Things to do in Black Cincinnati this week!
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Features
Black Doctors in Cincinnati Accepting New Patients
Culturally competent care strengthens patient-physician trust, communication, and shared understanding, improving health outcomes, treatment adherence, and preventive care utilization.
Black Therapists and Mental Health Professionals in Cincinnati
These professionals understand unique cultural factors, historical trauma, and systemic challenges that impact mental health in African American populations.
Monday, April 13
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 insecurities 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.
Jazz at the Memo: Dan Karlsberg “Rooms without Walls” Album Release
7 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
$13
Hear music from the record, featuring his interpretations of works by Thomas “Fats” Waller, Mulgrew Miller, Scott Joplin, along with original pieces by Dan and other Cincinnati composers.
PLANNING AHEAD
Gee Horton’s Chapter 4: In Another Lifetime
April 24 – August 30
Contemporary Arts Center (Downtown)
Through large-scale photorealist drawings, photography, collage, video, and installation, Horton reflects on Black masculinity, generational memory, and childhood, exploring themes of safety, vulnerability, and the fragile boundary between freedom and protection.
Tuesday, April 14
Museum Exhibits & Omnimax Shows
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; open daily
Cincinnati Museum Center (West End)
Starting at $12.50
Experience Ohio Wild at Heart OMNIMAX® and Wild Rescue OMNIMAX®, a look at stunning parks and waterways, and the deep connection between people and nature.
CAA Mobile Food Pantry
11 a.m.
BLOC Ministries (Price Hill)
Free Admission
Hamilton County residents experiencing food insecurities 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.
Jazz at the Square: Dee Marie
5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Fountain Square (Downtown)
Free Admission
Soulful vocals and vibrant energy in a standout performance.
PLANNING AHEAD
The String Queens Concert
April 30, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
This powerhouse trio blends classical, jazz, R&B, and pop influences to create a sound that’s both timeless and refreshingly modern. Experience an inspiring evening of masterful musicianship and soulful energy.
Wednesday, April 15
Connect The Dots
5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Something To Wine About (Downtown)
Free Admission
A curated, upscale mixer for entrepreneurs and professionals, built for meaningful conversations, one‑on‑one connections, and strategic introductions—not crowded rooms or small talk.
Reds vs Giants: Jackie Robinson Day
6:40 p.m.
Great American Ball Park (The Banks)
Starting at $19
Celebrate MLB’s Jackie Robinson Day, which takes place annually on April 15 to honor the day Robinson broke baseball’s color barrier in 1947. Enjoy Family Discount Days: save by purchasing up to three half-price tickets with the purchase of a full-price ticket.
Sweeney Todd – Musical Theatre + Opera
8 p.m.
Corbett Auditorium (Clifton)
Starting at $20
An infamously bloody tale of obsession and revenge, featuring a collaboration between CCM’s nationally recognized Musical Theatre and Opera programs with the CCM Philharmonia.
Howard Hewett R&B Concert
8 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
Starting at $50
An evening of soulful vocals and timeless slow‑jam classics. His smooth delivery and heartfelt performance style make every show feel personal and emotionally rich.
PLANNING AHEAD
Health Expo | Center for Closing the Health Gap
April 25, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Washington Park (OTR)
Screenings will include blood pressure, glucose levels, BMI, mammography, select cancer screenings, and hearing, vision, and speech testing for children.
Thursday, April 16
Open Mic Night: April
5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Harriet Beecher Stowe House (Walnut Hills)
$5
Bring a poem, a song, or something in progress — all voices are welcome. Hosted by poet and storyteller Zeda Stew, with light refreshments provided.
Tunes & Blooms: Shelby Lore Band
6 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden (Avondale)
Free Admission, $10 parking
Guests can explore the zoo at no cost while enjoying live music that combines the driving guitars of Southern rock with blistering blues, a dose of punk attitude, and a heavy hit of honky‑tonk.
Blues & Brews: Cheryl & Shorty
6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Washington Park (OTR)
Free Admission
A dynamic blend of soulful vocals and gritty, blues‑driven grooves.
