Playoff anticipation is growing in Pittsburgh as the Steelers get ready to face the Houston Texans in a Wild Card game at Acrisure Stadium. The city is showing its support with Terrible Towel window clings and various activities marking the 50th anniversary of the Terrible Towel.
“Fifty years ago, the Terrible Towel was created by the legendary sports broadcaster Myron Cope for the playoffs and quickly became not only a rallying symbol of Steelers Nation but one of the most recognized traditions in the world of sports,” said Ryan Huzjak, Steelers Senior Vice President of Business Operations. “As the Steelers head into the playoffs, and on the occasion of the Terrible Towel’s milestone anniversary, it is only fitting that we unite fans by bringing this iconic symbol to life with activations across Pittsburgh and beyond.”
Fans have opportunities to participate in several events. The Steelers Playoff Sweepstakes, presented by Neighborhood Ford Store, offers a chance to win tickets to the Wild Card Game along with travel accommodations and a gift card. Entries must be submitted by noon ET on Wednesday, January 7.
A playoff party will take place at Tequila Cowboy on Saturday, January 10 from 5-7 p.m., featuring prizes, ticket giveaways, and appearances by former players. No tickets are required for entry but an RSVP is encouraged.
Major businesses throughout Pittsburgh will light up their buildings in black and gold during playoff week. The Roberto Clemente, Andy Warhol, and Rachel Carson Bridges on the North Shore will also display team colors around game day.
Starting Thursday, January 8, fans can visit Terrible Towel-themed photo stations at The Terminal in the Strip District and inside Pittsburgh International Airport’s baggage claim area. Fans are encouraged to tag @Steelers and @SteelersUnite when posting photos for a chance to be featured on team channels.
Black & Gold Fridays continue through social media initiatives encouraging fans to wear team colors on Friday, January 9. A special coffee truck serving themed beverages will operate from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. outside Stage AE on Chuck Noll Way that same day.
The team will host a pep rally at a local school on Friday with appearances by mascot Steely McBeam and other entertainment.
Fans are invited to share videos twirling their Terrible Towels across X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, TikTok or Facebook using specific tags indicating their location for possible sharing by official accounts. Submissions can also be made through Steelers.com under “Terrible Towels Around the World.”
Supporters can purchase official merchandise online or at Pro Shop locations including Acrisure Stadium—where both historical exhibits such as those found at the Hall of Honor Museum and interactive experiences are available—and at Grove City Outlets or Tanger Outlets.
The Pittsburgh Steelers have been part of professional football since their founding in 1933 by Arthur J. Rooney Sr., competing as members of the National Football League. Over their history they have celebrated six Super Bowl championships (official website) and honored significant contributors like Terry Bradshaw and Joe Greene (official website). Community engagement remains central through fan experiences tied to historical milestones (official website).
