Things to do in Cincinnati: April 15 – April 21

Specials at Cincinnati Black-owned Restaurants  

The city’s dining scene is diverse, with eateries serving low-cost, tasty meals. Enjoy African flavors, classic BBQ, comforting soul food, and spicy Jamaican dishes. All restaurants listed have special pricing this week. Discover hidden treasures where community and cuisine come together. 

Good Times 

Netflix (Comedy)
In this edgy, irreverent reimagining of the TV classic, a new generation of the Evans family keeps their heads above water in a Chicago housing project. Starring Yvette Nicole Brown, J.B. Smoove, and Jay Pharoah.

Food, Clothing, and Toiletries Pantry  

1 p.m. – 2 p.m.
St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church (Evanston)
Free Admission
Hamilton County residents experiencing food insecurities are welcome to stop by —open Mondays and Tuesdays from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. Call 513-531-4337 for more information. Check out our list of other Cincinnati pantries and soup kitchens.

Spin with Carmen

5:30 p.m. & 6:30 p.m.
Hirsch Recreation Center (Avondale)
$7 (nonmembers); $5 (members)
Spin to some of your favorite tunes with Black fitness instructor Carmen Sanders. Call 513-751-3393 to reserve your bike. Runs on Mondays and Wednesdays.

R&B & Chill: Mello Mood Mondays

10 p.m. – 2:30 a.m.
Bugatti’s Ultra Lounge (Springdale)
Starting at $20
Elevate your nightlife experience during a night of nonstop vibes as DJ Fresh and Que Smoove spin R&B and hip-hop beats on the turntables.

PLANNING AHEAD

BLK Frequency: It’s a Vibe Happy Hour

April 25
5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Alice OTR (OTR)
Free Admission
Guests will gather with Planned Parenthood and their incredible partners to form meaningful connections, get to know communities, and learn more about efforts toward a more equitable and accessible healthcare landscape in Ohio. Meet, celebrate, and collaborate with Black leaders and repro activists in the Southwest Ohio region. Enjoy music by DJ Syimone.

Cheap Movie Tuesday – The Absence of Eden 

Times Vary
Esquire Theatre (Clifton)
Starting at $5
The Absence of Eden follows Esmee, a young dancer in Mexico who flees to the United States after a violent act of self-defense. Guided by a ruthless Coyote, she befriends a mother and daughter and vows to reunite them in America amidst the harsh border realities. Starring Zoe Saldaña.

Music Live at Lunch

12:10 p.m. – 1 p.m.
Christ Church Cathedral (Downtown)
Free Admission
Experience live harpsichord and organ music played by University of Cincinnati College Conservatory of Music students. Feel the groove and bring your lunch or savor delectable bites at the Cathedral. Runs Tuesdays through May 28.  

Jazz at the Square

5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Fountain Square (Downtown)
Free Admission
Hear live Brazilian jazz music from Emily Grace Jordan. Grab your favorite drink and get ready to sway to the beat of a good time. The series runs through October 8.  

Makers + Mixers

5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
1819 Innovation Hub (Clifton)
Free Admission
Dive into an electrifying community of trailblazers, where inventive cocktails flow as freely as groundbreaking ideas sparked by the power of AI. Enjoy an unforgettable fusion of technology and creativity, where you play an integral role in shaping the future. 

Line Dance Class  

6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Woodlawn Recreation Center (Woodlawn)
$5
Get your groove on by learning the latest and throwback dances from the Cincinnati Smooth Hustlers. All skill levels are welcome. For more information, contact DJ Andy G at 513-616-0139. 

The Match Game Play

7 p.m.
Ensemble Theatre (OTR)
Starting at $27
The 2022 winner of the Jackie Demaline playwriting competition, this world premiere dramedy hilariously reflects on how families aren’t always well-matched. Runs through May 5. 

Since You Asked, Songs from My Favorite Singers! 

7 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
Starting at $6
Experience the captivating vocals of Pamela Mallory Yeager as she serenades the audience with her interpretations of songs by the most influential artists in her career. Immerse yourself in an evening of live classic jazz at a stunning theatre known for its superb acoustics. 

