Things to do in Cincinnati: May 13 – May 19

Food, Clothing, and Toiletries Pantry  

1 p.m. – 2 p.m.
St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church (Evanston)
Free Admission
Hamilton County residents experiencing food insecurities are welcome to stop by —open Mondays and Tuesdays from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. Call 513-531-4337 for more information. Check out our list of other Cincinnati pantries and soup kitchens.

The Black Experience in 19th Century Cincinnati 

6 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Madisonville Branch Library (Madisonville)
Free Admission, Registration Required
Join a guest speaker from the Cincinnati Museum Center to learn about the Black citizens who made a difference for all citizens in 1800s Cincinnati. 

Jazz at the Park

6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Washington Park (OTR)
Free Admission
Award-winning vocalist Lili Shires will perform with pianist Steve Schmidt, showcasing the shimmering, energetic sound of classic and contemporary jazz. The series runs through October 28. 

Xtreme Hip-Hop Step Class with Sydney 

6:30 p.m.
Forest Park Senior Center (Forest Park)
$12
Do step aerobics with Sydney Kairee. Runs every Monday and Wednesday. Your first class is always free on Mondays. 

All Dirt Roads Taste of Salt Film Screening 

7:30 p.m.
Woodward Theatre (OTR)
Starting at $12
A lyrical, decades-spanning exploration of a woman’s life in Mississippi, the feature debut from award-winning poet, photographer, and filmmaker Raven Jackson is a haunting and richly layered portrait, a beautiful ode to the generations of people and places that shape us. 

Mello Mood Mondays: Pain is Love 

10 p.m. – 2:30 a.m.
Bugatti’s Ultra Lounge (Springdale)
Starting at $20
Kick back to the live sounds of DJ Fresh and Que Smoove in an intimate bar with an extensive cocktail menu featuring Cajun and Creole cuisine. Enjoy outdoor seating with free Wi-Fi. 

PLANNING AHEAD

21 Savage Rap Concert 

May 22
7 p.m.
Riverbend Music Center (Anderson)
Starting at $29
The GRAMMY-winning, multi-platinum global superstar known for his distinctive flow brings his American Dream tour to the Queen City with special guests J.I.D, Nardo Wick, and 21 Lil Harold. 

Fall Prevention Workshop 

10 a.m. – Noon
Forest Park Senior Center (Forest Park)
Free Admission
Hear from vision, medication, and physical therapy experts on reducing your fall risk and having fun. You do not have to be a resident of Forest Park or a Senior Center member to attend. Runs Tuesdays through June 4.

Community Action Agency Produce Pop-Up  

11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
The Welcome Project (Camp Washington)
Free Admission
Fruits, vegetables, and baked goods are available to anyone experiencing food insecurity on a first-come, first-served basis. No appointment is necessary. For more information, call 513-924-2021. Check out our list of Cincinnati pantries and soup kitchens.

Cheap Movie Tickets – Not Another Church Movie  

Showtimes are 11:40 a.m., 2:10 p.m., 4:40 p.m., 7:10 p.m.
Kenwood Theatre (Kenwood)
$7
Hoprah Windfall, fretting as her ratings plummet because her talk show and audience need new blood, calls on God, and demands His help. God and his angels decide there’s no better choice to replace her with than the hardest-working man in the world, Taylor Pherry. 

Happy Hour

5 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Yakitori Urban Hibachi Lounge (Roselawn)
Free Admission
Enjoy $7 drinks and $7 appetizers in an Asian-themed atmosphere infused with urban flare. Indulge in carefully curated dishes like zucchini tempura, yin-yang wings, hibachi fries, dragon salmon bites, and more. The event runs Tuesdays through Fridays.

Jazz at the Square

5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Fountain Square (Downtown)
Free Admission
Hear live neo-soul and jazz music featuring the Dee Marie Quartet. Grab your favorite drink and get ready to sway to the beat of an enjoyable time. The series runs through October 8.  

