National Pittsburgh Day

A group of people wearing black and gold shirts, holding Primanti sandwiches, with a skyline of Pittsburgh in the background.. — National pittsburgh day illustration

Welcome to the wonderful world of National Pittsburgh Day! This is the day where we celebrate everything that makes Pittsburgh so special. From its vibrant culture to its mouthwatering food, there's plenty to love about this city. So grab your Terrible Towel and get ready to dive into the fascinating history of National Pittsburgh Day!

When is Pittsburgh Day?

It's national pittsburgh day on the 12th April.

The Birth of National Pittsburgh Day

Did you know that National Pittsburgh Day originally started as a grassroots movement by proud Pittsburghers? It all began on April 12, 2016, when the internet exploded with 18 mentions of this special day. People from all corners of the web came together to celebrate the Steel City and its many contributions to the world.

From that day forward, National Pittsburgh Day became an annual event, giving Pittsburghers across the globe a chance to showcase their love for their beloved city.

Celebrating Pittsburgh with Loved Ones

One of the best ways to celebrate National Pittsburgh Day is by spending it with your loved ones. Whether you plan a family gathering or invite friends over for a Pittsburgh-themed party, it's all about sharing the love for this incredible city.

From cooking up traditional Pittsburgh dishes like pierogies and Primanti Brothers sandwiches to watching a Steelers game together, there's no shortage of ways to make lasting memories with your favorite people.

Food, Sports, and More!

When it comes to Pittsburgh, there's no denying that food and sports play a significant role in the city's culture. National Pittsburgh Day is the perfect opportunity to indulge in some culinary delights and cheer on your favorite teams.

Make it a point to visit a local Pittsburgh restaurant and try iconic dishes like the famous Primanti Brothers sandwich or a juicy Pittsburgh-style steak. And let's not forget about the sports! Whether you're a fan of the Steelers, Penguins, or Pirates, show your team spirit and wear your black and gold proudly!

Affectionately Remembering the Steel City

Another important aspect of National Pittsburgh Day is taking a moment to remember the city's rich history and the people who worked hard to shape it. From the steel mills that made Pittsburgh an industrial powerhouse to the historic neighborhoods that have been lovingly preserved, there's so much to honor and appreciate about this city.

Consider visiting a local museum or taking a guided tour to learn more about Pittsburgh's past. By understanding where Pittsburgh came from, we can better appreciate where it's headed.

History behind the term 'Pittsburgh'

1758

Fort Pitt established

In 1758, during the French and Indian War, a fortress named Fort Pitt was built by British colonial forces at the confluence of the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers. The fort was named after William Pitt the Elder, who was the British Secretary of State at the time and was known for his support of the American colonies.

1761

Town named Pittsburgh

In 1761, the town that developed near Fort Pitt was officially named Pittsburgh. The 'h' was added to the end of the name to distinguish it from an already existing settlement called 'Pittsborough' in Pennsylvania. The name change also honored William Pitt the Elder, who played a significant role in establishing the fort and supporting the British Empire in North America.

1794

Pittsburgh becomes a city

Pittsburgh was officially incorporated as a city on March 18, 1794. By this time, the settlement had grown significantly due to its strategic location for trade and transportation. The city continued to prosper throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, becoming a major center for industries such as steel, coal, and manufacturing.

1892

Homestead Strike

One of the defining moments in Pittsburgh's history was the Homestead Strike of 1892. It was a major industrial conflict between steelworkers and the Carnegie Steel Company. The strike is notable for its violence and the involvement of Pinkerton detectives and the state militia. The event had a lasting impact on the labor movement in the United States.

1946

The Golden Triangle

In 1946, a significant urban redevelopment project led to the creation of the 'Golden Triangle' area in downtown Pittsburgh. This triangular area is formed by the convergence of the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers, and it became a bustling business and cultural district. The name 'Golden Triangle' refers to the shape of the area and its economic significance.

2021

Modern Pittsburgh

Today, Pittsburgh is a vibrant and diverse city known for its innovation, healthcare, education, and technology sectors. It has transformed from its industrial roots into a hub for advanced industries and research. Pittsburgh is also celebrated for its sports teams, cultural institutions, and renowned universities. It continues to evolve and adapt, embracing its rich history while looking toward the future.

Did you know?

Did you know that Pittsburgh has more bridges than any other city in the world, earning it the nickname 'City of Bridges'? With a stunning total of 446 bridges, Pittsburgh truly lives up to its reputation as the 'City of Bridges'!