Things To Do Archives - Cincinnati CityBeat https://www.citybeat.com/category/arts/things-to-do/ Cincinnati CityBeat is your free source for Cincinnati and Ohio news, arts and culture coverage, restaurant reviews, music, things to do, photos, and more. Wed, 04 Mar 2026 20:59:48 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://www.citybeat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/cropped-citybeat-favicon-BLH-Ad-Ops-Ad-Ops-32x32.png Things To Do Archives - Cincinnati CityBeat https://www.citybeat.com/category/arts/things-to-do/ 32 32 248018689 Dayton Art Institute offers free admission on three weekends in 2026 https://www.citybeat.com/arts/dayton-art-institute-offers-free-admission-on-three-weekends-in-2026/ Wed, 04 Mar 2026 20:59:46 +0000 https://www.citybeat.com/?p=253609

The Dayton Art Institute will open its doors without charge on three weekends this year. The first is happening this weekend from March 7–8. Other free weekends will be August 29–30, and November 14–15. Hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and noon to 5 p.m. Sundays. On those days, visitors can access the […]

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The Dayton Art Institute will open its doors without charge on three weekends this year.

The first is happening this weekend from March 7–8. Other free weekends will be August 29–30, and November 14–15. Hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and noon to 5 p.m. Sundays.

On those days, visitors can access the permanent collection, all current special exhibitions and family activities. A 15% membership discount will also be available for new and renewing members.

Current exhibitions include Engaged: Rings from around the World (through April 19), Exploring Feminism (through January 2027) and Tony Foster, Exploring Time (through May 17).

Later in 2026, the museum will open shows covering William H. Johnson, folk art quilts, Japanese photography and alternative photographic processes, among others.

Regular admission is $15 for adults, $10 for seniors and active military and $5 for students and youth. More information can be found on the Art Institute’s website.

The Dayton Art Institute was founded in 1919. The museum’s collection covers 5,000 years of art history and includes significant American, Ancient American, Asian, and European fine and decorative arts, totaling more than 27,000 objects.

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The Cincinnati International Wine Festival celebrates its 35th Anniversary https://www.citybeat.com/food-drink/cincinnati-international-wine-festival-celebrates-its-35th-anniversary/ Wed, 04 Mar 2026 16:24:27 +0000 https://www.citybeat.com/?p=253518

The largest wine festival in the Midwest returns to the Queen City this weekend, allowing you to sip wine from all over the globe right here in Cincinnati.

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The largest wine festival in the Midwest returns to the Queen City this weekend, allowing you to sip wine from all over the globe right here in Cincinnati.

The Cincinnati International Wine Festival, which started in 1991, is celebrating 35 years of operation. Beginning this Thursday and running through Saturday, plenty of exotic wines will be on hand for sampling, with proceeds from the festival going to more than 30 local nonprofits.

New this year is a 20-minute introductory course on how to properly taste wine and a class on the three biggest wine trends right now, with samples included. The main event this year is The Slam on Saturday night, which puts sommeliers head-to-head in a live, timed challenge as the audience watches and sips the same wines they’ll be tested on.

To date, the festival has raised more than $8 million for local nonprofits.

Tickets are available now on the festival’s website by clicking here.

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Celebrate global soccer culture this summer at The Banks https://www.citybeat.com/arts/things-to-do/celebrate-global-soccer-culture-this-summer-at-the-banks/ Wed, 04 Mar 2026 16:12:03 +0000 https://www.citybeat.com/?p=253525

For the first time since 1994, the United States will become the global capital of soccer — or football if you live anywhere other than America. The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be co-hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States, making it the first edition of the tournament to be organized by three countries […]

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For the first time since 1994, the United States will become the global capital of soccer — or football if you live anywhere other than America.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be co-hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States, making it the first edition of the tournament to be organized by three countries together. The competition will expand to 48 teams, who will compete in 104 matches held in 16 cities across the three host nations between June 11 and July 19, 2026.

