Marketing The Square

Really, it's no secret that Market Square is one of the hottest go-to lunchtime stops for most people living, working or just dropping in on Downtown. Now one group of people — besides us — wants to spread the word that there's something going on in the Square just about anytime most days of the week. Which is why the Market Square Merchants Association (MSMA) is extending an open invitation to everyone to enjoy Summer in the Square  — and much more.

"The goal of the association is simple," says Mike Geiger, an MSMA member and owner of Moe's Southwest Grill in the Square. "We want to provide everyone who visits the very best experience possible, whether they're here for lunch, St. Patrick's Day, Light-Up Night or any other day of the year."

Now there are certainly plenty of special occasions to plan a trip to the Square. But the truth is that the very best reason to spend some time in the heart of Downtown is the merchants in and around the Square. In one of the city's most compact shopping and dining districts, you'll find hip clothing stores, stylish shoe shops, bakeries, pizza parlors, Mexican-flavored dishes, classic American burgers, longtime Pittsburgh eateries, donuts, New Orleans infused cuisine, coffee shops, traditional Italian, and hoagies and submarine sandwiches. They're all within a few seconds walk from the center of the Square — and many are open for business every day from the early hours of the morning to way past sundown.

Whether you start off with a Mellow Mondays lunchtime concert, get over the hump with some Mid-Week Music or unwind after a long week at work with a drink and dining special during Friday Night Live performances, the MSMA wants you to know this is Downtown's newest entertainment, dining and shopping venue.  Tomorrow evening features Jamie Bruno at 5pm and Saddle Up at 6pm with prizes and give aways from Y108.  It will be like a little preview for the July 2 Kenny Chesney concert - Saddle Up will be playing Heinz field that day also.

But, as they shout out in those wacky TV ads—wait, there's more! With a new can-do spirit of pulling together, the MSMA is planning to bring even bigger events to the Square all year-round, like the spooktacular Zombie Fest. And they are busy telling people that the Square is the perfect place for al fresco conferences, parties, weddings and just about any happening you can imagine.

So the next time you visit the Square, think about what brought you there. And chances are, the answer will be a stop at one of the many members of the MSMA.

To see the schedule of all weekly events, check out the Market Square Programs.  With seven regularly scheduled programs, you want to make sure you've got your days straight!

Diamonds in the Square

You don't really need a map to find your way to Market Square. But do you think you could locate the biggest Diamond in the City? Here's a clue... it's not in a jewelry store. Truth is, the "Diamond" is the historical name of the Square, which is why Forbes Avenue once was called Diamond Street. These days, we like to think that the Square is a glittering diamond that's at the heart of Downtown. So, let's take a look at how a once rough and tumble frontier spot transformed into a Diamond and then a rock solid stellar Square of a city showplace.

Now everyone knows that the British chased the French out of the region between the Allegheny and Monongahela rivers to establish the settlement in 1758. The Diamond officially took shape 20 years later when the Penn family surveyed the land nearby their manor home at Ft. Pitt at the Point. In a big time act of generosity, the Penns signed over to the city the deed to the land so that it could be put to good use as a social, civic and merchants' gathering spot. At its four corners, the Diamond pointed north, south, east and west and served as a compass for visitors who enjoyed the taverns and inns around the Diamond. Kind of sounds familiar, doesn't it?

While the British settled the area, the Diamond bears strong traces of our City's heavy Scotch-Irish heritage. Even today, one of the streets leading to the Square is called McMasters Way. And it turns out that Diamonds can still be found throughout the northern area of the Emerald Isle in places such as Rapahoe, Clones and a town called Donegal, which just happens to have a counterpart here in Western Pennsylvania. Donegal's Diamond is pictured above, used just as Pittsburgh's was before the court house and market was built. In Architectural Heritage of Western Pennsylvania, Charles Stotz writes, "Public squares or "Diamonds" were common in many early American towns, intended as 'practical provisions for the overnight parking of coaches, wagons, and horses rather than for beautification . . . [and as] social centers for towns.'"  And just across the Allegheny River, the land that sits in front of the former Buhl Science Center — now part of the wonderful Children's Museum — was a grassy expanse known as Diamond Park. Back then, it was the center of Allegheny City and just across the street from its very own Market House. Seems that Diamonds and Market Houses made good partners.