PLANNING AHEAD

Memory Café 

1 p.m. – 2 p.m.
Forest Park Branch Library (Forest Park)
Free Admission, Registration Encouraged
Those with memory loss, their families, and their caregivers can enjoy fun activities and come-as-you-are conversations. Make new friends, contribute information, and share unique experiences. 

Community Action Agency Produce Pop-Up 

2 p.m.
Community Action Agency (Roselawn)
Free Admission 
Fruits, vegetables, and baked goods are available to anyone experiencing food insecurity on a first-come, first-served basis. No appointment is necessary. For more information, call 513-924-2021. Check out our list of Cincinnati pantries and soup kitchens.  

Midweek Magic Happy Hour

3 p.m. – 6 p.m.
6 ‘N The Mornin’ (Walnut Hills)
Savor the fantastic atmosphere with half-priced drinks and treat yourself to delectable lamb chops and baskets of tantalizing gator bites. 

Notice of Special Public Meeting: Property Tax Task Force 

5:30 p.m.
Cincinnati Recreation Center (Evanston)
Free Admission
Experience a community gathering in a town hall-style meeting, where residents are invited to share their perspectives on the recent property tax increases and their effects. 

A Culinary Evening with Chef Tunde Wey 

5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Taft Museum (Downtown)
Free Admission
Delight in an evening of mingling and delicious food curated by AfroMeals’s Chef Gabi Odebode. Celebrate while exploring galleries, including African Modernism in America. Participate in a Q&A session, snap a photo and more. 

LoFi Wednesdays

7 p.m. – 11 p.m.
Revel Urban Winery (OTR)
Free Admission
Catch a vibe while enjoying relaxing live LoFi hip-hop, jazz, neo-soul, and LoBop music spun by DJ ShadeWon and DJ MaxxRevive. Runs every Wednesday. 

The Light Chasers Play  

7:30 p.m.
Know Theatre (OTR)
$10
A teenage science whiz, Nic is stuck on Earth with her practical mom while her beloved dreamer of a father is ten years into an improbable mission to the stars. See the epic, world-premiere theatrical adventure and music-fueled story about finding hope in a broken world and the galactic distances we will go to heal. Runs through April 28. Fifty tickets will be available for free on a first-come-first-served basis.  

Violetta’s Chosen Family Opera Rap 

7:30 p.m.
First Lutheran Church (OTR)
Free Admission
Director Trevore Ross previews Cincinnati Opera’s 2024 La Traviata, celebrating it as an ode to the outsider. Ross will explore Violetta’s world and her friendships, featuring excerpts performed by soprano Dana Pundt and tenor Pedro Barbosa. 

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PLANNING AHEAD

Bible Stories Dance Performance  

April 26-27
Artsville (Madisonville)
Starting at $28
Revolution Dance Theatre offers a refreshing take on timeless biblical tales, inviting audiences on a journey through the creation of Adam and Eve, Joseph and Mary, and other iconic narratives. These stories are set to an evocative soundtrack featuring lyrics that unveil the depth and drama of each tale, promising a captivating experience. 

Live@ U-Square 

4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
U-Square Courtyard (Clifton)
Free Admission
Experience the ultimate unwind nestled near UC’s campus. This exciting concert series invites you to groove to the sounds of lo-fi and boom-bap-inspired rap music by Küf Knotz and Christine Elise. Runs through May 10.

Adult Skate

5 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Cincinnati Recreation Center (OTR)
Starting at $10
Whether you are a seasoned pro or lacing up your skates for the first time in years, this is your chance to relive the magic of your youth and create unforgettable memories with friends old and new.

Soulful Soiree Curated Experience for Whitfield Lovell: Passages Exhibit

5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Cincinnati Art Museum (Mt Adams)
Free Admission
The Voice of Black Cincinnati presents an evening for attendees to enjoy conversation with the curator while partaking in complimentary activities. Savor a delectable dinner by the bite, enjoy a cash bar with wine and cocktails, shop with Black women-owned vendors, and more. 

Using AI in Your Daily Life 

5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
1819 Innovation Hub (Clifton)
$10; Free for students
Join the Harvard Black Alumni Society for a workshop featuring Gabriel Rushin, Senior Technical Product Manager at Proctor and Gamble. This event is designed for Black professionals and students interested in discovering how to leverage AI in both personal and professional contexts. 

