Things to do in Black Cincinnati this week!
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Features
Ohio SNAP EBT Cardholder Discounts and Perks
In addition to groceries and food, Ohio SNAP participants can access special EBT card discounts in the Cincinnati area. Save money with EBT benefits like discounted general admission tickets, phone plans, and long-term memberships.
Experience the Best Cincinnati Halloween and Fall Activities for All Ages
From pick-your-own pumpkin patches to haunted houses, these attractions bring together culture, creativity, and a sense of community spirit. Local events provide the perfect opportunity to enjoy the fall season while supporting family-owned organizations and businesses
Monday, October 19
Early In-Person Voting Hours
8 a.m. – 5 p.m.; select days through November 1
Voting in the 2026 General Election is an essential opportunity to make your voice heard. Registered voters may cast an early in-person ballot at their county board of elections.
Urban Expungement Program Information Session
6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Holloman Center for Social Justice (Avondale)
Free Admission
An eligible expungement can open doors to employment, housing, education, and greater economic stability. During this session, participants will receive information about eligibility requirements and available assistance.
Jazz in the Park: Daniel Bennett & the Dirty Shirleys
6 p.m.
Washington Park (OTR)
Free Admission
See a swinging performance that evokes the neon buzz of a martini high on the 1950s Vegas Strip. Ends October 26.
Cindependent Presents Black Cinema: WITHIN OUR GATES (1920)
7:30 p.m.
Woodward Theater (OTR)
Free Admission
This landmark of Black cinema offered a sharp counterpoint to “Birth of a Nation,” the 1915 white supremacist fever dream that exalted the South’s Lost Cause credo and the Ku Klux Klan. The YOLO Bank will play the score live.
PLANNING AHEAD
Dear Future Us: An Afternoon of Belonging & Possibility with Dr. Shawn Ginwright
November 5, 3 p.m. – 5 p.m.
The Transept (OTR)
Interact for Health invites guests to an afternoon with Dr. Ginwright, author of The Four Pivots, for a discussion on a systems-level approach to building a healthier, more connected future, and the pivots we can make together to make this vision a reality.
Tuesday, October 20
St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church Food Pantry
1 p.m. – 2 p.m.
St. Andrew’s Episcopal (Evanston)
Free Admission
Hamilton County residents experiencing food insecurity can access food and clothing at the pantry on Mondays and Tuesdays. Call 513-531-4337 for more information. Check out our list of other Cincinnati pantries and soup kitchens.
Happy Hour
4 p.m. – 6 p.m.
KickbacksCincy (Hartwell)
Free Admission
As a versatile Black hangout spot, drink options include fruity cocktails, beer, and slushies. Food options include appetizers like wings, mozzarella sticks, and sliders. The venue features large TV screens, music, pool tables, and a large dance area.
Cincinnati Public School Town Hall
6 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Walnut Hills High School (Evanston)
Free Admission
The superintendent and treasurer plan to discuss what the levy will fund, how much it will cost, and what will happen in the next budget cycle if the ballot measure is unsuccessful.
BOOP! The Musical Broadway
7:30 p.m.
Aronoff Center for the Arts (Downtown)
Starting at $47.25
For almost a century, the Betty Boop® character has won hearts and inspired fans worldwide with her trademark looks, voice, and style. In this production, Betty’s dream of an ordinary day off from super-celebrity in her black-and-white world leads to an adventure of color, music, and love in New York City.
PLANNING AHEAD
Psycho in Concert Symphony
October 27, 7:30 p.m.
Music Hall (OTR)
Alfred Hitchcock’s legendary thriller Psycho comes alive on the big screen as its spine-tingling score is performed live-to-film by the Cincinnati Pops.
Wednesday, October 21
Witness to the Journey Exhibit: Matt Herron and the Deep South, 1965
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Freedom Center (The Banks)
Starting at $17
A compelling selection of 28 black-and-white photographs by the renowned civil rights photographer. Learn about the historic Selma to Montgomery March, a pivotal moment in American history that directly led to the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, through November 8.
State of Cancer Forum & Health Expo
9 a.m.
