Things to do in Cincinnati: April 22 – April 28

Class of Her Own Documentary

Apple TV
A teacher in a disadvantaged community rebels against a system that neglects many of its vulnerable students. Gloria Merriex transforms into a trailblazer, using rap, dance, and other innovations to enable children to thrive in school—and beyond. 

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.  

Kids Eat Free

1 p.m. – close
Goodies BBQ (Mt. Healthy)
Enjoy one free kids’ meal for every paid adult meal. Choose from a mouthwatering selection of burgers, pork sandwiches, wings, and sides like mac and cheese, baked beans, fries, and more. 

Opera Goes To Church Concert 

7 p.m.
Zion Global Ministries (West Chester)
Free Admission
Blends gospel, jazz, and classical music to create a one-of-a-kind, dynamic community concert experience. Hosted by local television personality Courtis Fuller, these performances will feature acclaimed opera artists, Zion Global Ministries’ inspiring congregational choir, local musicians, and more. Runs through April 23. 

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
The Summit features 80+ speakers, with topics including green jobs, food access, and climate justice. Plus, live performances by Elementz and Pones. 

The Spiderwick Chronicles 

ROKU (TV-PG)
Follows the Grace family as they move from Brooklyn, New York, to their ancestral home in Henson, Michigan, the Spiderwick Estate. Helen makes the move with her 15-year-old fraternal twin boys, Jared and Simon, and her older daughter, Mallory. Shortly after moving into the Spiderwick Estate, Jared discovers a Boggart and realizes that magical creatures are real. Starring Lyon Daniels, Joy Bryant, Noah Cottrell, and Mychala Lee.

Avondale Town Center Business and Community Impact Celebration 

11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Avondale Town Center (Avondale)
Free Admission
Celebrating the culmination of a transformative $46 million residential and commercial construction project that has revitalized the historic Avondale neighborhood. Enjoy tastings from town center eateries, receive a voucher to shop at the town center businesses (while supplies last), and tour the businesses within the development. 

Music Live at Lunch 

12:10 p.m. – 1 p.m.
Christ Church Cathedral (Downtown)
Free Admission
Experience live contemporary jazz from Brian Cashwell. Feel the groove and bring your lunch or savor delectable bites at the Cathedral. Runs Tuesdays through May 28.  

Community Action Agency Produce Pop-Up 

2 p.m.
Word of Deliverance Church (Forest Park)
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. 

STEM Club

4 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Mt Healthy Branch Library (Mt. Healthy)
Free Admission
Children ages 8-12 can ignite their curiosity, inspire innovation, and foster a love for science, technology, engineering, and math in a fun and interactive environment by engaging in hands-on experiments.

Jazz at the Square  

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

One Fair Wage Happy Hour 

5:30 p.m. – 6 p.m.
The Spot (Downtown)
Free Admission
Discover an innovative training initiative for Black-owned businesses geared towards implementing profitable wage increases before a town hall meeting with Congressman Greg Landsman. 

The Match Game Play 

7:30 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 are not always well-matched. Click the link for discounted ticket options. Runs through May 5. 

PLANNING AHEAD

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. 

Open Mic Night

8 p.m.
The Greenwich (Walnut Hills)
$5
From soulful singers to captivating storytellers and spoken word poets, witness the energy as the stage is set to ignite with an explosion of talent and creativity. 

The Robert Cray Band Blues Concert 

8 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
Starting at $42
On their newest album, That’s What I Heard, the band celebrates the music of Curtis Mayfield, Bobby “Blue” Bland, The Sensational Nightingales, and more, alongside four newly written songs. Hear the tribute live as you bask in the ambiance of the Great Hall. 

​​

PLANNING AHEAD

Chrisette Michelle R&B Concert 

May 3
7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Starting at $40
Catch the captivating R&B melodies and embrace the soulful ambiance as she graces the stage with her performance. Secure a spot today for an unforgettable evening of music. 

Affrilachian Poet Frank X. Walker Workshop 

7 p.m.
Literary Club of Cincinnati (Downtown)
Free Admission
Experience the eloquent words of the first African American writer to receive the prestigious title of Kentucky Poet Laureate. 

Baby Cafe

1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Forest Park Branch Library (Forest Park)
Free Admission
Attend an informal drop-in breastfeeding support group tailored for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers. Receive education, encouragement, and access to valuable resources. Join in a relaxed atmosphere to share experiences and participate in open-forum discussions led by trained lactation specialists. 