Clue Broadway Musical  

7:30 p.m.
Aronoff Center for the Arts (Downtown)
Starting at $35
Murder and blackmail are on the menu when six mysterious guests assemble at Boddy Manor for an unforgettable night. This comedy whodunit will leave fans and newcomers in stitches while the audience tries to figure out who did it. Runs through May 19. 

PLANNING AHEAD

RAD (Raising Access & Diversity) Women’s Collective Info Session  

8 a.m. – 9 a.m.
Luminary by La Terza (College Hill)
Free Admission, Registration Required
Indulge in a coffee gathering with the Adventure Crew, where you will delve into the myriad benefits of nature, with a particular emphasis on fostering equity and inclusion for communities historically underserved and marginalized by systemic barriers.

Growth from Creativity: KHAC 20th Anniversary Exhibition 

10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Kennedy Heights Arts Center (Kennedy Heights)
Free Admission
The exhibit displays the varied creations of 20 skilled artists, each of whom has dedicated their time and talent to curating, teaching, outreach programming, jurying, crafting public artworks, and volunteering, all contributing to the center’s success, expansion and influence. It runs through July 18.

FC Cincinnati Pre-Match at the Park

4 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Washington Park (OTR)
Free Admission
Festivities will include music and family-friendly activities in the park. Food trucks will be parked on Elm Street serving up delicious grub, and the Porch will be open serving beer, wine, hard seltzer, and drink specials. 

MORTAR ’10 for 10′ Happy Hour Birthday Party 

5:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Esoteric Brewing Company (Walnut Hills)
Free Admission
Celebrate MORTAR’s 10th Birthday with a special fireside chat featuring all three founders. Hear about their journeys as entrepreneurs, how their collective vision for MORTAR came to be, and their continued passion for community building. 

Stretching & Strengthening  

6 p.m. – 6:45 p.m.
Game On! Sports Complex (North College Hill)
$10
Rejuvenate yourself and start the week by enhancing your flexibility with yoga, low-intensity workouts, and stretching with Aniyah Janae. Yoga mats are provided. The class runs on Mondays and Wednesdays. 

Music, Medicine, and Pieces In Between: Jazz and Conversation with Dr. Alvin Crawford  

6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center (The Banks)
Members $5, General public $10
Join Dr. Alvin Crawford as he talks with medical student Abraham Araya about his life, career, obstacles, and passion. A reception with the CCM jazz quartet will follow. 

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PLANNING AHEAD

Jon B R&B Concert 

May 24-25
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Starting at $45
Known for his richly textured body of music, the Grammy-nominated singer will hit the stage live to serenade the audience, promising an evening of serene ambiance. 

Dr. Robert T Smith Jr. Inaugural Preachers Conference 

8:30 a.m.
Corinthian Baptist Church (Norwood)
$155
Consists of a lecture series, questions-and-answer segments, praise and worship, and teaching and preparation for preaching. As an early bird incentive, the first 300 registrants will have access to the highly anticipated I Hear Music Gospel concert, featuring an illustrious lineup including J.J. Hairston, Karen Clark Sheard, Fred Hammond, and John P. Kee. The event runs through May 17.

Hearts of Liberation: A Celebration of Radical Black Love as Collective Care  

10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Kennedy Heights Arts Center (Kennedy Heights)
Free Admission
Curated by Asha, the Artist, this exhibition traces the evolution of Black love from its historical roots to today. Each piece of art demonstrates how it has sustained and empowered communities through generations. The evening features light refreshments and a live DJ. It runs through June 29. 

Whitfield Lovell: Passages Art Exhibit 

5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Cincinnati Art Museum (Eden Park)
Free Admission
Explore over 80 evocative multisensory installations, conté crayon drawings, and assemblages that urge viewers to contemplate the ordinary lives and extraordinary journeys of the African American experience. 

Frisch’s Mobile Roller Rink 

4 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Court Street Plaza (Downtown)
Free Admission, $5 skate rental
Ready, set, skate! Enjoy outdoor skating with your family. No reservations are required. The event runs through May 19.  

