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National

Hegseth removes Army's top general during Iran war

George is the Army's most senior general and is being removed during a hot war.

World

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has asked Army Chief of Staff <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Gen. Randy George" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/06/11/army-transformation-george-driscoll-cuts" data-vars-content-id="58695c93-d491-46dd-93c9-28d1738d4fbf" data-vars-headline="Hegseth removes Army&#x27;s top general during Iran war" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/06/11/army-transformation-george-driscoll-cuts" target="_self">Gen. Randy George</a> to leave his post, a Defense official confirmed to Axios. Why it matters: George is the Army&#x27;s most senior general and is being removed during the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Iran" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/world/iran" data-vars-content-id="58695c93-d491-46dd-93c9-28d1738d4fbf" data-vars-headline="Hegseth removes Army&#x27;s top general during Iran war" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/world/iran" target="_self">Iran</a> war. Axios could not immediately confirm the reasons for his ouster, which was first reported by <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="CBS" data-vars-click-url="https://www.cbsnews.com/news/hegseth-ousts-army-chief-of-staff-gen-randy-george/" data-vars-content-id="58695c93-d491-46dd-93c9-28d1738d4fbf" data-vars-headline="Hegseth removes Army&#x27;s top general during Iran war" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.cbsnews.com/news/hegseth-ousts-army-chief-of-staff-gen-randy-george/" target="_blank">CBS</a>.

Attorney General Pam Bondi pushed out

Her exit underscores building scrutiny over the DOJ's handling of the Epstein files.

Politics & Policy

Attorney General <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Pam Bondi" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/05/pam-bondi-impeach-democrat-epstein-files-doj-ag" data-vars-content-id="0355930b-4a59-4c6d-bc7c-868ed7459bd9" data-vars-headline="Attorney General Pam Bondi pushed out" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/05/pam-bondi-impeach-democrat-epstein-files-doj-ag" target="_self">Pam Bondi</a> is leaving the Department of Justice, President Trump announced on Truth Social Thursday.The big picture: Bondi led the unsuccessful attempts to prosecute Trump&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="political foes" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/epstein-files" data-vars-content-id="0355930b-4a59-4c6d-bc7c-868ed7459bd9" data-vars-headline="Attorney General Pam Bondi pushed out" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/epstein-files" target="_self">political foes</a> and oversaw <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the release of files " data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/11/bondi-doj-congress-epstein-lying" data-vars-content-id="0355930b-4a59-4c6d-bc7c-868ed7459bd9" data-vars-headline="Attorney General Pam Bondi pushed out" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/11/bondi-doj-congress-epstein-lying" target="_self">the release of files </a>about deceased sex offender <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Jeffrey Epstein" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/epstein-files" data-vars-content-id="0355930b-4a59-4c6d-bc7c-868ed7459bd9" data-vars-headline="Attorney General Pam Bondi pushed out" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/epstein-files" target="_self">Jeffrey Epstein</a>, which has been a political liability for the president.

U.S. bombs Iran's civilian infrastructure for first time after "Stone Ages" threat

U.S. bombs Iranian bridge after Trump's "Stone Ages" threat

"The biggest bridge in Iran comes tumbling down, never to be used again — Much more to follow!"

The U.S. military on Thursday attacked major civilian infrastructure in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Iran" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/world/iran" data-vars-content-id="e9e5f19f-cfb6-46cc-8b39-8d0bb2a31467" data-vars-headline="U.S. bombs Iran&#x27;s civilian infrastructure for first time after &quot;Stone Ages&quot; threat" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/world/iran" target="_self">Iran</a> for the first time, hours after President <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Trump" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="e9e5f19f-cfb6-46cc-8b39-8d0bb2a31467" data-vars-headline="U.S. bombs Iran&#x27;s civilian infrastructure for first time after &quot;Stone Ages&quot; threat" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" target="_self">Trump</a> threatened in a prime-time address to bomb the country <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="&quot;back to the Stone Ages.&quot;" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/02/trump-bomb-iran-stone-ages-power-plants" data-vars-content-id="e9e5f19f-cfb6-46cc-8b39-8d0bb2a31467" data-vars-headline="U.S. bombs Iran&#x27;s civilian infrastructure for first time after &quot;Stone Ages&quot; threat" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/02/trump-bomb-iran-stone-ages-power-plants" target="_self">&quot;back to the Stone Ages.&quot;</a>Why it matters: The attack on the B-1 bridge near Tehran signals a widening of the U.S. military&#x27;s targets and could be a first step toward attacks on energy, water and transportation infrastructure.

Mike Johnson will wait on holding a vote to fund DHS

The House speaker told his conference in a call Thursday he thinks the Senate could pass a narrow reconciliation package funding ICE and CBP within two weeks.

House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) told Republicans on a call Thursday he won&#x27;t hold a vote on a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="DHS funding bill" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/01/republicans-dhs-shutdown-mike-johnson-thune" data-vars-content-id="a6b6c838-a93f-408f-8915-ca1252e55a3a" data-vars-headline="Mike Johnson will wait on holding a vote to fund DHS" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/01/republicans-dhs-shutdown-mike-johnson-thune" target="_self">DHS funding bill</a> until the Senate makes significant progress on funding for ICE and CBP, sources told Axios. Why it matters: Johnson&#x27;s members are deeply frustrated with leadership&#x27;s plan to fund the agency, and he doesn&#x27;t have the support to pass a DHS funding bill without ICE and CBP right now. But any delay will prolong what&#x27;s already been a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="record-long shutdown" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/12/tsa-dhs-shutdown-airports-donations" data-vars-content-id="a6b6c838-a93f-408f-8915-ca1252e55a3a" data-vars-headline="Mike Johnson will wait on holding a vote to fund DHS" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/12/tsa-dhs-shutdown-airports-donations" target="_self">record-long shutdown</a> at the agency.

