THINGS TO DO IN BLACK CINCINNATI: APRIL 22 – 28
Crystal Kendrick
Award-winning marketing consultant, entrepreneur, social influencer and community leader
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Monday, April 22
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.
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.
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.
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.
6 p.m. - 6:45 p.m.
Game On! Sports Complex (North College Hill)
$10
Rejuvenate yourself and start the week enhancing your flexibility with yoga, low-intensity workouts, and stretching with Aniyah Janae. Yoga mats provided. Runs Mondays and Wednesdays.
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. Feature acclaimed opera artists, Zion Global Ministries’ inspiring congregational choir, local musicians, and more. Runs through Apr. 23.
PLANNING AHEAD
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.
Tuesday, April 23
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 to the Spiderwick Estate, Jared discovers a boggart and realizes that magical creatures are real. Starring Lyon Daniels, Joy Bryant, Noah Cottrell, and Mychala Lee.
11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Avondale Town Center (Avondale)
Free Admission
Join Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval, The Community Builders, and the many project partners in celebrating the culmination of a transformative $46 million residential and commercial construction project that has revitalized the historic Avondale neighborhood.
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.
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.
4 p.m. - 5 p.m.
Cincinnati 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.
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.
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.
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 discount codes. Runs through May 5.
PLANNING AHEAD
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. Do not miss his Cincinnati performance if you want a night of laughter and inspiration.
Wednesday, April 24
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.
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.
8 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
Starting at $42
Celebrate 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
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.
Thursday, April 25
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.
1 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Cincinnati 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.
3 p.m.
Corinthian Baptist Church (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.
4 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Portaluca (Norwood)
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.
4:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
U-Square Courtyard (Clifton)
Free Admission
Experience the ultimate unwind nestled. 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.
5 p.m. – 7 p.m.
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.
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. Enjoy music by DJ Syimone.
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.
6 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Esoteric Brewery (Walnut Hills)
$10
Whether seeking career prospects, collaborative ventures, or simply eager to mingle, seize this opportunity to cultivate invaluable relationships. Your first drink is complimentary.
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.
7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Starting at $40
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
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.
Friday, April 26
10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Taft Museum (Downtown)
Free Admission
Stroll into springtime with bright rows of tulips and new park amenities tucked away in Cincinnati’s bustling downtown core. Plus, discover an artful retreat with the 11-foot-tall bronze statue of Abraham Lincoln welcoming you to the park. Sip and savor complimentary fresh lemonade and cookies on the front lawn. Runs through Apr. 29.
5 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Findlay Market (OTR)
Free Admission
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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.
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.
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.
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 hosted by All-In Cincinnati, where they will put the finishing touches on their comprehensive 5-year plan and discuss forthcoming strategies.
6 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Cancer Support Community (Blue Ash)
Free Admission
Embrace the essence of love, friendship, and inner peace embodied by pink. Wear your favorite pink attire and enjoy a day filled with delightful crafts, rejuvenating self-care activities, refreshing refreshments, and much more.
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 The Queen of Rock N’ Roll, Tina Turner.
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.
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. Get $5 off each ticket using MYBUBBLES. Hurry, the deal expires on Apr. 28.
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.
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 Apr. 27.
8 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Urban Artifact (Northside)
Starting at $15
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 Josie, while DJ Butch Gibson keeps the party going all night long.
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
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.
Saturday, April 27
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.
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.
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, groove to Hip Hop celebrations spun by DJ Arie, DJ Merkout, DJ Nella D, DJ Ty Lyles, Lando Chapman, Tropikana, and more.
10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Cincinnati Library (Walnut Hills)
Free Admission
Led by Kareem Simpson, come together to delve into Lerone Bennett Jr.’s timeless book, beautifully illustrated by Charles White. Explore its 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.
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. The day features a brunch experience from Seasoned Dish and an open bar.
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 Apr. 28.
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.
Noon – 4 p.m.
Heritage Village Museum (Sharonville)
$12; $5-$8 for children
Celebrates some of the extraordinary women in Ohio who made history during the 1800s and early 1900s. Meet interpreters in historical clothing, enjoy hands-on activities, vendors, non-profit booths, and more.
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.
4 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Washington Park (OTR)
Free Admission
Join the celebration with a plethora of activities. Get ready for pulsating music, vendors, food trucks, inflatable baseball games, the thrilling FCC slide, and countless other exciting surprises waiting to be discovered.
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, Quang and Tong, 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.
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.
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. No speakers or amps, just good vibes with good people. Must be 21 and up.
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
May 11
8 p.m.
Andrew J. Brady Center (Downtown)
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.
Sunday, April 28
10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Taft Museum (Downtown)
Free Admission
Features 80 dynamic and vivid works of art created in Africa during the 1950s and ’60s, exploring the relationships between African artists and American patrons, artists, and cultural organizations amid the interlocking histories of civil rights, decolonization, and the Cold War. Runs through May 19.
10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Freedom Center (Downtown)
Free Admission
See the 11-foot bronze statue honoring Harriet Tubman, one of humanity’s greatest heroes, for a limited time until the end of April, two centuries after her birth. Honoring the enduring legacy of one of freedom’s greatest heroes, commemorative coins will be sold on the center’s website.
2 p.m.
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.
2 p.m.
Aronoff Center (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. The show delivers a bittersweet but inspiring message: "The hardest part of love is letting go."Runs through May 4.
2 p.m.
First Unitarian (Walnut Hills)
Starting at $10
Say bonjour to French vocalist Valérie Agulhon Graschaire, 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! Enjoy complimentary wine and cheese at the intermission.
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.
3 p.m. - 5 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 are available.
4 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
The Redmoor (Mt. Lookout)
Starting at $10
Whether you are a seasoned dancer or just starting out, learn how to dance to music by Frank Sinatra, Michael Buble, Ella Fitzgerald, Natalie Cole, and more.
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.