Well, very soon, diamonds will sparkle again in the Square thanks to artist Carin Mincemoyer, whose installation of 8-inch tall Plexiglas "diamonds" will accessorize lamp posts at the entrance of the Square. At night, LED lights will make the diamonds glitter and glow as people pass below to dine in the Square or just spend some time enjoying the summer winds and sounds of live music from NOLA and other hot spots. And, yes, we introduced you to Carin's creativity a few months ago, right here in this space. If you need a refresher course, just click here.

Okay, the lesson's over for today. And don't worry, there's no test — as long as you promise that we'll see you soon in the Square.



Special thanks for the historical information:
Pittsburgh History and Landmarks Foundation; Louise Sturgess, Al Tannler and Frank Stroker
Heinz Architectural Center at Carnegie Museum of Art; Raymund Ryan, Curator of Architecture

Weiners, Wheels and Wednesday Concerts

It's not exactly the Gunfight at the OK Corral. But some of the planet's most prodigious consumers of wieners will belly up to the table for a just-past high noon showdown in Market Square on Wednesday to claim bragging rights and a chance to compete in the Nathan's Famous International Hot Dog Eating Contest on July 4 at New York City's Coney Island. As just one of 13 regional contests in the U.S., this matchup of select super eaters promises to bring out some formidable contenders for the championship belt, which might need to be expanded a few notches.

Photo by Bobby Banks

So here's how it works. Up to 20 contestants —both  men and women — will try to beat the clock and each other by eating as many Nathan's Famous natural casing franks, including buns, in 10 minutes. For stat happy fans, each of the dogs tips the scales at two ounces with the buns weighing in at less than a half-ounce. Just to see what local participants are up against, Joey Chestnut, the current world champ, holds the world record with a gut-busting 68 dogs in 10 minutes. While you don't need to break the current mark to qualify, female contestants need to down at least 10 dogs to qualify. Just in case you think the challenge is tough, keep in mind that the local winners will take home of year's supply of Nathan's hot dogs and receive free airfare and hotel accommodations to take part in the ESPN televised Fourth of July eat off at America's most famous amusement park, where the grand prize is $20,000. And if you're not quite ready to go bun to bun this year with the region's top eaters, you can start training today for 2012 at Pittsburgh's own Nathan's Famous location on the corner of Third Avenue and Wood Street, which happens to be owned and operated by the YWCA. The dogs go down starting at 10 minutes past the stroke of noon.

While hungry competitors prepare for the wiener wars, the friendly folks at the Market Square Merchants Association will start its Mid-Week Music Series in Market Square, sponsored by Star 100.7 with the island infused tunes of the Lincoln Park Steel Drum Band. Every Wednesday through August 24, the Square will be alive with the sound of music from some of the region's top performers. And the beat will go on during the Mellow Monday and Friday Night Live series, too, as the Merchants strike up the bands for more performances in the Square all summer long. Check back here for more info on those events.

Of course, we like to think that the Farmers Market in the Square strikes exactly the right chord every Thursday, with a pitch perfect blend of wholesome foods and music from local talents. As the growing season progresses, look for more farm fresh delectables, free City Paper, and area entertainers to show up as part of our Thursdays in the Square events.

If you're looking for a wheel deal, then pedal your way to Market Square during this week's Farmers Market for a bike-sharing program demonstration by B-cycle. Similar to the Zipcar auto-sharing program already in the city, B-cycle is designed to allow members to borrow and return bikes from designated stations for as little as $5 for 24 hours use. For more information, be sure to catch the B-cycle team from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m this Thursday. If you miss the live demo, check in with the folk at our own Bike Pittsburgh.

More than ever, there's always something happening in the Square. So make sure you check our calendar of events  We'll see you soon in the Square.