Washington D.C.

Trump's White House ballroom gets design approval

An ongoing legal case has halted construction on the site.

President <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Trump&#x27;s ballroom project" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/04/01/despite-construction-setback-trumps-ballroom-design-still-expected-to-win-approval" data-vars-content-id="78fc6532-27ce-4c76-8c4c-6b2820529dde" data-vars-headline="Trump&#x27;s White House ballroom gets design approval" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/04/01/despite-construction-setback-trumps-ballroom-design-still-expected-to-win-approval" target="_self">Trump&#x27;s ballroom project</a> won design approval on Thursday, even though an ongoing legal case has <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="halted construction" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/31/trump-ballroom-plans-judge-order" data-vars-content-id="78fc6532-27ce-4c76-8c4c-6b2820529dde" data-vars-headline="Trump&#x27;s White House ballroom gets design approval" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/31/trump-ballroom-plans-judge-order" target="_self">halted construction</a> on the site.Why it matters: The National Capital Planning Commission&#x27;s sign-off won&#x27;t restart construction, but it clears a final procedural hurdle for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Trump&#x27;s" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="78fc6532-27ce-4c76-8c4c-6b2820529dde" data-vars-headline="Trump&#x27;s White House ballroom gets design approval" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" target="_self">Trump&#x27;s</a> fast-tracked, $400 million plans for transforming the White House.

"No Kings" protests set for Pittsburgh

Roughly a dozen demonstrations are planned across the region on Saturday.

News

Pittsburghers will rally Saturday alongside millions of Americans in a new wave of &quot;<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="No Kings" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/10/16/no-kings-protests-pittsburgh-trump" data-vars-content-id="a76520a2-47c2-46d1-ad46-8d858ac61169" data-vars-headline="&quot;No Kings&quot; protests set for Pittsburgh" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/10/16/no-kings-protests-pittsburgh-trump" target="_self">No Kings</a>&quot; protests.Why it matters: Thousands are expected to take to the streets to denounce the Trump administration&#x27;s policies, from <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="ICE&#x27;s" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/03/11/allegheny-county-bans-ice-cooperation-county-police-workers" data-vars-content-id="a76520a2-47c2-46d1-ad46-8d858ac61169" data-vars-headline="&quot;No Kings&quot; protests set for Pittsburgh" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/03/11/allegheny-county-bans-ice-cooperation-county-police-workers" target="_self">ICE&#x27;s</a> growing <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="presence" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/02/09/trump-immigration-shift-ice-detentions-pittsburgh" data-vars-content-id="a76520a2-47c2-46d1-ad46-8d858ac61169" data-vars-headline="&quot;No Kings&quot; protests set for Pittsburgh" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/02/09/trump-immigration-shift-ice-detentions-pittsburgh" target="_self">presence</a> to concerns about the Iran war pushing <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="prices" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/04/iran-war-gas-prices-trump" data-vars-content-id="a76520a2-47c2-46d1-ad46-8d858ac61169" data-vars-headline="&quot;No Kings&quot; protests set for Pittsburgh" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/04/iran-war-gas-prices-trump" target="_self">prices</a> higher.

Homer City plant will boost local power supply

A new gas plant in Homer City will power data centers and add energy to the grid.

A new Western Pennsylvania power plant will not only power a gargantuan <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="data center" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/12/18/pennsylvania-data-center-expansion" data-vars-content-id="33d0a673-f13b-460b-b801-52070c42baf1" data-vars-headline="Homer City plant will boost local power supply" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/12/18/pennsylvania-data-center-expansion" target="_self">data center</a> campus, it will actually add electricity generation to the region&#x27;s much strained grid.Why it matters: Data centers are <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="putting pressure on the electrical grid" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/09/30/data-centers-grid-electricity-costs-pittsburgh" data-vars-content-id="33d0a673-f13b-460b-b801-52070c42baf1" data-vars-headline="Homer City plant will boost local power supply" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/09/30/data-centers-grid-electricity-costs-pittsburgh" target="_self">putting pressure on the electrical grid</a>, contributing to surging demand and rising prices for electricity.

Cursive mandate hits Pa. schools in April

Cursive is making a comeback in Pennsylvania classrooms.

Cursive is making a comeback in Pennsylvania classrooms this April under a new state law.Why it matters: Spending valuable class time teaching students to put pen to paper is a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="nationwide" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2024/07/25/cursive-makes-a-comeback" data-vars-content-id="bae64e4c-bcc9-4613-a3ef-cb4f5b452887" data-vars-headline="Cursive mandate hits Pa. schools in April" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/des-moines/2024/07/25/cursive-makes-a-comeback" target="_self">nationwide</a> <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="trend" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/atlanta/2025/06/25/cursive-writing-returns-to-georgia-classrooms" data-vars-content-id="bae64e4c-bcc9-4613-a3ef-cb4f5b452887" data-vars-headline="Cursive mandate hits Pa. schools in April" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/atlanta/2025/06/25/cursive-writing-returns-to-georgia-classrooms" target="_self">trend</a>, despite students using computers for a growing share of assignments.

We tried PNC Park's new 2026 food

From chipped ham fries to vegan empanadas, here's what to try and skip.

