The City of Pittsburgh has announced the launch of its inaugural OUTfest, a new LGBTQIA+ community celebration scheduled for Saturday, October 11, 2025, coinciding with National Coming Out Day. The event will take place at Hazelwood Green from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM, and is being organized by the Mayor’s Office as part of a broader commitment to equity, inclusion, and community engagement.
OUTfest is being billed as a first-of-its-kind city-led celebration centering the culture, resilience, and vibrancy of Pittsburgh’s LGBTQIA+ community. Inspired by similar festivals across the country, Mayor Ed Gainey expressed enthusiasm for bringing this vision to life locally.
“OUTfest is another example of our City striving to make sure that everyone feels safe, welcome, and has opportunities to thrive,” said Mayor Gainey in a statement. “I’m proud of the work my administration has done to uplift inclusivity and diversity throughout Pittsburgh, and I look forward to seeing our local LGBTQIA+ community members get the spotlight they deserve,” Mayor Gainey said in a statement.
The event will feature live performances, a Vogue and Runway competition, a gender-affirming clothing swap, and a variety of local vendors, non-profits, and community organizations. A dedicated family-friendly portion of the event will take place from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM, followed by adult-focused programming in the evening.
Event Schedule Highlights:
- 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Family Hours
- Welcome remarks from Mayor Gainey
- Face painting, bounce house, and local performances
- 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Registration for the Vogue and Runway Competition
- 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Adult Hours
- Vogue and Runway Competition
- Gender-Affirming Clothing Swap
- Additional performances
The City has launched an official EngagePGH portal to coordinate participation and volunteers. Local performers, vendors, non-profits, and community members are encouraged to get involved through the following applications:
Organizers are emphasizing the opportunity for local LGBTQIA+ individuals and organizations to connect, celebrate, and engage with the wider community. OUTfest is part of a growing trend of municipal LGBTQIA+ events nationwide and reflects an ongoing effort to make Pittsburgh a more inclusive and affirming city for all.
