Things to do in Black Cincinnati this week!
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Features
85th Grand Conclave Event Guide 2026
Cincinnati takes center stage July 30–August 3 as it hosts the 85th Grand Conclave of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated. Hosted by the Cincinnati Ques, downtown becomes a hub of fellowship and celebration, with attendees filling hotels and entertainment districts across the city. With riverfront views and exciting nightlife, the Queen City sets a vibrant backdrop for this historic gathering.
Celebrate LGBTQ+ Pride in Black Cincinnati
The Black and queer liberation movements are fundamentally interconnected. The following pride events in Black Cincinnati aim to highlight the unique experiences of Black members of the LGBTQ+ community. Enjoy parades, parties, festivals, film viewings, performances, and more around the Greater Cincinnati area.
Monday, June 1
Museum Exhibits & Omnimax Shows
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; open daily
Cincinnati Museum Center (West End)
Starting at $12.50
Experience Wild Rescue OMNIMAX® and a look at stunning parks and waterways, and the deep connection between people and nature. Additional films include Call of the Dolphins and Secrets of the Sea. Explore scenic adventures like National Parks Adventure. Finally, experience the LEGO® Jurassic World Exhibition, which features massive dinosaur builds, hands-on activities, and immersive scenes inspired by the Jurassic World franchise, with opportunities to build, create, and discover across themed environments.
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.
City Council Final Budget Public Hearing
5:30 p.m.
City Hall, Council Chambers, Room 300 (Downtown)
Free Admission
Attend the final public hearing before Cincinnati City Council passes the next city budget.
Black Comics Club
6 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Downtown Main Library (Downtown)
Free Admission
Connect with fellow readers and explore graphic novels and comics by Black creators in a welcoming space centered on powerful storytelling, unforgettable characters, and diverse creative voices.
Jazz at the Park: Estrada do Sol
6 p.m.
Washington Park (OTR)
Free Admission
The act blends Brazilian rhythms with soul and funk, drawing on psychedelic rock. Ends October 26.
Strings on the Square: 2000s Rewind
6 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Fountain Square (Downtown)
Free Admission
Cincinnati’s most in-demand quartet, StringSource, performs novel arrangements of popular music by artists, this week featuring 2000s music. Ends August 31.
PLANNING AHEAD
Better Together Mother + Daughter Conference
June 13, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
The Summit Hotel (Madisonville)
A powerful, joy-filled experience designed to deepen the bond between mothers and daughters is blossoming in Cincinnati this summer—and being in the room will matter.
Tuesday, June 2
Coming of Age | New works of the HAIRitage Series
Noon – 5 p.m.
Kennedy Heights Arts Center Lindner Gallery (Kennedy Heights)
Free Admission
Explore a powerful series of artworks by Erin M. Smith Glenn examining Black hair culture, identity, discrimination, and ancestral pride through bold visual storytelling. Ends July 11.
Jazz at the Square: John Zappa Quintet
6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Fountain Square (Downtown)
Free Admission
Enjoy a performance from a local jazz trombonist. Ends September 29.
3-2-1 Tuesdays
7:10 p.m.
Great American Ball Park (The Banks)
Starting at $20
For all Tuesday Reds home games, fans can buy $3 beers (select 12-oz beers), $2 Bar-S hot dogs, and $1 ice cream cups.
R&B and Soul Line Dancing
7:15 p.m.
Paramount Launch Plaza (Walnut Hills)
Free Admission
Expect upbeat dance classes filled with R&B, soul, tap, and African dance styles, creating a fun and welcoming atmosphere for movement, music, and community connection.
PLANNING AHEAD
Evanston Brady Block Party
June 13, 6:30 p.m.
Evanston Playground (Evanston)
Free Admission
This FREE outdoor event is open to the public, and all are welcome. Enjoy giveaways, food trucks, activities, and entertainment prior to a concert with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra!
