The city of Pittsburgh is gearing up to host its largest Picklesburgh festival yet as it marks its 10th anniversary this summer. In a statement released on Thursday, the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership revealed an ambitious expansion across the Downtown Pittsburgh area and the North Shore for the pickle-centric extravaganza, slated to run from July 11 to July 13. According to a report by WPXI, this year's footprint will include two iconic Sister Bridges – the Roberto Clemente and Andy Warhol – as well as areas like Allegheny Landing, Fort Duquesne Boulevard, Market Square, and PPG Plaza.
Additionally, as detailed by WPXI, those searching for the perfect selfie will be delighted to find the huge inflatable pickle towering over the Sixth Street Bridge again. President and CEO of the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership, Jeremy Waldrup, said, "With this expanded footprint, featuring two of our city's most iconic bridges and beautiful PPG Plaza, we can't wait to DILL-iver the best festival experience possible." He further emphasised that Picklesburgh has become a key summer draw for the city, bringing in tens of thousands of visitors yearly and enhancing Pittsburgh's reputation as a go-to destination.
The festival's growth is evident through both its popularity and the numbers. CBS News Pittsburgh shared some impressive statistics, with the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership noting a nearly 1000% increase in turnout since the festival's inception. There's been a 114% uptick in vendor participation, an outpouring of 95,000 pickle beers served, 14,000 pickle balloons, and a mind-boggling 800 quarts of pickle juice downed.
As part of the 10th-year celebrations, the Renaissance Pittsburgh Hotel is jumping on the bandwagon, offering a special "Picklesburgh Package" for guests flocking to the city, especially for the festival.
