Things to do in Black Cincinnati this week!
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Black Tech Week Guide
Beyond the presentations, vibrant events bring culture and community together—happy hours, live music, networking mixers, pop-ups, and curated experiences highlighting Black excellence across tech, business, and the arts.
Burgers at Black-Owned Eateries in Cincinnati
From plant-based to high-quality meat burgers, these eateries cater to all tastes. Whether a local or a visitor, these top Black-owned eateries in Cincinnati are must-visit spots for any burger enthusiast!
Monday, July 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 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.
Strings on the Square: Elton John vs Billy Joel
6 p.m. – 7:15 p.m.
Fountain Square (Downtown)
Free Admission
Cincinnati’s most in-demand quartet, StringSource, performs novel arrangements of popular music by artists.
Jazz at the Park: Jim Connerley Quartet
6 p.m.
Washington Park (OTR)
Free Admission
Enjoy an evening of jazz led by pianist Jim Connerley, featuring masterful improvisation, timeless standards, and contemporary influences shaped by decades of performing with acclaimed jazz musicians. Ends October 26.
PLANNING AHEAD
Robert Glasper Jazz Concert
August 13, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Known for blending jazz, hip‑hop, and soul, Glasper brings an energy that turns every performance into something unforgettable.
Tuesday, July 14
Black Tech Week
7 a.m.
Aronoff Center (Downtown)
Price Varies
Connect with innovators, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders during three days of keynote speakers, panel discussions, workshops, networking, startup showcases, and opportunities to build relationships, explore career pathways, and grow businesses. Use our Black Tech Week Guide to help you navigate through the week! Ends July 16.
513 Showcase Demo Night
5 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Union Hall (OTR)
Free Admission, RSVP Required
An evening of live product demos from Black entrepreneurs building across some of today’s most dynamic industries: Salon Operations, Social Media Marketing, Music Business, Real Estate Investing, and more.
Social Hour
5 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Afterlife (Downtown)
Free Admission, RSVP Required
Come network with innovators, entrepreneurs, creatives, and professionals from across the country while enjoying great drinks, good vibes, and meaningful connections.
Cincinnati Policing Disparity Data Public Forum
6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Urban League (Avondale)
Free Admission
Community members can learn about recent findings on racial disparities in Cincinnati police stops, hear perspectives from local civil rights leaders, and participate in discussions about policing, accountability, and public safety during these public forums.
Jazz at the Square: Chris Andrews Quartet
6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Fountain Square (Downtown)
Free Admission
Enjoy timeless jazz standards and an engaging community performance in an open, accessible concert setting. Through September 29.
R&B and Soul Line Dancing
7:15 p.m.
Outside of DANCEFIX by HBDC (Walnut Hills)
Free Admission
Expect upbeat dance classes featuring R&B, soul, tap, and African dance styles, creating a fun, welcoming atmosphere for movement, music, and community connection.
AfroArt After Dark Summer Cinema
6 p.m. – 11 p.m.
Washington Park (OTR)
Free Admission
Experience an evening of Black art, culture, and community featuring live art, local vendors, immersive installations, music by DJ ZAP, interactive experiences, live performances, and an outdoor screening of the classic film ATL.
PLANNING AHEAD
After Hours: Sci-Fi Edition
August 6, 7 p.m.
Cincinnati Museum Center (West End)
Whether you’re just a curious explorer or have written your own guide to the galaxy, come explore the wonders of the universe and maybe discover some of the science behind science fiction, cocktail in hand.
Wednesday, July 15
Enjoy a Burger at a Black-Owned Eatery
Times Vary
Location Vary
Free Admission
Discover some of the city’s best burgers at Black-owned eateries, where bold flavors and community come together. From juicy, handcrafted beef burgers to creative plant-based options, these local favorites offer something for every burger lover.
Black Tech Week Rooftop Mixer
5 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Moxy Cincinnati (Downtown)
Free Admission, RSVP Required
Come hang out, network, and enjoy great vibes with like-minded folks. Don’t miss this perfect chance to connect, chill, and celebrate innovation under the open sky.