Dance To The Music

Sure you can rhyme "June" with "moon." But we prefer to go with a "June" and "Tune" match to announce the start of our weekly Thursday noontime concerts in Market Square, starting this week and going through August 18. This year's series hits a high note from the start with one of Pittsburgh's favorite rockers, Bill Deasy. And be sure to check our events calendar every week to see who's taking the stage. Best of all the hottest concert ticket in the Square is absolutely free.   All summer you can tap your feet to a variety of rock, country, soul, jazz and more as some of Pittsburgh's most talented musicians sing, dance and play during the Farmers Market. Now that's what we call one sweet duet.

While grownups get to have fun in the Square nearly every day, we're setting aside one day a week especially for youngsters to enjoy themselves during Kidsplay. The fun starts this Friday, June 3 from 10-11:30 a.m. and continues each week through August 19. With a mix of educational and entertaining activities, Kidsplay is a great for parents and their children to experience the Square in a family friendly atmosphere. From McGruff the Crime Dog to that Guy with the Birds, Kidsplay is fun for everyone. To see what's in store this year, check the Kidsplay schedule now.

School may be out soon. But we think learning never stops. And there's no better way to discover more about Market Square than a Pittsburgh History & Landmarks Foundation tour. Led by some ace architectural and history buffs, the Market Square area tours are great to discover some of the most amazing things in and around the Square — and to learn just how Pittsburgh came to be one of the best and most important cities in the U.S.A. The tours are free, but the number of walkers is limited. You'll cover a lot of ground and information during the one-hour tours, which start at noon in the PNC Triangle Park in front of the Fairmont Hotel. To make a reservation for the June 3, 10, 17 or 24 tour, visit the Pittsburgh History & Landmarks Foundation tour site today.

If you're looking for a bit more of a workout than strolling around the city, the YMCA will lead free exercises every Friday in the Square to get in you into summertime shape. From Spinning to Zumba to Pilates and Yoga, you'll find variety and a friendly atmosphere.  Instead of taking time away from family before or after work, you can get ready for swim season on your lunch hour - buy fresh veggies on Thursday and meet up with the YMCA on Friday.  If you had pastitsio instead of veggies, well, they'll take care of that too!

And just in case all this wasn't enough to fill your June calendar, the Market Square Merchants Association will host special events during lunch on Mondays and Wednesdays during the summer and some very cool "happy hour" happenings on Fridays. Stay tuned for more information or visit our events calendar to stay current.


Summer is just heating up — and the Square is one cool hot spot to be all summer long.

Get Away From It All... In the Square

Okay, we know that gas prices now are a real pain in the pump — especially with the summer travel season just around the corner. So if you canceled that family outing to the shore or cabin during the upcoming Memorial Day weekend, we've got a budget-minded travel tip on a visit to one of the trendiest destinations around — Downtown Pittsburgh.

These days, just about any time you open a newspaper or magazine or turn on the TV or Internet, Pittsburgh is picking up another accolade, from the nation's most livable city to the safest place for pedestrians to get around town. And we couldn't agree more. Which is why we're posting a few ideas on how to plan a little Downtown Weekend Getaway — this weekend or any other.

Of course, we think every journey should start in this blog's favorite Downtown spot — Market Square. After you lace up those walking shoes, you might want to make a fast pit stop at Bruegger's Bagels or Dunkin Donuts to load up on the calories you'll need to burn as you discover the ins and outs of Downtown. And for some extra energy, stop by Nicholas Coffee and order one of their freshly brewed specialty java drinks. Now that your tank is full — at prices far below what OPEC charges — it's time to get this weekend jaunt on the road.

By now you know that the Square is the historic heart of the city.  While we're talking about history, there's no better way to explore many of the city's wonders than on a self-guided Pittsburgh History & Landmarks walking tour or the Art In Public Places walk, sponsored by the Office of Public Art. Whatever direction you take, you'll discover some of the oldest buildings and the coolest art you'll find outside of a museum. In the case of inclemnet weather, stop into the Fort Pitt Museum at Point State Park. At only $5 you won't even miss the fuel perks!