Wednesday, June 3
SNDLNGE
5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Lost & Found OTR (OTR)
Free Admission
Enjoy an elevated midweek R&B experience designed for music lovers and culture seekers, featuring smooth vibes, great energy, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for unwinding and connecting.
Reggae Wednesdays: Gizzae
6 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Washington Park (OTR)
Free Admission
Hailing from the beautiful Caribbean island of Dominica, the Ancient and Holy Lands of Ethiopia, and the South Side of Chicago, comes award-winning reggae music.
Jazz in the Camp: Organized Gentlemen
6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
American Sign Museum (Camp Washington)
Free Admission
See a lively performance blending the rhythmic pulse of Brazilian percussion with smooth, expressive jazz. Ends July 1.
Tapped In by Pones
8:45 p.m.
Gabriel’s Corner (OTR)
Starting at $20
Blending African, Irish, vaudeville, Broadway, and contemporary styles and featuring live jazz call-and-response alongside regional choreographers, this premiere celebrates creativity, resistance, and cultural convergence, spotlighting lesser-known stories through collaborative performance. Ends June 10.
PLANNING AHEAD
Lindsey Webster Jazz Concert
June 12, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Known for her warm vocals and modern blend of jazz, R&B, and soul, Webster delivers emotionally rich songs that feel both intimate and timeless. Her captivating stage presence and lush melodies make this an unforgettable night for contemporary jazz fans.
Thursday, June 4
Gee Horton’s Chapter 4: In Another Lifetime Exhibit
10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Contemporary Arts Center (Downtown)
Price Varies
Explore a powerful, immersive showcase examining Black masculinity, memory, and inherited trauma through drawing, photography, video, and installation. Ends August 30.
Doodle POP Family Show
11 a.m. & 2 p.m.
Emery Theater (OTR)
Starting at $27
Enjoy a colorful, imaginative live family theater experience where playful characters bring drawings to life through music, animation, and creative storytelling, taking audiences on a whimsical underwater adventure filled with wonder and discovery. Ends June 7.
ROMAC’s Cocktails and Conversation with author Tina Macon
5:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.
1701 Race Street (OTR)
Free Admission
Enjoy an intimate evening of storytelling, conversation, and networking featuring a live author discussion, audience Q&A, and a book signing, all centered around leadership, personal growth, and creative inspiration in a welcoming community setting.
Pride Brady Block Party
6:30 p.m.
ICON Festival Stage at Smale Park (The Banks)
Free Admission
Enjoy giveaways, food trucks, activities, and entertainment before a concert with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra featuring Thorgy Thor from RuPaul’s Drag Race, Anita Spritzer, local drag performers Johnny Justice and Quasi Powell, and Cincy Voque!
PLANNING AHEAD
Juneteenth Jubilee
June 19, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center (The Banks)
Free Admission
True to the spirit of the earliest Juneteenth celebrations, all are welcome to join the fun with live music, food trucks, and a Community Market where attendees can shop small and support local businesses. Experience drop-in programming centered around the theme “What does Afro-futurism mean to you?” and give back through the Juneteenth Blood Drive with Hoxworth Blood Center.
Friday, June 5
Friday Flow: Le’Andria Johnson
6 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Washington Park (OTR)
Free Admission
Le’Andria Johnson is a powerhouse gospel singer and Sunday Best winner known for her raw, soul-stirring vocals and unfiltered authenticity.
Teen Skate Night
6 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Sawyer Point & Yeatman’s Cove (Downtown)
Free Admission
Enjoy a weekly outdoor skate-and-dance experience featuring roller skating, live DJs, music, art-making activities, and summer treats in a vibrant community atmosphere.
City Cycle: GLOW Ride
6:30 p.m.
Central Park (Forest Park)
Free Admission
Enjoy games, giveaways, music, food trucks, and more. Walkers and bikers of all ages are welcome.
Ari Lennox R&B Concert
8 p.m.
Andrew J Brady Music Center (The Banks)
Starting at $63
The GRAMMY-nominated R&B powerhouse is hitting the road in 2026 with her highly anticipated North American tour in support of her critically acclaimed third studio album, Vacancy.
