Catch a Wave at Three Rivers Regatta; Dance the Night Away With No Bad JuJu (CPs Fri., 7/4/2014)

1) The EQT Three Rivers Regatta is Pittsburgh’s official Fourth of July celebration. The Point comes alive July 2 – 4 with live music, great food, and free activities, but the real focus is the bevy of boat races throughout Independence Day. Racing events kick off at 11 a.m. with an “Anything That Floats” competition for charity, including $5,000 in cash prizes. The pace picks up a bit at noon with crew racing by Three Rivers Rowing, and then its high gear all the way, with the F-2 Powerboat North American Championships time trials at 2 p.m., qualifying races at 4:30 p.m., and the championship at 7 p.m. Bring a blanket and grab a spot along the bank of the Allegheny River for a full day of fun on the water. Free. Point State Park, Downtown.

2) No Bad JuJu is an energetic eight-piece band that calls Pittsburgh home. It’s made up of veterans from all corners of the musical landscape, though most are either Pittsburgh born or educated. Vocalist Sabrina de Matteo has been performing in Pittsburgh since she sang with salsa bands in night clubs when she was 16; she’s gained acclaim for her stage work, winning the Gene Kelley Award for playing Timone in Once on This Island. Band cofounder and lead guitarist Mark Matteo has worked as a session musician with the likes of Taylor Swift, Katy Perry, and ‘N Sync; he’s written and recorded music for movies, TV shows, and commercials and performed live with Bo Diddley and Peter Noone. There isn’t room to recount the accomplishments of all eight members here, so be sure to visit their site for more info. NBJJ will headline today’s edition of the Live on the River Summer Concert Series at River’s Casino. Free. 7 p.m. 777 Casino Dr., North Shore.

3) The Steelers won’t take to the turf for another couple of months, but Heinz Field won’t be empty over the holiday as it plays host to a Fourth of July Celebration. Fun seekers will find food, games, and activities in addition to patriotic tributes and musical entertainment. The country fried main stage entertainment will kick off with The Joseph Sisters (5 p.m.), followed by The Stickers, a hot Pennsylvania country band composed of three brothers (6:30 p.m.).  They’ll be followed by headliner  Jerrod Niemann (8:15 p.m.). Gates open at 2 p.m. Free. 100 Art Rooney Ave., North Shore.

4) The Pirates are celebrating the Fourth by holding a Block Party with live music starting at 2:30 p.m. before taking on the Phillies. First pitch is at 5:05 p.m. 115 Federal St., North Shore.

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