With a chunk of art, architecture and history smarts under your belt, you might want to relax with a bit of a shopping spree. We suggest that you head back to where this all started, where you could spend nearly a whole day — and a little bit of cash — at the shops in and around the Square. From the oh-so-hip stylings at Serendipity to the well-heeled footware at the Nettleton Shop, the Square is fast becoming a shopper's oasis. For the coolest looks in sunglasses and other accessories, stop in at WEAR and Heinz-Healy's for casual men's wear. And just around the corner, on tony Fifth Avenue, there's even more at Larrimor's and the newly opened Joseph A. Banks stores.

If you don't know where to go or what to do, a weekend Downtown could seem long.  Fortunately, you've got us as your secreate weapon!  After all that shopping you might want to give your credit card a break, so why not enjoy the city from a different point of view. We think one of the best ways to make a splash Downtown is to dip your oar in one of Pittsburgh three rivers in a kayak. To put your best Lewis and Clark navigation skills to the test, Kayak Pittsburgh rents one and two person craft May through October. We certainly don't believe in corporal punishment, but this is one form of paddling that everyone deserves. If you're not looking to get your feet wet but still want to cruise the waterways, the Just Ducky and Gateway Clipper launch from Station Square, just across the Smithfield Street Bridge. For a unique view of why the three rivers make our city special, take a few moment to watch a special video produced by Riverlife.

With more than 25 miles of trails that follow the city's rivers, hiking, walking and biking have never been easier in Pittsburgh. With the opening of a new section of trail near the Convention Center, bikers can pedal from the McKees Rocks Bridge to the 40th Street Bridge to 21st Street in the Strip to the Steelers training facility near the SouthSide Works. With all the outdoor cafes throughout Downtown, you can roll up put a quick hurt on that hunger and keep rolling. And if you don't own a bike, you can rent a set of wheels at Golden Triangle Bike Rental, near the PNC Bank Firstside facility, just off Grant Street. 

Just about now, it might be time to start thinking about a bite to eat. And, that means it's time to head back to the Square. Maybe you want to go old school with a hefty meal at the Oyster House or Primanti's. Of perhaps it's a spicy specialty from Chipotle or Moe's Southwest. For something a little more upscale, try Bella Sera, urban tratoria of the Canonsburg venue of the same name.  And for some bon temps gourmet at NOLA, where the tastes of New Orleans flavor the menu. Or comfort food with a twist at Winghart's Burgers. Best of all, if the sun is shining, almost every eatery in the Square now offers al fresco dining. From Italian to All-American, there's something for every palette in the Square.

We like to think that the nighttime is the right time to be in the city. Well, we actually think anytime is a great time to be Downtown. But when the sun sets on the city, the highlights continue to shine. Whether it's a Broadway show at the Benedum, the world-class Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra at Heinz Hall, a stage play at the Public Theater or a jazz ensemble at the Fairmont Hotel, nightlife is certainly alive Downtown. If you want something more interactive, we've got salsa dancing every Friday and Saturday night. And keep in mind that the Bucs play ball all summer long at PNC Park, the best diamond any girl or guy could want. To check out all the "after-dark" happenings Downtown, be sure to click on the Downtown Pittsburgh Partnership Events Calendar. And just in case you need a spot to refuel after a big day in the city, Market Square is the perfect rest stop with a restaurants and bars for just about every taste.  With so many hotels in walking distance (Fairmont, Renaissance, and Wyndham are the closest) you've never had such an easy time getting "home."

So if a "staycation" is on the books for you this summer, you can get away yard work, bills and all those everyday routines and be a tourist in your own hometown when you visit Downtown Pittsburgh.

Reading, Riding and Caring

Okay, maybe the marathon is over. But you still might want to run over to Market Square this week to catch up on a good read or two when the Carnegie Reading Room returns to open a new chapter on one of last year's most successful programs. In fact, the Reading Room cart will park itself in the Square every Tuesday this year — starting this week — instead of every other week. From May 17 (that's tomorrow, you know) until October 11, the Reading Room is the perfect place to release the inner bookworm in you from 11 a.m.-2 p.m.. It's also great for the lunch crowd that wants to lose itself in a good mystery or history book under one of the Square's trees while sipping sip a cool, refreshing beverage or munching on delectable edibles from one of the many fine eateries that surround the Square.

