world’s foremost historic and marine experts he embarks on an unscripted adventure that is both exciting and poignant.

84 LUMBER CLASSIC
National Aviary, North Side
through September
412-323-7235
Special $10 advance tickets available through the National Aviary. A savings of $12 off standard ticket price. Your purchase directly supports the National Aviary.

CUSTOM CAR SHOW
David L. Lawrence Convention Center, Downtown
February 4-6
412-565-6000
An unusual show featuring customized automobiles, hot rods, monster trucks, and celebrity appearances. www.pittsburghauto.org

2005 PITTSBURGH INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW
David L. Lawrence Convention Center, Downtown
February 12-20
412-565-6000
Featuring more than 500 of the latest vehicles from over 35 manufacturers. Saturdays 11:00 AM-10:00 PM., Sundays 11:00 AM-6:00 PM., Mon.-Thur. 4:00 PM-9:00 PM, and Friday 11:00 AM-10:00 PM. Adults $8.00, Children $6.00, Senior Citizens $6.00.

MAN-MADE QUILTS EXHIBITION
Westmoreland Museum of American Art, Greensburg
February 27-April 17
724-837-1500
This exhibition showcases 23 contemporary male quilters from across the country. The quilts exhibited will provide the opportunity to see first hand the beauty, craftsmanship, and male artistic voice of this predominantly female tradition.

ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE
Downtown
March 12
412-621-0600
Annual parade in downtown Pittsburgh sponsored by The Irish Society for Education and Charities Inc., this festive parade features lots of green to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. www.pittsburghirish.org/parade

SPRING FLOWER SHOW
Phipps Conservatory, Oakland
March 12-April 10
412-622-6914
Phipps welcomes the arrival of spring with a colorful indoor flower display at the Schenley Park conservatory. Call for more information on this popular spring display. Visit during the annual Mother’s Day Flower Sale. www.phippsconservatory.org

THINK GREEN SPRING FESTIVAL
National Aviary, North Side
March 13, 14
412-323-7235
Celebrate spring at the National Aviary. With bird feeding, bird watching, recycling, gardening tips, and activities. Fun for the whole family. www.aviary.org

IRISH SPRING
Butler Intermediate High School
March 19
724-283-1402
The Butler County Symphony Orchestra features Leroy Anderson’s Irish Suite that has delightful melodies. Plus, the 2005 Young Artist Competition will appear. Admission charged.

LERNERVILLE SPEEDWAY RACING
Lernerville Speedway, Sarver
March 26-October 4
724-353-2511
Sprint, late model, V-1 modified, pure stock races every Friday. Admission charged.

April

BREAKFAST WITH THE BIRDS
National Aviary
April 3
412-323-7235
A focus on Flamingos, Wetlands, and Conservation in
the Yucatan. Come have breakfast with the birds at 8:00
AM. Call for reservations. www.aviary.org

ANTIQUES SHOW AT THE CARNEGIE
Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh, Oakland
April 15-17
412-622-3131
Show and sale featuring fine quality glass, furniture, jewelry, porcelain, silver, and works of art. www.cmoa.org

May

GREEK FOOD FESTIVAL
St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral, Oakland
May 1-6
412-682-3866
More than 20,000 people stop in for an appetizing dose of Greek food and culture. The festival includes dancing and live entertainment each evening. www.stnickspgh.org/festival

BREAKFAST WITH THE BIRDS
National Aviary, North Side
May 1
412-323-7235
Enjoy a continental breakfast, presentation on endangered parrots, and a guided tour with our Keepers. Call for reservations. www.aviary.org

INTERNATIONAL MIGRATORY BIRD DAYS
National Aviary, North Side
May 7, 8
412-323-7235
The National Aviary honors this world-wide event by offering visitors a trip around the world through live exotic bird exhibits. www.aviary.org

WALTER EVANS AND JAMES AGEELET US NOW PRAISE FAMOUS ME
Westmoreland Museum of American Art, Greensburg
May 8-July 17
724-837-1500
In 1936, these two photographers documented the everyday lives of families in the deep South. This exhibition includes 76 prints and original letters and/or documents.

THE 66TH SENIOR PGA CHAMPIONSHIP
Laurel Valley Golf Club, Laurel Highlands
May 23-29
800-742-4653
The legends of golf return to Western Pennsylvania. Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Tom Watson, Hale Irwin, and many others compete for more than $2,000,000 purse.

