Saturday, September 24, 2022
Things are getting hot—it's almost time for the Festival of Combustion!

So what happens when your signature event is forced into a two-year hiatus? Well, if you're the Rivers of Steel team, you simply draw from the region's legendary work ethic and keep on planning. The result? A Festival of Combustion like no other!

We're so excited to welcome you back! To celebrate, we've added more demonstrations, more vendors, more fire and sparks—more of everything! Well, almost everything; the tickets for adults cost less than they did in 2019—and as always, kids are free!

This one-of-kind extravaganza on October 8 from 1:00 to 9:00 p.m. at the Carrie Blast Furnaces celebrates the industrial arts and American crafts through hands-on activities, trade demonstrations, tours, live music, fireworks, and more!

You won't want to miss the iron pours, flame performances, and an evening performance pour, which is like a regular iron pour that's had an energy drink—more sparks and special effects!

We'll also showcase our region's makers and buliders. Be sure to check out the glassblowing demonstrations, welding stations, metal fabrication, and more.

New this year: Stop by the Heritage Craft Tent presented by Knob Creek Bourbon Whiskey. Add to your knowledge of the most tasty of American crafts—whiskey distilling! There will be the opportunity to sample spirits and enjoy a cocktail. Blacksmithing demonstrations, live Appalachian music, and hands-on experiences round out the experience under the tent.

And if the weather cooperates, you'll also be able to add a tethered hot air balloon ride to your must-do list of experiences that day! 

Craft beer, food trucks, live music, tattoos, and a maker marketplace with regional artisans will add to the festival atmosphere.

And don't forget about the fireworks! Learn more or get your tickets now!
Tickets are just $20 in advance; kids under 18 are free!
This event is made possible through the generous support of our sponsors:
FEATURED PROGRAM
Metal Arts Workshops—Intro & Advanced
October 6 – 8, and October 3 – 8, 2022, Carrie Blast Furnaces
The heart of Festival of Combustion is the metal pour—and you can be a part of it. In the days before the big iron pour, Rivers of Steel is offering two metal arts workshops to craft the molds that will be cast that day!

Intro to Iron Casting is a three-day workshop that invites participants to work with experienced Rivers of Steel teaching artists and visiting artist Matt Crane to learn the basics of foundry work, including pattern and mold-making. It’s a step-by-step overview of the iron-casting process. For those already skilled in the process, a six-day workshop is also offered.
FEATURED STORY
Commmunity Spotlight—West Overton Village
In this conversation with Gita Michulka, Aaron Hollis, co-director of the West Overton Village and Museums, shares what's new at their campus—from its resurrected distilling operation to a wayfinding project.

The folks from West Overton will also be joining us in the Heritage Craft Tent presented by Knob Creek Bourbon Whiskey at the Festival of Combustion. Learn more about this heritage partner!
The Stove Deck of the Carrie Blast Furnaces always captures attention!
THERE'S MORE TO EXPLORE WITH
Rivers of Steel Tours
Discover the artistry and innovation of southwestern Pennsylvania’s rich heritage on a Rivers of Steel tour!

Connect with Pittsburgh’s steel industry heritage when you tour the Carrie Blast Furnaces. See the city from a new perspective when you hop on board the Explorer riverboat. Travel back in time to discover the artistry of handcrafted manufacturing at the Machine Shop. There's always more to explore with Rivers of Steel tours!
Help preserve our region’s industrial and cultural heritage! Your tax-deductible contribution will help ensure that Rivers of Steel can continue to offer vital, engaging, community-based arts, education, and heritage programs for the residents of southwestern Pennsylvania and beyond.