Footy fans in Cincinnati don’t have to look too hard for their watch party spot. Just head downtown to The Banks, which will transform into the 2026 FIFA World Cup Viewing Village this June and July—a free, fan-friendly destination packed with energy, a giant screen, food, beverage and supporters cheering together from kickoff through the final whistle.

Every moment of the world’s biggest tournament will be shown at the Viewing Village, like the most exciting matches featuring top national teams including the United States, Spain, England, France, Brazil and Argentina.

Fans can enjoy live match broadcasts on the giant outdoor screen, food and drinks from local favorites at The Banks, a football supporter-driven atmosphere, and evening and weekend watch parties for the most popular matches.

Whether you are cheering for Team USA or celebrating global soccer culture, the Viewing Village is the place to be. Bring your friends, your flags, your jerseys and your passion as Cincinnati joins the world in celebrating the 2026 FIFA World Cup. For some matches, there will be split-screen viewing with FIFA matches and Reds games.

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Rhinegeist, CAC partner on THC seltzer event https://www.citybeat.com/food-drink/rhinegeist-cac-thc-seltzer-tasting-ohio-ban-cincinnati/ Fri, 27 Feb 2026 19:25:57 +0000 https://www.citybeat.com/?p=253240

Just days before Ohio will ban them, two of Cincinnati’s biggest names want you to try THC seltzers. Rhinegeist Brewery is partnering with the Contemporary Arts Center for “The (High) Art of Seltzers,” a guided tasting and museum tour about the craft, science and cultural conversation surrounding THC seltzers. The event takes place at the […]

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Just days before Ohio will ban them, two of Cincinnati’s biggest names want you to try THC seltzers.

Rhinegeist Brewery is partnering with the Contemporary Arts Center for “The (High) Art of Seltzers,” a guided tasting and museum tour about the craft, science and cultural conversation surrounding THC seltzers. The event takes place at the CAC on March 12 at 5:30 p.m.

Led by Nick Brehm, director of Innovation and Raw Materials and Tracey Ireland, vice president of Marketing at Rhinegeist, the evening will feature Fuzzy Bones, an alcohol-free sparkling beverage crafted with hemp-derived Delta-9 THC and real fruit juice.

Rhinegeist’s team will guide participants through the formulation, production and evolving landscape of hemp-derived beverages, offering insight into how hemp-derived Delta-9 THC is legally defined, nanoemulsion technology and its role in onset timing, what “quick onset” means in practice, understanding 5mg dosing and pacing consumption, and the influence of minor cannabinoids such as CBG and CBN.

Guests will sample three flavors–Blood Orange Tangerine, Lemon Blueberry, and Blackberry Hibiscus–and receive one 12 oz. 5mg can to take home.

“CAC’s ‘The Art of…’ series is about exploring creativity in all its forms, and we’re excited to partner with Rhinegeist to examine the craft, science, and sensory experience behind this evolving field,” said Carolyn Hefner, Chief of External Affairs at CAC. “Programs like this invite people into the museum in new ways—connecting contemporary art with everyday experiences and encouraging curiosity, conversation, and discovery.”

Following the tasting, participants will join CAC Adjunct Curator, Maria Seda-Reeder, for a guided exploration of the galleries. Slowing down with a work of art invites a different kind of awareness. This portion of the evening encourages guests to consider how perception shifts when we tune into our senses more intentionally.

The event is only available to guests 21+, and a valid ID is required. Tickets are $30, although members of the museum get a discount. For more information, click here.

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10 things to do in Cincinnati this weekend (Feb. 27-March 1) https://www.citybeat.com/arts/10-things-to-do-in-cincinnati-this-weekend-feb-27-march-1/ Fri, 27 Feb 2026 18:45:29 +0000 https://www.citybeat.com/?p=253015

Cincinnati has plenty to do this weekend, including art shows, raves, a symphony, a musical, a soccer watch party, and some visits from famous comedians, dancers and musicians. If you’re looking for even more to do every day of the week, visit the CityBeat events calendar, which is free to use if you have something planned that you’d […]

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Cincinnati has plenty to do this weekend, including art shows, raves, a symphony, a musical, a soccer watch party, and some visits from famous comedians, dancers and musicians.