Pinocchio – Ballet Family Series
7 p.m.
Aronoff Center for the Arts (Downtown)
Starting at $32
Enjoy the charming tale of a puppet dreaming of becoming a real boy in this one‑hour narrated ballet, perfect for young audiences, with free lobby games, crafts, and photos available before the show. Through April 19.
Late Night R&B Lounge
9 p.m. – 11:45 p.m.
Nostalgia Wine & Jazz Lounge (OTR)
Free Admission
An intentional R&B experience featuring sultry and nostalgic DJ sets, fine wines, and classic cocktails in an upscale atmosphere to set the tone for your weekend.
PLANNING AHEAD
SKYE: A New World of Wonder Dance Performance
April 25, 1 p.m. & 5 p.m.
Aronoff Center for the Arts (Downtown)
This spring, Revolution Dance Theatre presents an evening of dance, music, and storytelling exploring the journey of becoming.
Friday, April 17
Mendelssohn Symphony No. 3 Symphony Concert
11 a.m.
Music Hall (OTR)
Starting at $15
Adolphe’s Underneath the Sheen, Chopin’s Second Piano Concerto with Lise de la Salle, and Mendelssohn’s Scottish Symphony create a program evoking forest light, poetic intimacy, and the rugged beauty of the Highlands. Through April 18.
August Wilson’s The Piano Lesson: Hues Community Night
6 p.m.
Starting at $35
Playhouse in the Park (Mt. Adams)
Join Black influencers, leaders, and tastemakers for an incredible evening of entertainment that highlights Black voices and stories. The night begins with a pre-show reception, where guests can enjoy light snacks, special drink prices, and connect with community members. After the performance, stay for an Art Talk with members of the artistic team.
BLACK CARE™ Food Hub
6 p.m. – 7 p.m.
The Center of Eden (OTR)
Free Admission, Registration Required
Those in need can access fresh food, essential resources, and ongoing support.
DreamWorks’ How to Train Your Dragon Jr.
7 p.m
Emery Theater (OTR)
Starting at $12
Journey to the Isle of Berk with Hiccup and the majestic dragon, Toothless, who will prove that friendship and courage have the power to change the world! Through May 3.
Corey Holcomb Comedy Show
7 p.m. & 9:45 p.m.
Funny Bone (Liberty Township)
Starting at $42
Get ready for a night of laughter with his signature blend of sharp wit and hilarious storytelling. Through April 18.
Adult Kick Back Hosted by Dr. Shantel Thomas
7 p.m. – 11 p.m.
The House (Mt Healthy)
Starting at $15
Spades, Uno, dominoes, cornhole, and glow‑in‑the‑dark darts are just a few of the games alongside music, food, and plenty of indoor‑outdoor fun.
The Ravenside Occurrence Play
7:30 p.m.
Know Theatre (OTR)
Starting at $15
Four headstrong women of color break out of the asylum to which their families have committed them. An abandoned inn offers welcome shelter, but the restless spirit who walks the halls will test the bonds of this little found family before he decides whether to shelter them or cast them back out upon the mercy of the world. Through April 18.
AJ Ghent & His Singing Guitar R&B Concert
7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Starting at $35
Known for his unique “singing steel” guitar and energetic blend of blues, funk, rock, and gospel, he delivers a show that’s both soulful and electrifying.
The Temptations and The Four Tops
8 p.m.
Hard Rock Casino (Downtown)
Starting at $89
Audiences can look forward to timeless hits, soulful harmonies, and high-energy performances from two of the most iconic vocal groups in music history.
DJ Pillo and Friends
9 p.m.
Northside Tavern (Northside)
Free Admission
Experience an electrifying night as DJ Bizzy Bizz joins DJ Pillo, delivering deep crates and dope mixes to keep the dance floor rocking.
PLANNING AHEAD
Water for Elephants Broadway Musical
April 21 – May 3
Aronoff Center for the Arts (Downtown)
After losing what matters most, a young man jumps a moving train, unsure of where the road will take him, and finds a new home with the remarkable crew of a traveling circus and a life—and love—beyond his wildest dreams.
