Things to do in Black Cincinnati this week!
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OLLI at the University of Cincinnati: Discover the joy of lifelong learning
OLLI believes that learning is a lifelong adventure. Their programs are tailored for adults aged 50 and older who are eager to explore new subjects, revisit old passions, and engage in meaningful discussions.
Follow these tips to have a fun, safe spring
By taking these precautions recommended by Cincinnati Children’s Comprehensive Children’s Injury Center, you and your family can stay safe throughout the spring.
Monday, May 4
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.
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 Park: Estrada do Sol 70’s Brasil
6 p.m.
Washington Park (OTR)
Free Admission
The act explores Brazil in the 1970s, an era defined by the flourishing of Música Popular Brasileira (MPB), which evolved from Tropicália, Bossa Nova, and Samba, blending Brazilian rhythms with soul and funk, and drawing on psychedelic rock.
PLANNING AHEAD
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.
Tuesday, May 5
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo at the Black-Owned Eatery Serving Tacos
Experience authentic tacos alongside signature cocktails or drinks in a lively atmosphere. Black-owned restaurants in Cincinnati serve gourmet chicken al pastor, steak, shrimp, vegetarian, and dessert tacos with sides like street corn, nachos, chips and salsa, and queso to elevate any meal.
Bargain Movie Screening: The Drama
Times Vary
Esquire Theatre (Clifton)
$5
A happily engaged couple is put to the test when an unexpected revelation sends their wedding week off the rails—starring Zendaya.
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.
Coming of Age | New works of the HAIRitage Exhibit
Noon – 5 p.m.
Kennedy Heights Arts Center Lindner Gallery (Kennedy Heights)
Free Admission
Artworks that address Black hair culture in ways that demand attention, beg for justification of its discrimination, command the viewer, and ultimately uphold the values of her ancestors. Ends July 11.
Jazz at the Square: Evan Gidley Trio
5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Fountain Square (Downtown)
Free Admission
Evan Gidley is a saxophonist fluent in both classical and jazz performances.
St. Paul and The Broken Bones with Brother Wallace Soul Concert
8 p.m.
Taft Theatre (Downtown)
Starting at $57
Known for frontman Paul Janeway’s powerful, emotional vocals and the band’s high-energy live shows, the performance promises an unforgettable night of modern soul. Support from Brother Wallace adds a fresh, genre-blending sound to open the evening.
PLANNING AHEAD
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.
Wednesday, May 6
Happy Hour
4 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Kickbacks Cincy (Hartwell)
Free Admission
As a versatile 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.
Workout on the Green
5 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Washington Park (OTR)
Free Admission
From 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., partake in a hip-hop step workout, and from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., take part in a yoga session. Please bring your own towel, mat, water, etc.
Blue Wisp Big Band Concert
7:30 p.m.
Caffè Vivace (Walnut Hills)
$18
Enjoy classic big band jazz with high-energy swing and timeless sounds from one of Cincinnati’s top ensembles.
PLANNING AHEAD
Kid Cudi with 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.
Thursday, May 7
Jubilation! Exhibit
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Freedom Center (The Banks)
Starting at $11.50
Celebrates the history, accomplishments, and legacies of the Fisk Jubilee Singers® as they become familiar with the individuals and music of this world-renowned ensemble group, which introduced African American spirituals to the world. Ends June 21.
Moms Are Magic Community Event
4 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Imagination Alley (OTR)
Free Admission
Celebrate moms with a pop-up photo station, hands-on gift-making, and sweet treats in a lively, family-friendly atmosphere.
Blues and Brews: The Love Handles Concert
6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Washington Park (OTR)
Free Admission
Enjoy rock, pop, reggae, and disco covers.
The Afrofuturist Salon – Opera
6:30 p.m.
Artsville (Madisonville)
$28
Cultural innovators, creative voices, and curious minds gather for cocktails, connection, and conversation inspired by Afrofuturism and the power of hair, style, identity, storytelling, and legacy.
360 ALLSTARS Urban Circus
7:30 p.m.
Aronoff Center for the Arts (Downtown)
Starting at $25
Showcases BMX, basketball, breakdancing, acrobatics, drumming, and more for a spectacular fusion of the extraordinary artistry that emerges from street culture. Win tickets on our Facebook page.
PLANNING AHEAD
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.
Friday, May 8
Beethoven & Tchaikovsky Symphony Concert
11 a.m.
Music Hall (OTR)
Starting at $15
A deeply cathartic journey through anguish, resilience, and eventual exhilaration under the baton of acclaimed Black conductor Roderick Cox. Ends May 9.
Juvenile Rap Concert
7 p.m.
Bogart’s (Clifton)
Starting at $37
Best known for defining late ’90s and early 2000s rap with hits like “Back That Azz Up” and “Ha,” experience a foundational voice of Southern rap in an intimate live setting.
Louis York x Gramps Morgan Concert
7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Starting at $25
This high-octane collaboration unites the boundary-breaking innovator of the New American Soul sound, Louis York, with reggae titan Gramps Morgan, for a journey defined by positivity, light, and pure energy.
