4 Things to Do in Pittsburgh This February

PHOTO COURTESY DROPKICK MURPHYS

MUSIC

Dropkick Murphys

Stage AE | Feb. 12

For 30 years, the high-energy Celtic punk machine Dropkick Murphys has taken pride in serving up music for regular people.

If you follow them on social media, you know they are not shy about speaking out. They treat every injustice like a mosh pit, fearlessly jumping in. Their most recent album, “For the People,” makes that very clear.

Do your stretches, and prepare for a cathartic and visceral release for your feelings about the state of the world. The group is much more than a “I’m Shipping Up to Boston” needle drop; they are, quite simply, a voice for the people.

THEATER

“An Enemy of the People”

O’Reilly Theater | Feb. 4 through Feb. 22

Forget the “slippery when wet” sign — this public spa is a five-star death trap. Originally set in the 1880s in a small Norwegian town, “An Enemy of the People” follows Dr. Thomas Stockman, who discovers that the water in a popular bathhouse is contaminated.

He tells everyone, but instead of gratitude, his neighbors and so-called friends turn on him. Actor Jeremy Strong won a Tony for the 2024 Broadway revival, a modernized version of Henrik Ibsen’s classic. Now, the bathhouse becomes a contemporary spa — and themes of corruption, media misinformation and financial gain pitted against public health are all too familiar.

FOOD AND DRINK

Pittsburgh Winter Beerfest

David L. Lawrence Convention Center | Feb. 21

The Pittsburgh Winter Beerfest offers an excellent opportunity to perk up these frigid and gray days.

This 21-and-over event features more than 150 local and craft beers available for sampling and purchase. You will also find ciders, seltzers and some liquor. When you purchase either a day or night session ticket, you are free to sample beverages throughout — and, as a way to responsibly enhance your exploration, discounted Designated Driver tickets also are available.

Non-alcoholic beverages and food will round things out before your ride home.

CONVENTION

Horror Realm Con

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Pittsburgh — Green Tree | Feb. 27 through March 1

If your heart belongs to all things spooky, Horror Realm Con is calling your name. You’re diving headfirst into total horror immersion!

Among all of the terrifying screen queens and horror icons (William Katt of “Carrie,” Derek Mears of “Friday the 13th,” Felissa Rose of “Sleepaway Camp” and many more) in attendance, Pittsburgh will be represented by its very own master of macabre makeup, Greg Nicotero.

There also will be plenty of vendors around, offering the best place to shop for a bloody bounty.