PITTSBURGH FOLK FESTIVAL
Heinz Field
May 27-29
412-278-1267
Pittsburgh’s 20-plus nationalities celebrate their heritage with colorful costumes, authentic folk dancing and mouth-watering delicacies. www.pgh.folkfest.org

EARLY BIRDING AT FRICK PARK
National Aviary, North Side
May 30
412-323-7235
Join National Aviary keepers on this local excursion and support the conservation efforts of the American Association of Zoo Keepers. Call for more information. www.aviary.org

June

THREE RIVERS ARTS FESTIVAL
Gateway Plaza and Point State Park, Downtown
June 3-19
412-281-8723
Arts, crafts, and food are part of this 17-day festival, where new exhibitors are introduced daily. Visitors can enjoy the free performances and the artists’ market at Gateway Plaza and Point State Park. www.artsfestival.net

FESTIVAL OF FLIGHT EXTRAVAGANZA
National Aviary, North Side
June 19, 20
412-323-7235
Celebrate all that is winged, from birds to planes to the truly unexpected with activities and crafts for all ages. www.aviary.org

SOUTH PARK SUMMER CONCERT SERIES
South Park
June 3-August 26 (Friday Evenings)
412-835-4810
Free outdoor concerts. Locally, nationally, and internationally acclaimed performers. www.county.allegheny.pa.us/parks

HARTWOOD MUSIC AND DANCE FESTIVAL
Hartwood Acres, Saxonburg
June 5-August 28 (Sunday Evenings)
412-767-9200
Local, national, and international music, dance and theatre talents are presented by the Allegheny County Bureau of Cultural Programs on the grounds of Hartwood Mansion. All performances are free. www.county.allegheny.pa.us/parks

July

PITTSBURGH THREE RIVERS REGATTA AND FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION
Point State Park, Downtown
July 1-4
412-338-8765
Pittsburgh’s rivers and shores play host to the world’s largest inland regatta. This family-oriented weekend features thrilling air shows, on-land events as well as hot air balloon races, waterskiing demonstrations and fireworks. www.pghregatta.com

GREENBERG’S GREAT TRAIN & COLLECTIBLE TOY SHOW
Greater Pittsburgh ExpoMart, Monroeville
July 16, 17
412-856-8100
“America’s Premier Toy Train & Miniature Event” with dramatic layout displays, a huge hobby marketplace offering competitive prices, ongoing how-to clinics, dollhouses, door prizes, and the newest hobby books. All aboard for a fun-filled family weekend. www.greenbergshows.com

PITTSBURGH VINTAGE GRAND PRIX
Schenley Park, Oakland
July 16, 17
412-471-7847
Considered the premier vintage grand prix event in the United States, this race attracts fans of all ages, who line the beautiful Schenley Park streets to cheer for their favorite antique autos. www.pittsburghvintagegrandprix.com

35TH CITGO BASSMASTER CLASSIC
Pittsburgh’s Three Rivers
July 28-31
1-877-LOVE PGH
Pittsburgh’s rivers play host for professional fishing’s biggest event featuring daily weigh-ins, a fishing derby for children, a series of meetings on conservation, and an outdoor expo.

August

SHADYSIDE – THE ARTS FESTIVAL ON WALNUT STREET
Walnut Street, Shadyside
August 12-14
412-682-1298
With more than 100 designers of American collectibles exhibiting their wares, it’s no wonder this festival attracts more than 200,000 people annually. Novelties like recycled art and neon art complement thousands of two- and three-dimensional pieces. www.shadysideshops.com

GREATER PITTSBURGH RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL
Mt. Pleasant, Westmoreland County
August 13-September 17 (Weekends)
724-872-1670
The Pittsburgh Renaissance Festival is a recreation of a 16th century village that brings together craftspersons, acting troupes, combat jousting, musicians, and food purveyors to celebrate the arrival of the king and queen. www.pgh-renfest.com

NIGHT IN THE TROPICS
National Aviary, North Side
August 28
412-323-7235
This year, Night in the Tropics will feature the birds and culture of Africa and South America. Enjoy a show from Nego Gato, an Afro-Brazilian performance team. Check out live birds from these regions of the world, try appetizers from local restaurants, tropical libations, and more. Call for reservations. www.aviary.org

September

GREATER PITTSBURGH RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL
Mt. Pleasant, Westmoreland County
September 3-18 (Weekends)
724-872-1670
The Pittsburgh Renaissance Festival is a recreation of a 16th century village that brings together craftspersons, acting troupes, combat jousting, musicians, and food purveyors to celebrate the arrival of the king and queen. www.pgh-renfest.com

GREEK FOOD FESTIVAL
Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, North Side
September 7-11
412-321-9281
From moussaka to baklava, all your favorite Greek specialties are served. www.holytrinitypgh.org

LIGONIER HIGHLAND GAMES
Mountain View Inn, Idlewild Park
September 9-11
412-851-9900
An exciting Scottish festival offering bagpipe bands, lively Highland dancers, brawny athletes, internationally famous entertainers, a Scottish fair, and more. www.ligoniergames.org

A FAIR IN THE PARK
Mellon Park, Fifth and Shady Avenues, Shadyside
September 9-11
412-431-6270
Sponsored by the Craftsmen’s Guild of Pittsburgh, this contemporary craft show features more than 100 nationally known crafts artists, live entertainment, good food, glass-blowing demonstrations, hot air balloon rides, and hands-on crafts and activities for children. www.craftsmensguild.org

PITTSBURGH IRISH FESTIVAL
Chevrolet Amphitheatre, Station Square
September 9-11
412-422-5642
Traditional/contemporary Irish entertainment, extensive children’s activities, Irish dogs, authentic marketplace and food, and a Gaelic mass. www.pghirishfest.org

84 LUMBER CLASSIC
Nemacolin Woodlands Resort, Farmington, Pa
September 12-18
724-329-9100
Watch defending champion Vijay Singh battle for a share of $4,400,000.