Saturday, April 18
100 Black Girls Breaking Barriers in STEM Conference
9:15 a.m.
Xavier University (Evanston)
Free Admission, Registration Required
Black girls in grades 8 to 12 can engage in hands‑on workshops, meet professional women, explore college and career pathways, connect with internships and resources, enjoy confidence‑building conversations, and receive meals, swag, and surprises.
Artist Talk | Ayana Ross with Annie Ruth
11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
P&G MLB Cincinnati Reds Youth Academy (Roselawn)
Free Admission, Registration Required.
Experience an engaging artist talk with the 2026 Duncanson Artist-in-Residence, who will lead a candid conversation with women artists—including 2003 Duncanson Artist-in-Residence Annie Ruth—about creativity, identity, and sustaining an artistic practice.
Black Nurse Summit
11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Heart of Northside (Northside)
$25
Uniting Black healthcare professionals to discuss disparities, foster safe dialogue, and reimagine equity.
Handyman Hal Comes To Town
3 p.m.
Taft Theatre (Downtown)
Starting at $40
Join Hal for songs, surprises, and silly moments as he builds a secret project with cool tools, special guests, and help from you!
FC Cincinnati PreMatch at the Park: Pride Night
4 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Washington Park (OTR)
Free Admission
Attendees can enjoy LGBTQAI+ history insights, giveaways, artmaking, live entertainment, community organization booths, food samples, interactive games, and fun activities from local partners before the FC Cincinnati Pride Night game.
Kathy Wade Quartet: Up Jumped Spring!
7 p.m. & 9 p.m.
Caffè Vivace (Walnut Hills)
$15
A celebrated jazz vocalist and dedicated arts activist whose five decades of work have helped define Cincinnati’s cultural identity
The House Comedy Show
7 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
The House (White Oak)
Starting at $10
Showcasing some of the best comedians in the Midwest.
“Pressure.” – Pajamas, Pillows & Popcorn
7 p.m. – 10 p.m.
University of Cincinnati – TUC (Clifton)
Free Admission
A welcoming space for connection and learning around maternal health and prevention, highlighting blood pressure awareness and heart health in Black communities, with pajamas encouraged, light refreshments provided, and community‑centered dialogue throughout.
Pericles Play featuring the Q-Kidz Dance Team
7:30 p.m.
Otto M Budig Theater (OTR)
Starting at $14
In this tale, Prince Pericles embarks on an epic voyage to search for true love through alien worlds, cosmic storms, and intergalactic encounters. Through May 3.
Brian Simpson, Jackiem Joyner & Jessy J. Jazz Concert
7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Starting at $35
This powerhouse trio combines soulful piano melodies, compelling saxophone grooves, and vibrant Latin-inspired jazz, crafting a richly layered and energetic performance.
The Pajama Jam
8 p.m. – Midnight
Radisson Hotel (Covington)
Starting at $30
An unforgettable night of music and elevated vibes in a stunning new setting, featuring DJ Guy West, DJ Arie, and DJ Chris Paul, a grown‑and‑sexy atmosphere, and a comfy‑cozy‑cool pajama dress code for the 35‑and‑up crowd.
RHYTHM Experience
10 p.m. – 2 a.m.
Baru (Downtown)
Free Admission
Formerly R&B Saturdays, the new RHYTHM Experience delivers the same sexy vibe and top R&B hits, now enhanced with Afrobeats, throwback hip-hop, hookah, and a late‑night menu.
PLANNING AHEAD
Abolitionists & African Americans in Walnut Hills Walking Tour
April 25 & May 30, 10 a.m. – Noon
Harriet Beecher Stowe House (Walnut Hills)
Walnut Hills is a diverse, historic, and changing Cincinnati neighborhood. Walk and learn with a guide from the Harriet Beecher Stowe House.
