Group FAQs
Where should our bus drop us off at the Festival? Will someone direct us where to go?
The bus drop-off/pick-up point is located on Forbes Avenue, along Schenley Plaza. Your group will exit there and the bus will be directed to the appropriate parking location. A Festival volunteer will meet you and assist you with getting to your first performance. Please take off the bus anything you will need over the course of the day.
Where should our buses pick us up at the end of the day?
Pick-up will be at the same location as drop-off at your scheduled time. All festival attendees must be picked up at one time. Pick up must be completed with in ten minutes of the bus’ arrival or the bus may be asked to move and return when the entire group is ready for pick up.
Is there a place to store our lunches while we’re at a show?
You may store group lunches at the Volunteer Tent. A volunteer will be able to direct you to the tent upon your arrival. Please box/label the packages for easy identification. Please note that the lunches will not be closely monitored or refrigerated and we can’t be responsible for the items. Buses cannot return to drop off lunches during the festival.
What time do the doors open for the featured performances? Can we hold seats for others in our group?
Doors will open for seating 20 minutes prior to performance, barring any technical delay. All seating is general admission; there are no assigned seats unless your group has special needs for wheelchairs. We recommend gathering everyone in the group together before you enter the theater space rather than “holding seats” for the rest of the group, especially if their arrival is delayed. It is unlikely they will be able to find you once the show starts. Many shows may reach capacity and we request you not leave empty seats beside you or use a seat to store items; that way we can provide the best seating for everyone attending.
We’re seeing two shows at the same location. Can we stay in our seats?
You will be asked to exit the theater at the end of the first performance. Between productions, the crew and cast need to reset the stage and prepare for the next performance.
Someone in our group was unable to attend. Can we get our money back?
We’re sorry, but all sales are final. Our policy is to not provide refunds for those unable to attend.
How long does it take to get from one show to another show? Do we have to drive between the theater venues/grounds activities?
All the locations are within walking distance from each other so there is no need to return to your car and drive to the next venue. For example, walking from Bellefield Hall to the Schenley Plaza takes 5 minutes at normal adult pace.
We’re interested in seeing the Nationality Rooms in the Cathedral of Learning. Will they be open for tours?
The University of Pittsburgh will provide specialty themed tours of its unique Nationality Rooms. Please call the University of Pittsburgh at 412-624-6001 for more information.
What if it rains?
We suggest that you prepare for the weather as you would for any outdoor excursion. Your scheduled, ticketed performances are indoors and will be presented rain or shine. Unfortunately, there are not pavilions or other sheltered spaces for groups on the Festival grounds to wait for rain to pass. Some grounds activities and Community Stage performances may be cancelled due to inclement weather.
Where can we eat lunch?
There will be limited seating in Schenley Plaza on a first come first serve basis. There are also a number of open grassy areas — bring blankets along and enjoy a picnic.
Can we purchase food or souvenirs at the Festival? Any additional costs?
Yes, there will be a variety of food items available at the Food Court on Schenley Drive Ext. Souvenirs will be available for purchase and there are small fees to feed animals at the Petting Zoo and for caricature portraits.
Should we bring cash? Are there any ATM machines nearby?
All vendors are cash sales only. As well as show ticket sales at the venue. Show tickets can be purchased with cash, checks, or credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express are accepted credit cards) at the on site box office by the log cabin.
There are numerous ATMs and banking facilities located along both Forbes and Fifth Avenues.
Call Group Sales with other questions at 412-471-6930 (before the Festival begins) or 412-456-6666 (during the Festival).