3rd Annual Stand Up for Sex Ed 

6:30 p.m.
Woodward Theatre (OTR)
$20
Join the Planned Parenthood Southwest Ohio Education team alongside Ohio’s top stand-up comedians for an unforgettable show. Hosted by DJ Queen Celine, the evening promises a laughter-filled experience supporting comprehensive sex education. Get ready for a night of hilarity and advocacy. Must be 21 and up. 

Genre-fluid LGBTQIA+ Book Club 

7 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Walnut Hills Branch Library (Walnut Hills)
Free Admission
Join in for animated discussions of contemporary and timeless queer literature. This month, the club will delve into the intricacies of The Thirty Names of Night by Zeyn Joukhadar. 

Much Ado About Nothing Play 

7:30 p.m.
Cincinnati Shakespeare Company (OTR)
Starting at $14
Every rom-com needs lovers, scheming friends, and a destination wedding. Hero and Claudio find love, but their fiery single friends, Beatrice and Benedick, can’t stand each other. Join the cast for a Q&A after the show. Runs through May 5. 

The Chosen Play

7:30 p.m.
Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park (Mt. Adams)
Starting at $33.50
Chaim Potok’s novel delves into the coexistence of opposing ideas. This acclaimed stage adaptation, a favorite in theaters nationwide, explores Jewish culture and the power of human connection across differences. Runs through May 12. 

PLANNING AHEAD

Support the Girls Film Screening

April 28
3 p.m.
Garfield Theatre (OTR)
Starting at $10
Presented with empathy and humor without preaching, Support the Girls highlights the realities of the workplace that many women face as an accepted part of their jobs – working in the low-wage service industry with a lack of adequate insurance while encountering disrespect, sexual harassment, and racial stereotypes. Starring Regina Hall. Student discounts available. 

Kickback Fridays 

4 p.m. – 2 a.m.
Kickbacks (Hartwell)
Free Admission
Step into the rhythm of the night and immerse yourself in an unforgettable experience featuring R&B and hip-hop music expertly curated and spun by the one and only DJ Cannon. 

Read Across Madisonville 

6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
The Summit Hotel (Madisonville)
Free Admission
Enjoy a fun, family-friendly, community-wide celebration emphasizing the importance of literacy and daily reading. This year’s theme, “Unleashing Your Superpowers,” features keynote speakers Dwylett Chambers-Montgomery and Kellan Montgomery, Mistress of Ceremony Lacey Roberts, live music by DJ D Marsh, activities, raffles, light dinner, and more. 

2024 Neighborhood Summit Kick-off Dinner 

6 p.m.
Columbia Event Center (Columbia Tusculum)
$60
This year’s summit focuses on equitable practices in economic sustainability, housing, and health. Discuss essential elements for fostering equity in access to opportunities, affordable housing, and healthier futures. Runs through April 20. 

Rhythm & Wine: Live Music Happy Hour 

6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Nostalgia Wine & Jazz Lounge (OTR)
Free Admission
Get ready to vibe to smooth R&B while tantalizing your taste buds with an exquisite selection of wines. Runs every Friday. 

$5 Friday

7 p.m. – Midnight
Out The Way Bar & Grill (West Chester)
Free Admission
Gather your friends, kick back, and indulge in our irresistible $5 drink specials as you soak in the lively atmosphere. Runs every Friday. 

Classical Roots – Inspirational Concert 

7:30 p.m.
Cincinnati Music Hall (OTR)
Starting at $14
A captivating evening of music conducted by John Morris Russell, featuring the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Classical Roots Community Choir, and Nouveau Players. The program includes works by William Grant Still, Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, Rosephanye Powell, and Richard Smallwood. The show highlights music from The Color Purple, a gospel/hip-hop tribute to Beethoven’s Symphony, and special guest acclaimed producer and rapper Hi-Tek. 

Corey Holcomb Comedy Show 

7:30 p.m.
Funny Bone (Liberty Township)
Starting at $47
Going from hanging in the hood to performing comedy on Jay Leno’s “Tonight Show.” Corey’s comedy genius transcends class and racial divides. It will be an evening filled with endless entertainment and belly laughs. Runs through April 20. 

