The Elks Lodge is renowned as one of the best live music venues in the North side of Pittsburgh. In addition to its famed Banjo Night, it also hosts a big-band night on the first, third and fifth Thursdays of the month (7:15pm; $5 cover).

　　

Banjo Night

Find out why Pittsburgh is known as the Paris of Appalachia at the Elks' Banjo Night (Wednesdays at 7pm; free): the stage is packed with players and the audience sings along to all the banjo classics. The band is made up of Lodge members who treat Wednesdays as their practice night – but their skill and years of experience mean it's really a treat for the audience. Drinks are cheap and all profits from the food menu on the night are donated to charity.

　　

Do you have to be a member?

The Elks Lodge started as a single social club in New York in 1868 and lodges are now present in many cities across the USA. They do a lot of charitable work in local communities and act as a social hub for members and non-members alike. Though you do have to apply to be a member, and have the recommendation of existing members to be successful, membership isn't required to visit this Deutschtown institution and enjoy live music.