A decade after Pittsburgh proudly last hosted the International Gay Bowling Organization (IGBO) Mid-Year Conference in 2015, the city is thrilled to welcome the return of an IGBO-affiliated bowling event: the Burgh Area Rainbow Bowling Invitational (BARBI).
The newly formed BARBI Host Committee is building on this legacy, transforming the event into an annual tournament designed to celebrate and unite the LGBTQIA+ bowling community. Pittsburgh’s rich bowling history—home to the Steel City Bowling League and Stonewall Sports Pittsburgh’s bowling league—makes it the perfect venue for this exciting revival.
For its inaugural comeback in 2025, BARBI will host a 6-game mini-tournament on Saturday, March 29, featuring doubles (2-person) and team (4-person) events. To kick off the weekend, participants can enjoy an optional 9-pin no-tap singles event on Friday, March 28.
Looking ahead to 2026, BARBI will expand into a traditional 9-game tournament, complete with an awards banquet to celebrate the participants and champions.
Tournament registration, rules, and the full schedule will be announced soon. Be sure to follow their Facebook page for the latest updates and key event information.
Want to be part of the action? The BARBI Host Committee is seeking volunteers to help shape this exciting event. Interested individuals can email staff@barbipittsburgh.com for more information.
Let’s bowl, celebrate, and build community together!