The Wild & Scenic Film Festival 

7:30 p.m.
Woodward Theatre (OTR)
Starting at $25
Features short films from talented environmental filmmakers worldwide aimed at inspiring activism, increasing awareness for grassroots environmental causes and generating critical funds. 

International Fridays 

10 p.m.
Cove51 (Sharonville)
Free Admission
Catch a vibe and kick off the weekend by dancing to a guest DJ’s latest hip-hop, afrobeat, R&B, and reggae music.  

PLANNING AHEAD

2024 Midwest Regional Sustainability Summit 

May 2
8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Duke Energy Convention Center (Downtown)
$200; or Pay What You Can
Brings together 600+ passionate and visionary leaders to share inspiring, forward-thinking, and solution-oriented ideas that propel guests toward a healthier, more resilient, sustainable, and equitable future. 

Ignite Your Worship 

10 a.m.
Emmanuel Temple Church (North College Hill)
Free Admission
Enjoy a powerful event where you can ignite your heart and mind in worship. Children 5 and under are welcome to attend their personalized sessions. Runs through April 21.

Spring Fest in Burnet Woods

10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Burnet Woods (Clifton)
Free Admission
Come on out to enjoy live music from The Tracy Walker Band, food from Jill’s Mobile Kitchen, yoga by World Peace Yoga, nature education in Trailside by Cincinnati Parks’ Explore Nature program, local art, crafts, activities, games for the kids, and so much more. 

Finding Nemo Jr. Musical 

2 p.m.
Taft Museum (Downtown)
Starting at $10
Explore the big blue world with this lively new 60-minute stage musical based on the beloved Pixar Film Finding Nemo. Marlin, an anxious and overprotective clownfish, lives in the Great Barrier Reef with his kid Nemo, who longs to explore. Get $5 off each ticket using code MYBUBBLES. Runs through April 28.

Black Wall Street Unlimited – The Experience 

2 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Site 1212 – Art Academy of Cincinnati (Downtown)
Starting at $50
Attend a premier upscale event where you will explore, learn, and elevate Black businesses to new heights. Enjoy brunch, a cocktail party, live R&B music by DJ Guy Wes, exquisite culinary creations, sessions with industry leaders, and more. 

Hard to Swallow Documentary Screening 

2:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Esquire Theatre (Clifton)
Free Admission
See a poetic food series chronicling the life and perspective of Nigerian culinary artist, writer, and Duncanson Artist-in-Residence Tunde Wey. In partnership with Cincinnati Black Pride, the screening will follow with a Q&A session that includes co-creator Theo Schear. Registration required.

Northern Valley State Pageant for American Beauties National & Plus Pageant 

3 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Above and Beyond Event Center (Springdale)
Starting at $20
Join host Tarina Sims in crowning the next plus-size state Queens. Bring family and friends to enjoy vendors, swag bags, and the competition.

Women with a Destiny Fashion Show 

4 p.m. – 8 p.m.
House of Joy Christian (Clifton)
$15
As models strut the runway, prepare to be captivated by the newest trends and designs. From sophisticated evening attire to stylish casual wear, this event guarantees to highlight the diversity and flair of both women’s and men’s fashion. 

Don’t Let The Glasses Fool You Comedy Tour 

Shows at 7 p.m. & 9:30 p.m.
Bombs Away! Comedy at the Comet (Northside)
Starting at $7.50
Experience a unique comedy night featuring comedians John Bruton, Jay Hunter, Karinne Turnbow, and Sohile Ali in an intimate club-like setting. For a limited time, purchase your tickets online and take advantage of a 2-for-1 deal.

The Silence of Flowers Spring Concert 

8 p.m.
Aronoff Center (Downtown)
Starting at $32.50
Embrace the liberating spirit of the spring equinox, which fills our hearts with joy and inspires the world’s creation.

Afro-Caribbean Saturdays 

10 p.m. – 2 a.m.
Rusconi Pizza Ghost Kitchen (Downtown)
$5
Party to the latest and greatest Afro-Caribbean music, including Azonto, Coupe De Cale, Bongo, Genge, Salsa, Roots, Lingala, and several other genres from Africa. Reggae, Dancehall, Soca, and more from DJ Tizie B. Ladies are free before midnight.  

