On Friday, August 23, 2024, nearly 1,000 guests celebrated the future of Pittsburgh’s riverfronts on the Rooftop Terrace of the David L. Lawrence Convention Center for Riverlife’s annual fundraiser, Party at the Pier: Galactic, presented by Peoples. The sold-out event celebrated 25 years of Riverlife and the 15th anniversary of this iconic event.

The evening buzzed with a cosmic energy as guests dazzled in futuristic fashion–shimmering in shades of silver, sparkling iridescents, and glittering hues–capturing the essence and beauty of Pittsburgh’s riverfronts. The VIP Reception presented by PNC set the stage with celestial-themed cocktails and a gorgeous spread of hors d’oeuvres. As the main event commenced, guests soaked in panoramic views of the city’s riverfronts, bridges, and skyline from the First National Bank Sky Lounge set to the soothing sounds of DJ Hypnotyza x Jason Kendall.

Every corner of the rooftop offered new delights, including the custom “Astral Transaction Machine” ATM, which dispensed out-of-this-world custom favors like LED lip gloss, cyber glasses, and fiber optic wands that lit up the night. The evening reached new heights on the David L. Lawrence Convention Center LED Infinity Dance Floor, where a star-studded performance by DC Synergy transported guests to another dimension. As the evening came to a close, partygoers enjoyed late-night treats of tasty donuts and French fries before they headed out to the official afterparty at Ritual House.

Chaired by the esteemed Wirginis Family, celebrated for their leadership of the iconic Gateway Clipper Fleet, the 15th annual Party at the Pier illuminated the future of Pittsburgh’s riverfronts. A dazzling moment of the evening featured a beautifully lit Gateway Clipper boat sailing by, casting a glow on our cherished waterways. Thanks to the tremendous generosity of sponsors like Peoples, the David L. Lawrence Convention Center, First National Bank, and PNC, Riverlife achieved a record-breaking $420,000 in support of Pittsburgh’s riverfronts.

These funds support Riverlife’s mission to create, activate, and celebrate Pittsburgh’s riverfronts. Overseeing a $150 million investment, Riverlife has transformed decaying, abandoned spaces along the riverfront into 15 miles of award-winning parks, trails, and green spaces, spanning 1,055 acres.

As Riverlife marks its 25th year, the organization is entering a period of reflection and growth, highlighted by significant programming announcements, deepend regional partnerships, and a continued commitment to making Pittsburgh’s riverfronts accessible, welcoming, and engaging for all. The city’s rivers and riverfronts are widely recognized as a pivotal part of Pittsburgh’s future, and the success of this year’s Party at the Pier is proof that Riverlife and its supporters are ready for lift-off.

For more information about Riverlife and how you can contribute to the vision of inclusive riverfronts for all, visit the website.

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