If you’re looking for even more to do every day of the week, visit the CityBeat events calendar, which is free to use if you have something planned that you’d like to advertise to CityBeat readers.

John Mulaney: Mister Whatever

Friday, Taft Theatre, downtown, 7:30 p.m.

The wildly popular comedian brings his latest tour, “Mister Whatever,” to Cincinnati. The two-time Emmy winner and former SNL alum is best known for his Netflix specials and shows, the most recent of which was the 2024 live talk show John Mulaney Presents: Everybody’s in LA.

Bloodrave at Madison Theater

Saturday, Madison Theater, Covington, 9 p.m.

Do you wanna dance till you bleed? Are you tired of vibeless themed dance nights? Welcome to BLOODRAVE, a new goth/techno/industrial dance night that puts you at the center of your favorite neo futuristic dystopian rave scene. Killer DJs, special vampiric drinks, the occasional wailing guitar, and fiery cage dancers are just some of what you can expect for a night of debauchery you will never forget.

Created and curated by Grammy-nominated producer duo NOWHERE2RUN, BLOODRAVE brings together EDM regulars, metal showgoers, and anyone with a kinship for the darker side of night life. Put on some leather and get ready to live your ultimate BLADE and THE MATRIX goth rave fantasy. This is not your uncle’s goth night and you weren’t born for the light. So meet us in the dark. Featuring DJ Boywife, Flores Negras, Skylinn, Dahlia Parton, and ViciousWishes.

Cincinnati Home & Garden Show 2026

February 27–March 1, First Financial Center, downtown

The 56th annual Cincinnati Home + Garden Show returns to the newly renovated First Financial Center featuring 350+ home improvement, kitchen and bath, outdoor living, landscaping and gardening experts, all under one roof. This massive show is the region’s largest and includes immersive garden experiences and home improvement inspiration galore. Attendees will discover the latest trends, score exclusive show-only discounts, and gain expert advice by connecting directly with industry professionals.

Miguel: CAOS Tour

Friday, Andrew J. Brady Center, downtown, 8:30 p.m.

The beloved R&B singer is coming to Cincinnati on the tour supporting his latest album, CAOS. He’s best known for his 2017 triple-platinum single “Sky Walker” and his 2010 hit “Sure Thing,” which recently had a public resurgence thanks to TikTok.

Art After Dark at the Cincinnati Art Museum

Friday, Cincinnati Art Museum, Mt. Adams, 5-9 p.m.

Dance the night away to music from DJ K. Chantà, help create a collaborative mural with Not Your Average Paint & Sip, and take a self-guided tour of artworks that celebrate love and belonging, curated through a queer lens. (You might even find “pop-up” artwork displays, on view this night only!) Enjoy cash bars, food for purchase from the Terrace Café and Carl’s Deli, and free admission to the museum’s two ticketed exhibits: What, Me Worry? The Art and Humor of MAD Magazine and Longing: Painting from the Pahari Kingdoms of the Northwest Himalayas.

Dancing with the Stars: Live!

Saturday, Andrew J. Brady Center, downtown, 7:30 p.m.

Dancing with the Stars is hotter than ever — and now it’s hitting the road with a 74-date tour across North America! After a sold-out tour earlier this year, DWTS returns in 2026 with a brand-new live show, visiting Cincinnati, OH at The Andrew J Brady Music Center® on Saturday, February 28 and May 7. This year’s stage spectacular will feature fan-favorite professional dancers from the #1 hit television series in a mix of standout routines from DWTS’ record-breaking Season 34 and fresh performances created just for the stage.