Community Action Agency Produce Pop-Up 

3 p.m.
Corinthian Baptist Church (Norwood)
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. 

Portaluca Spring Warehouse Sale 

4 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Portaluca (Norwood)
$45 on Thursday VIP only. All other days are free admission
On Thursday only, reserve an hour and a half of shopping, skip the lines, get the first picks, and receive one large bag full of fabulous fashions. From blouses and pants to skirts and suits, shop inventory and add style to your wardrobe. Fill an entire large shopping bag for only $25. Runs at various times through April 27. 

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 eclectic mix of swing and blues sounds of the Wild Carrot Trio. Runs through May 10. 

Adult Skate

5 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Cincinnati Recreation Center (OTR)
Starting at $5
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.  

BLK Frequency: It’s a Vibe Happy Hour 

5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Alice (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. Music by DJ Syimone. 

Young Professional Headshot Happy Hour 

5:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Knox Joseph Distillery (OTR)
Free Admission
Get ready to enhance your professional branding and mingle with some of the most accomplished young professionals in the city, taken by Shawndale Thomas Photography. Space is limited, so get your tickets now. 

Cincinnati NAACP General Membership Meeting 

6 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Community Action Agency (Roselawn)
Free with membership
Attend the membership meeting for a community of advocates and activists dedicated to social justice and equality for all people. Members’ thoughts and ideas are welcomed for a more vibrant and visible NAACP branch. Join today.

Networking: It’s Who You Know 

6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Esoteric Brewery (Walnut Hills)
$10
Network with experts spanning diverse industries, forge new connections, and broaden your horizons. Whether seeking career prospects, collaborative ventures, or simply eager to mingle, seize this opportunity to cultivate invaluable relationships. Your first drink is complimentary. 

Motivation Strategies Workshop 

6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Springer School and Center (Hyde Park)
Free Admission
Explore concepts, identify roadblocks, engage in evidence-based strategies, and learn the next steps and resources that you can take home to help with motivation. 

Take 6 R&B Concert 

7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Starting at $40
Take 6, initially formed in 1990, is known for its acappella performances that blend elements of traditional vocal techniques with contemporary R&B and pop influences. The concert will be a treat for fans of their soulful melodies, intricate harmonies, and captivating stage presence. 

PLANNING AHEAD

Kamasi Washington Jazz Concert 

May 8
7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Starting at $45
Experience an unforgettable evening listening to the renowned jazz saxophonist’s mesmerizing music and captivating rhythms. 

Park It for Perks 

10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Taft Museum of Art (Downtown)
Free Admission
Stroll into springtime with bright rows of tulips and new park amenities tucked away in Cincinnati’s bustling downtown core. Sip and savor complimentary fresh lemonade and cookies on the front lawn. Runs through April 29. 

Music at the Market 

5 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Findlay Market (OTR)
Free Admission
Listen to live blues and swing music from Shiny Old Soul while you enjoy crisp drinks or a delicious meal from a market vendor. Series runs through May 12. 

Whitfield Lovell: Passages Art After Dark 

5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Cincinnati Art Museum (Eden Park)
Free Admission
Immerse yourself in a blossoming paradise as we celebrate the return of Art in Bloom. Enjoy music from DJ Arie, performances from the dance collective Pones, cash bars, food for purchase from J’s Fish Tacos and the Terrace Cafe, a flower bar, and a photo booth provided by Framester. The exhibit runs through May 26. 

NPHC Happy Hour 

5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Mango’s Tropical Oasis (Springdale)
Free Admission
After work, vibe and have drinks with members of the National Panhellenic Council of local Black sororities and fraternities.

All-In Cincinnati April Coalition Meeting 

6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Greater Cincinnati Foundation (Downtown)
Free Admission
Show your commitment to promoting racial equity by participating in the pivotal gathering to put the finishing touches on their comprehensive 5-year plan and discuss forthcoming strategies. 

Motown Soul Live

6 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.
The Redmoor (Mt. Lookout)
Starting at $20
Experience the ultimate fusion of iconic hairdos, fashion, and music during an unforgettable concert featuring a special tribute to Tina Turner, The Queen Rock’ n’ Roll. 

Meet the Men of Omega 

7 p.m.
LivInn Hotel (Sharonville)
Free Admission
Experience the essence of camaraderie as you unwind and connect with the distinguished gentlemen of the Beta Iota Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated. Business attire is required. 