October

HEAD OF THE OHIO REGATTA
Allegheny River banks, Clemente Park, North Side
October 1
412-232-7506
Rowing teams from the local area as well as from throughout the United States and Canada race on Pittsburgh’s rivers to benefit Mercy Hospital’s Burn Center. www.headoftheohio.org

FRIGHT FESTIVAL
Chevrolet Amphitheatre, Station Square
October 1-31
412-232-6200
This festival features a Halloween amusement park of fright, thrills, and fun. www.stationsquare.com

FALL FLOWER SHOW
Phipps Conservatory, Oakland
Mid October-Early November
412-622-6914
Phipps celebrates the splendor of autumn with a colorful indoor flower display at the Schenley Park conservatory. Call for more information on this popular fall display. www.phippsconservatory.org

HOOTIN’ OWL-o-WEEN
National Aviary, North Side
October 23
412-323-7235
Spend Halloween at the National Aviary this season and learn about owls that come out at night, mighty birds of prey, and other hair-raising feathered friends.

November

WINGS AND WILDLIFE ART SHOW
National Aviary, North Side
November 5, 6
412-323-7235
Pittsburgh’s indoor bird zoo hosts this festival, where some of the country’s best nature artists sell their work. This festival also features many demonstrations, children’sactivities and educational programs. www.aviary.org

GREENBERG’S GREAT TRAIN & COLLECTIBLE TOY SHOW
Greater Pittsburgh ExpoMart, Monroeville
November 12, 13
412-795-7447 or 412-856-8100
“America’s Premier Toy Train & Miniature Event” with dramatic layout displays, a huge hobby marketplace offering competitive prices, ongoing how-to clinics, dollhouses, door prizes, and the newest hobby books. All aboard for a fun-filled family weekend. www.greenbergshows.com

LIGHT-UP NIGHT
Downtown
November 18
412-566-4190
Grab a spot atop Mount Washington to enjoy a spectacular light show, as every downtown building lights up to celebrate the start of the holiday season. www.downtownpittsburgh.com

DOWNTOWN PITTSBURGH, A HOLIDAY TRADITION WITH A NEW TWIST
Downtown
November 18-January 7, 2006
412-566-4190
Downtown holiday shopping and celebrations launched with Light-Up Night on the weekend before Thanksgiving. Entertainment by area attractions, performances, ice sculptures, and shopping. www.downtownpittsburgh.com

CHRISTMAS ARTS & CRAFTS SHOW
Greater Pittsburgh ExpoMart, Monroeville
November 18-20
412-856-8100
This show is an annual holiday event featuring more than 200 quality artisans. www.pghexpomart.com

WINTER FLOWER SHOW
Phipps Conservatory, Oakland
Late November-Early January 2006
412-622-6914
Phipps welcomes winter with an indoor flower display at the Schenley Park conservatory. Call for more information on this popular winter display. www.phippsconservatory.org

December

HOLIDAYS AT THE CARNEGIE
Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh, Oakland
December 1-31
412-622-3131
See the annual Christmas tree exhibit illuminate The Carnegie’s elaborate interior while traditional Christmas carols echo throughout the great halls of this museum. A variety of concerts are performed. www.clpgh.org

HOLIDAYS AT THE NATIONALITY ROOMS
University of Pittsburgh, Oakland
December 1-31
412-624-6000
Start a new holiday tradition. Visit the Nationality Rooms and see them decorated for the season. The 26 rooms depict the city’s diverse ethnic heritage through authentic examples of architecture and decor from Eastern and Western Europe, Scandinavia, the Middle East, Asia, and Africa. www.pitt.edu/natrooms

CANDLELIGHT EVENINGS AT PHIPPS CONSERVATORY
Oakland
December 15-31
412-622-6914
Phipps will be dressed for the season with lights and festive decorations. The conservatory will remain open later on these evenings and special tours can be arranged. www.phippsconservatory.org

FIRST NIGHT PITTSBURGH
Downtown
December 31
412-201-7380
First Night Pittsburgh is an annual New Year’s Eve Festival, which celebrates the arts, cultural, and entertainment vitality of Pittsburgh. Downtown Pittsburgh is your stage to participate in a magical celebration. www.firstnightpgh.com


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