The Pittsburgh Blues & Roots Festival is now…
The Pittsburgh Music Festival
July 11-12, 2026 • Creighton, PA
Event Details:

Pittsburgh Brewing Company and Local Music Leaders Launch New Two-Day Pittsburgh Music Festival
Benefiting Autism Pittsburgh and Band Together Pittsburgh
PITTSBURGH, PA – After eight successful years supporting the autism community through the Pittsburgh Blues and Roots Music Festival, organizers Ron Esser and John Vento are excited to announce an exciting new chapter. This summer, the event will evolve into the Pittsburgh Music Festival Presented by Pittsburgh Brewing Company in Support of Band Together Pittsburgh and Autism Pittsburgh. A two-day celebration of local music, community, and charity taking place July 11–12 on the Iron City Stage at Pittsburgh Brewing Company in Creighton.
The newly expanded festival will continue its tradition of supporting Band Together Pittsburgh and Autism Pittsburgh, while introducing a broader lineup of all-local performers across multiple genres including blues, rock, Americana, country, jazz and more.
Originally rooted in three decades of blues programming, the festival’s evolution reflects a desire to grow the audience and celebrate the rich diversity of Pittsburgh’s local music scene.
“After 30+ years of blues, we are still connecting with our blues audience but also providing different types of music to broaden our reach,” said Ron Esser, affectionately known as “Moondog.” “We are excited to expand our audience for this new chapter and continue supporting through people living on the autism spectrum and their families with the power of live music.”
The two-day festival will feature multiple stages, dozens of bands, and a full celebration of Pittsburgh’s music community at the home of Pittsburgh Brewing Company.
“We can’t wait to collaborate with Ron Esser and John Vento for this new festival,” said Rebecca McCormick, Director of Events and Tours at Pittsburgh Brewing Company. “It’s an exciting opportunity to bring together multiple stages, multiple bands, and our community for a great cause. Pittsburgh Brewing Company is looking forward to creating a new tradition in Pittsburgh.”
The Pittsburgh Music Festival will feature a diverse lineup of regional talent, local food and beverages, and a vibrant atmosphere celebrating the city’s creative spirit while raising funds and awareness for important community organizations.
Co-organizer, John Vento says “As with the former Pittsburgh Blues & Roots Festival, the highlight for all of us is having our talented performers and production crew who live on the autism spectrum present”.
Tickets and additional information about the festival lineup and schedule will be announced soon.




Fantastic music, Excellent venue, and good people
Proceeds benefit Autism Pittsburgh and Band Together Pittsburgh, community-based nonprofits that use the power of music to enrich the lives of individuals on the autism spectrum and their families.
“This event is not only exciting and fun, but the money raised helps the Autism Pittsburgh and Band Together Pittsburgh continue providing musical opportunities to persons on the spectrum through our Autism Open Mic “, says Jesse Torisky, Esquire, President of the Autism Pittsburgh.
Ron Esser and musician John Vento are the founders of Band Together Pittsburgh, the force behind the Pittsburgh Music Festival. Vento states, “The highlight of this wonderful event is witnessing the performances and contributions by those on the autism spectrum.”
Donate to Support Our Cause
If you can not attend, please consider donating to support our cause.
Or send a check to:
Band Together Pittsburgh
364 Freeport Rd.
Pittsburgh, Pa 15238