Urban League of Greater Southwestern Ohio (Avondale)
Free Admission
Mobile mammograms and vaccinations as well as prostate, lung cancer, and HIV/HPV screenings. To schedule a mammogram, call 513-584-PINK (7465).
CAA Mobile Pantry
2 p.m.
Community Action Agency (Bond Hill)
Free Admission
Hamilton County residents experiencing food insecurity can access fruit, vegetables, and baked goods on a first-come, first-served basis. Check out our list of other Cincinnati pantries and soup kitchens.
Black Tech Week Cincinnati Meetup
5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Esoteric Brewing Co. (Walnut Hills)
Free Admission
Local founders, builders, creatives, and curious minds gather for a relaxed night of good energy and useful conversations. Swap ideas, meet new people, and get inspired by the momentum of Black innovation in tech and beyond.
Your Brain on Music with DJ Apryl Reign
7:30 p.m. – 8:45 p.m.
ARCO (East Price Hill)
Starting at $12
Apryl will spin an overture drawn from works by Glass, Satie, Bach, and Schumann. Then, she will join the quartet for a unique rendition of Ravel’s Boléro, a masterpiece of musical obsession and repetition whose relentless structure has fascinated neurologists and music scholars for decades.
PLANNING AHEAD
Gil Shaham Plays Tchaikovsky Symphony
October 30 – October 31
Music Hall (OTR)
Conductor Kwamé Ryan returns for a program of passion, virtuosity, and expansive Romantic expression.
Thursday, October 22
FotoFocus Biennial Exhibition
9 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Art Academy of Cincinnati (OTR)
Free Admission
Bearing Witness brings together Occupying Wall Street, The Covid Journals, and The Islands of New York to examine defining social, political, and environmental moments of the 21st century, from the Occupy movement and the COVID-19 pandemic to New York City’s changing island landscapes, through October 31.
Legal Advice Event
3 p.m. – 7 p.m.
UC Law School (Clifton)
Free Admission
Free 30-minute individual consultation with a licensed attorney in a variety of practice areas, including contracts, trademarks, patents, environmental, tax, and other specialties.
City Management: Who Really Runs City Hall?
5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Mt. Auburn Presbyterian Church (Mt. Auburn)
Free Admission, Registration Required
Learn where authority and accountability reside, how policy becomes action, and why the City’s management structure matters to all of us.
After Hours: Halloween Edition
7 p.m.
Cincinnati Museum Center (West End)
$20
Wander eerie exhibits, uncover mysterious surprises, enjoy hauntingly delicious food and drink specials, and immerse yourself in wickedly fun Halloween-inspired programming. Costumes are encouraged, and food and beverages will be available for purchase.
Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors
7:30 p.m.
Otto M. Budig Theater (OTR)
Starting at $14
Filled with outrageous twists, playful innuendo, and more laughs than you can count, this delightful romp reimagines the gothic classic like never before. Ends October 31.
Emmaline: The Great American Songbook Reimagined Jazz Concert
8 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
Starting at $34
With lush vocals, timeless melodies, and Emmaline’s modern-retro charm, this elegant evening of romance, nostalgia, and live music is made for old souls and modern hearts alike.
PLANNING AHEAD
Fifth Third Leadership Symposium
November 12, 8 a.m. – Noon
Music Hall (OTR)
Explore the theme, The Science of Inclusive Leadership. Featuring keynote speaker Dr. Janet Ahn, presenting: “The Leadership Playbook is Broken: What Does it Take to Lead?”.
Friday, October 23
Unkeeping Black Portraiture: The Printing Black America Project with Shraddha Ramani and William Villalongo
3 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
DAAP Aronoff 5041 (Clifton)
Free Admission, Registration Required
Urbanist Shraddha Ramani and artist William Villalongo will present their extensive art and research project Printing Black America: Du Bois’s Data Portraits in the 21st Century.
A Live Band Experience: Stephen Stringz x Queen Destiny
6:30 p.m.
4034 Hamilton Ave (Northside)
$37
Expect a soulful mix of R&B, hip-hop, and neo-soul reimagined live—the perfect soundtrack for dinner, drinks, and a night out with friends.
