Published by Jeremy. Last Updated on March 20, 2026.
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Pittsburgh in May is when we truly feel like it is spring. The frosts end, temperatures warm, and all we want to do is be outside as much as we can before the (sometimes oppressive) summer heat rolls in.
So for this one, we wanted to share several great activities that are coming up for the month that you can enjoy outdoors, as well as many festivals (often libation focused) that take place in May!
Pittsburgh Marathon
Fancy a long-distance run in Pittsburgh? Or maybe you want to cheer on those who are going for a new personal record? The acclaimed Pittsburgh Marathon is returning for another year on May 3rd, 2026, and will take runners on a gorgeous run throughout the city (so watch out for street closures!).
In addition to the 26.2-mile marathon, this race also includes a half marathon, relay, and 5k- so all skill levels can find something to enjoy on race day!
The Carnegie International Returns
In a way, the Carnegie International is a lot like the Olympics of art shows. It is the longest running international art show in North America and takes place every four years at the Carnegie Museum of Art.
The Carnegie International returns in 2026, starting on May 2nd, and is sure to be a lot of fun with a lot of great international exhibits. For those who like to party, the museum is also hosting an opening night party on May 1st which will get you in as one of the first to see the exhibition in the museum!
Can't visit in May? Don't worry! The Carnegie International will run until the start of January 2027, so there is a lot of time to check this fun one out. But in May, you can be one of the first and all the fun kicks off starting on the 2nd.
Go for a Bike Ride
Don't fancy yourself a runner? How about going on a bike ride around the city instead! There are many great Pittsburgh bike trails to enjoy including some of our personal favorites like the Great Allegheny Passage, the Butler-Freeport Community Trail, and if you're willing to drive a bit further, the Ghost Town Trail (our absolute favorite)!
You can even plan your outing to end around some breweries near bike trails. A post-ride beer never tasted so good, we're not going to lie.
Millvale Music Festival
The borough of Millvale, just north of Pittsburgh, is a hub for great restaurants, breweries, and seasonal events. Arguably, none is larger than the annual Millvale Music Festival, taking place on May 15th and 16th in 2026.
This festival features an array of acts at stages spread throughout the borough- some indoors, some outdoors, some at dedicated venues, and others at rather obscure places- like in the community garden (our favorite from a visit in 2022)!
Just be warned if you visit this one- parking can be a bit tight in the borough, so it is best to either Uber in or use one of the dedicated shuttles (if available) from nearby parking areas for the best experience.
Fireworks Night and Drone Show at PNC Park
Pirates Fireworks Nights are always a hit, and this this May you have a chance to check out the fireworks at the end of the game on May 15th against the Philadelphia Phillies!
Looking for a great place to watch the fireworks? Check out the best places to view Pittsburgh fireworks here!
Even better? The Pirates will also be hosting a drone show on May 29th as they take on the Minnesota Twins!
Go on a Walking Tour of Pittsburgh
We love exploring Pittsburgh in May as the temperatures are rising, the flowers are blooming, and, when its not raining at least, the city is looking gorgeous.
So how about going on our five-mile self-guided walking tour of the city? This Pittsburgh walking tour hits the North Shore, Downtown, Mount Washington (with both Inclines), and more!
Pittsburgh Magazine's Best Restaurant Party
Pittsburgh Magazine is bringing back their beloved Best Restaurant Party in 2026. Sample bites from some of the best restaurants in the city and enjoy wines and spirits from Fine Wine & Good Spirits at this stellar event, taking place on May 28th at Rivers Casino from 6 to 8:30 pm!
Sports in May
The Pirates are back for another season at PNC Park with a number of great games in May. They take on the Reds on the 1st to 3rd, Rockies and Phillies in a back-to-back series from the 12th to 17th, and another series with the Cubs and Twins from the 25th to 31st. Pick up tickets on Ticketmaster or Stubhub here!
The Riverhounds season is in full swing in May with two home games Highmark Stadium- May 2nd against Phoenix and May 30th against Miami. Pick up tickets on Ticketmaster or Stubhub.
Shows in May
Finally, there are a number of great shows in the Cultural District in downtown Pittsburgh in May.
The Pittsburgh Symphony is performing the Music of Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back on the 1st to 3rd, An American Canon on the 12th, and Scheherazade on the 29th and 31st to name a few.
PNC Broadway in Pittsburgh will be hosting The Great Gatsby at the Benedum Center from the 26th to 31st, The Pittsburgh Ballet is performing A Midsummer Night’s Dream at the Benedum Center from May 15th to 17th and the Pittsburgh Opera is will be finishing its run of Falstaff on May 1st and 3rd.
Do you have a favorite Pittsburgh event in May to check out? Comment below to share!
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