AMAPIANO FRIDAYS
9 p.m. – 1 a.m.
Revel OTR Urban Winery (OTR)
Free Admission
Experience a high-energy night of Afrobeats featuring smooth rhythms, soulful melodies, dancing, and vibrant cultural vibes designed for music lovers and the city’s nightlife crowd.
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.
ArtWorks In Living Color Block Party
6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
ArtWorks Creative Campus (Walnut Hills)
Free Admission
Celebrate ArtsWorks 30th birthday with art activations, art-making activities, and bites from your local faves including LaRosa’s Pizza Truck and Dreamys Ice Cream!
PLANNING AHEAD
North Mississippi Allstars Rock Concert
June 19, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
The band is known for turning every show into a high‑energy jam session, blending gritty guitar work with soulful grooves.
Saturday, June 6
David Montgomery 5th Annual Youth Football Camp
9 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Mount Healthy Stadium (Mt. Healthy)
Donation Encouraged
Houston Texans running back David Montgomery returns home to host his annual youth football camp. The camp will be open to youth in grades K-12. Each child will receive a camp t-shirt, sports goody bag, one-on-one instruction, lunch and more!
Black Female Veterans Event
11 a.m.
1010 Chapel Street (Walnut Hills)
Free Admission
learn about programs and services for the sisterhood of Black Female Veterans! Enjoy light refreshments.
Frank B. Foster Summer Jazz Camp: A Legacy in Jazz with Bruce Williams
1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center (The Banks)
$10
The inaugural Frank B. Foster Summer Jazz Camp exists to carry forward a living lineage in composition, improvisation, and mentorship with some of Cincinnati’s own budding young musicians. J
Paper Flowers – Film Screening
1 p.m.
Garfield Theatre (Downtown)
Starting at $10
Based on a true story, the film is a journey of love and loss, tragedy and hope, and most of all, a roadmap for all of us living and breathing to not to take our moments for granted and to remember to stop and enjoy every sunset.
Black Lit Fest: Books & Jook Block Party
4 p.m. – 11 p.m.
WordPlay Cincy (Northside)
Free Admission
A book fair featuring a fashion show, live jazz and poetry, art, and immersive cultural experiences centered around Black literature.
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.
2026 Fifth & Vine Live – Boss & The Novas
7 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Fountain Square (Downtown)
Free Admission
A popular Cincinnati-based cover band that regularly performs high-energy, classic rock, and pop hits.
Bashiri Asad presents “The Space Between”
6 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.
The Redmoor (Mt. Lookout)
Starting at $19
Enjoy a soulful live music experience blending classic R&B influences, powerful vocals, and heartfelt performances from Bashiri Asad, whose sound combines timeless soul with modern energy and audience connection.
Dan Wilson Organ Trio
7 p.m. & 9 p.m.
Caffè Vivace (Walnut Hills)
$23
Experience an evening of dynamic jazz guitar blending gospel, blues, traditional jazz, and modern influences from acclaimed musician Dan Wilson, known for his soulful playing and collaborations with some of jazz’s biggest names.
Omari Dillard – Soul Violinist
7:30 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park (Mt. Adams)
Starting at $44.75
Experience an unforgettable evening of soulful live violin performances blending R&B classics, nostalgic favorites, crowd interaction, and smooth musical energy into a high-vibe concert filled with romance, sing-alongs, and feel-good moments. Use code “VBC” to receive 25% off tickets.
Paul Taylor Jazz Concert
7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Starting at $30
An American smooth jazz alto and soprano saxophonist and singer who has released twelve albums since his debut, On the Horn, in 1995.
PLANNING AHEAD
The Pharcyde Rap Concert
June 20, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
An influential alternative rap group from South Central Los Angeles known for their playful lyricism, jazz-influenced production, and offbeat approach to hip-hop.
Sunday, June 7
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.
The Bridgerton Affair
Co-Hosted by Crystal Kendrick, The Voice of Black Cincinnati
12:30 p.m.