Live@ U-Square

4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
U-Square Courtyard (Clifton)
Free Admission
Experience the ultimate unwind vibing to island grooves played on authentic steel drums by The SunBurners. This series is conveniently located near local restaurants and bars for your happy hour enjoyment.

Networking: It’s Who You Know

6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Esoteric Brewing Co. (Walnut Hills)
$10
Connect with industry professionals, make new friends, and expand your circle. Whether you are looking for career opportunities or collaborations or want to socialize, this event is for you. 

Major Taylor Cycling Club  

6:30 p.m.
Location Depends on skill level.
Free Admission
Enjoy safe and fun cycling geared toward African American communities. Skill levels range from easy (10-25 miles), moderate (15-75 miles), advanced (25 to 90 miles) and difficult (50+ miles). Departure locations, terrains, and routes vary. Runs every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. 

Mandy Gaines and Steve Schmidt Jazz Concert 

7 p.m.
Caffe Vivace (Walnut Hills)
Starting at $10
Hear the duo showcase a melodic repertoire of jazz improvisation coupled with blues in an intimate atmosphere while an array of drinks from the cocktail menu. 

Salsa on the Square 

7 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Fountain Square (Downtown)
Free Admission
Hear Pan-Caribbean tunes, merengue rhythms, and bachata melodies brought to life by the dynamic 11-piece ensemble, Son del Caribe, hailing from The Get Down Cincinnati. Elevate your evening further by immersing yourself in the art of Latin dance, taught by expert local instructors, ranging from beginner to intermediate levels. 

Kameron Corvet Concert 

9 p.m. – 1 a.m.
Revel OTR Urban Winery (OTR)
Starting at $20
Experience Kameron’s soulful rhythm & blues fusion and his renditions of tracks penned for stars like Sting and Toni Braxton. Brace for an intimate acoustic journey as Kameron debuts his trio, redefining the unplugged experience. 

PLANNING AHEAD

Parliament Funkadelic featuring George Clinton Funk Concert 

May 28
8 p.m.
Andrew J. Brady Music Center (Downtown)
Starting at $29.50
Do not miss the legendary American funk music collective, known for its innovative and influential contributions to funk music, which combines funk, soul, R&B, and psychedelic rock elements. 

Under One Roof: the African American Experience 

11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Seven Hills Neighborhood House (The West End)
Free Admission
Savor a complimentary lunch while immersing yourself in presentations spotlighting African American trailblazers who have left a mark on Cincinnati Music Hall throughout its history. From builders and politicians to athletes and performers, discover the enduring legacies of icons such as Duke Ellington, Billie Holiday, musicians from King Records, Heavyweight Champion Ezzard Charles, and many others. 

Live@ Short Vine Square 

4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Short Vine Square (Clifton)
Free Admission
Vibe and dance to the live feel-good sounds rooted in a gumbo of classic soul, R&B, jazz, pop, and gospel played by Daven Roberson and Friends. This series is conveniently located near local restaurants and bars for your happy hour enjoyment.  

I’m Every Woman Concert II 

6 p.m. – 11 p.m.
The Redmoor (Mt. Lookout)
Starting at $20
Sing and dance to live R&B music featuring the outstanding, powerful voices of Jessica Lynne, Dee Marie, Rosalind, and more. 

Karinne Turnbow Comedy Show 

7 p.m.
Commonwealth Sanctuary (Dayton, KY)
$15
Enjoy an evening of laughs while indulging in beers, wine, cocktails, gourmet deli sandwiches, dips, grain bowls, and more. 

I Hear Music in the Air Concert 

7 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Corinthian Baptist Church (Norwood)
Starting at $38
Attend a soul-reviving event that promises an unforgettable experience. The conference includes a concert, a legends ball, and a summit with various complimentary workshops. Enjoy a weekend filled with uplifting melodies, performances, workshops, and more, leaving a lasting impact on attendees. 

The Other Place Play 

8 p.m.
Falcon Theatre (Newport)
Starting at $15
Just as Juliana Smithton’s research leads to a potential breakthrough, her life is disorienting. One step at a time, a mystery unravels as contradictory evidence, blurred truth, and fragmented memories collide in a cottage on the windswept shores of Cape Cod. Runs through May 18. 