Al Jackson – Comedy Show
7 p.m. & 9:45 p.m.
Liberty Funny Bone (Liberty)
$22
A nationally recognized comedian, TV personality, and podcast host known for Daily Blast Live, The Bob & Tom Show, HBO’s 2 Dope Queens, and comedy specials on Amazon and Comedy Central. Through October 24.
Jeremy Pelt @50 Jazz Concert
7 p.m. & 9 p.m.
Caffè Vivace (Walnut Hills)
$28
The acclaimed trumpeter marks his 50th year with a dynamic quintet, delivering masterful musicianship, original compositions, and bold improvisation that honor jazz tradition while pushing it forward.
Carrie: The Musical
7:30 p.m.
The Carnegie (Covington)
Starting at $18
Fueled by a driving rock score and raw, emotional intensity, this cult classic crackles with fear, fury, and fire — until everything ignites. Bold, bloody, and utterly unforgettable, it’s a night at the theatre you won’t escape unscathed. Black actress Edin Kebede stars as Carrie White in this electrifying production. Through November 1.
Brian Simpson Comedy Show
7:30 p.m. & 9:45 p.m.
Commonwealth Comedy Club (Dayton, KY)
$27.43
Get ready for nonstop laughs as the Netflix star brings his sharp wit, unforgettable storytelling, and refreshingly unique perspective to the stage for a comedy show you won’t want to miss. Through October 24.
DJ Pillo and Friends
9 p.m.
Northside Tavern (Northside)
Free Admission
A social event showcasing the City’s DJs, artists, film, media, authors, and all-around movers and shakers in the talented Cincinnati underbelly.
PLANNING AHEAD
Layers of the Unknown
November 6, 7 p.m.
Cincinnati Museum Center (West End)
An evening of light bites from local restaurants, creative cocktails, explosive programming, and exclusive access to Cincinnati Museum Center’s world-class exhibits awaits.
Saturday, October 24
Cincinnati Coffee Festival
8 a.m.
Music Hall (OTR)
Starting at $15
With two days of coffee, tea, chocolate, demonstrations, latte art, and fun, this can’t-miss event is a must. Through October 25.
Party at the Polls 2026 — Cincinnati Queen City Alumnae Chapter
9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
4600 Smith Road (Norwood)
Free Admission
Make your voice heard by gathering the information needed to vote, casting an early ballot, connecting with the community, and enjoying free food, gift card giveaways, and music from DJ Nikki Suede.
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Cincinnati Alumnae Chapter Blood Drive
9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Forest Park Library (Forest Park)
Free Admission
All Donors will receive a wearable blanket!
Pumpkin Patch
10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Winton Woods Farm & Equestrian Center (Greenhills)
Price Varies
Pick a perfect pumpkin from the Farm’s patch! After making your choice, stick around for fun fall activities like pumpkin decorating, face painting, fall-themed crafts, and games.
Before Care Had a System
11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
UC Health Sciences Building (Corryville)
Free Admission
Join a powerful community conversation, featuring a short film, an expert panel discussion, audience Q&A, and local health resources that explore breast cancer awareness, healthcare access, advocacy, and Black health history in Cincinnati.
Avondale Film Festival
11:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Holloman Center for Social Justice (Avondale)
Starting at $5.15
Enjoy a diverse lineup of independent films, student productions, short documentaries, and stories highlighting Black history, neighborhood pride, and local talent. Meet emerging filmmakers, explore an artist showcase, and celebrate powerful storytelling through film at this inspiring Cincinnati cultural event.
HalloWest Fall Fest
Noon – 4 p.m.
Mt. Airy Forest (Northside)
Free Admission
Enjoy face painting, games, crafts, a petting zoo, concessions, and live music. Costume Contest at 2:30 p.m. with prizes!
Cincinnati National Society of Black Engineers Kick-Off Field Day
Noon – 6 p.m.
The Field at Oakley Rec Center (Oakley)
Free Admission
Come ready for fun and competition, and enjoy glow-in-the-dark kickball, 3-legged race, Family Feud, and more.
African Dances of the Diaspora
12:30 p.m.