Reggae Wednesday: Rik Jam
6 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Washington Park (OTR)
Free Admission
By pairing traditional roots vibes with contemporary energy, he has carved out a space as a steady, uplifting voice in the modern reggae scene.
The Rewind “90’s/00’s”
6 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Something to Wine About (Downtown)
Free Admission
Featuring DJ Wavy Moe and DJ Prymtime
Play in the Park
6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Kennedy Heights Park (Kennedy Heights)
Free Admission
Enjoy an evening of live music as James Ricks and Friends blend rock, jazz, and rhythm and blues into a soulful performance filled with smooth grooves and summer vibes. Ends July 29.
PLANNING AHEAD
Regional Business Summit
August 5, 1 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Cintas Center (Evanston)
Participants will gain new perspectives and actionable strategies to help strengthen competitiveness, support innovation, and advance long-term, inclusive economic growth across the region.
Thursday, July 16
AfriFest Heritage Walk: Discover Cincinnati’s Culture & History
10 a.m. – Noon
Kinley Cincinnati Downtown (Downtown)
Free Admission
Explore Cincinnati’s history and cultural landmarks during a guided heritage walk featuring storytelling, community connection, and a unique introduction to the city’s African heritage.
Open Mic Night: July
5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Harriet Beecher Stowe House (Walnut Hills)
$7
Join new and experienced poets in a space that honors world-changing words and rooted community.
Hood Murder Mystery: Cuff’d Game Night x Black Tech Week
7 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Something to Wine About (Downtown)
Free Admission
This month, Cuff’d Game Night becomes a full murder mystery experience where you and your team have to follow the clues, question the stories, and decide who really did it.
Salsa on the Square: Kumbia Latina & Salsaires
7 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Fountain Square (Downtown)
Free Admission
Enjoy a high-energy night of live Latin music, dancing, and instruction featuring salsa, merengue, cumbia, and Latin jazz, with opportunities to learn new moves and dance along in a vibrant community atmosphere. Ends October 1.
UNPLUGGED
10 p.m. – 1 a.m.
Revel OTR Urban Winery (OTR)
Free Admission, RSVP Required
Take a step back from the noise and lock into real connection, real conversations, and real vibes.
PLANNING AHEAD
Jazz in the Park
August 1, 5 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Central Park (Forest Park)
The largest and longest-running jazz festival in the area! Enjoy performances by local and nationally known artists, plus food trucks, beer, and vendors.
Friday, July 17
Museum Exhibits & Omnimax Shows – Friday Night at the Museum Edition
10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Cincinnati Museum Center (West End)
Starting at $9
Spend your Friday evening exploring Cincinnati Museum Center with extended museum hours, a relaxed after-hours atmosphere, and access to favorite exhibits and OMNIMAX® films. Experience the LEGO® Jurassic World Exhibition, featuring towering dinosaur builds, hands-on activities, and immersive experiences. Finally, visit the Declarative Acts and Revolutionary Actors and “Equal to Any in the City: Ball & Thomas Photographs, 1840s – 1870s exhibits to celebrate America 250 featuring more than 100 historic photographs that showcase the groundbreaking work of pioneering photographer J.P. Ball.
Youth Summit
Noon – 4 p.m.
Xavier University – Schiff Family Conference Center (Evanston)
Free Admission
Youth can enjoy inspiring speakers, interactive discussions, live music, games, raffle prizes, lunch, and opportunities to connect with peers while building leadership skills and confidence.
Forest Park Celebrates America 250
6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Central Park (Forest Park)
Free Admission
Enjoy an unforgettable evening of music, food, family fun, and community pride. Just Vince and the Fellas will headline the evening.
Friday Flow: Road to CMF: Urban Mystic
6 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Washington Park (OTR)
Free Admission
Urban Mystic is a soulful R&B singer known for his gritty, gospel‑infused vocals and heartfelt storytelling that bridges classic and contemporary soul.