Jazz Saxophonist Bill Pierce
7:30 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Kennedy Heights Arts Center Lindner Annex (Kennedy Heights)
$12.50
Enjoy an intimate jazz performance with Jim Anderson and a talented ensemble of accomplished musicians.
RENT Musical
7:30 p.m.
Aronoff Center for the Arts (Downtown)
Starting at $29
Based on Puccini’s beloved opera La Bohème, this show follows the ups and downs of a year in the life of a group of impoverished, artistic friends living in Manhattan’s East Village. Ends May 16.
Rafael Leafar – Revel Music Series
8:30 p.m. – 11:30 p.m.
Revel OTR (OTR)
$13
A multi-instrumentalist—master of saxophones, clarinets, flutes, piano, and electronica—as well as a composer, producer, educator, and creative improvisational performer.
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
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.
Saturday, May 9
Mother’s Day Vegan Pop-Up
3 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Mo’s Uptown Lounge (Mt. Healthy)
Price Varies
Enjoy Flavor-packed vegan soul food by Livin’ Fresh Vegan, desserts, and drinks.
We Thrive Summer Fitness Series
9 a.m. – 10 a.m.
Central Park Fitness Court (Forest Park)
Free Admission
Take part in an outdoor workout led by Cynsational Fitness.
Mother’s Day Sip, Sing & Paint
11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Zola’s (Avondale)
Starting at $55
A fun, creative experience featuring painting, singing, and drinks while making memories in a relaxed, feel-good atmosphere.
Mother’s Day Weekend Comedy Explosion
6 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Brunch De Lux (Bond Hill)
Starting at $25
Celebrate Mother’s Day weekend with a night of nonstop comedy, big laughs, and feel-good entertainment perfect for enjoying with friends and family.
Pre-Mother’s Day Comedy Show
7 p.m. – 10 p.m.
20th Century Theater (Oakley)
Starting at $30
Enjoy a lively comedy show featuring stand-up acts seen on major platforms, hosted by MJ, with proceeds supporting a community nonprofit.
Rockin’ Afros, Puffs and Stuff Art Show & 30-Year Beauty Celebration
7 p.m. – 11 p.m.
Cincinnati Public Radio (Evanston)
$13
Angel Johnson showcases her collection featuring mixed-media works that translate decades of beauty experience into bold visual storytelling.
Pieces of a Dream Jazz Concert
7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Starting at $45
Known for blending contemporary jazz, R&B, and funk, the group delivers rich melodies and dynamic performances that have captivated audiences for decades.
Afroman Rap Concert
8 p.m.
MegaCorp Pavilion (Newport)
Starting at $36
Fans can expect a high-energy show filled with classics and newer tracks that showcase his artistic evolution.
PLANNING AHEAD
513 Day Festival
May 13, 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Fountain Square (Downtown)
Guests can enjoy live DJs, energetic performances, and a variety of local food trucks offering crowd favorites. Vendors from across the city will showcase their work for attendees to explore. Families will also find plenty of activities designed to keep all ages entertained throughout the evening.
Sunday, May 10
Gee Horton’s Chapter 4: In Another Lifetime Exhibit
10 a.m. – 4 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.
Museum Exhibits & Omnimax Shows
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Cincinnati Museum Center (West End)
Free Admission for moms, stepmoms, grandmas, or aunts
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. Additional films include Blue Whales, Call of the Dolphins, Secrets of the Sea, and Into America’s Wild. Explore space with Deep Sky and Hubble, plus scenic adventures like National Parks Adventure.
Mother’s Day at the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Cincinnati Zoo (Avondale)
Free Admission for moms
Come for a walk in the beautiful gardens, visit your favorite animals, or ride the new electric train.
Mother’s Day Brunch
11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Cincinnati Art Museum (Mt. Adams)
Starting at $24.95
Enjoy brunch at the Terrace Café as well as the exhibitions and collections.
I Hear Music at the Fountain
2 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Fountain Square (Downtown)
Free Admission
Enjoy a Sunday afternoon of live gospel music featuring New Prospect Baptist Church and DJ Ebony J with Host Lakeisa Ealy.
Upcoming Events
Suffs Broadway Musical
May 12 – May 17
Aronoff Center for the Arts (Downtown)
Direct from Broadway comes the acclaimed Tony Award®-winning musical about the brilliant, passionate, and funny American women who fought tirelessly for the right to vote.
513 Day Festival
May 13, 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Fountain Square (Downtown)
Guests can enjoy live DJs, energetic performances, and a variety of local food trucks offering crowd favorites. Vendors from across the city will showcase their work for attendees to explore. Families will also find plenty of activities designed to keep all ages entertained throughout the evening.
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.
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 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.
A Dream Deferred: Langston Hughes in Song
May 17, 3 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
Join Julia Bullock and guests in this intimate recital setting to experience her critically acclaimed concert curation.
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.
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.
On Freedom’s Doorstep: A Celebration of Cincinnati Black History
June 6, 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Heritage Village Museum (Sharonville)
This event celebrates the lives and contributions of Black Cincinnatians from the city’s chartering in 1788 to the end of World War I in 1919.
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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