Insider's Guide: Babesburgh Bash

Pittsburgh's First Festival for Women Promises to Shatter Expectations (And the Patriarchy)

Pickles. Vintage cars. Furries. In Pittsburgh, there's a festival for practically anything you can imagine. That is, of course, except for women!

Babesburgh is looking to change that in 2024 with the first ever Babesburgh Bash taking over Allegheny Landing Park on the North Shore from 3-8 p.m. on June 30.

I talked with Cat Bruno, Executive Director of Babesburgh, for the full story on this all-new festival:

DATE CHANGE

Due to inclement weather, the Babesburgh Bash has been rescheduled for Sunday, June 30, 2024. All other times, details and location information remains the same.

What is Babesburgh

According to Bruno, the concept of Babesburgh emerged out of a need to hang out with supportive women and meet new friends. This passion for connecting folks is what drives the Babesburgh team, and is fundamentally the goal of all of their programming. "The basis of what we do is to encourage folks to talk to someone new at our events, even if it’s only briefly," said Bruno.

"We all have a story to share, and we want to offer up a space to share yours, while engaging in super fun events, activities and workshops. Maybe you’ll find your next job or your next friend or just learn something new."

What is a Babe? Am I a Babe?

This leads us to perhaps the most interesting question about this organization: the name. So, what exactly defines a "babe?" The answer is that all of us are! The word babe is used by this org to be a welcoming, inclusive term no matter how you identify. If you want to support and celebrate women, you're in. Personally, I can't wait to be a babe at their next big event!

"We want to offer supportive and positive spaces for folks from different communities and cultures," said Bruno. "All are welcome at any and all of our events. Bring a good vibe and come have a good time with us!"

The 2024 Babesburgh Bash

Now that us babes know where we stand, let's get into the main event. The Babesburgh Bash, the first festival for women in Pittsburgh, is coming to the North Shore on Sunday, June 30, 2024 from 3-8 p.m. at Allegheny Landing Park.

You can expect an afternoon and evening full of fun including shopping, drinking, dancing, fitness classes, wellness sessions, community involvement opportunities, interactive art demonstrations and health screenings all in one picturesque location.

Oh, and that location? It was picked for a reason. Allegheny Landing Park was host to some of the first women's rights and working rights protests as early as the 1840s, so it gives off the exact energy needed to host this supportive event for women.

"Allegheny Landing Park has one of the best views of the Pittsburgh skyline and it's along the river," added Bruno. "What we like most about the venue is the overall vibe - it has a funky and cool art aesthetic, mature trees, and it’s a bit of an oasis in the city."

What to Do

Let's get into the specifics. The Babesburgh website gives you the best glimpse into what is in store, with categories thoughtfully breaking down what you'll see including artists and vendors, breweries with a female focus, musicians and DJs, health and wellness organizations; even a mini farmers market!

I'm using their site now to create my own mini-itinerary of the people and orgs I want to meet, including the womxn and LGBTQ+-owned The Open Road for non-alcoholic beverages, delicious treats from Oh Sweet Rosemary and picking up some crystals from The Wild Moon Witchery.

"From our Fitness Circle to our Wellness Zone, an attendee can really take a moment to focus on self-care," encourages Bruno. "Then, grab a drink and go shopping while uplifting beats play in the background. Every attendee will have their own favorite activity and area!"

The Future of Babesburgh

Even if you can't attend this year's event, the Babesburgh team is hoping to make their Bash an annual tradition that empowers women for years to come. So look for the next Babesburgh Bash in 2025 and beyond!

They also host many smaller events throughout the year to help you find community beyond the festival. Bruno mentioned self defense workshops, jewelry making, plant workshops, fitness classes, spa nights, shopping, crawls, mixers, and more!

"And that’s only a bit of what we host," adds Bruno. "Babesburgh teams up with many venues and organizations throughout the city and suburbs, which allows us to bring our spunky Babesburgh vibe to new audiences."

Need to stay up to date on all things Babesburgh? Following their events calendar is a MUST - www.babesburgh.com/events

Bruno even hinted at a surprise announcement coming soon that will continue their mission in a big, visible way! We can't say much more, but stay tuned for more from the amazing team at Babesburgh, and we'll see you June 29 at the Babesburgh Bash!

Author

Jared B.

Enthusiastic Pittsburgher

Always in search of the next great craft beer and arcade. Can be found in the Supporters Section of Pittsburgh Riverhounds games and at whatever festival is happening in the city.