'The Thaw' Event Series Turns Up The Heat in Pittsburgh's Market Square

Pittsburgh's coolest way to warm up.

Are you tired of waiting out the winter weather? The Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership and Flyspace Productions are hosting a new event series in March designed to celebrate the changing seasons.

A Pittsburgh staple transformed

The Thaw is set to transform Market Square into the city’s ultimate destination for music, immersive entertainment, and community festivities. With family friendly fun by day, and a fiery party atmosphere at night, each weekend has a unique theme with something for everyone!

This is an unforgettable celebration of music, creativity, and community that brings the best of Pittsburgh together.

Jeremy Waldrup, CEO and President of the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership

WEEKENDS WORTH MELTING FOR

The Thaw features three weekends of activities designed to celebrate the changing seasons and Pittsburgh’s dynamic arts and culture scene. Here's what's on tap for the festivities:

MARCH 8-9

ICE & SNOW CELEBRATION

Family-friendly by day, music-driven by night, the first weekend of The Thaw celebrates the magic of ice and snow. Market Square will come alive with awe-inspiring ice sculptures, live carvings, and an 18-foot ice luge for kids. Celebrate all the magic of winter – before we show it the door!

Kids can enjoy a variety of activities from 12-4 p.m., including arts and crafts, science experiments, and an instrument petting zoo.

Live Performances:
Saturday, March 8: Billy Price (8-9:30 p.m.)
Sunday, March 9: Beauty Slap (6-6:45 p.m. & 7-7:45 p.m.)

Credit |

David DiCello at the West End Overlook

Credit |

David DiCello at the West End Overlook

MARCH 15-17

SHAMROCK & ROLL

Opening at 5 p.m. on Saturday, March 15, a celebration of Irish culture and music takes over Market Square, with performances from the best local Irish bands all weekend long. With Irish whiskey tastings, an authentic ‘Pub On The Square’, and a pop-up cocktail lounge, this weekend promises to be a blarney good time!

Live Performances:
Saturday, March 15: The Low Kings (8-10 p.m.)
Sunday, March 16: Rich Patrick Trio (1-2:30 p.m.); Bealtaine (3:30-5 p.m.); Z Town Street Band (6:30-8 p.m.)
Monday, March 17: Michael Lindner (5-6:30 p.m.); Bastard Bearded Irishmen (7:30-9 p.m.)

MARCH 21-23

WARM UP MUSIC FESTIVAL

The grand finale of The Thaw brings a fiery celebration of music and a ceremonial snowman burning to welcome the first days of spring. This high-energy weekend features live music, fire pits, and stunning fire performances.

Flow n'at will light up the weekend with fire performances at various times, including the ceremonial burning of a snowman on Friday at 7:30 p.m.

Live Performances:
Friday, March 21: Paging Doctor Moon (6:30-7:30 p.m.); Sneezy (8:30-10 p.m.)
Saturday, March 22: Posterchild (1:30-2:30 p.m.); Tony from Bowling (3:30-5 p.m.),Illiterate Light (8:30-10 p.m.)
Sunday, March 23: Melissa Quinn Fox (1:30-3 p.m.); Hillbilly Biscuits (4-5:30 p.m.); Dani Rose (6:30-8 p.m.)

Each weekend offers a fresh experience with a unique theme, inviting everyone to embrace the season of renewal in style. Whether you’re here to experience incredible live music, enjoy family-friendly activities, or unwind with a pub vibe, The Thaw has something for everyone.

Jeremy Waldrup, CEO and President of the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership