Things to do in Black Cincinnati this week!
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Reggae Wednesday, a free Reggae Series at Washington Park
Enjoy an evening of soulful melodies, infectious beats, and community camaraderie under the stars. Whether a longtime reggae fan or simply looking to explore some tunes, dive into the island vibes and groove to the music.
Cincinnati Children’s unveils first dedicated helicopter and name suggested by 5-year-old girl
Cincinnati Children’s has introduced the health system’s first dedicated helicopter transport service. It helps kids with critical health needs access the nation’s leading pediatric hospital. Called Care Force One, the helicopter was unveiled March 10 at an event attended by 5-year-old Ellie Rocco, winner of the naming contest.
Monday, May 11
Beyond the Picturesque: The American Landscape as a Site of Memory, Identity, and Continuity
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Taft Museum of Art (Downtown)
Free Admission on Sundays and Mondays
Known for her emotionally resonant portraiture and narrative storytelling, 2026 Duncanson Society Honoree Ayana Ross captures the quiet strength and complexity of Black life, reflecting everyday moments that carry deeper meaning. Ends July 26.
Jazz at the Park: Love of Country Jazz Quintet Plays Cowboy Bossa Nova
6 p.m.
Washington Park (OTR)
Free Admission
Experience a jazz quintet performance blending classic country and western swing with Brazilian rhythms and the music of Antonio Carlos Jobim, reimagined through improvisation and genre-crossing arrangements.
A Harlem Wedding Conversation and Book Signing
7 p.m.
Joseph-Beth Booksellers (Oakley)
Free Admission; Registration Required
Join author Tiffany L. Warren for a discussion with Regina Harper and a book signing for a dramatic novel exploring love, scandal, and Black elite society during the Harlem Renaissance.
PLANNING AHEAD
Jurassic World by Brickman
May 22 – January 4
Cincinnati Museum Center (Queensgate)
Featuring more than 50 massive dinosaurs, iconic scenes, and interactive props made from over six million LEGO® bricks, Jurassic World by Brickman® invites you to relive the magic of beloved stories and characters from the Jurassic World franchise as you embark on a thrilling journey across Isla Nublar.
Tuesday, May 12
Elizabeth Hawes: Radical American Fashion Exhibit
11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Cincinnati Art Museum (Mt. Adams)
Free Admission
Featuring more than 50 garments made between the 1920s and 1960s, as well as original sketches and illustrations, this exhibit tells the story of one of the women who helped shape American identity in fashion design and personal expression. Ends August 2.
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 Square: Brooks Giles Quartet
5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Fountain Square (Downtown)
Free Admission
Enjoy the blending of rich improvisation, global touring experience, and soulful ensemble playing shaped by decades of musical study and collaboration.
SUFFS – Broadway Musical
7:30 p.m.
Aronoff Center for the Arts (Downtown)
Starting at $40
Learn about the brilliant, passionate, and funny American women, including the founders of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., who fought tirelessly for the right to vote. Ends May 17.
PLANNING AHEAD
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.
Wednesday, May 13
FC Cincinnati PreMatch at the Park
4 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Washington Park (OTR)
Free Admission
Festivities will include music, vendors to interact with, a variety of food trucks serving delicious food, inflatable soccer games, the inflatable FCC slide, and so much more! Afterwards, watch FC Cincinnati take on Miami FC at TQL Stadium at 7:30 p.m.
513 Day Festival Hosted by Radio One and 101.1 The Wiz
4 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Fountain Square (Downtown)
Free Admission
Celebrate Cincinnati pride at a citywide festival featuring local music, food, and creatives, bringing the community together for a fun, energetic evening.
BATUCADA Brazilian Groove Fest!
7 p.m.
Caffè Vivace (Walnut Hills)
$15
Experience the vibrant sounds of Brazilian music, featuring samba rhythms, soaring melodies, energetic percussion, and a talented live ensemble.
Jonathan Scales Fourcestra Concert
7 p.m.