“Emma” Performance at 2 p.m.
Cincinnati Shakespeare Company (OTR)
Free with show admission
Guests are most cordially invited to The Bridgerton Affair. This delightful afternoon gathering will feature fun photo opportunities, a peek into the world of costumes and designs, a charming craft, and a short dance lesson fit for the ton. Attendees are encouraged to arrive in their most splendid Regency attire, as ensembles will be judged for accuracy and originality, with prizes awarded! At 2 p.m., the celebration continues as you take your seat for a performance of “Emma.” One simply must not miss it.
¡Vamos a Puerto Rico! Songs, Stories, and Sounds from the Enchanted Island
2 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Main Library (Downtown)
Free Admission
Join Summermusik and take a trip to Puerto Rico with Sonia-Morales Matos and explore the songs, stories, and sounds of “The Island of Enhancement”. Learn about the rhythms of Puerto Rican music in this fun, family-friendly program.
Afro Caribbean ALL WHITE Day Party
4 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Second Story (Covington)
Free Admission
Dress in all white and come ready to celebrate 12 years of TZB ENT—and even bigger than that, 16 years of the Afro-Caribbean movement right here in Cincinnati. Enjoy Authentic Jamaican cuisine and music including Afrobeats, Amapiano, Dancehall, Soca, and Afro House.
Chocolate Sundaze: Cruise
5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
101 Riverboat Row (Newport)
Starting at $45
Enjoy a soulful Sunday cruise filled with live music, good vibes, dancing, and a fun social atmosphere perfect for relaxing, connecting, and celebrating with friends.
Movie Night
8 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.
Imagination Alley (OTR)
Free Admission
Bring the whole family out for a fun outdoor movie night under the stars featuring popcorn, relaxed community vibes, and a showing of Daddy Day Care.
Upcoming Events
Party in the Park
June 9, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Central Park (Forest Park)
Free Admission
This year’s celebration features Marci and The Vibe Band, a high‑energy R&B/Jazz/Pop group known for smooth vocals, dynamic rhythms, and an electric stage presence.
Tapped In by Pones
Through June 10
Gabriel’s Corner (OTR)
Starting at $20
Blending African, Irish, vaudeville, Broadway, and contemporary styles, and featuring live jazz call-and-response alongside regional choreographers, this premiere celebrates creativity, resistance, and cultural convergence, spotlighting lesser-known stories through collaborative performance.
Disney’s The Lion King Broadway Musical
June 10 – July 5
Aronoff Center for the Arts (Downtown)
The entire Serengeti comes to life as never before. And as the music soars, Pride Rock slowly emerges from the mist. Enjoy awe-inspiring visual artistry, the unforgettable music, and the uniquely theatrical storytelling of this Broadway spectacular.
Lindsey Webster Jazz Concert
June 12, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Known for her warm vocals and modern blend of jazz, R&B, and soul, Webster delivers emotionally rich songs that feel both intimate and timeless.
Better Together Mother + Daughter Conference
June 13, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
The Summit Hotel (Madisonville)
A powerful, joy-filled experience designed to deepen the bond between mothers and daughters is blossoming in Cincinnati this summer—and being in the room will matter.
Evanston Brady Block Party
June 13, 6:30 p.m.
Evanston Playground (Evanston)
Free Admission
This FREE outdoor event is open to the public, and all are welcome. Enjoy giveaways, food trucks, activities, and entertainment prior to a concert with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra!
Juneteenth Jubilee
June 19, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Freedom Center (The Banks)
Free Admission
True to the spirit of the earliest Juneteenth celebrations, all are welcome to join the fun with live music, food trucks, and a Community Market where attendees can shop small and support local businesses. Experience drop-in programming centered around the theme “What does Afro-futurism mean to you?” and give back through the Juneteenth Blood Drive with Hoxworth Blood Center.
North Mississippi Allstars Rock Concert
June 19, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
The band is known for turning every show into a high‑energy jam session, blending gritty guitar work with soulful grooves.