Food and Drink

🤤 Come hungry to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="PNC Park" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/03/19/north-shore-plaza-opens-pnc-park" data-vars-content-id="4ce3863c-5b02-41c3-8633-4fae3df61e8a" data-vars-headline="We tried PNC Park&#x27;s new 2026 food" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/03/19/north-shore-plaza-opens-pnc-park" target="_self">PNC Park</a> this Friday.⚾️ The intrigue: The Pirates <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="unveiled their concession lineup for 2026" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/03/18/pirates-new-pnc-park-food-2026-season" data-vars-content-id="4ce3863c-5b02-41c3-8633-4fae3df61e8a" data-vars-headline="We tried PNC Park&#x27;s new 2026 food" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/03/18/pirates-new-pnc-park-food-2026-season" target="_self">unveiled their concession lineup for 2026</a>, with a mix of savory surprises, sweet pastries and inventive yinzer comfort foods.

Pirates unveil new food lineup for 2026 season

New menu items include pierogies, beignets and creative hot dogs.

<figure><img alt="Toasted hot dog bun filled with sausage, ground meat, onions, red peppers, shredded cabbage, ketchup, and a mound of crispy shoestring potato sticks." height="1080" id="05b5b974-4814-45aa-9d2d-0d57bd79f563" src="https://images.axios.com/28Qkp4yiwxu-5gYP43RIaavKEk8=/2026/03/18/1773860788380.gif" width="1920"/><figcaption>Some of the new food offerings at PNC Park, including the Boricua Dog, the Heavy Hitter Dog, the Coop Puppy chicken sandwich and Nutella Beignets. GIF: Courtesy of Pittsburgh Pirates</figcaption></figure>PNC Park is whetting our appetites for the start of Pirates baseball. The intrigue: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Longtime Pirates food vendor" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/03/17/new-food-2025-pirates-season-pnc-park" data-vars-content-id="34cafc15-92f7-41e8-a3d7-5ef8b476d3de" data-vars-headline="Pirates unveil new food lineup for 2026 season" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/03/17/new-food-2025-pirates-season-pnc-park" target="_self">Longtime Pirates food vendor</a> Aramark announced Wednesday a new food menu coming to the ballpark this year that includes plenty of local favorites like pierogies and chipped ham, as well as some new creations.

Taste of the Draft brings local treats, Steelers stars

Over 20 local restaurants join Steelers alumni for a draft week fundraiser event.

A Steel City smorgasbord is coming to NFL Draft week.🍽️ The intrigue: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Taste of the Draft" data-vars-click-url="https://tasteofthenfl.com/taste-of-the-draft-2026/" data-vars-content-id="48c75956-88ab-4f29-8e85-d5b020167ca8" data-vars-headline="Taste of the Draft brings local treats, Steelers stars" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://tasteofthenfl.com/taste-of-the-draft-2026/" target="_blank">Taste of the Draft</a> will bring together food from over 20 local restaurants and chefs, and diners can mingle with former Steelers players as a fundraising effort for the youth anti-hunger initiatives of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="GENYOUth" data-vars-click-url="https://genyouthnow.org/" data-vars-content-id="48c75956-88ab-4f29-8e85-d5b020167ca8" data-vars-headline="Taste of the Draft brings local treats, Steelers stars" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://genyouthnow.org/" target="_blank">GENYOUth</a>.

Roaming Bean opens Strip District cafe

The popular mobile coffee shop now serves fans on Smallman Street

The region&#x27;s hottest mobile coffee shop has <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="settled into a storefront" data-vars-click-url="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DVeUWIiD2Dx/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&amp;igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==" data-vars-content-id="824a6e2e-fc55-4a00-a4c1-287487d31745" data-vars-headline="Roaming Bean opens Strip District cafe" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DVeUWIiD2Dx/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&amp;igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==" target="_blank">settled into a storefront</a>, bringing scores of fans with it.The intrigue: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The Roaming Bean" data-vars-click-url="https://www.instagram.com/reels/DVeUWIiD2Dx/" data-vars-content-id="824a6e2e-fc55-4a00-a4c1-287487d31745" data-vars-headline="Roaming Bean opens Strip District cafe" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.instagram.com/reels/DVeUWIiD2Dx/" target="_blank">The Roaming Bean</a> opened a brick-and-mortar cafe in the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Strip District" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/08/07/strip-district-pittsburgh-growth-report-2025" data-vars-content-id="824a6e2e-fc55-4a00-a4c1-287487d31745" data-vars-headline="Roaming Bean opens Strip District cafe" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/08/07/strip-district-pittsburgh-growth-report-2025" target="_self">Strip District</a> in late January. It&#x27;s been full of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="java heads" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/02/11/pittsburgh-coffee-shops-best-views" data-vars-content-id="824a6e2e-fc55-4a00-a4c1-287487d31745" data-vars-headline="Roaming Bean opens Strip District cafe" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/02/11/pittsburgh-coffee-shops-best-views" target="_self">java heads</a> since.

Pittsburgh rents rise as U.S. prices fall

Local rents are rising faster than the national trend, new data shows.

Rents in Pittsburgh and the metro area are increasing.Why it matters: As <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="rents cool nationally" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/16/rent-prices-metro-map" data-vars-content-id="580b7e29-90c7-474f-88f0-f57c6e5090fb" data-vars-headline="Pittsburgh rents rise as U.S. prices fall" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/16/rent-prices-metro-map" target="_self">rents cool nationally</a> largely thanks to market declines in the South and Mountain West, Pittsburgh rents are heading the other direction.

New outdoor plaza to open near PNC Park

The plaza will have food, live music and a giant screen steps from PNC Park.