DANCEFIX by HBDC (Walnut Hills)
Free Admission
Experience the vibrant rhythms, movements, and cultural traditions of the African diaspora through an energetic, all-levels dance class that celebrates connection, expression, and community.
OLD SCHOOL RAP & RnB: Day Party Boat Ride
1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
BB Riverboats (Newport)
$35
The Sun will be sunning and the feel-good music of the 80’s, 90’s, & 2000’s will be pumping through the speakers on this 3-level river boat with an open-air top deck
Sips & Satisfaction Tour
5 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Just Love Coffee Cafe (Colerain)
Free Admission
Join author and singer-songwriter Qamil for an intimate evening of literature, music, and delectable sips.
Louisiana Meets Cincinnati Southern Soul Party
5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Woodlawn Recreation Center (Woodlawn)
$35
Enjoy Southern soul music, live entertainment, line dancing, vendors, food, and community for an evening of celebration.
Mojo Blues Cats Jazz Concert
8 p.m.
Mansion Hill Tavern (Newport)
Free Admission
Come out for an evening with one of Cincinnati’s premier blues bands.
The Reunion
10 p.m. – 2 a.m.
Privee on Elm (OTR)
$20
Homecoming Saturday is here, and the Official XU Black Alumni After Party is the place to be. Grab the crew, bring the energy, and celebrate all night at this 21+ event.
UC Alumni Homecoming Party
10 p.m. – 2:30 a.m.
Vintage on Race (OTR)
Price Varies
The perfect chance to hang out, dance, and vibe with alumni. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable night of music, fun, drinks, food, and good times!
PLANNING AHEAD
JODECI R&B Concert
November 10, 8 p.m.
Andrew J Brady Music Center (The Banks)
Celebrating 35 years of their 3x platinum, 1991 debut album, Forever My Lady, JODECI is one of the most influential R&B groups of all time.
Sunday, October 25
Off-Trail Urban Hikers
7:30 a.m.
Locations Vary
Free Admission
Check the Facebook page for this week’s location. Hike approximately two miles and enjoy nature with fabulous people.
Edie McKee Harper: Modernist at Play
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Taft Museum of Art (Downtown)
Free Admission on Sundays and Mondays
The first solo museum presentation devoted to the work of Edie McKee Harper, a Cincinnati-based artist whose prolific career spanned more than six decades and a remarkable range of media. Through January 24.
HallZOOween
Noon – 5 p.m.
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden (Avondale)
Included with Zoo admission
Enjoy trick-or-treating stations and special animal enrichment throughout the zoo.
Mary Poppins JR. | Disney & Cameron Mackintosh
2 p.m.
Emery Theater (OTR)
Starting at $12
The unforgettable characters and songs, including “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious,” “A Spoonful of Sugar,” and “Step in Time,” will lift your spirits and take your imagination sky-high! Through October 25.
Upcoming Events
Psycho in Concert Symphony
October 27, 7:30 p.m.
Music Hall (OTR)
Alfred Hitchcock’s legendary thriller Psycho comes alive on the big screen as its spine-tingling score is performed live-to-film by the Cincinnati Pops.
BLKBOK Classical Concert
October 30, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
An evening that blends classical technique with the emotional storytelling of modern piano composition.
Gil Shaham Plays Tchaikovsky Symphony
October 30 – October 31
Music Hall (OTR)
Conductor Kwamé Ryan returns for a program of passion, virtuosity, and expansive Romantic expression.
Carrie: The Musical
Through November 1
The Carnegie (Covington)
Fueled by a driving rock score and raw, emotional intensity, this cult classic crackles with fear, fury, and fire — until everything ignites. Bold, bloody, and utterly unforgettable, it’s a night at the theatre you won’t escape unscathed.
Dear Future Us: An Afternoon of Belonging & Possibility with Dr. Shawn Ginwright
November 5, 3 p.m. – 5 p.m.
The Transept (OTR)
Interact for Health invites guests to an afternoon with Dr. Ginwright, author of The Four Pivots, for a discussion on a systems-level approach to building a healthier, more connected future, and the pivots we can make together to make this vision a reality.
