Halftime Report on the Square

Okay, just in case you're not keeping score at home, we wanted to let you know that Market Square is on track for a banner year. Just the other day we were checking the record books and discovered that in 2008 — the last full year before the Square's dramatic makeover — 34 events happened in the Square. Which was actually a pretty good total. But at the mid-point of 2011 — the first full year of the transformed Square — we tallied up 32 events so far with even more to come.

So, during this holiday-shortened working week, we've put together a photo album of some of 2011's high points in the Square. And if you look closely, you might even see yourself in a shot or two.

Even during the dead of winter, the Pittsburgh faithful turned out to show their pride during a high-five contest between Pittsburgh and Green Bay fans. While the Green Bay won the battle on the gridiron, we triumphed in the Square. 

We're always proud of our Scotch-Irish heritage in Pittsburgh — especially on St. Patrick's Day.  This year's greening of the Square included special family friendly activities. 

Always a popular lunchtime destination, the Square's menu got even better with the opening of three new eateries this year, including Winghart's Burger and Whiskey Bar.  By the way, Wingheart's is now open until 8:30 p.m. Wednesday-Friday and Saturday noon - 5 p.m.

For one of the meatiest sandwiches in town, the debut of DiBella's rocked the boat with choice cuts on freshly made bread. 

With the opening of NOLA, diners in the Square can enjoy the cuisine of New Orleans and a taste of Mardi Gras all year round.  

 

The Mayor and other dignitaries gave us a little history lesson as they unveiled a plaque recognizing the Market Square area's role in the Underground Railroad and Abolitionist Movement.

Springtime brings the return of the Farmers Market — a bounty of fresh. from-the-field foods and homemade treats from June through November.

There's something going on in the Square for everyone — including the wee ones. Kidsplay is a great way to introduce the young ones to the Square on Friday mornings in the summer from 10 - 11:30 a.m.

Our Thursday noontime concerts are a great way to relax and enjoy some of Pittsburgh's best musicians. Plus, you can tap your feet with live performances during the Market Square Merchant Association's Monday and Wednesday lunchtime shows and special Friday Happy Hour concerts.

For those seekking something more active on their lunch break, the YMCA has been hosting free outdoor exercise classes every Friday from noon - 1 p.m.

Let's be frank. We take our championships seriously in this town.  Which is why we relished hosting a regional contest to select a male and female winner to participate in the annual Fourth of July Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Championship on the famed boardwalk of Coney Island. Though our champs didn't earn the ultimate crown,
they devoured the local competition with a throng cheering them on. 

Whatever the reason, the Square is just a great place to relax with friends — anytime of the day. 

At the end of the day, Carin Mincemoyer's Diamond Diamonds art installation lights the way
to the heart of Downtown — Market Square. 

To learn more about any of these programs, restaurants or attractions, visit DowntownPittsburgh.com/Market-Square.