Elder High School (West Price Hill)
Free Admission; Donations Recommended
Experience an energetic live performance, blending jazz, funk, progressive rock, and Latin rhythms with steel pans, bass, and drums.
PLANNING AHEAD
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.
Thursday, May 14
Fraud Prevention Expo
10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Community Action Agency (Bond Hill)
Free Admission
An immersive day designed for older adults to discover, defend, and outsmart the scammers.
Happy Hour
3 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Pike 2 Bar and Grill (Woodlawn)
Free Admission
Live music performances enhance the lively atmosphere, providing endless entertainment for all visitors. Drinks include traditional cocktails, beer, and wine. Food options include burgers, pizza, deli sandwiches, and chili.
After Hours: Prom Edition
7 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Cincinnati Museum Center (West End)
$20
Step into a retro prom-themed night featuring music from past decades, themed cocktails, karaoke, and photo ops celebrating prom fashion and culture.
The House on Watch Hill
7:30 p.m.
Ensemble Theatre (OTR)
Starting at $27
Experience a nostalgic coming-of-age musical set in 1984, following teen misfits building a haunted house while facing friendship, fear, and growing up. Ends May 31.
PLANNING AHEAD
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.
Friday, May 15
Dîner En Fleur
5 p.m.
Washington Park (OTR)
Free Admission; Registration Required
Celebrate the beginning of May Festival and attend a picnic in a party atmosphere, covered with live music. Please bring your own table settings and décor, food, and non-alcoholic beverages.
Arts Equity Collective’s 5th Black Book Fair
5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
The Event Center of Middletown (Middletown)
Free Admission
Step into a space where Black stories take center stage and our voices shape the narrative.
I Hear Music in the Air Gospel Concert
7 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Corinthian Baptist Church (Norwood)
Starting at $30
Enjoy a powerful gospel concert headlined by The Clark Sisters, featuring Ricky Dillard, Jonathan McReynolds, and a lineup of dynamic artists.
Lil Duval – Comedy Show
7 p.m.
Liberty Funny Bone (Liberty)
Starting at $42
Enjoy a night of comedy with Lil Duval, delivering sharp humor, storytelling, and big laughs in an energetic live performance. Through May 17.
May Festival
7:30 p.m.
Music Hall (OTR)
Price Varies
Experience a week-long celebration primarily dedicated to Black artists of music featuring choral and orchestral performances, from opening night and themed concerts to recitals, dance collaborations, and a powerful finale. Ends May 23.
DJ Pillo and Friends
9 p.m.
Northside Tavern (Northside)
Free Admission
Experience an electrifying night with special guest, DJ Bizzy Bizz, and listen to dope mixes to keep the dance floor rocking.
PLANNING AHEAD
Pride Brady Block Party
June 4, 6:30 p.m.
ICON Festival Stage at Smale Park (The Banks)
Free Admission
Enjoy giveaways, food trucks, activities, and entertainment prior to 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!
Saturday, May 16
Rummage Sale
9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Legacy Pointe Church (Kenwood)
Free Admission
Explore a wide variety of items, discover great deals, and enjoy a vibrant, community atmosphere. Enjoy $5 grab bags from 1 p.m. – 2 p.m.
African American History along the Cincinnati Riverfront
10 a.m. – Noon
John Augustus Roebling Statue (Covington)
Starting at $10
Take a guided walking tour, exploring African American history and highlighting stories of resistance, leadership, and community from the 1800s to 1900s.
PAW Patrol Live! “A Mighty Adventure”
10 a.m. & 2 p.m.
Heritage Bank Center (Downtown)
Starting at $55
Enjoy a family-friendly live show where the Mighty Pups use teamwork and superpowers to save a big celebration from a mischievous villain. Comment to win tickets. Ends May 17.
Portaluca Warehouse Sale
10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Portaluca (Norwood)
Price Varies
Shop discounted fashion finds during the spring warehouse sale while supporting Dress for Success Cincinnati’s mission to empower women through career and professional development resources.