Finding Nemo Jr. Musical 

7 p.m.
Taft Theatre (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. Click the link for discounted ticket options. 

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. 

Dvořák Symphony No. 8 Classical Concert 

7:30 p.m.
Cincinnati Music Hall (OTR)
Starting at $15
Conductor Katharina Wincor, who led the May Festival’s 2022 production of Candide, returns and welcomes cellist Sheku Kanneh-Mason for Shostakovich’s raw and rhythmic first Cello Concerto. Runs through April 27. 

Hay J & Friends Comedy Album Release 

8 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Urban Artifact (Northside)
Starting at $15
Step into an epic evening filled with laughter and live music! Attendees are invited to join an unforgettable lineup featuring the uproarious Dusty Lewis, the dynamic “Black Daryl” (aka Daryl Clark), the vibrant Ms Sista Lu, and the sensational Dre Clark. Groove to the soulful beats of Diamond Star Russell and Jose while DJ Butch Gibson keeps the party going all night long.

Hit The Mic Cincy’s Open Mic 

8 p.m. – 11 p.m.
Oasis at Grace (Mt. Healthy)
Starting at $10
Hosted by God’s Grace Poet and MoPoetry Phillips, hear live spoken word and poetry from local poets while shopping with vendors. 

PLANNING AHEAD

Stanley Clarke Jazz Concert 

May 10-11
7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Starting at $35
Witness the virtuoso performance of a living legend, a four-time Grammy Award winner who made history as the first bassist to master acoustic and electric bass. Do not miss the chance to experience their unparalleled talent live on stage. 

Non-profit Masterclass w/ Rosemary D. Oglesby-Henry 

9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Cintas Center (Evanston)
$350
This event intentionally focuses on paperwork and information you cannot find on Google or other search engines. The goal is to provide participants with the tools, resources, and education to grow their organization, focusing on good business practices, fundraising, scaling, and development. 

Herald Beauty 3rd Anniversary Brunch

10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
First Financial Center (Downtown)
$79
Get ready to elevate your mornings with Morgan Angelique Owens for an electrifying celebration of beauty and beyond. Wear pink. Tickets are limited. 

Closing the Health Gap’s 20th Annual Health Expo 

10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Washington Park (OTR)
Free Admission
Enjoy health screenings, healthy food, fitness demos, and local and national entertainment. Hear spoken word from Siri Imani and Kyle Flemings, and groove to Hip-Hop celebrations spun by DJ Arie, DJ Merkout, DJ Nella D, DJ Ty Lyles, Lando Chapman, Tropikana, and more. 

The Shaping of Black America Book Discussion 

10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Walnut Hills Branch Library (Walnut Hills)
Free Admission
Explore the book’s profound themes, including the enduring legacies of racism and oppression, the noble aspirations of everyday individuals, the courageous heroes of freedom and equality, and the remarkable achievements of Black Americans. 

Affirmed Awards Brunch 

10:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Holloman Center for Social Justice (Avondale)
Starting at $65
Hosted by the Urban League Young Professionals of Greater Southwestern Ohio, this ceremony recognizes the talent, dedication, and resilience of individuals who embody excellence in their fields. 

Asian Food Fest

11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Court Street Plaza (Downtown)
Free Admission
Indulge in a culinary adventure with over 60 vendors offering delectable Asian cuisine, ranging from food trucks to established restaurants, representing 15 diverse Asian food traditions. Immerse yourself in family-friendly activities, vibrant music, the excitement of a karaoke contest, and a secret menu. Runs through April 28. 

The Vag Summit

Noon – 3 p.m.
Avondale Development Corporation (Avondale)
$35
Gather with like-minded women and engage in vaginal health discussions while learning about how mental health and self-care affect the functions of a woman’s womb. Hear from experts while enjoying live music by Queen J, the DJ, shopping with vendors, and more. Wear pink.

Heroines of Our History 

Noon – 4 p.m.
Heritage Village Museum (Sharonville)
$12; $5-$8 for children
This event celebrates some of the extraordinary women in Ohio who made history during the 1800s and early 1900s. Visitors can meet interpreters in historical clothing, enjoy hands-on activities, and visit vendors and non-profit booths. 

5th Annual Taco & Tequila Crawl 

1 p.m. – 6 p.m.
On The Rhine Eatery (OTR)
Starting at $25
Use your map to guide you to various bar and taco tokens to exchange for a free signature taco, discounted margaritas, beer, and tequila. During your journey, dance to live music from DJs at designated stops. 

