Harrisburg Happenings, Community Events & More

Rep. Dan B. Frankel July 31, 2025 | 2:07 PM

PA Representative Dan Frankel banner image

Friday, August 1, 2025

Harrisburg Happenings

Navigating Medicaid Amid New Federal Rules

An estimated 300,000 Pennsylvanians are at risk of losing their health coverage under new federal Medicaid rules set to take effect on January 1, 2027. Many won’t be dropped because they’re ineligible, but because layers of new red tape will make an already complex system nearly impossible to navigate. That’s why I’m building support for the Protect Pennsylvanians’ Medicaid Access Act, which would ensure eligible individuals aren’t cut off simply because they lack reliable internet, stable housing, or the ability to work through confusing bureaucracy. My bill would strengthen community-based Medicaid assistance, improve state outreach, and streamline the application process. We must do everything we can to protect Pennsylvania’s social safety net—even as it comes under attack from Washington. Learn more about Pennsylvania’s Medicaid program here and learn about the pitfalls of work reporting requirements here.

Community Events and Resources

Annual Shadyside Sidewalk Sale

Now–Sunday, August 3 | Shadyside Business District, Walnut Street

Walnut Street’s sidewalks will be filled with a variety of small business shops and boutiques from the Shadyside community. Parking along Walnut Street will be blocked during the sale, but cross streets will remain open.

Learn more here.

Reggae at Riverview

Saturday, August 2, 1:00–9:00 PM | Valley Refuge Shelter – Riverview Park

The Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy will host the fifth annual Reggae at Riverview, a free and family-friendly celebration of music and community. The festival will feature a full day of live reggae performances, DJs, Caribbean food, local craft beer, art, and vendors.

Free admission.

Learn more here.

Shadyside Summer Spritz and Stroll

Saturday, August 2, 12–4 PM | Walnut Street, Shadyside

Think Shadyside’s Spritz & Stroll is a nine-stop walk along Walnut Street, through the annual Sidewalk Sale, where guests can sample a selection of classic summer drinks. Those who complete all stops will be eligible to win a raffle basket filled with items from local shops.

Tickets are $28.52.

Learn more and get tickets here.

JCC Maccabi Games

Sunday–Friday, August 3–8 | University of Pittsburgh’s Campus

The JCC Maccabi Games, the world’s largest Jewish youth sporting event. Nearly 2,000 teen athletes from across North America, the United Kingdom, and Israel will compete in 13 different sports. Events include track, soccer, basketball, hockey, swimming, tennis, softball, volleyball, baseball, and dance.

Spectators are welcome but are required to go through some security.

Learn more here.

Neighborhood Flea: Schenley Plaza

Sunday, August 3, 10:00 AM–3:00 PM | Schenley Plaza

New this year, the Neighborhood Flea is launching a monthly market at Schenley Plaza. Held on the first Sunday of each month from June through October, the event features vintage goods, handmade items, food vendors, and more. Presented in partnership with the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy, this open-air market is free to attend, takes place rain or shine, and offers free parking in Oakland on Sundays.

Free.

Learn more here.

Art in Frick Park

Tuesday, August 5, 4:30–6:30 PM | Blue Slide Playground, Frick Park

The Pittsburgh Park Rangers will host a free outdoor painting event in Frick Park. Participants of all ages and experience levels are welcome to create their own canvas paintings inspired by the natural surroundings. Art supplies and canvases will be provided, along with limited table and picnic blanket seating.

Free admission.

Learn more here.

Jewish Heritage Night at PNC Park

Tuesday, August 5 · 5:00 – 9:30 PM | PNC Park

Young adults ages 22 to 45 are invited to celebrate Jewish Heritage Night with the Young Adult Division (YAD) of the Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh. The evening begins with a kosher pre-game dinner and social hour from 5:00–6:30 PM, followed by the Pirates game. Attendees will sit in a reserved YAD section and receive a Pirates co-branded Jewish Heritage Night ballcap.

Tickets are $15. This event is for adults only. Registration is required.

Learn more and register here.

National Night Out – Greenfield
Tuesday, August 5, 5:30–7:30 PM | Bud Hammer Playground, Greenfield

The Greenfield Community Association will host a National Night Out event featuring a free community cookout, games, and activities for all ages. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet neighbors and connect with local public safety officials, including the Mounted Unit, SWAT Truck, Fire Department, and Bomb Squad.

Free admission.

Learn more here.

Biblical Garden Docent-Led Tour

Wednesday, August 6, 12:15–1:00 PM | Rodef Shalom Biblical Botanical Garden

Explore Rodef Shalom’s Biblical Botanical Garden with a docent-led tour, featuring plants and landscapes inspired by the ancient world. Knowledgeable guides will share the history and significance of the garden’s unique collection.

Free admission.

Learn more here.

Cinema in the Park

Wednesday, August 6, dusk (roughly 8:45 p.m.)

The City of Pittsburgh hosts free movie nights. Participants are asked to bring lawn chairs or blankets to make themselves comfortable on the lawn. The movies will begin at dusk throughout the summer, so start times will vary slightly from day to day. Wednesday’s screening will be the 1955 film The Night of the Hunter (Not Rated).

Learn more here.

Summer Fridays at the Frick

Friday, August 8, 5:00–9:00 PM | The Frick Pittsburgh

The Frick will host an evening of live music, food trucks, artmaking, and family activities on their lawns. Music begins at 6:30 PM. The Museum Store and Grable Visitor Center will remain open until 8:00 PM. Please note: the Frick Art Museum and Car and Carriage Museum will be closed during these events.

For safety, visitors are asked not to bring pets, ride bikes or scooters, or engage in rough play.

Free admission.

Learn more here.

Urban Trail Pop-Up Coffee Truck

Friday, August 8, 10:00 AM–2:00 PM | Frick Environmental Center

Urban Trail Coffee Co. will bring its mobile coffee truck to the Frick Environmental Center, offering fresh espresso drinks made with Commonplace Coffee. Visitors can grab a drink before or after enjoying the park.