LEGO: Art of the Brick

Feb. 27-March 1, W. 4th Street, downtown

After touring several cities and entering CNN’s list of “Must-See” exhibitions, the best-known LEGO® art exhibition in the world arrives in Cincinnati. Critically acclaimed, the collection features works by artist Nathan Sawaya which are made from millions of LEGO® bricks. This is the second-to-last weekend the exhibit will be in town.

Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra: Beethoven and Ravel

Feb. 27-March 1, Music Hall, Over-the-Rhine

Samuel Lee, winner of the prestigious Malko Competition and former Associate Conductor of the CSO, returns for a sublime evening of music. Louise Farrenc’s Overture No. 2 opens the program with a brief glimpse into the musical world of 19th-century France, which flows into the delicate dances of Ravel’s Le Tombeau de Couperin, laced with a tender homage to the French Baroque.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Musical

Saturday, Emery Theatre, Over-the-Rhine

In the winter of 2026, one of the most beloved children’s book series of all-time jumps from the page to the stage! Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Musical brings Jeff Kinney’s iconic characters to life in a hilarious and heartfelt production. The show will also feature original illustrations and animations by Kinney himself.

FC Cincinnati: Away vs. Minnesota

Watch parties all over the city, Saturday, 4:30 p.m.

FC Cincinnati heads to Allianz Field in St. Paul, Minnesota for an away game. Watch parties will take place at just about every sports bar in the downtown area. (If you need a suggestion, might we suggest official FCC bars Rhinehaus or Queen City Radio in Over-the-Rhine?)

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CPS jazz festival returns to the Aronoff this Saturday https://www.citybeat.com/arts/cps-jazz-festival-aronoff-saturday/ Thu, 26 Feb 2026 21:45:25 +0000 https://www.citybeat.com/?p=253115

Cincinnati Public Schools is once again hosting a jazz festival for the ages. In partnership with KidFuture, the district is presenting the 6th Annual CPS International Jazz Festival this Saturday at the Aronoff Center. The festival will showcase student musicians from across the district. Internationally acclaimed jazz trombonist Robin Eubanks will also perform. The event […]

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Cincinnati Public Schools is once again hosting a jazz festival for the ages.

In partnership with KidFuture, the district is presenting the 6th Annual CPS International Jazz Festival this Saturday at the Aronoff Center.

The festival will showcase student musicians from across the district. Internationally acclaimed jazz trombonist Robin Eubanks will also perform.

The event lasts all day and no ticket is required. Thirteen elementary school students will perform in the CPS Elementary Variety Show at 3 p.m., a panel on the history of jazz in Cincinnati will take place at 5 p.m., and the Cincinnati Jazz Academy Ensemble will hit the stage at 7 p.m.

The evening’s final concert is “the culmination of a full day of music, learning and celebration highlighting the creativity of Cincinnati Public Schools students and professional artist Eubanks,” according to a statement released by CPS.

For more info on the 6th Annual CPS International Jazz Festival, click here.

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Monster Jam returns to Cincinnati in July at Heritage Bank Center https://www.citybeat.com/arts/monster-jam-july-heritage-bank-arena/ Thu, 26 Feb 2026 11:00:00 +0000 https://www.citybeat.com/?p=253002

The ultimate family motorsports experience roars back into Cincinnati as Monster Jam takes over Heritage Bank Center on July 11-12. The event will feature 12,000-pound trucks, world champion drivers and gravity-defying stunts. Monster Jam delivers an “unexpected, unscripted and unforgettable weekend of full-throttle fun,” according to a release. The Monster Jam Pit Party is scheduled […]

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The ultimate family motorsports experience roars back into Cincinnati as Monster Jam takes over Heritage Bank Center on July 11-12.

The event will feature 12,000-pound trucks, world champion drivers and gravity-defying stunts. Monster Jam delivers an “unexpected, unscripted and unforgettable weekend of full-throttle fun,” according to a release.