After Hours 

10 p.m. – 2 a.m.
The Black Rose Cafe (Northside)
Starting at $10
Kick it with the UBSA as they end the year with live hip-hop and R&B music by DJ Dean while having drinks at the bar. 

PLANNING AHEAD

Desi Banks – Comedy Show

May 3, 2024
8 p.m.
Taft Theatre (Downtown)
Starting at $43
The Atlanta-native comedian and actor will perform live for his ‘The Purpose Chaser’ Tour. If you are looking for a night of laughter and inspiration, do not miss his Cincinnati performance.

Off-Trail Urban Hikers  

7:30 a.m.
Check the Facebook page for this week’s location
Free Admission
Enjoy a 2-mile hike through nature with a group of fabulous people. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a water bottle.

African Modernism in America 

10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Taft Museum (Downtown)
Free Admission
The exhibition features more than 60 dynamic and vivid works of art created in Africa during the 1950s and ’60s. Co-organized by the American Federation of Arts and Fisk University Galleries, it explores the relationships between African artists and American patrons, artists, and cultural organizations amid the interlocking histories of civil rights, decolonization, and the Cold War.

Fifth Third Community Day: Dancing Stories 

10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center (The Banks)
Free Admission
Enjoy free admission to the museum and activities featuring a Movers Workshop, short film screening, performances, and Artist/Scholar Conversation. Also, see the Harriet Tubman statue outside! 

Sunday Brunch 

11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
BrewRiver Creole Kitchen (Linwood)
Free Admission; Food Purchased Separately
Blues pianist Cheryl Renée returns to serenade guests as they indulge in flavorful Louisiana-style dishes like chicken and sausage gumbo, alligator and waffles, Creole jambalaya, Po’ Boy sandwiches, fried green tomatoes, and more. 

Chefs Perspectives: Food Waste and Insecurity

1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Findlay Market (OTR)
Free Admission
Enjoy an afternoon of eating and exploration with Taft’s 2024 Duncanson Artist-in-Residence Tunde Wey, Jeff Harris (Nolia), Gabi Odebode (AfroMeals), and Mona Bronson-Fuqua (Je Nais Se Fuqua), with specializations from New Orleans cuisine to West African.

Queer in Cincinnati Music Festival 

2 p.m.
Knox Joseph Distillery (OTR)
Starting at $20
From Indie sensations to dynamic rock bands, electronic beats, and hip-hop lyricists, all acts will highlight the vibrant tapestry of LGBTQ+ and allied communities. Browse through vendors and engage with fellow like-minded individuals in a welcoming environment.

Eric Bolden Memorial Concert

2 p.m. – 7 p.m.
The Redmoor (Mt. Lookout)
Starting at $10
Enjoy a special event honoring his life and legacy. Come with friends and family to celebrate with live music, good vibes, and fond memories. See performances from the Turned Up Band, Ladi T of Cinci, Alter Egoz, Swagg Band, and the Positive Vibe Band. 

Afro Caribbean Day Party Experience 

3 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Somerset Bar (OTR)
Free Admission; Food Purchased Separately
Get a “taste of Jamaica” with authentic Jamaican cuisines by Mama V and vibe to live soca, calypso, dancehall, and reggae spun by DJ Tizie B. 

The Kazuya Moon Fashion Experience 

5 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
601 W McMicken Avenue (Clifton)
Starting at $40
Features a fusion of grunge fashion with an Asian twist, indulge in delectable chef bites, immerse yourself in innovative designs, and enjoy an unforgettable overall experience. Witness the spectacle of Asian dragons, mesmerizing fire lanterns, exhilarating flame-throwers, and much more.  

The Skatalites: Reggae

7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Starting at $25
Highlighting their unparalleled influence in ska, the original members contributed to many recording sessions before officially establishing the band in 1964. Furthermore, they supported many vocalists in Jamaica during that era, including notable figures like Bob Marley, Toots and The Maytals, Jimmy Cliff, Alton Ellis, and more. 

Writer,
Latoya S.
The Voice of Black Cincinnati