Thursdays With a Twist Brings Free Concerts, Farmers Market to Market Square.

PITTSBURGH -- Thursdays With a Twist is back, and it's better than ever with fourteen free outdoor lunchtime concerts in Market Square and a new twist this year, a Farmers Market. Sponsored by Representative Jake Wheatley, Jr. and the Department of Community and Economic Development, Citizens Bank, Dominion, Farmers Market Alliance, Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership (PDP) and the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, Thursdays With a Twist puts a jumpstart on your weekend with some of the region's best local talent, fresh produce and special treats. The lunchtime entertainment begins at Noon on Thursdays from June 2 through September 1, weather permitting. The Farmers Market will run from June 16 - October 27 from 11 AM - 2 PM, rain or shine.

"We are pleased to have been able to partner with a variety of organizations to establish the farmers market, which will enhance Downtown as the place to do business and have fun," said Michael M. Edwards, executive director of the PDP. "We have consistently heard the demands for a market from those who work and visit here and are happy to be able to realize that amenity in Market Square this summer and fall."

In addition to the weekly concerts, the Farmers Market will feature such summer's finest vegetables and fruits, including fresh tomatoes, sweet corn, juicy apples, and other delights such as ice cold root beer, hand-baked breads and gourmet jams. Market goers can enjoy local favorites from American Root Beer (Westmoreland County), Davis and Davis Gourmet Foods (Pittsburgh), Harvest Valley Farms (Butler County), Vibo's Bakery (Brackenridge) and Woodward's Orchard (Beaver County). The Farmers Market will operate on Thursdays from June 16 - October 27, from 11 AM - 2 PM.

"Market Square is the perfect space for a vibrant farmers market," said Rita L. Pollack, director of the Farmers Market Alliance. "The large Downtown worker and visitor population presents an exciting new opportunity. Local farmers and producers are excited about being in the center of Downtown."

The sizzling Thursdays With a Twist concert lineup is as follows. All concerts begin at Noon in Market Square, weather permitting. Bands subject to change.

June 2                   June 30                August 4
    Good Brother Earl        Shari Richards &       Missing Pages
                             Chris Francese
    June 9                                          August 11
    Akrasia                  July 7                 Walt Harper
                             Loose Booty
    June 16 - FARMERS                               August 18
    MARKET BEGINS!           July 14                Tony Janflone, Jr.
    Jill West                PovertyNeck
                             Hillbillies            August 25
    June 23                                         Five Guys Named
    Velveeta                 July 21                Moe
                             Soul Village
                                                    September 1
                             July 28                Bill Deasy
                             Airborne

For more information on Thursdays With a Twist or Downtown activities this summer, call the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership at 412.566.4190 or visit www.downtownpittsburgh.com.