Development

A new entertainment destination across from PNC Park will bring drinks, food and a spacious outdoor hangout in time for the Pirates&#x27; home opener.State of play: The highly anticipated <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Plaza at North Shore" data-vars-click-url="https://www.merrittchase.com/north-shore-plaza" data-vars-content-id="512c05a7-d6b9-4c9e-9ae6-4eca679cf8da" data-vars-headline="New outdoor plaza to open near PNC Park" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.merrittchase.com/north-shore-plaza" target="_blank">Plaza at North Shore</a> opens April 2 at Mazeroski Way and General Robinson Boulevard, per Legacy Hospitality Partners, the team behind concepts like <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Palm Palm" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/07/01/palm-palm-coastal-eats-vintage-glam" data-vars-content-id="512c05a7-d6b9-4c9e-9ae6-4eca679cf8da" data-vars-headline="New outdoor plaza to open near PNC Park" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/07/01/palm-palm-coastal-eats-vintage-glam" target="_self">Palm Palm</a> and Shorty&#x27;s.

Leaders say Pittsburgh is ready for NFL Draft

Officials expect 700,000 visitors and say planning, hotels and transit are ready.

April&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="NFL Draft" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/03/10/cocoapreneur-market-black-owned-businesses-2026-nfl-draft" data-vars-content-id="366c11dc-e3b1-42c7-b6db-d6c642ac04b8" data-vars-headline="Leaders say Pittsburgh is ready for NFL Draft" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/03/10/cocoapreneur-market-black-owned-businesses-2026-nfl-draft" target="_self">NFL Draft</a> will be Pittsburgh&#x27;s biggest ever sporting event, and civic and business leaders say we are ready.Why it matters: An <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="expected 700,000 fans" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/04/22/pittsburgh-shapiro-downtown-revamp-nfl-draft" data-vars-content-id="366c11dc-e3b1-42c7-b6db-d6c642ac04b8" data-vars-headline="Leaders say Pittsburgh is ready for NFL Draft" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/04/22/pittsburgh-shapiro-downtown-revamp-nfl-draft" target="_self">expected 700,000 fans</a> will descend upon the North Shore and Downtown April 23-25 to take in the football festivities, giving Pittsburgh a massive opportunity to show off in front of visitors and a national television audience.

City spruces up Downtown gateway bridge

A gateway into Downtown is getting a $400K makeover before the NFL Draft.

A gateway into Downtown Pittsburgh is getting a makeover.Why it matters: Thousands of drivers, cyclists and pedestrians cross under the rusted railroad trestle bridge near the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Amtrak station" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/10/15/train-travel-pittsburgh-dc-guide" data-vars-content-id="4ea94c41-647d-47d6-98f1-72091b677861" data-vars-headline="City spruces up Downtown gateway bridge" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/10/15/train-travel-pittsburgh-dc-guide" target="_self">Amtrak station</a> daily on their way into Downtown and the Strip District.

Wiz Khalifa, Kane Brown to headline free NFL Draft shows

Free concerts at the NFL Draft will feature major stars over three days.

Music

Wiz Khalifa, Bret Michaels, and Kane Brown will headline a slate of free <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="concerts" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/03/26/nelly-2-chainz-to-headline-north-shore-plaza-shows" data-vars-content-id="7ebb08ac-8cfa-48f3-9963-5b2d6e9221f8" data-vars-headline="Wiz Khalifa, Kane Brown to headline free NFL Draft shows" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/03/26/nelly-2-chainz-to-headline-north-shore-plaza-shows" target="_self">concerts</a> for fans outside Acrisure Stadium during the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="NFL Draft" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/03/25/nfl-draft-pittsburgh-transportation-tips-road-closures-parking" data-vars-content-id="7ebb08ac-8cfa-48f3-9963-5b2d6e9221f8" data-vars-headline="Wiz Khalifa, Kane Brown to headline free NFL Draft shows" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/03/25/nfl-draft-pittsburgh-transportation-tips-road-closures-parking" target="_self">NFL Draft</a>.Why it matters: One of football&#x27;s biggest events is a national showcase for its host city, and Pittsburgh&#x27;s entertainment lineup leans on local roots.

Why Pa.'s energy boom isn't lowering power bills

Demand, grid limits and delays are driving higher electricity costs in Pennsylvania.

Domestic energy <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="production is at an all-time high" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/23/behind-the-curtain-americas-energy-jam" data-vars-content-id="b1d47740-f68a-48f8-a13e-99360812f953" data-vars-headline="Why Pa.&#x27;s energy boom isn&#x27;t lowering power bills" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/23/behind-the-curtain-americas-energy-jam" target="_self">production is at an all-time high</a>, but it&#x27;s not leading to lower electricity bills.Why it matters: Electricity rates are rising across the country — <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="25% in Pittsburgh" data-vars-click-url="https://www.wesa.fm/environment-energy/2026-02-12/electric-bills-expensive-pennsylvania-cost" data-vars-content-id="b1d47740-f68a-48f8-a13e-99360812f953" data-vars-headline="Why Pa.&#x27;s energy boom isn&#x27;t lowering power bills" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.wesa.fm/environment-energy/2026-02-12/electric-bills-expensive-pennsylvania-cost" target="_blank">25% in Pittsburgh</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="45%" data-vars-click-url="https://www.citizensutilityboard.org/blog/2025/06/04/amid-45-increase-in-comeds-power-price-cub-calls-on-utility-to-work-with-customers-to-keep-them-safe-cool-connected-this-summer/#:~:text=With%20Commonwealth%20Edison%20customers%20facing,at%20least%20through%20next%20May." data-vars-content-id="b1d47740-f68a-48f8-a13e-99360812f953" data-vars-headline="Why Pa.&#x27;s energy boom isn&#x27;t lowering power bills" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.citizensutilityboard.org/blog/2025/06/04/amid-45-increase-in-comeds-power-price-cub-calls-on-utility-to-work-with-customers-to-keep-them-safe-cool-connected-this-summer/#:~:text=With%20Commonwealth%20Edison%20customers%20facing,at%20least%20through%20next%20May." target="_blank">45%</a> <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="in Chicago" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/03/09/illinois-utility-bill-alternate-suppliers-price-caps-comed-peoples-gas-cub" data-vars-content-id="b1d47740-f68a-48f8-a13e-99360812f953" data-vars-headline="Why Pa.&#x27;s energy boom isn&#x27;t lowering power bills" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2026/03/09/illinois-utility-bill-alternate-suppliers-price-caps-comed-peoples-gas-cub" target="_self">in Chicago</a> since last year and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="23% in Richmond, Virginia, " data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2025/12/01/richmond-virginia-dominion-electric-bills-rise-january-2026" data-vars-content-id="b1d47740-f68a-48f8-a13e-99360812f953" data-vars-headline="Why Pa.&#x27;s energy boom isn&#x27;t lowering power bills" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/richmond/2025/12/01/richmond-virginia-dominion-electric-bills-rise-january-2026" target="_self">23% in Richmond, Virginia, </a>this year.