The Monster Jam Pit Party is scheduled for Saturday and Sunday from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m., with an event ticket and Pit Party Pass required. Families can get up-close access to the trucks, meet drivers, collect autographs and take photos before the engines fire up.

Fans can expect to see iconic trucks, including Grave Digger, driven by Weston Anderson; El Toro Loco, celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2026 and driven by Fernando Martinez; and Bailey Circuit, inspired by Ringling’s robotic pup.

Event Schedule:
Saturday, July 11– 12 p.m. & 6 p.m.
Pit Party: 9:30–11 a/m/

Sunday, July 12, 2026 – 12 p.m.
Pit Party: 9:30–11 a.m.

Tickets are on sale now at Ticketmaster.com, with general public sales beginning March 3. Fans can sign up as Monster Jam Preferred Customers for exclusive pre-sale access.

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Cincinnati Reds to host concert series at GABP this summer https://www.citybeat.com/music/cincinnati-reds-post-game-concert-series-2026/ Fri, 20 Feb 2026 19:11:20 +0000 https://www.citybeat.com/?p=252686

The Cincinnati Reds are once again hosting a concert series at Great American Ball Park. This summer, fans can enjoy post-game concerts from country star Jon Pardi, EDM icon Marshmello, and rap legends Rick Ross and Ludacris in the Ohio Lottery Post-Game Concert Series. Anyone who attends the Reds game prior to the concert can […]

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The Cincinnati Reds are once again hosting a concert series at Great American Ball Park.

This summer, fans can enjoy post-game concerts from country star Jon Pardi, EDM icon Marshmello, and rap legends Rick Ross and Ludacris in the Ohio Lottery Post-Game Concert Series.

Anyone who attends the Reds game prior to the concert can watch the show for free.

Fans who simply wish to attend the concert or who want to be up close and personal with their favorite artist can purchase a Field Pass from the Reds.

More details on each performer are below, provided by the Reds.

The Cincinnati Reds Post-Game Concert Series for 2026, presented by the Ohio Lottery.

Jon Pardi – Wednesday, July 8 vs. Philadelphia Phillies (7:10 p.m. game time)
MCA Nashville artist Jon Pardi began careening down the highway over 10 years ago, leading the charge to modernize honkytonk with roaring guitars and a good-time spirit. Pardi’s reputation for punchy, against-the-wind bravado has only grown, with his just-released fifth studio album, Honkytonk Hollywood. The 17-track album is the spiritual successor to his fearless breakout hits, once again showcasing his commitment to staying true to himself, yet giving his signature sound a new spark. With four Top 5 albums under his belt – including 2016’s Platinum #1, California Sunrise – Pardi has solidified his place in country music.

Marshmello – Friday, July 31 vs. Pittsburgh Pirates (6:10 p.m. game time)
Marshmello is a Grammy-nominated, genre-defying artist and producer whose influence spans the global music landscape. With more than 16.8 billion Spotify streams, over 68 million monthly listeners, and top-tier status on both Spotify and YouTube, he remains one of the world’s most-streamed artists. His collaborations include Khalid, Kane Brown, Selena Gomez, Jonas Brothers, P!NK and Sting, among many others. Career highlights include a Grammy nomination for Best Dance/Electronic Album, the Billboard Hot 100 hit “Numb,” the Latin album Sugar Papi, and the historic chart-topping crossover “Miles On It.”

Rick Ross – Friday, Aug. 14 vs. Miami Marlins (6:10 p.m. game time)
Rick Ross exploded onto the global stage with Port of Miami (2006), debuting at #1 on the Billboard 200 and instantly redefining modern luxury rap. Built one of hip-hop’s most powerful empires by founding Maybach Music Group (MMG), launching and elevating careers of stars like Meek Mill and Wale. Delivered a run of commercial dominance, with 11 consecutive top 10 Billboard 200 albums and multiple #1 debuts across two decades. Rick Ross has earned multiple Grammy Award nominations, including Best Rap Album (God Forgives, I Don’t) and Best Rap Performance, placing him among hip-hop’s elite peer group.