Sunday, April 19
Fifth Third Community Day: Honoring the Harlem Renaissance
11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center (The Banks)
Free Admission
Discover how music, poetry, and visual art served as powerful tools for storytelling, resistance, and creative freedom. Also enjoy the screenings of the Cincinnati Pops, interactive activities, and a panel discussion with artists, scholars, and musicians. Visit the Jubilation! Ambassadors on a Sacred Journey exhibit.
Afro Caribbean Day Party
3 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Somerset Bar (OTR)
Free Admission
A vibrant mix of African market shopping, Caribbean food, hookah lounge vibes, cultural celebrations, community connections, and a global soundtrack spanning Afrobeats, Amapiano, Dancehall, Soca, Reggae, Kompa, and more.
Gray Road Christian Academy Family Interest Meeting
4 p.m.
Gray Road Christian Academy (Winton Hills)
Free Admission, Registration Required
Attend an Open House to explore how this new, Christ-centered, college-preparatory high school in Cincinnati provides an affordable, transformative education that equips students for spiritual growth, academic excellence, and Kingdom impact.
Bridge City – Musical
7:30 p.m.
Hughes STEM Auditorium (Clifton)
Price Varies
Experience a bold new musical blending hip-hop, R&B, funk, and soul while celebrating Black joy, community, and resilience with heart and humor. Through April 26.
Upcoming Events
Water for Elephants Broadway Musical
April 21 – May 3
Aronoff Center for the Arts (Downtown)
After losing what matters most, a young man jumps a moving train, unsure of where the road will take him, and finds a new home with the remarkable crew of a traveling circus and a life—and love—beyond his wildest dreams.
Stravinsky’s Firebird Symphony Concert
April 24 – April 25
Music Hall (OTR)
Music Director Cristian Mӑcelaru, the CSO, and expert puppeteers and dancers from Janni Younge Productions come together in this sonic and theatrical depiction of The Firebird, which builds to a dramatic, fiery finish.
Gee Horton’s Chapter 4: In Another Lifetime
April 24 – August 30
Contemporary Arts Center (Downtown)
Through large-scale photorealist drawings, photography, collage, video, and installation, Horton reflects on Black masculinity, generational memory, and childhood, exploring themes of safety, vulnerability, and the fragile boundary between freedom and protection.
Abolitionists & African Americans in Walnut Hills Walking Tour
April 25, 10 a.m. – Noon
Harriet Beecher Stowe House (Walnut Hills)
Walnut Hills is a diverse, historic, and changing Cincinnati neighborhood. Walk and learn with a guide from the Harriet Beecher Stowe House.
Health Expo | Center for Closing the Health Gap
April 25, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Washington Park (OTR)
Screenings will include blood pressure, glucose levels, BMI, mammography, select cancer screenings, and hearing, vision, and speech testing for children.
SKYE: A New World of Wonder Dance Performance
April 25, 1 p.m. & 5 p.m.
Aronoff Center for the Arts (Downtown)
This spring, Revolution Dance Theatre presents an evening of dance, music, and storytelling exploring the journey of becoming.
Coming of Age | New works of the HAIRitage Series
April 25 – July 11
Kennedy Heights Arts Center Lindner Gallery (Kennedy Heights)
Series of artworks by Erin Smith Glenn that addresses Black hair culture in a way that demands its attention; begs to justify the discriminations against it; commands the viewer; and ultimately upholds the values of her ancestors.
The String Queens Concert
April 30, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
This powerhouse trio blends classical, jazz, R&B, and pop influences to create a sound that’s both timeless and refreshingly modern. Experience an inspiring evening of masterful musicianship and soulful energy.
The Music of Star Wars Symphony Concert
May 1 – May 3
Music Hall (OTR)
Travel to galaxies far, far away as the Cincinnati Pops performs the best music from across the Star Wars universe by John Williams, Michael Giacchino, and Ludwig Göransson.
Forest Park Citywide Yard Sale
May 2, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Multiple Locations in Forest Park
Participants have the opportunity to “get rid of” unwanted materials while making a small profit. This event is designed to focus on the first two of the 3 Rs, Reduce and Reuse, to reduce the amount of materials immediately entering the landfill.
