Thrival Festival Returns with More Horsepower, Renewed Focus on AI/Advanced Tech

The annual Thrival Festival returns to Pittsburgh this September, coming off of a banner year in 2017 that welcomed over 14,000 attendees from 30+ states and multiple countries.

The festival’s two verticals — ”Humans X Tech” and “Music X Arts” — take place from September 19-21, hosted at multiple locations throughout Pittsburgh’s East End, as well as Highmark Stadium along the South Side riverfront.

Humans X Tech features a symposium on the “Future of Work” at the Kelly-Strayhorn Theater, an advanced technology summit at Phipps Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, and a one-night-only “interactive experience” at the historic Carnegie Museum of Art. As part of its mission, Thrival brings a dynamic mix of events that appeal to many disciplines and interests, while broadcasting Pittsburgh’s resurgence to a massive audience.

This year’s theme is “LIFE.CODE,” a focus that explores the revolution around artificial intelligence, robotics, advanced technology, and life sciences — and how it impacts our business, economy, and society.

“Pittsburgh is in the driver seat as we navigate the Fourth Industrial Revolution,” says Kenny Chen, Thrival producer and Innovation Director at Ascender — the nonprofit economic development organization that produces Thrival every year. “The opportunities are remarkable, but the challenges are significant. The time for thoughtful, solutions-focused discourse is now.”

Thrival’s unique, outdoor music and arts experience will make its new home along the South Side riverfront. Highmark Stadium, home of Pittsburgh F.C., will host Thrival Music X Arts.

To learn more about Thrival and to buy tickets, visit thrivalfestival.com. Follow Thrival on social media @thrivalfestival.