Pittsburgh Irish Festival

Dates, Location, and Essential Guide

For more than 30 years, Pittsburgh Irish Festival has celebrated the rich culture of Ireland and its unique ties to the Burgh through music, food and dance. You only need to be Irish at heart to join this event from Sept. 11-13, 2026 at the Carrie Blast Furnaces National Historic Landmark!

Know Before You Go

The Experience

The Entertainment

Eat & Stay

FAQs

Know Before You Go

When and where is Pittsburgh Irish Festival held?

The event takes place on Friday, September 11 at 4pm, Saturday, September 12 at 11am, and Sunday, September 13 at 9am. The 35th Annual Pittsburgh Irish Festival will be held at the Carrie Blast Furnaces National Historic Landmark.

QUICK FACTS

Date & Time: Friday, Sept. 11 at 4pm; Saturday, Sept. 12 at 11am; Sunday, Sept. 13 at 9am
Location: Carrie Blast Furnaces National Historic Landmark
Price: $17-$28; Children 12 and under get free admission
Tickets: https://pghirishfest.org/tickets

How do I get to Pittsburgh Irish Festival?

Whether you are arriving by car or bringing your bike on public transit, getting to the the Carrie Furnaces is straightforward.

By Car & Drop-Off: Set your GPS to 801 Carrie Furnace Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15218
Parking Recommendations: Parking at the Pittsburgh Irish Festival is $10 in advance and $12 at the gate per car. Purchase parking in advance here.
By Bus (Pittsburgh Regional Transit): You can access the Carrie Furnaces using PRT bus routes 61B.

The Experience

What makes the Pittsburgh Irish Festival an iconic, bucket-list Pittsburgh tradition is the unforgettable experience of celebrating a heritage with deep roots in Pittsburgh. From the beginning, an emphasis has been placed on presenting to Western Pennsylvania audiences the premier performers in all facets of Irish music and dance.

Must-See Highlights

Irish Music and Dance: With six stages dedicated to performances, the live music scene is always one of the top highlights of Pittsburgh Irish Festival. Hear everything from traditional Celtic and folk bands using fiddles, flutes and pipes to contemporary Celtic rock, Irish dance and Celtic-American fusion.
Enjoy Classic Bites & Bevvies: You'll be able to smell the mouthwatering Celtic cuisine cooking as soon as you step out of your car! Savor a giant menu of traditional Irish favorites including Irish sausage, Irish stew, boxty pancakes, corned beef and cabbage, Shepherd’s Pie, fish and chips, colcannon, ham and cabbage and more available from a wide variety of vendors. For our 21+ guests, there's plenty to sip including Irish favorites like Guinness, Harp and Smithwick's on tap, specialty drinks and cocktails made with Dubliner Irish Whiskey, Jameson and other Irish liquors, specialty cocktails and non-alcoholic offerings.

What's the entertainment lineup of Irish Fest?

Ally The Piper
BIIRD
The Bow Tides
The Drowsy Lads
Eileen Ivers & The Brigideens
Jessica Willis Fisher
John Williams
Ladies of Longford
Meadhnh Walsh
RUNA
Screaming Orphans
and more!

Pictured|

Ally the Piper

Local Spots to Eat and Stay Nearby

Where to Eat

While festival-goers can conveniently purchase food and drinks at Pittsburgh Irish Fest, you can also explore the excellent local dining scene. Swissvale and the surrounding area is full of restaurants that taste like they've been waiting for you. Swing by Hemlock House for creative bites and a cozy atmosphere, or stop by Pub in the Park if you're still looking for your Irish fix in the form of a staple corner bar.

Pictured |

Kimchi Burger at Hemlock House

Where to Stay

Don't rush home! Pittsburgh is best experienced when you stay for the weekend. Take advantage of the official event hotel block at Courtyard by Marriott Pittsburgh Waterfront.

Pictured|

My Irish stew in a bread bowl from last year. Heavenly!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the bag policy?

Purses larger than a clutch bag, coolers, briefcases, backpacks, fanny packs, cinch bags, luggage of any kind, and computers are prohibited. Exceptions will be made for diaper bags and medically necessary bags. Bags that are clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and do not exceed 24” x 12” x 24.” One-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (Ziploc bag or similar are permitted). Small clutch bags or small purse, approximately the size of a hand 6.5” x 8.5”, with or without a handle or strap can be taken into the festival with one of the clear plastic bag options. An exception will be made for medically necessary items after proper inspection at a gate designated for this purpose. Diaper bags are allowed but will be inspected and tagged.

What do I do if I have dietary needs?

Festival vendors are made aware of the various dietary needs that can impact guests. If you have a specific question before the festival, please call the office at 412-422-1113. When attending, please be sure to inform the food vendor of any allergies or dietary needs when placing your order.

Can I bring my pet?

No pets are admitted on the festival grounds. Only registered participating Irish dogs and service dogs are permitted inside the festival. Email at pghirishfestival@gmail.com if you’d like to include your dog.

What does Irish Fest's accessibility and special needs look like?

The Festival will have sensory bags from Kulture City available at the front gate for use during the event. The sensory bags are designed to help sensory needs in both adults and children. They are filled with items like headphones and fidgets that can help lessen sensory overload and create engagement. Rentals of these bags during your visit are free of charge but they will keep a credit card on file and charge only if the bag is not returned at the end of your visit. Click here for more on accessibility and special needs.