Under One Roof: The African American Experience in Music Hall Tour
May 2, 11 a.m. & 2 p.m.
Music Hall (OTR)
Learn about African American artists, athletes, and agents of change who have been integral to Cincinnati Music Hall’s history for nearly 150 years.
360 ALLSTARS
May 7, 7:30 p.m.
Aronoff Center for the Arts (Downtown)
This urban circus showcases BMX, basketball, breakdancing, acrobatics, drumming, and more for a spectacular fusion of the extraordinary artistry that emerges from street culture.
Louis York x Gramps Morgan
May 8, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
This high-octane collaboration unites the boundary-breaking innovators of the New American Soul sound, the GRAMMY-winning Louis York, with reggae titan and GRAMMY-winner Gramps Morgan for a journey defined by positivity, light, and pure energy.
Pieces of a Dream Jazz Concert
May 9, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Known for blending contemporary jazz, R&B, and funk, the group delivers rich melodies and dynamic performances that have captivated audiences for decades.
Beethoven & Tchaikovsky Symphony Concert
May 8 – May 9
Music Hall (OTR)
From its powerful brass fanfare—fate’s ominous call—to the electrifying energy of the finale, the symphony is a deeply cathartic journey through anguish, resilience, and eventual exhilaration. Beethoven & Tchaikovsky will be brought to life under the baton of acclaimed Black conductor Roderick Cox.
I Hear Music in the Air Gospel Concert
May 15, 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Corinthian Baptist Church (Bond Hill)
This year’s concert will be headlined by gospel legends The Clark Sisters, whose groundbreaking harmonies and decades of influence have shaped the sound of modern gospel music. Joining them on stage will be Grammy-nominated choir master Ricky Dillard, award-winning recording artist Jonathan McReynolds, Cincinnati native Pastor Jonathan Dunn, and special guests New Vision, Trevone Perry, JOKIA, 1KPhew, Jevon Dewand, and Lasha’ Knox.
African American History along the Cincinnati Riverfront Walking Tour
May 16, 10 a.m. – Noon
John Augustus Roebling Statue (Covington)
Explore the deep significance of the Ohio River for Cincinnati’s African American history of resistance, achievement, and leadership from the 1800s through the 20th century.
Kiwanis Cares for Kids Family Health and Safety Fair
May 16, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Kemper Heights (Forest Park)
Guests can explore a wide range of vendors and community resources offering helpful information and hands‑on experiences. Children will have the chance to receive one of the 50 free helmets available, along with opportunities to enter raffles for kids’ bikes.
Kid Cudi with M.I.A., Big Boi, and A-Trak
May 16, 6:30 p.m.
Riverbend Music Center (Anderson)
Grammy-award-winning rapper and songwriter Kid Cudi has announced ‘The Rebel Ragers Tour’, hitting over 30 cities in North America.
After Hours: Prom Edition
May 14, 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Cincinnati Museum Center (Queensgate)
Dance through the decades of prom fashion, music, and culture. Enjoy themed cocktails, prom hits from the past five decades, photo ops, karaoke, and a chance to relive the magic and cringeworthy fashion of prom in every era.
Jon B R&B Concert
May 22, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Known for hits like “They Don’t Know,” “Someone to Love,” and “Are U Still Down,” Jon B helped shape contemporary R&B with his signature blend of romance and groove.
Baby Keem Rap Concert
May 23, 8:30 p.m.
Andrew J Brady Music Center (The Banks)
Baby Keem is a Grammy-winning rapper, songwriter, and producer recognized for his inventive sound and boundary-pushing approach to modern hip-hop.
Abolitionists & African Americans in Walnut Hills Walking Tour
May 30, 10 a.m. – Noon
Harriet Beecher Stowe House (Walnut Hills)
Walnut Hills is a diverse, historic, and changing Cincinnati neighborhood. Walk and learn with a guide from the Harriet Beecher Stowe House.
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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