Ludacris – Friday, Sept. 4 vs. Milwaukee Brewers (6:10 p.m. game time)
The career of three-time GRAMMY Award-winning musician, actor and philanthropist Chris “Ludacris” Bridges can best be described as remarkable. As a recording artist, he has sold more than 24 million albums worldwide, thanks to the blockbuster success of such singles as “Stand Up,” “Get Back,” “Southern Hospitality,” “Number One Spot,” “Money Maker,” and “My Chick Bad.” All these records were accompanied by ingenious videos that demonstrated Bridges’ far-reaching imagination and his willingness to stretch the boundaries of what rap videos should look and feel like. This past October marked the 25th anniversary of Ludacris’ groundbreaking debut album, Back for the First Time — a milestone that not only celebrates his legacy but also sets the stage for what’s next.

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10 things to do in Cincinnati this weekend (Feb. 20-Feb. 22) https://www.citybeat.com/arts/10-things-to-do-in-cincinnati-this-weekend-feb-20-feb-22/ Thu, 19 Feb 2026 11:00:00 +0000 https://www.citybeat.com/?p=252561

Sports, arts, theatre, live music, adorable pets, vintage furniture—whatever you’re trying to see this weekend, Cincinnati’s got you covered. If you’re looking for even more to do every day of the week, visit the CityBeat events calendar, which is free to use if you have something planned that you’d like to advertise to CityBeat readers. FC Cincinnati Home Opener vs. […]

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Sports, arts, theatre, live music, adorable pets, vintage furniture—whatever you’re trying to see this weekend, Cincinnati’s got you covered.

If you’re looking for even more to do every day of the week, visit the CityBeat events calendar, which is free to use if you have something planned that you’d like to advertise to CityBeat readers.

FC Cincinnati defender Nick Hagglund (4) waves to fans after the final home game of the season on Sunday, Nov. 23, 2025 at TQL Stadium in Cincinnati, Ohio. // Photo: Anders Saling

FC Cincinnati Home Opener vs. Atlanta United FC

Saturday, February 21, TQL Stadium, West End, 4:45 pm

FC Cincinnati is back in action. Their home opener this Saturday should prove to be a spectacle, especially with their new kit and new concessions menu, which you can learn more about by clicking here.

Procter & Gamble Hall Photo: Cincinnati Arts Association

Shucked! at the Aronoff Center

February 18-February 22, Aronoff Center, downtown

Shucked is the Tony Award®–winning musical comedy The Wall Street Journal calls “flat out hilarious!” And nobody knows funny like economists. Featuring a book by Tony Award winner Robert Horn (Tootsie), a score by the Grammy® Award–winning songwriting team of Brandy Clark and Shane McAnally (Kacey Musgraves’ “Follow Your Arrow”) and directed by Tony Award winner Jack O’Brien (Hairspray), this corn-fed, corn-bred American musical is sure to satisfy your appetite for great musical theater.

20th Century Cincinnati Vintage Modern Expo

February 20-22, Sharonville Convention Center, Sharonville

The 20th Century Cincinnati Vintage Modern Expo (20CC) will commemorate its
31st anniversary from February 20–22, 2026, at the Sharonville Convention Center. This esteemed event, recognized as the longest-running vintage modern show in the United States and the largest in the Midwest, attracts collectors and enthusiasts from across the nation. 20CC spans over 40,000 square feet and features more than 70 dealers showcasing an array of vintage modern furniture, lighting, art, ceramics, jewelry, fashion, and décor, encompassing styles from mid-century modern to postmodern movements such as Brutalist and Memphis.

My Furry Valentine

February 21-22, Spooky Nook Sports Champion Mill, Hamilton, 12-5 pm

My Furry Valentine (MFV), the region’s largest pet adoption event, returns for its
milestone 15th year on Saturday, February 21st and Sunday, February 22nd at Spooky Nook
Sports Champion Mill. General admission runs from 12–5 p.m. both days, with Early Bird Hours on Saturday from 10 a.m.–12 p.m. Through a grant from the Give Them Ten movement, cat adoptions will be just $25.

