THINGS TO DO IN BLACK CINCINNATI: MAY 20 – 26
The Voice of Black Cincinnati
Educating, recognizing and creating opportunities for African Americans in the region.
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Featured Events
Seven Hills Academic Readiness Program (SHARP)
Learn about 1–2-week camps offering students in grades 2-9 a path to educational opportunities at independent schools. Enroll your children today.
June 9
Heritage Village Museum (Sharonville)
1 p.m.
Starting at $5
Celebrate the lives and contributions of Black Cincinnatians from the city's chartering through the end of World War I. Planned activities include fine and performing artists, historical demonstrations, children's games, a simulated underground railroad experience, storytelling, and more. Children 3 and under are free. SNAP discounts are available.
Monday, May 20
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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.
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5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Walnut Hills Branch Library (Walnut Hills)
Free Admission
Learn how one man uncovered a brave family legacy stretching from Thomas Jefferson's Monticello to Cincinnati and consider how things might be different if stories like his were more widely known. Then, at 7 p.m., go to Caffe Vivace for a live jazz jam session featuring James Clark.
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6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Washington Park (OTR)
Free Admission
Vibe to live Latin jazz by Mambo Combo. The rhythmic melodies transport you to the vibrant streets of Havana, where every note celebrates life, love, and the pulsating energy of the culture. The series runs through October 28.
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6:30 p.m.
Forest Park Senior Center (Forest Park)
$12
Do step aerobics with Sydney Kairee. Runs every Monday and Wednesday. Your first class is always free on Mondays.
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6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Crossroads?(Oakley)
Free Admission
Gather with kindred spirits in a tranquil setting, enveloped by a peaceful ambiance conducive to prayer, worship, and relaxation. Surrender to the gentle embrace of the surroundings as you join fellow seekers in heartfelt communion, finding solace and renewal in the shared moments of reverence and reflection.
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7 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Bogart's (Clifton)
Starting at $45
This collection showcases many intricate musical layers and iconic hits from Dre's West Coast repertoire. Enhanced by the presence of Ds, vocalists, and lyricists, it promises to transcend the ordinary orchestra experience.
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7:30 p.m.
Woodward Theatre (OTR)
Starting at $12
Winner of the New Voice award at Canner and Best First Feature at the African Film Awards, experience a world and cinematic vision unlike any you have ever seen. After spending years in Belgium, a young Congolese man returns to Kinshasa's birthplace to confront the intricacies of his family and culture.
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PLANNING AHEAD
May 28
8 p.m.
Andrew J. Brady Music Center (Downtown)
Starting at $29.50
Legendary American funk music collective, known for its innovative and influential contributions to funk music, which combines funk, soul, R&B, and psychedelic rock elements.
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Tuesday, May 21
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Noon – 1:30 p.m.
Community Action Agency (Bond Hill)
Free Admission
Black Women Cultivating Change and The Talk Cincinnati will host a platform for Black men to discuss their experiences with police violence and its impact on their mental health. The event will run every Tuesday through June 4.
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Noon – 5 p.m.
Kennedy Heights Arts Center (Kennedy Heights)
Free Admission
Varied creations of 20 skilled artists, each of whom has dedicated their time and talent to curating, teaching, outreach programming, jurying, crafting public artworks, and volunteering, all contributing to the center's success, expansion and influence. Runs through July 18.
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5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Fountain Square (Downtown)
Free Admission
Experience the soulful sounds of R&B and jazz brought to life by the Pamela Mallory Trio in a captivating live performance. Grab your favorite drink and get ready to sway to the beat of an enjoyable time. The series runs through October 8.
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6:40 p.m.
Great American Ballpark (Downtown)
Starting at $16
Watch the Cincinnati Reds take on the San Diego Padres. Fans in attendance will receive a Reds fleece blanket while supplies last. Enter code FAM at checkout.
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7:30 p.m.
Starting at $33.50
See 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 romantic comedy and captures your heart. Stay after for a behind-the-scenes chat with the cast. Runs through June 2.
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PLANNING AHEAD?
June 2
8 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
Starting at $36.50
See the saxophonist, bandleader, and composer, Mr. Coltrane, renowned by critics and Grammy nominations. Across his expansive two-decade-plus career, he has lent his talents as a sideman to numerous artists while crafting remarkable albums for his repertoire and collaborative ventures.
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Wednesday, May 22
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Stretching & Strengthening
6 p.m. – 6:45 p.m.
Game On! Sports Complex (North College Hill)
$10
Rejuvenate yourself and start the week by enhancing your flexibility with yoga, low-intensity workouts, and stretching with Aniyah Janae. Yoga mats are provided. The class runs on Mondays and Wednesdays.