Now along with picking up a best-selling novel or can't-put-it-down self-help book, everything at the Reading Room is on sale for prices that are a bargain you won't find anywhere else in town at just a buck for hardcovers and paperbacks at only 50 cents. Best of all, every book you buy will help support one of Pittsburgh's greatest assets — the free Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh system. And if you're looking to clear some space on your home bookshelf for your new purchases, you can donate your previously read volumes to the Downtown Library on Smithfield Street so that other can enjoy them. Be sure to remember to bookmark this one for every Tuesday on your calendar.

One thing we can tell you is that people around here are ready to roll up their sleeves when it comes to helping out. If you've been looking for that perfect time and opportunity to give something back to the town you call home, stop by the Square Tuesday (same day as the Reading Room) to visit the Pittsburgh Cares staff. Starting today, they'll help you get involved in HandsOn Pittsburgh, a special two-day event this May 20 and 21 to pitch in with your time and talents with the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank, Habitat for Humanity, Western Pennsylvania Conservancy and other area non-profits that are making the region even more livable for everyone. You can get involved individually or with a team of co-workers or friends and family. Either way, you'll being doing a good deed. On top of all that, you'll get a free T-shirt for participating and a special discounts at local restaurants. With those kind of incentives, this is one opportunity you'll want to get your hands on.

Get ready for a doubleheader this Wednesday, with two events sharing the Square. The Higher Education Information Fair  might not have carnival rides, but if you're looking to increase your worth on the job market this might be the ticket for you. Hosted by CEA/PA, the Continuing Education Association of PA, the fair gives you the chance to speak one-on-one with admissions representatives from nearly 20 institutions of higher  learning and discover how earning a degree or advanced degree can make you more attractive to potential employers.

Across the Square the United Way of Allegheny County and The Pittsburgh Foundation ask the question, "Why Cut What Works?"  Starting at 11:30 a.m. Bob Nelkin, President and CEO of United Way and Grant Oliphant, President and CEO of The Pittsburgh Foundation, along with other nonprofit and community leaders address spending cuts for nonprofits, especially those serving the human services sector. But these folks are thinking big picture, too, and to talk about "the social compact" – the idea that together we work to safeguard the well-being of communities for ALL citizens. It's a complicated topic so get out there, listen to all sides of the debate and become part of the conversation. After all, that's what a town square like Market Square is for!

Anyone who's paying attention knows that the price of a gallon of gas is soaring and burning a big hole in your pocket. One of the cheapest — and healthiest — alternatives to the budget-busting cost of fuel is to pedal your way to work Downtown. And since this is National Bike to Work Week, there's no better time to get rolling. Just in case you're wondering, both Bicycling magazine and the League of American Bicyclists named our favorite city one of the most bike friendly towns in the U.S.A.


If you're looking to plan your ride route, you can get a downloadable trail map from the good folks at Bike Pittsburgh, who also offer a few tips about commuting to and from your job and biking around town in general.  You might be surprised to find out that along with an extensive network of well-maintained trails up and down the three rivers, there are more than 25 miles of designated bike lanes on city streets. What's that you say? You don't have a bike. Well, just about wherever you look these days in the city, another new cycle shop seems to be opening for business. So there's no shortage of options for getting yourself a new set of wheels. If you're not sure about spending a few hundred dollars for a new two-wheeler, Golden Triangle Bike Rentals is the place to go for a test ride or two. Finally, you'll not only save gas money, bike parking in many Downtown garages costs less than a can of soda from the lunchroom vending machine — and you might just be eligible for a commuter tax break from Uncle Sam. That's what we call a wheel deal.