Layers of the Unknown
November 6, 7 p.m.
Cincinnati Museum Center (West End)
An evening of light bites from local restaurants, creative cocktails, explosive programming, and exclusive access to Cincinnati Museum Center’s world-class exhibits awaits.
Funky Dineva Live!
November 6, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Blending celebrity and pop culture hot topics, hilarious storytelling, cultural commentary, and interactive audience Q&A.
Witness to the Journey: Matt Herron and the Deep South,1965 Exhibit
Through November 8
Freedom Center (The Banks)
A compelling selection of 28 black-and-white photographs by renowned civil rights photographer Matt Herron. This exhibition documents the historic Selma to Montgomery March, a pivotal moment in American history that directly led to the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
JODECI R&B Concert
November 10, 8 p.m.
Andrew J Brady Music Center (The Banks)
Celebrating 35 years of their 3x platinum, 1991 debut album, Forever My Lady, JODECI is one of the most influential R&B groups of all time.
Fifth Third Leadership Symposium
November 12, 8 a.m. – Noon
Music Hall (OTR)
Explore the theme, The Science of Inclusive Leadership. Featuring keynote speaker Dr. Janet Ahn, presenting: “The Leadership Playbook is Broken: What Does it Take to Lead?”.
Gerald Albright Jazz Concert
November 13, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
The GRAMMY‑nominated musician will bring his signature blend of smooth jazz, funk, and soulful improvisation to the intimate Cincinnati venue.
Louis Langrée Conducts Ravel Symphony
November 13 & 14
Music Hall (OTR)
The return of Music Director Laureate Louis Langrée brings us a focus on Ravel’s music, showing us the different styles in which Ravel composed throughout his life.
The Manhattans featuring Gerald Alston R&B Concert
November 14, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Known for timeless hits like “Kiss and Say Goodbye,” “Shining Star,” and “There’s No Me Without You,” the group continues to captivate audiences with their smooth harmonies and soulful sound.
An Evening with Kenny G Jazz Concert
November 15, 7 p.m.
Taft Theatre (Downtown)
Known for iconic hits such as Songbird, Forever in Love, and Silhouette, Kenny G has captivated audiences worldwide throughout a career spanning more than four decades.
GCS ft. Eric Gales, Dennis Chambers & Billy Sheehan Concert
November 15, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
GCS brings together three of the most electrifying musicians in modern music: two time Grammy nominated guitarist and vocalist Eric Gales, Modern Drummer Hall of Fame drummer Dennis Chambers, and five time Best Rock Bass Player Billy Sheehan.
The Renaissance Orchestra
November 19, 8 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
A dynamic live music collective redefining the orchestra experience by blending hip-hop, R&B, soul, and live instrumentation into high-energy, immersive performances.
Rahsaan Paterson R&B Concert
November 20, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Known for his rich sound and dynamic stage presence, Patterson brings more than three decades of musical artistry to Cincinnati.
Strauss Spectacular Symphony
November 21 & 22
Music Hall (OTR)
Conductor Phillipe Jordan, in his highly-anticipated CSO debut, leads a Strauss spectacular for the senses.
Marion Meadows Jazz Concert
November 27, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Known for his soulful melodies, contemporary jazz style, and chart-topping hits, Meadows delivers a captivating live performance that appeals to both longtime jazz enthusiasts and new listeners alike.
Disney’s The Muppet Christmas Carol In Concert Live to Film Symphony
November 28 & 29
Music Hall (OTR)
The Cincinnati Pops presents Disney’s The Muppet Christmas Carol in concert, featuring the complete film with the score performed live-to-picture!
Cincinnatians, do you want your event to be featured in our upcoming week’s view? Submit it to The Voice of Black Cincinnati’s event calendar. The description of the event must be 300 words in length and include a feature photo that is not a flyer.
The Voice of Black Cincinnati is a media company designed to educate, recognize, and create opportunities for African Americans. Want to find local news, events, job postings, scholarships, and a database of local Black-owned businesses? Visit our homepage, explore other articles, subscribe to our newsletter, like our Facebook page, join our Facebook group, and text VOBC to 513-966-3328.
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