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6 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Washington Park (OTR)
Free Admission
Get ready for an electrifying night filled with the silky blues rhythms of guitarist Cheryl Renee and Shorty Star. It is your last chance to enjoy the soulful series.
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7 p.m.
Riverbend Music Center (Anderson)
Starting at $29
The GRAMMY-winning, multi-platinum global superstar known for his distinctive flow brings his American Dream tour to the Queen City with special guests J.I.D, Nardo Wick, and 21 Lil Harold.
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7:30 p.m.
Taft Theatre (Downtown)
Starting at $27
One of the greatest game shows of all time has been adapted into a stage show to give more fans access and more chances to win prizes, including trips to destinations like Paris and Hawaii and up to $10,000 in cash.
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PLANNING AHEAD
June 6
5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Woodward Theatre (OTR)
Starting at $75
Advance NOW is a 12-week intensive professional development training program offering soft skills, leadership development, financial literacy, and life skills to African American women in Metro Cincinnati. 28 young professional Black women will be graduating from the program’s 2nd Cohort.
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Thursday, May 23
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10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Kennedy Heights Arts Center (Kennedy Heights)
Free Admission
Curated by Asha, the Artist, this exhibition traces the evolution of Black love from its historical roots to today. Each piece of art demonstrates how it has sustained and empowered communities through generations. The evening features light refreshments and a live DJ. It runs through June 29.
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3 p.m. – 5 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.
4:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
U-Square Courtyard (Clifton)
Free Admission
Experience the ultimate unwind vibing to Americana music by the Mill Creek Drifters. This series is conveniently located near local restaurants and bars for your happy hour enjoyment.
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5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Cincinnati Art Museum (Eden Park)
Free Admission
We asked DJ Savage to turn it all the way up. Vendors, cash bar, and lite bites on the menu. Then, experience the most comprehensive exhibit, which comprises over 80 evocative multisensory installations, conté crayon drawings, and assemblages.
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6 p.m. - 7 p.m.
NAACP (Avondale)
Free Admission
When you join Cincinnati NAACP as a general member, you gain a community of advocates and activists dedicated to social justice and equality for all people. Runs every fourth Thursday of each month.
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7 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Bugatti’s Ultra Lounge (Springdale)
Free Admission
It is bingo—with a twist. Win prizes by covering your cards and listening to hits played by DJ Essentials and DJ Guy West. It runs every Thursday.
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7 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Fountain Square (Downtown)
领英推荐
Free Admission
Move your hips to live salsa and merengue music by Tropicoso, which hails from Volaré. Elevate your evening further by immersing yourself in the art of Latin dance, taught by expert local instructors, ranging from beginner to intermediate levels.
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7 p.m. - 10 p.m.
The Jazz Spoon (Forest Park)
$5
Hear live neo-soul jazz from the Jameez Latrail trio while enjoying an open bar and Creole cuisine. Food and drinks are sold separately.
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7:30 p.m.
Cincinnati Shakespeare Company (Downtown)
$12
It's Opening Night at the Cornley Drama Society's newest production, The Murder at Haversham Manor, and the stakes have never been higher. But none of the on-stage drama is in the script. Runs through June 16.
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7:30 p.m.
Cincinnati Music Hall (OTR)
Starting at $16
Celebrating the natural wonders of earth and the perseverance of miners in Pennsylvania coal country, this program reflects both the beauty and tragedy of humanity’s relationship with our planet.
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8 p.m. - 11:30 p.m.
Nostalgia Wine & Jazz (OTR)
Free Admission
Enjoy happy hour from 5 p.m. - 8 p.m., then immerse yourself in the sultry vibes of R&B for an unforgettable night of soulful rhythms and vibrant energy.
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PLANNING AHEAD
June 7
7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Starting at $40
Do not miss out on this intimate experience; the duo brings captivating R&B and neo-soul sounds to the stage. Get your tickets now for a special evening of rhythm and connection.
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Friday, May 24
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4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Short Vine Square (Clifton)
Free Admission
Groove to live R&B music by Aprinas Revolutionary Love. This series is conveniently located near local restaurants and bars for your happy hour enjoyment.
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5 p.m.
Great American Ballpark (Downtown)
$34
An evening of baseball and networking while cheering on the home team against the Los Angeles Dodgers. All tickets are general admission in section 142.
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5:30 p.m.
Rose Gold Sports Lounge (Mt. Airy)
Free Admission Until 9 p.m.
Immerse yourself in the smooth rhythms of live R&B music while sipping your favorite cocktails in a grown and sexy atmosphere.
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6 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Me & She Doulas (Western Hills)
Free Admission
Engage with the passionate team of doulas at their newly established office. Find out firsthand how their comprehensive services can empower you to achieve a healthier, more supported birth experience.
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7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Starting at $45
Known for his richly textured body of music, the Grammy-nominated singer will hit the stage live to serenade the audience, promising an evening of serene ambiance. Runs through May 25.