Kiwanis Cares for Kids Family Health and Safety Fair
11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Kemper Heights (Forest Park)
Free Admission
Enjoy a family-friendly health and safety fair featuring live music, children’s activities, community resources, and interactive learning experiences for all ages.
Healthy, Wealthy, Wise! Health Fair 2026
Noon – 4 p.m.
Peace Baptist Church (Avondale)
Free Admission
Join a community health and wellness fair featuring fitness activities, health screenings, guest speakers, food, music, and resources focused on both physical and mental well-being.
Nouveau Spring Recital
3 p.m.
Cincinnati Public Radio (Evanston)
Free Admission
Enjoy a community recital showcasing local musicians and celebrating creativity and connection through live music.
Jammin’ on the Loop
5 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Sharonville Downtown Loop
Free Admission
Enjoy a night of live music, drinks, food trucks, and fun.
Kid Cudi with Big Boi and A-Trak
6:30 p.m.
Riverbend Music Center (Anderson)
Starting at $35
A blend of hip-hop, alternative rap, and electronic DJ sets for a high-energy night of music. Enjoy $35 lawn tickets when paying with cash at the venue box office.
Motown! | Fitton Showstoppers
7:30 p.m.
Fitton Center for Creative Arts (Hamilton)
$54
Enjoy a live tribute to Motown’s greatest hits, featuring timeless songs from Smokey Robinson, Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, The Supremes, and more.
White Boy Wasted 3
10 p.m. – 2 a.m.
Madison Theater (Covington)
Price Varies
Enjoy a high-energy party featuring music, themed attire, putt-putt golf, catering, and prizes in a lively, late-night atmosphere.
RHYTHM Experience
10 p.m. – 2 a.m.
Baru (Downtown)
Free Admission
Formerly R&B Saturdays, this new 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
Porgy and Bess: Festival Finale
May 23, 7:30 p.m.
Music Hall (OTR)
Festival Director Julia Bullock takes center stage as Bess in her own deeply personal and poignant curation of Gershwin’s legendary opera, Porgy and Bess.
Sunday, May 17
Bespoke & Brilliance Art Show
4 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Delhi Event Center (Delhi Hills)
$60
Featuring phenomenal artists, bold statement pieces, lite bites, live entertainment, and an exciting art auction, this showcase blends creativity with sophistication in an elevated estate-style atmosphere.
Fifth Third Community Day
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Freedom Center (The Banks)
Free Admission
Join for a day of activities and performances celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month! See the Jubilation! Ambassadors on a Sacred Journey Exhibit, which celebrates the history, accomplishments, and legacies of the Fisk Jubilee Singers®.
A Dream Deferred: Langston Hughes in Song
3 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
$40
Experience an intimate recital featuring Julia Bullock and guests, bringing poetry to life through song, followed by a post-concert talkback discussion.
Upcoming Events
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.
Porgy and Bess: Festival Finale
May 23, 7:30 p.m.
Music Hall (OTR)
Festival Director Julia Bullock takes center stage as Bess in her own deeply personal and poignant curation of Gershwin’s legendary opera, Porgy and Bess.
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.
Tapped In by Pones
Dance Play
June 3 – 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.
Pride Brady Block Party
June 4, 6:30 p.m.
ICON Festival Stage at Smale Park (The Banks)
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!
Ari Lennox R&B Concert
June 5, 8 p.m.
Andrew J Brady Music Center (The Banks)
GRAMMY-nominated R&B powerhouse Ari Lennox is hitting the road in 2026 with her highly anticipated North American tour in support of her critically acclaimed third studio album, Vacancy.
Paul Taylor Jazz Concert
June 6, 7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
An American smooth jazz alto and soprano saxophonist and singer who has released twelve albums since his debut, On the Horn, in 1995.
The Bridgerton Affair
Co-Hosted by Crystal Kendrick, The Voice of Black Cincinnati
June 7, 12:30 p.m.
Cincinnati Shakespeare Company (OTR)
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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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