Kick field goals at Acrisure during NFL Draft

Fans can step onto Acrisure's field and try kicking during the NFL Draft events.

Sports

Fans <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="visiting the NFL Draft" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/03/27/free-light-rail-nfl-draft-pittsburgh-sheetz" data-vars-content-id="1de61530-aaae-47c0-a3a0-12e179b9aff5" data-vars-headline="Kick field goals at Acrisure during NFL Draft" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/03/27/free-light-rail-nfl-draft-pittsburgh-sheetz" target="_self">visiting the NFL Draft</a> will have access to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the field at Acrisure Stadium" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/01/06/steelers-field-holy-water-tradition" data-vars-content-id="1de61530-aaae-47c0-a3a0-12e179b9aff5" data-vars-headline="Kick field goals at Acrisure during NFL Draft" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/01/06/steelers-field-holy-water-tradition" target="_self">the field at Acrisure Stadium</a> and can even kick field goals through the uprights, NFL officials tell Axios.Why it matters: The NFL Draft is <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="taking over the North Shore and Point State Park" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/02/03/nfl-draft-renderings-city-parks-acrisure" data-vars-content-id="1de61530-aaae-47c0-a3a0-12e179b9aff5" data-vars-headline="Kick field goals at Acrisure during NFL Draft" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/02/03/nfl-draft-renderings-city-parks-acrisure" target="_self">taking over the North Shore and Point State Park</a> on April 23-25, which will provide fans not just up-close views of football prospects, but also a festival atmosphere for hundreds of thousands of visitors.

What to do in Pittsburgh this April

From the NFL Draft to food festivals, here's what's happening across Pittsburgh this April.

Things to Do

April is packed with everything from massive fan conventions and the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="NFL Draft" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/03/25/nfl-draft-pittsburgh-transportation-tips-road-closures-parking" data-vars-content-id="bcc20306-36c7-4dd8-a0ac-00e027b6af43" data-vars-headline="What to do in Pittsburgh this April" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/03/25/nfl-draft-pittsburgh-transportation-tips-road-closures-parking" target="_self">NFL Draft</a> to food festivals and live shows.Here&#x27;s what&#x27;s happening around the city this month.

Bucco Bricks return as plaques at PNC Park

Fans can now find their messages on new plaques around the stadium.

Those <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="missing their Bucco Bricks" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/04/09/pirates-bucco-bricks-removed-recycled" data-vars-content-id="3c3177ca-4473-4d9e-9c6f-7ad9c73f7622" data-vars-headline="Bucco Bricks return as plaques at PNC Park" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/04/09/pirates-bucco-bricks-removed-recycled" target="_self">missing their Bucco Bricks</a> can now find the messages on plaques at PNC Park.Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The Pirates" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/03/26/pirates-season-preview-hope-playoff-run" data-vars-content-id="3c3177ca-4473-4d9e-9c6f-7ad9c73f7622" data-vars-headline="Bucco Bricks return as plaques at PNC Park" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/03/26/pirates-season-preview-hope-playoff-run" target="_self">The Pirates</a> removed fans&#x27; engraved bricks last year — which temporarily caused controversy — before announcing they would replace the commemorative messages first installed as sidewalk blocks when PNC Park was built 25 years ago.

The Silly Goose opens Downtown

A viral gift shop opens with playful finds and local art.

Business

The goose is loose in Pittsburgh.The big picture: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The Silly Goose Unapologetic Gifts &amp; Novelties" data-vars-click-url="https://sillygoosegifts.com/?srsltid=AfmBOorH-gOYsDo8OVmsmQ7itVGFTUCAI60DaljBLlMWYKhHk4J3I4yV" data-vars-content-id="73c8a4d8-19a1-48ad-ba37-fc5356e1539c" data-vars-headline="The Silly Goose opens Downtown" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://sillygoosegifts.com/?srsltid=AfmBOorH-gOYsDo8OVmsmQ7itVGFTUCAI60DaljBLlMWYKhHk4J3I4yV" target="_blank">The Silly Goose Unapologetic Gifts &amp; Novelties</a>, a playful indie gift shop with a fast-growing <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="online following" data-vars-click-url="https://www.tiktok.com/@thesillygoosejimthorpe" data-vars-content-id="73c8a4d8-19a1-48ad-ba37-fc5356e1539c" data-vars-headline="The Silly Goose opens Downtown" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@thesillygoosejimthorpe" target="_blank">online following</a>, opened its first Western Pennsylvania storefront on Saturday.

World Cup fan fest coming to Pittsburgh

Fans can watch World Cup matches on Acrisure's big screen this summer.