The mega-adoption event brings together dozens of animal shelters and rescue groups, showcasing nearly 1,000 adoptable animals under one roof and helping hundreds find new homes each year. In addition, dozens of satellite locations across the region will host adoption events throughout the Official “Pet Adoption Weekend” in the City of Cincinnati and City of Hamilton, offering many hundreds more animals the chance to be adopted.

The Esquire Theatre Photo: Emerson Swoger

Secret Base Cinema: “Top of the Heap” at the Esquire Theatre

Saturday, February 21, Esquire Theatre, Clifton, 7:30 p.m.

Join Secret Base Cinema and the Esquire Theatre for a special screening of the 1972 cult classic Top of the Heap with the director, Christopher St. John. Tickets are available through the Esquire website. Saturday, February 21st, the director will introduce his film along with a Q&A to follow after the film. Autographs will also be welcome for those that are interested. Do not miss this extremely rare opportunity to see and hear the director’s vision and mindset behind the making of the movie.

Jarrod Lawson at Ludlow Garage

Friday, February 20, Ludlow Garage, Clifton, 6 p.m.

R&B crooner Jarrod Lawson is touring in Cincinnati this weekend at the Ludlow Garage. Known for his rich, multi-layered vocal harmonies and lush, atmospheric keyboards, Lawson’s music delivers a tender meditation on acceptance and emotional release. He is known for his sophisticated blend of soul, jazz, and R&B, which has earned international acclaim—including from Michelle Obama, who publicly named him as an artist she was listening to and called him “this young jazz, blue-eyed soul kid.”

The Contemporary Arts Center Photo: Contemporary Arts Center Facebook

Paloozanoire’s “FACES: Don’t Get It Twisted – Untangling a Textured Legacy”

Friday, February 20, Contemporary Arts Center, downtown, 5-8 p.m.

The Contemporary Arts Center (CAC) in downtown Cincinnati welcomes the fourth installment of Paloozanoire and its mission to celebrate, uplift, and illuminate the talent of diverse artists from across the nation with the opening of “Faces: Don’t Get it Twisted –Untangling a Textured Legacy” on Friday, Feb. 20, from 5 to 8 p.m. For the fourth installment of this exhibition, Paloozanoire focuses on artists who use their work to shed light on the storytelling traditions surrounding textured and ethnic hair across generations and its enduring impact worldwide.

“Faces” highlights works by Stephanie Amon, Nate Austin, Jonae Boatwright, Marquest Cathcart, Blessing Chidera, Yann Couedor, Nyzere Dillon, Asia Estelle, Peyton Euria, Chibuike Ifedilichukwau, Kid Kardiac, Eddy Ochieng, Petie Parker, Reggie Singleton, STU, and Kyra Watkins. The exhibition will be open through March 22, in the 4th floor gallery of the CAC.

Cincinnati Coffee Festival’s Espresso Martini Tasting

Friday, February 20, The Banks, downtown, 6-9 p.m.

Coffee meets cocktail hour during the Cincinnati Coffee Festival’s Espresso Martini Tasting crawl on Friday, Feb. 20 at The Banks, benefiting the Ohio River Foundation. For $20, guests can sample espresso martinis at each stop, and enjoy drink and food specials along the way. The crawl runs from 5:30–8:00 p.m. and includes tastings at E+O Kitchen, Red Leprechaun and Taste of Belgium, with participants free to start anywhere and move at their own pace.

6th Annual Voices of Freedom: “Dig and Be Dug in Return”

Saturday, February 21, Kennedy Heights Arts Center, Kennedy Heights, 7:30 p.m.