If you've been keeping current on your Market Square blog reading, you know that the Square once was better known as "The Diamond." Well, this coming Saturday — May 21, to be exact — one lucky person will take home a real diamond during the 2nd Annual Henne Jeweler's Diamond Dash.  About 500 participants in teams of two will compete to win a diamond engagement ring valued at $15,000.  Dazzle your partner with your brilliant knowledge of the city and overall smarts. It's free to join in the fun. And even if you don't take home a really nice piece of "ice," you'll dig exploring the city in your quest to grab the diamond ring.   So, sign up today, come early and caffinate up at a Market Square coffee shop so you are at your sparkling best and let the games begin!

And before we sign off, don't forget the Farmers Market this Thursday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Last week's opening day was a big success with most vendors selling out their bounty of organically grown veggies and homemade foods and other goods. Don't forget your cooler so you can take home some of the frozen meats and eggs that are new this year. 

So unless you're afraid of melting in the rain, we'll see you in the Square for an amazing week of events!

The Farmers Market Returns

Just in case you don't have May 12 — that's tomorrow, by the way — circled on your calendar, now's the time to grab that Sharpie and make a few rings around the date. That just happens to be the day that the Farmers Market returns to Market Square and the kickoff of our Thursdays in Market Square events. Now, we all know it's been a long, cool wet spring. But every time we stroll around the Market in the Square, we feel like we're walking on sunshine every Thursday from 10 a.m. -2 p.m. until November.

Of course, a lot of perennial favorites will set up tables and shop their wares tomorrow. It's kind of like getting back together with old friends or a high school reunion. We know that there are plenty of old acquaintances that we're looking forward to renewing — and getting to know even better in the weeks ahead. And if you look at the list below, you'll probably notice a smile stretching across your face as you spot a few of your favorite vendors:

• Sand Hill Berries — Stop by for some of the tastiest fruit pies in town, or fruits to make your own

• Greendance Winery — Take home a perfect bottle of vino for sipping with dinner
• Cinco de Mayo — It's always hot, hot, hot with these homemade salsas and prepared vegetables
• Gosia's Pierogies — Pittsburgh's favorite food in a pouch, ready to eat in the Square or to make at home

• Evelyn's Elegant Edibles — Accent your purchases with gourmet seasonings, rubs and ready-to-go sides

• Harvest Valley Farms — Your pick of 50 varieties of fresh produce (returning early June with their strawberry crop)
• Little Athens — Of course it's all Greek to us... food that is, and desserts too.
• Colaizzi Brothers — Satisfy your sweet tooth with speciality cakes and chocolates

• Rise Above Bakery — Buy a loaf of your daily bread, or scone, or cookie...

• Billy's County Smokehouse — Sausages, bacon, salmon, jerky and other meats smoked to perfection

• Ridgeview Acres Farms — Add a splash of color to your home or office with flowers both familiar and unusual

And as much as we love all our old friends, we're always excited about introducing new faces in the Square. This year's crop of newcomers includes:

• Uncle Fester's Favorites — Sample homemade mustards, barbecue sauces, pickled vegetables, peanut butter, jams and more

• Clarion River Organics — Stop by and say hello to a cooperative of six farming families selling organic produce, meats, dairy, grains and kombucha, a fermented homemade herbal tea
• As I Am Naturals — Pamper yourself with artisan soaps and skincare products

Keep your eyes open for other new additions to the Farmers Market, such as an on-site market manager to help keep things going smoothly, samplings from local chefs, seasonal recipes and some social media fun happenings.

Speaking of fun, City Paper is bringing you Thursdays Noontime Concerts take the stage again, starting in June. We think this year's lineup of musical talent will strike the perfect chord as you dance to the music all summer long in the Square.

Remember, the Farmers Market sets up in the Square every Thursday, rain or shine, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., May 12 to November 17. Whether you're looking to pick a peck of peppers — pickled or otherwise — or just want to relax with some great food and tunes, we'll see you at the Market in the Square.

Note: If you miss our market tomorrow, or you just can't get enough of markets, the one at the City-County Building has its first day on Friday so you can stop by and say hi to them too!