Soccer fans who can&#x27;t make it over to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Philly for World Cup matches" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/12/08/fifa-world-cup-philadelphia-schedule-lincoln-financial-field" data-vars-content-id="7647409e-06fe-457e-aaea-48892b550bc2" data-vars-headline="World Cup fan fest coming to Pittsburgh" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/12/08/fifa-world-cup-philadelphia-schedule-lincoln-financial-field" target="_self">Philly for World Cup matches</a> can still enjoy a festival-like atmosphere in the Steel City.The intrigue: Acrisure Stadium is hosting fan zones on the field to watch knockout round, quarterfinal and final matches on the stadium&#x27;s massive <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="96-by-28 foot screen" data-vars-click-url="https://www.wpxi.com/news/local/new-enhancements-acrisure-stadium-steelers-2025-season/NOQ4CNB4CVG4FBNYET7KLSQ2TE/" data-vars-content-id="7647409e-06fe-457e-aaea-48892b550bc2" data-vars-headline="World Cup fan fest coming to Pittsburgh" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.wpxi.com/news/local/new-enhancements-acrisure-stadium-steelers-2025-season/NOQ4CNB4CVG4FBNYET7KLSQ2TE/" target="_blank">96-by-28 foot screen</a>, according to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Visit PA" data-vars-click-url="https://www.pa.gov/governor/newsroom/2026-press-releases/governor-shapiro-unveils-three-free-fifa-world-cup-fan-zones-acr" data-vars-content-id="7647409e-06fe-457e-aaea-48892b550bc2" data-vars-headline="World Cup fan fest coming to Pittsburgh" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.pa.gov/governor/newsroom/2026-press-releases/governor-shapiro-unveils-three-free-fifa-world-cup-fan-zones-acr" target="_blank">Visit PA</a>.

Free light-rail rides during NFL Draft

Sheetz will cover light rail and incline fares to ease draft travel.

Pittsburgh&#x27;s light-rail trains will be free during the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="NFL Draft" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/02/03/nfl-draft-renderings-city-parks-acrisure" data-vars-content-id="87df98b4-54bf-442c-b04e-0a116d9cc61e" data-vars-headline="Free light-rail rides during NFL Draft" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/02/03/nfl-draft-renderings-city-parks-acrisure" target="_self">NFL Draft</a>. Why it matters: Local officials want people to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="avoid driving to the draft" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/03/25/nfl-draft-pittsburgh-transportation-tips-road-closures-parking" data-vars-content-id="87df98b4-54bf-442c-b04e-0a116d9cc61e" data-vars-headline="Free light-rail rides during NFL Draft" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/03/25/nfl-draft-pittsburgh-transportation-tips-road-closures-parking" target="_self">avoid driving to the draft</a>, and now convenience store giant <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Sheetz" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/08/28/sheetz-first-pittsburgh-store-banksville" data-vars-content-id="87df98b4-54bf-442c-b04e-0a116d9cc61e" data-vars-headline="Free light-rail rides during NFL Draft" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/08/28/sheetz-first-pittsburgh-store-banksville" target="_self">Sheetz</a> is paying for free rides on the region&#x27;s two light-rail lines and the Monongahela Incline between April 23-25.

Pittsburgh has an Easter candy abundance

Local candy shops across the region offer handmade treats ahead of the holiday.

Pittsburgh is the second-best city in the country at celebrating Easter, according to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="a Wallet Hub study" data-vars-click-url="https://wallethub.com/edu/best-places-to-celebrate-easter/19774" data-vars-content-id="3b629790-8ae1-413d-bcc3-4feffdc1c38c" data-vars-headline="Pittsburgh has an Easter candy abundance" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://wallethub.com/edu/best-places-to-celebrate-easter/19774" target="_blank">a Wallet Hub study</a>, and when you look around, it makes sense why.🐰 Why it matters: Easter is, of course, about Christianity, but for secular celebrators it&#x27;s also about candy — and the Pittsburgh region has a plethora of local confectioners offering sweets made on-site.

Nelly, 2 Chainz to headline North Shore plaza shows

Nelly, 2 Chainz, and DJ Steve Aoki will perform at the newly unveiled <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Plaza at North Shore" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/03/19/north-shore-plaza-opens-pnc-park" data-vars-content-id="8b929187-17e2-4bdc-9e4f-96b52248176e" data-vars-headline="Nelly, 2 Chainz to headline North Shore plaza shows" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/03/19/north-shore-plaza-opens-pnc-park" target="_self">Plaza at North Shore</a> during the NFL Draft in Pittsburgh.Why it matters: The headliners will kick off programming at the highly anticipated plaza near PNC Park as the city takes center stage for one of football&#x27;s biggest events.

How to swim in our only indoor public pool

A guide to hours, prices and what to expect at Oliver Bath House.

<figure><img alt="A man swimming in a pool underneath a yellow and black flag" height="448" id="41871226-7f71-4c72-acec-7d702769da32" src="https://images.axios.com/F-bKixPJzL-4xfTEn9tyG_28zBQ=/2026/03/19/1773943738315.gif" width="800"/><figcaption>GIF: Alexis Johnson/Axios</figcaption></figure>Summer is months away, but you can still affordably swim in Pittsburgh. Why it matters: The city recently reopened the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Oliver Bath House" data-vars-click-url="https://www.pittsburghpa.gov/Recreation-Events/Pools/Oliver-Bath-House" data-vars-content-id="ac542952-8b08-458e-a3fe-cf33e021d3ef" data-vars-headline="How to swim in our only indoor public pool" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.pittsburghpa.gov/Recreation-Events/Pools/Oliver-Bath-House" target="_blank">Oliver Bath House</a>, its only indoor public swimming pool, bringing back one of the most budget-friendly swimming options in the region.