For the sixth year, Juneteenth Cincinnati and Kennedy Heights Arts Center
are teaming up to present Voices of Freedom, a visual and performing arts series examining
Black history from a contemporary perspective, from January 31 to April 11, 2026.

Inspired by the closing lines of Langston Hughes’ Motto, “Dig and Be Dug In Return” this Saturday is an ode to Black expression, community, and collective healing. This curated performance honors the ways we gather, create, and care for one another as we work to break generational cycles and reclaim joy. Rooted in the sounds of Jazz, Soul, and R&B, the experience invites audiences into a space where vulnerability, resilience, and celebration coexist. Featuring performances by The Josh Strange Quartet, Camille Jones, DJ Rah D, and Daniel Noel.

Cincinnati Home & Garden Show 2026

February 20–22 and February 27–March 1, 2026, First Financial Center, downtown

The 56th annual Cincinnati Home + Garden Show returns over the next two weekends to the newly renovated First Financial Center featuring 350+ home improvement, kitchen and bath, outdoor living, landscaping and gardening experts, all under one roof. This massive show is the region’s largest and includes immersive garden experiences and home improvement inspiration galore. Attendees will discover the latest trends, score exclusive show-only discounts, and gain expert advice by connecting directly with industry professionals.

Local interior design, real estate, DIY, remodeling, gardening, horticulture and nature experts from local organizations including the non-profits Cincinnati Nature Center and Habitat for Humanity of Greater Cincinnati will host engaging, educational sessions. Celebrity Guest Craig Conover from Bravo’s hit reality series Southern Charm will speak February 27 and 28, offering special pillow giveaways, meet-and-greets and more. Guests can also enter to win pillows for a year from Craig’s popular brand, Sewing Down South.

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Cincinnati’s St. Patrick’s Parade returns, adds local sports icon as Grand Marshal https://www.citybeat.com/arts/things-to-do/cincinnatis-st-patricks-parade-tony-pike/ Tue, 17 Feb 2026 17:05:19 +0000 https://www.citybeat.com/?p=252430

Feeling lucky? The 58th annual Cincinnati St. Patrick’s Day Parade returns on Saturday, March 14, with a familiar face at the helm. Former University of Cincinnati quarterback and current Cincinnati sports broadcaster Tony Pike will serve as this year’s Grand Marshal. Beloved by former Bearcats everywhere for leading the team to an undefeated season in […]

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Feeling lucky? The 58th annual Cincinnati St. Patrick’s Day Parade returns on Saturday, March 14, with a familiar face at the helm.

Former University of Cincinnati quarterback and current Cincinnati sports broadcaster Tony Pike will serve as this year’s Grand Marshal. Beloved by former Bearcats everywhere for leading the team to an undefeated season in 2009, Pike brings hometown pride and leadership to this year’s celebration, embodying the spirit of community that defines the event.

The parade will begin at 11:45 a.m. along Mehring Way near Paycor Stadium, turn north on Joe Nuxhall Way, and conclude at The Banks. It celebrates nearly six decades of Irish heritage, culture and community pride. 

“The St. Patrick’s Day Parade is a treasured Cincinnati tradition,” said Chris Schulte, parade organizer. “For 58 years, it has brought our community together to celebrate Irish heritage, support local organizations, and share in a day of joy and connection.”

Of course, it wouldn’t be St. Patrick’s Day without Guinness. The Irish beer brand is sponsoring the entire parade, and will be kicking off the city’s shamrock-themed festivities with Cincinnati’s Official Guinness Keg Tapping at the popular downtown sports bar Holy Grail on Wednesday, March 11 at 6 p.m.

For those who can’t make the parade, FOX19 will broadcast the parade live across the Cincinnati area. FOX19 reporter Betsy Ross, who served as 2024’s Grand Marshal, will co-host parade coverage with Kathrine Nero, the Vice President of Media at Game Day.

The post Cincinnati’s St. Patrick’s Parade returns, adds local sports icon as Grand Marshal appeared first on Cincinnati CityBeat.

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