You won’t want to miss the final OpenStreetsPGH this weekend. Here’s why.

Story by SLB Radio intern Walter Kada. Photos courtesy of OpenStreets/Bike Pittsburgh.

On Saturday, July 27, the final OpenStreetsPGH event of the year is happening in Homewood. I can tell you after attending OpenStreets in the Hill District in late June: You don’t want to miss this family-friendly celebration.

As someone who appreciates community gatherings and outdoor activities, I was eager to see what this event had to offer in June. The concept of OpenStreetsPGH, where roads are closed to motor traffic and opened for pedestrians, cyclists, and various activities, intrigued me. I had heard about its success in other cities and was excited to experience it firsthand in the Hill District.

Here’s what I found: From the moment I arrived, I was struck by the transformation of the streets. Typically bustling with cars and buses, the roads were now filled with people walking, biking, skating, and enjoying the open space.

The atmosphere was vibrant and welcoming, with a palpable sense of community spirit in the air. Families with strollers, groups of friends, and solo adventurers like me were all out enjoying the beautiful summer day.

One of the first things that stood out to me was how friendly everyone was. It’s not every day that you can walk down the middle of a city street and strike up a conversation with a stranger, but that’s exactly what happened. I met a local artist who was displaying her work on the sidewalk. She told me about her passion for painting and how events like OpenStreetsPGH provide a unique opportunity for her to showcase her art in a public space. Her enthusiasm was infectious, and I found myself inspired by her dedication to her craft.

Julie Walsh, the communication and marketing manager for Bike Pittsburgh, says “a highlight of OpenStreetsPGH day is seeing people enjoying the traffic-free streets, where small businesses also get a great opportunity to showcase themselves.”

FITNESS, FUN AND FRIENDLY FACES

As I continued exploring, I came across a fitness class taking place right in the middle of the street. People of all ages were participating, from young children to seniors, all moving in unison to the instructor’s energetic commands. I spoke with a few participants afterward, and they all echoed a similar sentiment: OpenStreetsPGH gave them a chance to try something new in a fun and supportive environment.

One woman mentioned that she had always been curious about group fitness classes but felt intimidated by the gym setting. Here, in the open air with friendly faces around her, she felt comfortable enough to give it a try.

Food trucks lined the streets, offering a variety of options. I decided to try a local favorite, a Pittsburgh-style sandwich piled high with fries and coleslaw. While waiting in line, I chatted with a family who had traveled from a neighboring town just for the event. They told me they make it a point to attend every OpenStreetsPGH event each summer, as it’s a great way for them to spend quality time together while exploring different parts of the city.

Hearing their stories and seeing the excitement in their children’s eyes reminded me of the simple joys that events like these can bring.

One of the highlights of my day was a spontaneous drum circle that formed near one of the intersections. People from all walks of life gathered around, contributing to the rhythm with drums, tambourines, and even improvised instruments like buckets and sticks. The collective energy was incredible, and I found myself drawn into the circle, clapping along with the beat.

It was a powerful reminder of how music can bring people together, transcending age, background and experience.

“OpenStreetsPGH allows our communities to have face-to-face connections that we wouldn’t experience if we were in our vehicles,” Walsh says. “When you walk down Open Streets, you make more connections with people.”

OpenStreetsPGH is more than just a temporary closure of roads; it’s a celebration of community, health and connection. It provides a platform for people to come together, share experiences and create lasting memories.

The event is held three times each summer, and I can see why it’s so popular. Each iteration offers something new and exciting, ensuring that there’s always a reason to come back. If you can, be sure to catch the last one of this summer on Saturday.