7 free events in Pittsburgh this July

This July, the Steel City is packed with ways to enjoy the summer without opening your wallet. From Picklesburgh — you can’t miss that giant green balloon — and a furry parade to free concerts and music festivals, here’s a roundup of the coolest and cheapest things to do this month.

Furry fandom

July 3-6

You don’t need a badge to experience the joy of Anthrocon in downtown Pittsburgh. Spectators are welcome to catch the famous fursuit parade, join the block party outside the convention center and snap selfies with colorfully costumed critters. Just be respectful — and be ready for some great people watching.

Where: David L. Lawrence Convention Center (exterior), 1000 Fort Duquesne Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA, 15222

Red, white and boom

Thursday, July 4, 6-10 p.m.

You can find family fun zones, food trucks, live music and even a hot air balloon at Pittsburgh’s Independence Day Celebration, this year happening across the city’s North Shore and at Grandview Park in Mount Washington. But the highlight is certainly the city’s largest fireworks display, which kicks off at 9:35 p.m.

Where: North Shore Riverwalk, Pittsburgh, PA, 15212; Grandview Park, 499 Bailey Ave., Pittsburgh, PA, 15211

That downtown sound

July 8 and July 22, 5-7 p.m.

Bring a blanket and settle in for free live music every other Tuesday with Jazz Live, a happy hour series featuring local musicians and smooth tunes. This month, catch the Adam Brock Quintet with Mike Tomaro on July 8 and Kenny Blake and The New Hip on July 22.

Where: Agnes R. Katz Plaza, 685 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15222

Pickle party

July 11-13

Picklesburgh is back, and it’s kind of a big dill. This three-day festival covers Boulevard of the Allies and two full bridges with food trucks, drinks, live music and the iconic Heinz pickle balloon. No tickets required — just follow your nose and maybe bring a jar of brine home.

Where: Boulevard of the Allies between Smithfield and Stanwix streets, Pittsburgh, PA, 15222

Revved-up vintage racing

July 14-20

Feel the roar of the engines at the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix, one of the country’s only vintage races still held on city streets. You can find cars on display across the city throughout the 10-day event, and don’t miss the popular car show and races through Schenley Park on July 19-20.

Where: Schenley Park, near the Bob O’Connor Golf Course, 5370 Schenley Drive, Pittsburgh, PA, 15217

North Side vibes

July 18-20

At the Northside Music Festival, explore the neighborhood during three days of music, visual art and vendors. With more than 70 acts playing across stages at Allegheny Commons and local venues, you can jam all weekend without ever paying a cover.

Where: See the full map of venues.

Pedal power

Sunday, July 28, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

During Open Streets PGH, streets close to cars and open to people. Walk, bike, dance, skate or scooter your way through a car-free route filled with pop-up fitness classes, food vendors and family activities. It’s a summer stroll you won’t want to miss.

Where: The route runs from the Strip District to Lawrenceville via Smallman and Butler streets; find the full map on the event website.