Located on the South Side, the Arcade Comedy Theater is Pittsburgh’s only non-profit comedy venue. Six shows are performed every weekend at the locale.
By Madison Pastrick | Staff Writer
Today marks the first day of autumn — a season filled with warm apple cider, classic horror movies, jack-o’-lanterns and big sweaters. There’s always so much to do, so instead of staying in your dorm all month making bets on how many Trump masks and Harley Quinn costumes you’re going to see, why don’t you get out and enjoy the many seasonal perks of living in Pittsburgh? Here are a few events to add to your Fall Bucket List to live this season out to the fullest.
EVENTS
Oakland Forever – The city is starting the season with two events. From 5-11 p.m. On Sept. 30, Oakland will host Night Market with all kinds of local vendors, music, DJs and an outdoor fashion show. It all happens on South Bouquet Street between Fifth and Sennott. Then, from 7-11:30 p.m. On Oct. 1, Movie Night turns Schenley Plaza lawn into a cinema — with fresh popcorn, and free admission.
Halloween Happenings at Phipps Conservatory – Enjoy Phipps “boo-tanical” gardens, craftily carved pumpkins and other special Halloween-themed displays and events from 4-8 p.m. on Oct. 28.
FOOD
Hofbrauhaus Pittsburgh Oktoberfest – Don’t miss out on the last weekend of Oktoberfest at the city’s popular Hofbrauhaus restaurant. With authentic German food and musicians, there’s no better way to put a close to such a beloved tradition. Events such as magic shows and caricature drawings will also be available, running from 3 p.m.-1:30 a.m. on Sept. 23 and noon-1:30 a.m. on Sept. 24.
Farmers Markets – All over the city, there’s a variety of locally grown fruits, vegetables and other homemade fall favorites. Some locations nearby include Market Square (10 a.m.-2 p.m. Thursdays), North Side (3-7 p.m. Fridays), Lawrenceville (1-4 p.m. Saturdays), the Strip District (10 a.m.-4 p.m. Wednesdays-Sundays) and Phipps Conservatory (2:30-6:30 p.m. Wednesdays).
Hometown-Homegrown – From 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 22, the Heinz History Center is hosting a fun and flavorful food expo with samples, cooking shows and other appetizing events. Booths will cover the floor of the museum and admission includes the activities that’ll be throughout the building’s five floors. Admission is $6.50 for students with ID. Oh, and make sure to come hungry.
SCARES
Scarehouse – Ranked as one of America’s Scariest Halloween Attractions, this unusual experience is for the bravest and most difficult to scare. Open every Thursday through Sunday until Halloween, make sure to get tickets now before you chicken out. Ticket prices start at $20 and
can be purchased online.
Phantom Fright Nights – Kennywood Park is known for its many thrills, but in October the thrills go beyond the rides. With over 10 scare-experiences, and all your favorite rides with a little extra scariness added in, Phantom Fright Nights are one of Pittsburgh’s most popular Halloween attractions. Half-price college nights are Sept. 30, Oct. 1, 9, 28, 29 and 30 for $17.
Hundred Acre Manor – Nationally recognized, this haunted house is just another experience that will take your breath away. Giving you the option of six attractions and escape rooms, the scares are never-ending. Times are available now until Halloween. Tickets prices start at $20.
Haunted History – For those who love history and a good scary story, join Point State Park with its free tour of Pittsburgh and tales from the 18th-century. Register in advance at heinzhistorycenter.org for this ultimate cheap thrill.
MOVIES AND STAGE
“Rocky Horror Picture Show” – This hilarious cult classic is taken to a whole new level with the live shadowcast and interactive scenes that make you feel like you’re living out the movie. Shows begin at 11:45 p.m. every Saturday at the Hollywood Theater in Dormont and tickets are only $6 for students.
Row House Cinema & the Manor Theater – Both of these popular Pittsburgh theaters are celebrating the season by bringing back some of your favorite guilty-pleasure Halloween classics. The Manor begins playing movies like “Psycho,” “Shaun of the Dead” and “Evil Dead 2” in October and The Row House is taking an even further step back by hosting a silent horror movie marathon on Oct. 23.
Arcade Comedy Theater – Pittsburgh’s nonprofit comedy club is hosting a few events this season including “The Death Show,” and a re-enactment of the beloved classic, “Young Frankenstein.” Showtimes start Sept. 24, with tickets at $10. Come watch these hilarious actors give a whole new meaning to the phrase “knock ’em dead!”
The Cultural District – Halloween hits the stage this year with shows like “The Toxic Avenger,” which is premiering at the Pittsburgh CLO Theater and the musical “Jekyll & Hyde.” which will be performed at the Byham Theater.
