Now in its seventh year, the Thrival Music Festival will take place on Friday, September 20, 2019 from noon-11PM in Schenley Plaza in Oakland. This free event will feature musicians, artists and installations centered around the theme “By Pittsburgh. For Pittsburgh. For the World.”

Headlining the festival at the Sheetz Main Stage will be Pittsburgh-native, national DJ and producer BUKU. Buku combines deceptively simple and emotive melodies, laden with resounding low-end and intricate drum patterns. With a love of drums rooted early in his childhood, his work reflects his passion for percussion laced with elements only a trained ear could produce. Opening for Buku will be local favorites Beauty Slap, a funk band with a mission to make you move, and Title Town, a soul and funk dance party. 1Hood Media, which has stood as a beacon for artist activists and musicians alike, will also be showcasing eight local artists. 

Also opening for Buku will be Everyone Orchestra for a one-night-only collaboration. Conducted by Matt Butler, Everyone Orchestra will feature some of Pittsburgh’s best talent. Each show is 100% unique, as a carefully curated lineup of performers is guided through high energy, creative, danceable grooves and beautiful songs that you won’t believe are created on the fly. This is sure to be a don’t miss performance!

Before the evening concert, Thrival is turning Schenley Plaza into a true festival with artists, installations and fitness classes. Starting at noon, the Wicked Collective will takeover the garden area of Schenley Plaza to celebrate everything festival culture from flower crowns to a man on stilts to a pop-up stage featuring singers and songwriters, rappers, and acoustic musicians. CycleBar Robinson will be engaging the fitness community in outdoor spin classes and vendors will be selling crafts throughout the day, including a showcase of PG&H makers. Tastings from Stateside Vodka, Wigle Whiskey and local breweries will also be onsite.

In addition to all the festivities, Uber Advanced Technologies Group (Uber ATG) is partnering with Thrival to paint a self-driving vehicle onsite. As Uber ATG continues pushing innovation in Pittsburgh, new self-driving Uber vehicles will be hitting the road soon. To celebrate, Thrival and Uber ATG have commissioned CamPaints to transform a retired self-driving car into a piece of artwork representing the city. 

Thrival Music will be a jam packed day full of music, art, and fun. Stop by throughout the day to celebrate Pittsburgh music, art and food!