Soul Pocket Dance Party
6 p.m. – 11 p.m.
The Redmoor (Mt. Lookout)
Starting at $13
Enjoy an energetic live performance by a 13-piece band delivering soulful sounds, infectious grooves, and a high-quality entertainment experience that keeps audiences moving.
Woodlawn/Lincoln Heights Brady Block Party
6:30 p.m.
Woodlawn Community Center Fields (Woodlawn)
Free Admission
Enjoy giveaways, food trucks, activities, and entertainment prior to a concert with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra!
Riverfront Socials – Skate Downtown Cincy
7 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Sawyer Point & Yeatman’s Cove (Downtown)
Free Admission
Teens can enjoy a fun, skate-filled evening with different themes each week, games, crafts, ping-pong, raffle prizes, snacks, and chill outdoor lounge spaces in a relaxed, social park setting designed for connection and summer fun.
DJ Pillo and Friends
9 p.m.
Northside Tavern (Northside)
Free Admission
Experience an electrifying night with special guest DJ Bizzy Bizz and dope mixes to keep the dance floor rocking.
PLANNING AHEAD
TLC & Salt-N-Pepa with En Vogue Hip-hop Concert
August 21, 7:30 p.m.
Riverbend Music Center (Anderson)
For the first time, these three trailblazing groups will tour together, celebrating decades of era-defining hits, culture-shifting influence, and timeless R&B and hip-hop anthems.
Saturday, July 18
Black Men’s Wellness Day
7 a.m. – Noon
Central Park (Forest Park)
Free Admission
Join a community-focused wellness gathering celebrating Black men’s health through education, connection, and resources designed to promote well-being, awareness, and healthier futures.
Truth & Inspiration Showcase
10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Contemporary Arts Center (Downtown)
Free Admission
See a public culmination of Arts Wave’s Inspire Artist Grants, bringing together local artists, creative voices and new work in one shared community experience. This year’s showcase features 24 artists working across film, music, poetry, performance, visual art, fashion, installation, and storytelling.
AfriFest: Taste of Africa
11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Sawyer Point (Downtown)
Free Admission
Celebrate African heritage and culture with live music, traditional drumming, dance performances, African and Caribbean cuisine, artisan vendors, cultural workshops, and opportunities to connect with Black-owned businesses and community organizations.
Music at the Esplanade: Chris Caporale
5 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Smale Riverfront Park (Downtown)
Free Admission
Experience a night of live music celebrating improvisation across blues, rock, funk, and jazz, featuring dynamic performances by a talented band.
Rec @ Nite: A Safe, Fun, and Inclusive Summer Space for Teens
5 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Lincoln Rec Center | 1027 Linn Street, Cincinnati, OH 45203
Hirsch Rec Center | 3630 Reading Road, Cincinnati, OH 45229
Evanston Rec Center | 3204 Woodburn Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45207
Winton Hills Rec Center | 5170 Winneste Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45232
Free Admission
Teens can enjoy a full night of music, games, sports, creative activities, esports, and community-focused fun in a safe, welcoming environment designed just for ages 12–17.
2nd Wind Band Performance
6 p.m.
Element Eatery (Madisonville)
Free Admission
Enjoy an evening of live music from 2nd Wind Band while exploring a variety of local food vendors and drinks, all in a relaxed indoor-outdoor atmosphere.
Music at the Market: CLEÖCRT
6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Findlay Market (OTR)
Free Admission
Enjoy a live performance from Cincinnati singer-songwriter Cleöcrt, whose soulful blend of neo-soul, R&B, and genre-crossing sounds delivers an expressive, captivating performance rooted in artistry and emotion.
2026 Fifth & Vine Live: Remember
7 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Fountain Square (Downtown)
Free Admission
Enjoy an evening of R&B, smooth jazz, and neo-soul featuring live performances, soulful sounds, and crowd-favorite music in a lively outdoor concert atmosphere.
