Shop on Car-Free Streets at OpenStreetsPGH

By Ngani Ndimbie

I’m really, really, really excited for OpenStreetsPGH. Not just because it’s an event with a schedule packed with free programming, but also because it’ll be a totally new way to experience Pittsburgh’s streets – places I’ve known and loved for as long as I can remember.

As a kid I would accompany my mom on early morning trips to the Strip District. On weekend mornings we’d first stop to get mounds of fruit for the family from our “fruit guy” in the produce terminal and then we’d grab fish and meats at Wholey’s. Today, one of my favorite warm-weather activities is riding my bike to the Strip District to pick up groceries and walk around. At OpenStreetsPGH I’ll get to do it all in a transformed, car-free space!

Here’s my summer-fun shopping list for Sunday, May 31st at OpenStreetsPGH:

Congratulations cards at Wildcard
Seems everyone is getting married this summer!

Handmade gift at Gerbe Glass
I pass this shop every day as I rush to and from work or lunch and catch a glimpse of the beautiful items on display. I’ll finally get to stop in on Sunday at OpenStreetsPGH.

Lemon Press at In the Kitchen
I’m told that this is the tool I need if I want to step up my fresh-squeezed lemonade game this summer.

ALL THE CHEESE at Penn Mac
Because Penn Mac has ridiculously large cheese selection.

Wine at Pittsburgh Winery
To go with the cheese, of course.

I’ve got big plans for OpenStreetsPGH and big panniers (bike bags) to match. See you in the streets!

PS: Need to do a big shopping run by car during OpenStreetsPGH?
There will be a free shuttle running along Smallman Street during OpenStreetsPGH to help people carry large loads of groceries and other purchases.