When is the event?
Lights On! hours vary daily:
- Thursday, September 9: 5-10 p.m.
- Friday, September 10: 2 p.m.-midnight
- Saturday, September 11: 11 a.m.-10 p.m.
Where does the event take place?
Lights On! takes place throughout the Cultural District, which is a 14-square block area in downtown Pittsburgh. Check our map for exact event locations including three outdoor stages, several galleries, and other venues that are part of Friday night’s Gallery Crawl in the Cultural District.
What are the major attractions?
Lights On! features 50+ events – all free and open to everyone – over the course of three days. Expect live music, dance, theater, visual art, and more from seven Cultural District member companies – the August Wilson African American Cultural Center, Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre, Pittsburgh CLO, Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, Pittsburgh Opera, Pittsburgh Public Theater, and Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra – in addition to dozens of events from partnering community organizations and regional artists. See what interests you here.
Are there health and safety protocols related to COVID-19?
The safest way to enjoy Lights On! is to be fully vaccinated.
Masks are welcomed in the Cultural District; guests should feel comfortable wearing masks regardless of vaccination status and should plan to carry a mask to stay adaptable.
- For outdoor events, vaccinated individuals are not required to wear a mask. Non-vaccinated individuals are required to mask up.
- For indoor events, all guests are required to wear a mask, regardless of vaccination status.
- During the Gallery Crawl in the Cultural District on September 10, which is a featured part of Lights On!, some venues are managed independently and therefore may have unique expectations marked clearly upon entry.
To learn more about additional vaccination and mask policies for future events taking effect in the Cultural District starting on September 17, please visit our Health & Safety page.
Where do I get tickets? How much?
Tickets are not required. All events are free and open to everyone!
Lights On! marks a long-awaited return to in-person arts and entertainment throughout Pittsburgh’s Cultural District. In some cases, performances will preview what's to come in the fall of 2021 and beyond. If you're interested in purchasing season or single tickets to an upcoming Cultural District event, please visit the Box Office at Theater Square (655 Penn Avenue), which will operate with extended hours during the Lights On! celebration, until 9 p.m.
Where are the restrooms?
Check the map for locations near the Allegheny Overlook and 8th Street Stage. Please feel free to ask a volunteer or staff member for directions (identifiable by Lights On! lanyards and t-shirts). You can also find a printed Celebration Guide at the nearest Information Tent.
I lost something. Can you find it?
If you’re on-site, please visit an Information Tent to report your lost item. If you’re off-site, please call the Benedum Center’s security desk at 412-456-2610. Include a description of the item you lost and we’ll do everything we can to find it.
Can I bring my pet with me?
With the exception of service animals, dogs and other pets are not permitted at indoor venues, including galleries.
Leashed pets are welcomed at the three outdoor stages, but please remember that large crowds, children, and loud noises may be present. Guests are advised only to bring animals that can be well-behaved in this environment. Event staff and police officers have the final say and may ask owners of unruly pets to leave.
What kind of food is served?
Food trucks will be on-site during Friday’s Gallery Crawl in the Cultural District. In addition, the Allegheny Overlook features Brew Gentlemen Beer Garden, Blue Sparrow Global Global Street Foods, and the Good Eats Outdoors Food Truck all three days. Plus, don’t forget about the Cultural District’s diverse array of restaurants!
Is alcohol available?
Alcohol is available for sale at the Allegheny Overlook. Learn more about the AO’s vendors. In addition, the Cultural District boasts a wide variety of restaurants and bars. Check DowntownPittsburgh.com for a complete list of local options.
What about accessibility?
Pittsburgh's Cultural District is committed to making performances and facilities available to all guests. For more information, please visit TrustArts.org/Accessibility or call 412-456-6666 with any questions.
It’s raining. You canceled the show, right?
Wrong! We’re a hardy group. All Lights On! events are rain or shine unless otherwise noted. We only close down when the weather presents a safety hazard to guests, artists, and staff. Please stay connected on social media (@CulturalTrust) for schedule changes that may arise during the event.