The Giant Eagle Foundation Backyard

A new scene is being set in the Cultural District. Imagine lively pickleball courts, dynamic seating options under string lights, a new mural and performance space, and a rotating roster of live entertainment and delicious food vendors. The Giant Eagle Foundation Backyard at 8th & Penn, located just steps away from the Benedum Center, is about to receive a summertime makeover.

Together with you, The Better Block Foundation, Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, and the Richard King Mellon Foundation are collaboratively working to re-envision part of the parking lot (aka The Backyard) for a summer series.

This community-led placemaking event aims to inspire residents to creatively transform the parking lot via activation throughout the summer to imagine what it could be in the future. Anticipated enhancements include seating, art installations, and new opportunities for community gatherings.

Throughout the summer, the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust will partner with local organizations to keep the fun flowing.

Pickleball

Tuesdays & Thursdays

PUMP's Pittsburgh Sports League (PSL) will serve up the fun as they welcome players onto two new pickleball courts.

Fashion Boutiques & Live Music

Wednesdays

Discover a night market where style, music, and flavors collide! The Pittsburgh Downtown Neighbors Alliance (DNA) welcomes you to immerse yourself in fashion-forward boutiques while listening to local live music, and enjoying delectable bites from our array of food trucks.

Additional activities will be announced throughout the summer! Check back soon for more info.

Support the Backyard

The objective of the summer-long activation is to experiment with ideas, gather feedback, and integrate community input to help shape a more vibrant and inviting space long-term in the Giant Eagle Foundation Backyard and adjacent Penn Avenue and 8th Street parcels. This summer marks the third consecutive year the space will welcome the public. The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, Better Block Foundation, RK Mellon Foundation, and participating partners have a collective goal of creating a dynamic environment where residents can live, work, and come together as a thriving community.