Trapxart Cincinnati 

10 p.m. – 1:30 a.m.
The Mockbee (Clifton)
$22
Immerse yourself in the talent of local artists as they showcase their creations, fostering a sense of community and appreciation for the arts in the heart of Cincinnati. Witness a captivating display of Black excellence in fashion, encouraging a celebration of style, creativity, and cultural expression. 

Afro Caribbean Boat Party 

10 p.m. – 2 a.m.
Queen City Riverboats (Dayton, KY)
Starting at $45
Grandly start your summer aboard a moonlight cruise. Let our resident DJs guide you on a musical odyssey featuring AfroBeat, AfroHouse, Amapiano, Soca, Dancehall, Reggae, Kizomba, Kompa, and more. 

PLANNING AHEAD

Ravi Coltrane featuring Gadi Lehavi & Ele Howell Jazz Concert 

June 2
8 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
Starting at $36.50
See the saxophonist, bandleader, and composer, Mr. Coltrane, renowned by critics and Grammy nominations. Across his expansive two-decade-plus career, he has lent his talents as a sideman to numerous artists while crafting remarkable albums for his repertoire and collaborative ventures. 

Impound Unit Auto Auction 

9 a.m.
Cincinnati Police Impound Lot (Camp Washington)
Free Admission
Place a bid and acquire a great deal on unclaimed autos. Bid on car brands such as Hyundai, Toyota, BMW, Chevrolet, Kia, Mercedes, and Nissan. Public viewing of vehicles will be held on May 17. 

Helpers Needed: Leadership Development 

10 a.m. – Noon
New Life Missionary Baptist Church (North College Hill)
Free Admission
Participate in an interactive workshop designed to cultivate your leadership abilities and equip you with the tools to make a meaningful impact as a community helper. 

Walking Tour: African American History along the Cincinnati Riverfront 

10 a.m. – Noon
John Augustus Roebling Statue (Covington)
Starting at $12
Explore the profound significance of the Ohio River for Cincinnati’s African American history of resistance, achievement, and leadership from the 1800s through the 20th century. Connect to the history of Margaret Garner, Marian Spencer, James Bradley, Cincinnati’s Black Brigade, and more.

Munchies and Mimosas! Hip-Hop & R&B Brunch

11 a.m.
Bogart’s (Clifton)
Starting at $25
Eat, drink, and dance during the #1 cultural and culinary experience day party. Enjoy a delectably diverse menu and refreshing drinks to wash them down while listening to the latest hits. Must be 21 and older. Online discounts are available. 

Roselawn Colors of Creativity Block Party 

Noon – 4 p.m.
Roselawn Condon Elementary School (Roselawn)
Free Admission
Join artist Annie Ruth for live entertainment, music, dance, cultural performances, games, food trucks, and more for the entire family to enjoy. 

Health and Wellness Fair

1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Peace Baptist Church (Avondale)
Free Admission
Experience a day filled with enjoyment, nourishment, physical activity, and access to valuable health resources. Engage with guest speakers, witness inspiring fitness demonstrations, undergo health checks, groove to music, and more. 

Bible Stories Dance Performance 

2 p.m. & 8 p.m.
Artsville (Madisonville)
Starting at $28
Renowned for their innovative approach to storytelling through dance, Revolution Dance Theatre brings a fresh perspective to familiar biblical accounts. Audiences will be transported through the creation of Adam and Eve, Joseph and Mary, and other iconic stories. Runs through May 19. 

FC Cincinnati Pre-Match at the Park 

4 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Washington Park (OTR)
Free Admission
Watch as FC Cincinnati take on St. Louis City in a soccer game filled with thrilling goals, breathtaking saves, and intense competition that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the final whistle blows. 

Ali Siddiq Comedy Show 

7 p.m.
Taft Theatre (Downtown)
Starting at $30
Have a night out with friends, enjoying a unique stand-up performance during his I Got A Story To Tell tour.