Where to celebrate St. Patrick's Day in Pittsburgh

Our St. Patrick's Day Parade kicks off Saturday, but the celebrations span all weekend.

Pittsburgh&#x27;s St. Patrick&#x27;s Day <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Parade" data-vars-click-url="https://pittsburghstpatricksdayparade.com/" data-vars-content-id="fdd9b57d-e61f-4353-8669-d2e094175381" data-vars-headline="Where to celebrate St. Patrick&#x27;s Day in Pittsburgh" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://pittsburghstpatricksdayparade.com/" target="_blank">Parade</a> kicks off <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Downtown" data-vars-click-url="https://pittsburghstpatricksdayparade.com/parade-routes-and-rules/" data-vars-content-id="fdd9b57d-e61f-4353-8669-d2e094175381" data-vars-headline="Where to celebrate St. Patrick&#x27;s Day in Pittsburgh" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://pittsburghstpatricksdayparade.com/parade-routes-and-rules/" target="_blank">Downtown</a> at 10am Saturday, but the celebrations span the whole weekend and roll right through Tuesday.Here are a few ways to turn up the Irish cheer.

Market to elevate Black-owned vendors at NFL Draft

The Cocoapreneur Market is set for April 23-25 at the Pitt Building in Downtown.

A new initiative aims to ensure Black-owned businesses share in the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="economic" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/04/01/local-biz-can-score-big-with-nfl-draft-gig" data-vars-content-id="adfe76ba-08ef-4bce-b673-30d104fa4a50" data-vars-headline="Market to elevate Black-owned vendors at NFL Draft" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/04/01/local-biz-can-score-big-with-nfl-draft-gig" target="_self">economic</a> windfall tied to one of the nation&#x27;s largest sporting events.Why it matters: The<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text=" NFL Draft" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/02/06/downtown-development-pittsburgh-park-nfl-draft" data-vars-content-id="adfe76ba-08ef-4bce-b673-30d104fa4a50" data-vars-headline="Market to elevate Black-owned vendors at NFL Draft" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/02/06/downtown-development-pittsburgh-park-nfl-draft" target="_self"> NFL Draft</a> will bring tourism, national attention and spending to Pittsburgh in April. Khamil Bailey, founder of Pittsburgh-based <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Cocoapreneur" data-vars-click-url="https://cocoapreneur.com/" data-vars-content-id="adfe76ba-08ef-4bce-b673-30d104fa4a50" data-vars-headline="Market to elevate Black-owned vendors at NFL Draft" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://cocoapreneur.com/" target="_blank">Cocoapreneur</a> and the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Greenwood Plan" data-vars-click-url="https://www.greenwoodplan.com/" data-vars-content-id="adfe76ba-08ef-4bce-b673-30d104fa4a50" data-vars-headline="Market to elevate Black-owned vendors at NFL Draft" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.greenwoodplan.com/" target="_blank">Greenwood Plan</a>, doesn&#x27;t want small, minority-owned businesses left out.

First look: Citizens Live at The Wylie

Expect a rooftop skyline lounge and sweeping stage views when doors open this fall.

Culture

<figure><img alt="Enter to photo displays that honor the Lower Hill&#x27;s cultural legacy and a tribute to the Crawford Grill&#x27;s famous mirrored piano. Visual: Courtesy of Citizens Live at the Wylie" height="450" id="066814a2-d872-4df7-9c4c-27903058ae7e" src="https://images.axios.com/WE2zqqnoSzPCW3_tTGq_yzeKxGE=/2026/03/05/1772688223189.gif" width="800"/><figcaption>Enter to photo displays that honor the Lower Hill&#x27;s cultural legacy and a tribute to the Crawford Grill&#x27;s famous mirrored piano. Visual: Courtesy of Citizens Live at the Wylie</figcaption></figure>Live Nation will open a 4,000-seat entertainment venue in the Lower Hill District this year, with tributes to the neighborhood&#x27;s music legacy lining the walls, a rooftop lounge overlooking Downtown, an intimate listening room and more.Driving the news: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Citizens Live at the Wylie" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/03/13/pittsburgh-newest-venue-citizens-live-at-the-wylie" data-vars-content-id="ff0fbede-342b-40aa-a2e2-019b8066160b" data-vars-headline="First look: Citizens Live at The Wylie" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/03/13/pittsburgh-newest-venue-citizens-live-at-the-wylie" target="_self">Citizens Live at the Wylie</a> released first-look renderings and videos on Thursday from Blueprint Studio, Live Nation&#x27;s in-house design team.

Hologram musicians to greet NFL Draft visitors

Life-size holograms of Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra musicians will greet NFL Draft visitors next month.

<figure><img alt="The installation features PSO assistant concertmaster Dylan Naroff, ​​associate principal trombone Douglas Rosenthal." height="449" id="a41f52dc-02da-4199-a45d-b516ea8fc440" src="https://images.axios.com/oMZg9yVooVqD_f7_pgNr6kLniyE=/2026/03/24/1774379280189.gif" width="800"/><figcaption>Assistant concertmaster Dylan Naroff and associate principal trombone Douglas Rosenthal. GIF: Chrissy Suttles/Axios</figcaption></figure>Life-size holograms of Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra musicians will greet NFL Draft visitors the moment they land next month.Why it matters: Pittsburgh is using its moment to boost its reputation in arts and tech.

