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Summer Visitors Bring Big Economic Boon

Attendees to every one of Pittsburgh's six summertime conventions are expected to generate about $1,000 each, says Jason Fulvi, executive vice president for VisitPittsburgh.

The group expects 40,000 to flood the Steel City for convention season, bringing in about $40 million total.

“We have more conventions and larger conventions than ever before," Fulvi says. "So (guests) will be able to really partake in the different activities, festivals and attractions that we have."

Pittsburgh should be a gracious host.

The Market Square Farmer’s Market returns next week, coinciding with a Bacon Festival in Station Square. Later in the month, Kenny Chesney once again graces Heinz Field. Yoga in the Square starts soon, and Open Streets parties from Lawrenceville to Downtown invites Pittsburghers to pack the alleys for four hours on the last Sunday of every month.

Three Rivers Arts Festival kicks off a ten-day celebration in June, with Pride Fest to follow June 14. More free music takes over the Cultural District June 19-21 with JazzLive International.

With July comes the Regatta, Anthrocons and gallery crawls. Look out for BikeFest and the Pittsburgh Renaissance Festival in August.

“It’s going to be an exciting summer,” Fulvi says.

For a full schedule, check out VisitPittsburgh here.

Jess was accepted as a WESA fellow in the news department in January 2014. The Erie, PA native attends Duquesne University where she has a double major--broadcast journalism and political science. Following her anticipated graduation in May 2015, she plans to enter law school or begin a career in broadcast journalism.