FC Cincinnati Pre-Match at the Park 

4 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Washington Park (OTR)
Free Admission
Pulsating music, vendors, food trucks, inflatable baseball games, the thrilling FCC slide, and countless other exciting surprises are waiting to be discovered. 

Vietgone Play

7:30 p.m.
Playhouse in the Park (Mt. Adams)
Starting at $33.50
The partially true and endlessly entertaining tale of how his parents met in a refugee relocation camp in Arkansas during the Vietnam War. With irreverent humor, hip-hop, and heightened theatrical storytelling, this original story reinvents the romantic comedy and captures your heart. Runs through June 2. 

Katt Williams: The Dark Matter Tour 

8 p.m.
Heritage Bank Center (Downtown)
Starting at $65
Do not miss your chance to experience the comedy legend live on stage, delivering his signature blend of hilarious anecdotes and razor-sharp wit. Whether you are a die-hard fan or new to his comedy genius, this event is for you.

Cincinnati After Dark: R&B vs. Throwback Silent Party 

9 p.m. – 2 a.m.
Tillie’s Lounge (Northside)
Starting at $12
Grab a pair of headphones and dance to two different channels spun live by multiple DJs. There are no speakers or amps, just good vibes with good people. You must be 21 and up. 

Adult Skate Night 

11 p.m. – 2 a.m.
The Place (Colerain)
$15; Skate rental extra
Let the vibrant rhythms of hip-hop and R&B crafted by the talented DJ Dior serenade your senses, guiding each graceful movement as you lose yourself in the music and the freedom of the moment. Must be 21 and up. 

PLANNING AHEAD

James Arthur Bitter Sweet Love World Tour 

May 11
8 p.m.
Andrew J. Brady Music Center (The Banks)
Starting at $39
Renowned for his soulful blend of R&B-infused pop, James Arthur skyrocketed to stardom after victory in the ninth season of the British iteration of The X Factor in 2012. Join us for an unforgettable evening featuring the special guest appearance from Forest Blakk. 

African Modernism in America Exhibit 

10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Taft Museum of Art (Downtown)
Free Admission
This exhibition features 80 dynamic and vivid works of art created in Africa during the 1950s and ’60s. 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. The exhibition runs through May 19. 

The Beacon of Hope Statue 

10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center (Downtown)
Free Admission
The 11-foot bronze statue honoring Harriet Tubman, one of humanity’s greatest heroes, will be on display until the end of April, two centuries after her birth. Commemorative coins will be sold on the center’s website to honor the enduring legacy of one of freedom’s greatest heroes. 

Much Ado About Nothing Play 

2 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, cannot stand each other. Join the cast for a Q&A after the show. Runs through May 5.

Children of Eden Play

2 p.m.
Aronoff Center for the Arts (Downtown)
Starting at $24
Based on the story of Genesis, the age-old conflict between parents and children takes the stage in this epic, heartfelt Stephen Schwartz musical. Adam, Eve, Noah, and the “Father” who created them deal with the headstrong, cataclysmic actions of their respective children. Runs through May 4. 

Jazz@First Concert: April In Paris 

2 p.m.
First Unitarian Church (Walnut Hills)
Starting at $10
Say bonjour to French vocalist Valérie Agulhon Grasc, blending French pieces with American classics alongside the Phil DeGreg Trio. Valérie’s lively, interactive voice effortlessly transitions from straightforward classics to scat with remarkable precision and swing. Ooh la la! 

The Light Chasers Play  

3 p.m.
Know Theatre (OTR)
Starting at $25
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.

Support the Girls Film Screening 

3 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Garfield Theatre (Downtown)
Starting at $10
Presented with empathy and humor without preaching, see 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 are available. 

Jump N Jive Big Band 

4 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
The Redmoor (Mt. Lookout)
Starting at $10
Whether you are a seasoned dancer or just starting, learn how to dance to music by Frank Sinatra, Michael Buble, Ella Fitzgerald, Natalie Cole, and more. 

Sunday Night Motown and Soul Show 

6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Elite Event Center (Springdale)
Starting at $30
Relive the days of Motown and Soul as Grammy-nominated entertainer Dre Hilton brings you hits from James Brown, Ray Charles, Stevie Wonder, The Temptations, The 4 Tops, Marvin Gaye, and more.

Writer,
Latoya S.
The Voice of Black Cincinnati