Pittsburgh City Paper returns with new owners

Pittsburgh City Paper is relaunching under new ownership backed by nonprofit support.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Pittsburgh City Paper" data-vars-click-url="https://www.pghcitypaper.com/" data-vars-content-id="835cfc0b-ed7e-407d-9e36-ce75e88a9371" data-vars-headline="Pittsburgh City Paper returns with new owners" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.pghcitypaper.com/" target="_blank">Pittsburgh City Paper</a> is relaunching under new ownership less than three months after the alt-weekly&#x27;s abrupt shutdown.Why it matters: Pittsburgh&#x27;s media ecosystem is <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="in flux" data-vars-click-url="https://triblive.com/local/regional/trib-expands-to-fill-pittsburghs-newspaper-void/" data-vars-content-id="835cfc0b-ed7e-407d-9e36-ce75e88a9371" data-vars-headline="Pittsburgh City Paper returns with new owners" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://triblive.com/local/regional/trib-expands-to-fill-pittsburghs-newspaper-void/" target="_blank">in flux</a> after <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Block Communications" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/01/07/post-gazette-shutdown-may-2026" data-vars-content-id="835cfc0b-ed7e-407d-9e36-ce75e88a9371" data-vars-headline="Pittsburgh City Paper returns with new owners" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/01/07/post-gazette-shutdown-may-2026" target="_self">Block Communications</a> moved to shed two of the city&#x27;s most recognizable news brands in rapid succession.

Pittsburgh Fringe Festival brings alt art to city

The 10-day festival fills venues with indie theater, comedy and more.

The Pittsburgh <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Fringe Festival" data-vars-click-url="https://pittsburghfringe.org/" data-vars-content-id="58ba767c-f702-4b0a-a54a-5265b78357d2" data-vars-headline="Pittsburgh Fringe Festival brings alt art to city" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://pittsburghfringe.org/" target="_blank">Fringe Festival</a> returns this week, packing stages across the city with offbeat stand-up, clowning, puppetry, poetry and more.Why it matters: The exhibition puts risk-taking indie artists front and center, giving audiences a look at work that doesn&#x27;t follow the usual script.

What it's like to march in Pittsburgh's St. Paddy's Day parade

If you want to know what the city's annual St. Patrick's Day Parade is like, you have to march in it.

If you want to know what the city&#x27;s annual St. Patrick&#x27;s Day Parade is like, you have to march in it.Why it matters: Pittsburgh&#x27;s St. Patrick&#x27;s Day Parade is one of the nation&#x27;s largest, drawing as many as 350,000 people Downtown each year, per <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Visit Pittsburgh" data-vars-click-url="https://www.visitpittsburgh.com/blog/st-patricks-day-in-pittsburgh/" data-vars-content-id="f9094c86-8ae3-42de-b345-8f54224c0424" data-vars-headline="What it&#x27;s like to march in Pittsburgh&#x27;s St. Paddy&#x27;s Day parade" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.visitpittsburgh.com/blog/st-patricks-day-in-pittsburgh/" target="_blank">Visit Pittsburgh</a>, and the city goes all in on the revelry.

North Side Croatian National Hall Javor voted Pittsburgh's best fish fry

The North Side social club has served Lenten classics with a twist since the 1980s.

<figure><img alt="Colorful mural on a brick wall: a hand holding a bouquet of red, white, and blue flowers, a guitar nearby, swirling blue and orange vines, and the text &quot;Taylor est. 1705&quot;." height="1258" id="6d7e42c6-346d-4315-861c-9ab272b56ee4" src="https://images.axios.com/q1GCAoQh4-Kh9in4IxSSkTN4yqM=/2026/03/12/1773342664762.gif" width="1920"/><figcaption>Art outside Croatian National Hall Javor on the North Side. Photos: Chrissy Suttles/Axios</figcaption></figure>The votes are in: Pittsburghers have crowned a new favorite fish fry.The big picture: Axios Pittsburgh readers named <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Croatian National Hall Javor" data-vars-click-url="https://www.javor.org/" data-vars-content-id="ce15df14-38dc-4dfd-ab0b-0e5daed9884a" data-vars-headline="North Side Croatian National Hall Javor voted Pittsburgh&#x27;s best fish fry" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.javor.org/" target="_blank">Croatian National Hall Javor</a> the region&#x27;s best fish fry this year in a competition stacked with heavyweights.

Vote for Pittsburgh's best fish fry

Axios Pittsburgh is back for year two of our hunt for Western Pennsylvania's best fish fry.

Update: Axios Pittsburgh readers named Croatian National Hall Javor the region&#x27;s best fish fry this year! <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Read more here" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/03/13/croatian-national-hall-javor-voted-pittsburghs-best-fish-fry" data-vars-content-id="4ef868ce-589c-400a-9070-963aea0103fb" data-vars-headline="Vote for Pittsburgh&#x27;s best fish fry" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/03/13/croatian-national-hall-javor-voted-pittsburghs-best-fish-fry" target="_self">Read more here</a>!Axios Pittsburgh is back for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="year two" data-vars-click-url="http://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/03/03/pittsburgh-best-fish-fry-vote" data-vars-content-id="4ef868ce-589c-400a-9070-963aea0103fb" data-vars-headline="Vote for Pittsburgh&#x27;s best fish fry" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="http://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/03/03/pittsburgh-best-fish-fry-vote" target="_self">year two</a> of our hunt for Western Pennsylvania&#x27;s best fish fry.Why it matters: We&#x27;re in the heart of fish fry season, and everyone has a favorite. Some stick with the fire hall down the street, while <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="others" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/03/02/mayor-corey-oconnor-fish-fry-order" data-vars-content-id="4ef868ce-589c-400a-9070-963aea0103fb" data-vars-headline="Vote for Pittsburgh&#x27;s best fish fry" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2026/03/02/mayor-corey-oconnor-fish-fry-order" target="_self">others</a> set out to visit as many as they can.

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