Downtown Cincinnati’s Arnold’s Bar and Grill will host a special event dedicated to Mr. Cincinnati and the Man of Many Hats, Jim Tarbell.
Tarbell is one of Cincinnati’s most colorful characters, having served on Cincinnati City Council and as the city’s vice mayor as a member of the Charter Party. He also opened the first iteration of music venue Ludlow Garage in 1969 and was the owner of Arnold’s from 1976 to 1998.
The bar will host a book-signing for Tarbell’s newest book, Tarbellpalooza!, on Saturday, Jan. 24. The book features a joyful collection of memories and reflections, curated by Cincinnati historian Greg Hand, in a voice that reflects Tarbell’s humor, curiosity and love of Cincinnati. The book also celebrates community, creativity and “the beautiful chaos of a city built on music, meals and moments shared.”
The event will also double as a celebration of Tarbell’s life of saying ‘yes’ to Cincinnati, says Arnold’s.
“Jim Tarbell has spent decades documenting, defending and delighting in this city’s music, food, neighborhoods, bars and people. His fingerprints are everywhere, from legendary venues and late-night conversations to the stories that make Cincinnati feel like home,” the bar shared in a press release.
The event is open to the public. Tarbellpalooza! will be available to purchase and Tarbell will be on hand to sign books and tell stories. There will also be live music from Jake Speed and the Freddies from 8-11 p.m., and Braxton Brewing Company has created a special Tarbellpalooza beer just for the night.
Arnold’s Bar and Grill, 210 E. Eighth St., Downtown. More info: arnoldsbarandgrill.com.