Kindred The Family Soul R&B Concert
7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Starting at $45
The husband-and-wife duo is celebrated for music rooted in love, family, and real-life experiences, blending smooth grooves with uplifting, conscious lyrics.
PLANNING AHEAD
Seven Hills’ SHARP Summer Program
The Seven Hills School Academic Readiness Program provides students entering grades 5–9 with a pathway to private school education.. The SHARP Summer Program is a 2-week session, which will take place July 20 through 31 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at The Seven Hills School Hillsdale Campus in Madisonville.
Sunday, July 19
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.
Fifth Third Community Day
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Freedom Center (The Banks)
Free Admission
Enjoy a hands-on art workshop led by Visionaries + Voices, where visitors of all ages can explore creativity through interactive visual art activities, artistic expression, and community connection.
Sunday Groove
7 p.m. – 11 p.m.
Nostalgia Wine & Jazz Lounge (OTR)
Free Admission
Enjoy soulful, groove-filled DJ sets in a relaxed atmosphere while sipping craft cocktails, wine, and your favorite drinks.
Upcoming Events
Jazz in the Park
August 1, 5 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Central Park (Forest Park)
The largest and longest-running jazz festival in the area! Enjoy performances by local and nationally known artists, plus food trucks, beer, and vendors.
Summermusik Festival
August 4 – August 29
Multiple Venues
The festival brings together internationally recognized guest artists, exciting world premieres, and standout performances from the ensemble. With its mix of innovative programming and intimate concert settings, Summermusik offers a vibrant celebration of music throughout the month of August.
Regional Business Summit
August 5, 1 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Cintas Center (Evanston)
Participants will gain new perspectives and actionable strategies to help strengthen competitiveness, support innovation, and advance long-term, inclusive economic growth across the region.
After Hours: Sci-Fi Edition
August 6, 7 p.m.
Cincinnati Museum Center (West End)
Whether you’re just a curious explorer or have written your own guide to the galaxy, come explore the wonders of the universe and maybe discover some of the science behind science fiction, cocktail in hand.
Boney James Jazz Concert
August 8, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
An American saxophonist known for blending jazz, R&B, and contemporary soul into a signature smooth‑jazz sound.
Robert Glasper Jazz Concert
August 13, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Known for blending jazz, hip‑hop, and soul, Glasper brings an energy that turns every performance into something unforgettable.
Will Downing Jazz Concert
August 21, 7:30 p.m
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
An evening of rich, velvety vocals from one of contemporary R&B’s most enduring stylists. His blend of sophisticated soul, jazz‑infused arrangements, and romantic ballads creates a concert atmosphere that feels both elegant and deeply personal.
TLC & Salt-N-Pepa with En Vogue Hip-hop Concert
August 21, 7:30 p.m.
Riverbend Music Center (Anderson)
For the first time, these three trailblazing groups will tour together, celebrating decades of era-defining hits, culture-shifting influence, and timeless R&B and hip-hop anthems.
Stanley Jordan Jazz Concert
August 22, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Known for a groundbreaking two‑hand tapping technique, Jordan turns the guitar into a full orchestra unfolding onstage.
Printed Voices from Kenya: Social and Cultural Reflections Art Exhibit
Through August 22
Kennedy Heights Arts Center (Kennedy Heights)
Featuring 154 prints of various printmaking techniques by 42 established Kenyan artists, young and old. These artists use their artwork as their voice and communication tool to reflect on the cultural and social issues they face.
Jonathan Butler Jazz Concert
August 29, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
The Sister Accord Foundation is pleased to announce that world-renowned singer, songwriter, and guitarist, Jonathan Butler, will receive The Sister Accord Leadership Award in recognition of his long-standing commitment to Excellence.
Gee Horton’s Chapter 4: In Another Lifetime Art Exhibit
Through 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.
Stokley R&B Concert
August 30, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
The Sister Accord Foundation is pleased to welcome previous Sister Accord Leadership Award Recipient, Stokley, to help in celebrating their 13th Anniversary.
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.
Things to Do Image provided by AdobeStock