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PLANNING AHEAD
June 5
7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Starting at $25
Hailing from Kingston, Jamaica, this Bebble Rock Music artist uses his liquid and hypnotizing delivery to spread positive messages of spiritual evolution that force you to listen. Do not miss him live.
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Saturday, May 25
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9 a.m. - 10 a.m.
Central Park Basketball Court (Forest Park)
Free Admission
Start your day burning calories with Stacy during a low-impact cardio workout. All fitness levels are welcome. Series runs Saturdays through September 28.
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11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Fountain Square (Downtown)
Free Admission
Enjoy the inaugural “Africa Day” celebration, featuring an opening ceremony with a proclamation from the City of Cincinnati, food, live Afrobeat, and Caribbean music spun by DJ Moody and DJ RA.
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11 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Fifth Street (Downtown)
Free Admission
Enjoy family-friendly live entertainment featuring 2nd Wind, and purchase food from various food trucks and restaurants, including Black-owned options such as Davis Cookie Collection, Afro-Caribbean Eats, Eddie's Southern Style BBQ, Gee's Caribbean Kitchen, Mama Afrique Nigerian Cuisine, and more. Runs through May 27.
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Noon – 2 p.m.
The Well (Camp Washington)
Free Admission
LGBTQIA youth (ages 12- 22) and adults can engage in art-making activities centered on empathy, creativity, connection, and inspiration to support mental health. Make costumes, veils, bouquets and more.
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1 p.m.- 7 p.m.
Washington Park (OTR)
Free Admission
Hosted by Stephon, experience a Gospel explosion and old-school shindig featuring live music, vendors, and more.
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4 p.m. - 6 p.m.
blaCk Coffee Lounge (OTR)
$35
Attend a dope workshop to learn about plant care and get hands-on experience developing a green thumb. Enjoy guided meditation curated with a sound bowl, live music, and a build-your-own mocktail station.
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4 p.m. - 7 p.m.
The Williams Frances Theatre (Carthage)
Free Admission
Networking with like-minded peers can help you forge meaningful connections, exchange insights, and broaden your professional circle. Swap business cards, foster collaborative opportunities, and cultivate valuable partnerships to propel your business forward.
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5 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Knox Joseph Distillery (OTR)
Starting at $20
Experience a one-of-a-kind journey celebrating art, beauty, and fashion. Witness stunning runway looks, innovative designs, and the works of talented artists.
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6 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Contemporary Arts Center (Downtown)
$50
Dive into West African art and culture with stunning displays of twists, braids, and lively textiles. Enjoy live performances by Siri Imani, Mecca Freeman, and more, then groove at the after-party with DJ TizieB.
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7 p.m. & 9 p.m.
Caffè Vivace (Walnut Hills)
$15
See the eight-time GRAMMY Award-winning bassist, composer, and bandleader perform many live music ranging from R&B and pop to hip-hop and neo-soul. Tickets for each set are sold separately.
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8 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
Starting at $33
Made up of stellar jazz musicians from his hometown of Detroit, the ensemble will perform a mix of new originals, covers, and updated album cuts.
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10:30 p.m. - 2 a.m.
Spirit of Cincinnati (Dayton, KY)
Starting at $49.99
Step aboard for an unforgettable experience as you sail on the Ohio River. Dance the night away in your white outfit in a chic ambiance while vibing to R&B music, seeing stunning views of the city's skyline, enjoying refreshments, and more. Tickets are going fast.
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PLANNING AHEAD
June 9
1 p.m.
Heritage Village Museum (Sharonville)
Starting $5
Celebrate the lives and contributions of Black Cincinnatians from the city’s chartering through the end of World War I. Planned activities include fine and performing artists, historical demonstrations, children’s games, a simulated underground railroad experience, storytelling, and more. Children 3 and under are free. SNAP discounts are available.
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Sunday, May 26
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7:30 a.m.
Check the Facebook page for this week's location.
Free Admission
Hike approximately two miles and enjoy nature with fabulous people. Runs every Sunday.
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Noon – 2 p.m.
Findlay Market (OTR)
Free Admission
Hear live acoustic cover music from Deirdre at Race Street Station. The series runs through May 31.
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Noon – 5 p.m.
COPA Lounge?(Pendleton)
Pricing Varies
Indulge in the ultimate soulful brunch buffet experience with savory delights tantalizing your taste buds, bottomless mimosas, and the sounds of live R&B music.
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4 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Knox Joseph Distillery (OTR)
Starting at $15
Grab your favorite t-shirt and party to live R&B, rap, and soul music by DJ Stank, DJ Guy Wes, DJ Mic Drop, and DJ Vader. Prizes awarded for the best male and female t-shirt. VIP tables available.