Brad Sativa Comedy Show 

7 p.m. & 9:30 p.m.
Bombs Away! Comedy (Northside)
$15
Are you looking for an intimate comedy club experience? See the Nashville-based comedian and actor featuring Josh Black and Michael Bishop Harris during a night full of laughter.  

Soul Violinist Omari Dillard 

7:30 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park (Mt. Adams)
Starting at $65
Prepare for the ultimate R&B experience starring the nationally acclaimed, classically trained violinist. Expect to sing, dance, and groove to recognizable classics by SWV, New Edition, Maxwell, Charlie Wilson, and more. 

Rhythm & Tee Concert 

7:30 p.m. – 11:30 p.m.
Silverton Cafe (Silverton)
Free Admission
Enjoy good food and drinks while listening to live, feel-good R&B and old-school music. 

PLANNING AHEAD

Adam Hawley and Julian Vaughn Jazz Concert 

June 8
7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Starting at $35
With chart-topping albums and countless guest appearances, now is your chance to experience the duo’s high-energy performance live. Secure your tickets today! 

Off-Trail Urban Hikers 

7:30 a.m.
Check the Facebook page for this week’s location.
Free Admission
Hike approximately two miles and enjoy nature with fabulous people. Runs every Sunday.

African Modernism in America Exhibit

10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Taft Museum of Art (Downtown)
Free Admission
This is your last chance to view this collection featuring 80 dynamic and vivid works of art created in Africa during the 1950s and ’60s. It explores the relationships between African artists and American patrons, artists, and cultural organizations amid the interlocking histories of civil rights, decolonization, and the Cold War.  

Music at the Market 

Noon – 2 p.m.
Findlay Market (OTR)
Free Admission
Hear live jazz and R&B music from violinist Preston Bell Charles III at Race Street Station. The series runs through May 31. 

Ebony J Media Learning Center Open House

1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Ebony J Media Learning Center (Norwood)
Free Admission
Meet the staff and learn about various programs, including the Media Coin Academy, DJ boot camp, podcast 101, social media 101, and more.

Glitter and be Gay with Cincinnati Men’s Chorus  

2 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
$25
Celebrate diversity, love, and acceptance through powerful anthems, empowering ballads, and infectious show tunes. Runs through May 19.

Vietgone Play

2 p.m.
Playhouse in the Park – Rosenthal Shelterhouse Theatre (Mt. Adams)
Starting at $33.50
See the partially true and endlessly entertaining tale of how his parents met in a refugee relocation camp in Arkansas during the Vietnam War. With irreverent humor, hip-hop, and heightened theatrical storytelling, this original story reinvents romantic comedy and captures your heart. Runs through June 2.

Smoooth Reunion Show & Fundraiser Concert

4 p.m. – 8 p.m.
The Redmoor (Mt. Lookout)
Starting at $30
Presenting tight vocal harmonies, exquisite choreography, and Vegas-style attire, the band reunites with Cincy Rockers and saxophonist Ed Thomas to deliver R&B and old-school classics from The Temptations, O’Jays, Drifters, and more.

2024 I Hear Music Legends Ball 

5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Delta by Marriott Hotel (Sharonville)
$80
This event celebrates people in our great city of Cincinnati and their accomplishments in music, ministry, and the marketplace. Honorees include Eric Oliver, Eric Watford, The Northern Kentucky Brotherhood Singers, Dr. Brian Walker, Shon “Estee” Hubble, and Miss Cleaster Mims.

Alton Walker Comedy Show

6:30 p.m.
Funny Bone (Liberty Township)
$27
Experience the multi-talented comedian, writer, speaker, and social media influencer who has gained recognition for his viral comedy content and works across various platforms. 

PLANNING AHEAD

Kindred The Family Soul R&B Concert 

June 7
7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Starting at $40
Do not miss out on this intimate experience; the duo brings captivating R&B and neo-soul sounds to the stage. Get your tickets now for a special evening of rhythm and connection.

Writer,
Latoya S.
The Voice of Black Cincinnati