The Pharcyde Rap Concert
June 20, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
An influential alternative rap group from South Central Los Angeles known for their playful lyricism, jazz-influenced production, and offbeat approach to hip-hop.
Jubilation! Ambassadors on a Sacred Journey
Through June 21
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center (The Banks)
Celebrating the history, accomplishments, and legacies of the Fisk Jubilee Singers, the exhibition takes visitors on a journey as they become familiar with the individuals and music of this world-renowned ensemble, which introduced African American spirituals to the world.
West End Brady Block Party
June 21, 6:30 p.m.
Ezzard Charles Park (West End)
Free Admission
This FREE outdoor event is open to the public, and all are welcome. Enjoy giveaways, food trucks, activities, and entertainment prior to a concert with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra!
Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue Jazz Concert
June 23, 8 p.m.
Taft Theatre (Downtown)
Blending rock, funk, soul, jazz, blues, hip-hop, and Caribbean influences into a raucous, high-energy sound, Shorty has built a reputation as one of the most dynamic and ecstatic live performers working today.
Contacts to Contracts Conference
June 25, 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Word of Deliverance (Forest Park)
Free Admission
A full-day experience designed to help small businesses turn connections into real contract opportunities.
Black Odes: A Reclamation Suite
Chamber Concert
June 26, 7:30 p.m.
ARCO (Price Hill)
$25
A passionate and antithetical shift in worldview from that reality; a musical, poetic, and visual celebration of a world in which the values of beauty, joy, and liberty are not only a goal, but a living reality. It is a multi-disciplinary expression of what it would be like to actually live fully in America’s promise.
Spyro Gyra Jazz Concert
June 27, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
An intimate night of genre‑blending jazz fusion from one of the most enduring bands in contemporary instrumental music.
Printed Voices from Kenya: Social and Cultural Reflections
June 27 – August 22
Kennedy Heights Arts Center (Kennedy Heights)
Free Admission
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.
Madisonville Brady Block Party
June 28, 6:30 p.m.
Madisonville Recreation Center (Madisonville)
Free Admission
This FREE outdoor event is open to the public, and all are welcome. Enjoy giveaways, food trucks, activities, and entertainment prior to a concert with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra!
Red, White & Boom Symphony Concert
July 4, 6:30 p.m.
Riverbend Music Center (Anderson)
Under the baton of John Morris Russell, The Pops welcome powerhouse Broadway star Mandy Gonzalez, acclaimed for her roles in Hamilton, In the Heights, and Wicked, alongside a special appearance by members of the United States Army.
Edgemont Inn Tavern Re-Enactment
July 10, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Harriet Beecher Stowe House (Walnut Hills)
The event pays tribute to the Edgemont Inn, a historic Green Book-listed tavern and boarding house once operated by Irene Bacon during the segregation era. Housed within the same property that now honors Harriet Beecher Stowe. This re-enactment revives the spirit of a place that once served as a vital refuge for Black travelers and the Walnut Hills community.
Coming of Age | New works of the HAIRitage Series Art Exhibit
Through 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.
Kirk Whalem Jazz Concert
July 11, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Soulful, passionate, stirring, these are the words most often used to describe Kirk Whalum’s music. Forged from his Memphis gospel roots and Houston’s thriving nightclub scene in the 1980s, Kirk’s big, rich tenor sound is unmistakably his.
Pynk Beard Country Concert
July 12, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
The rising artist is known for blending classic country storytelling with a modern edge, creating a sound that feels both familiar and fresh.
Woodlawn/Lincoln Heights Brady Block Party
July 17, 6:30 p.m.
Woodlawn Community Center Fields (Woodlawn)
Free Admission
This FREE outdoor event is open to the public, and all are welcome. Enjoy giveaways, food trucks, activities, and entertainment prior to a concert with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra!
Kindred The Family Soul R&B Concert
July 18, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
The husband-and-wife duo is celebrated for music rooted in love, family, and real-life experiences, blending smooth grooves with uplifting, conscious lyrics.
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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