THINGS TO DO IN BLACK CINCINNATI: MARCH 18 – 24
Crystal Kendrick
Award-winning marketing consultant, entrepreneur, social influencer and community leader
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Monday, March 18
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.
2 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Community Action Agency (Bond Hill)
Free Admission
300 Families will receive one free batch of 50 diapers per month for each child living in the household. Hamilton County residents only. No registration is required. No income restrictions.
6:30 p.m.
Forest Park Senior Center (Forest Park)
Prices vary
This all-new, beginner-friendly class will have you burning calories and making friends. Your first class is always free.
7 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
Starting at $6
Experience Time After Time” with the Brandon Coleman Quartet as they celebrate sounds beyond music inspired by paranormal events. The weekly concerts feature some of the finest musicians in Cincinnati’s thriving jazz scene. Runs through Apr. 29.
7 p.m.
Woodward Theatre (OTR)
Starting at $12
Celebrated filmmaker Jonathan Demme (known for Silence of the Lambs) masterfully captures the Talking Heads' peak energy in this fully restored film, marking its 40th anniversary with renewed vibrancy.
PLANNING AHEAD
May 2
8 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Duke Energy Convention Center (Downtown)
$200
More than 600 passionate and visionary leaders share inspiring, forward-thinking, and solution-oriented ideas that propel guests toward a healthier, more resilient, sustainable, and equitable future. Jacqueline Patterson, Founder and Executive Director of the Chisholm Legacy Project: A Resource Hub for Black Frontline Climate Justice Leadership, is the keynote speaker.
Tuesday, March 19
6:30 a.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Make your voice heard by casting your vote in the upcoming election. A list of candidates and Issues is available at votehamiltoncountyohio.gov. Find your polling location at ohiosos.gov. Metro and MetroNow! will be providing free rides for election day.
12:10 p.m. - 1 p.m.
Christ Church Cathedral (Downtown)
Free Admission
Hear the exciting sound of early music as the folks in the Middle Ages heard it on Renaissance recorders and more. Feel the enchanting groove whether you bring your lunch or savor delectable bites at the Cathedral. Runs Tuesdays through May 28.
1 p.m.
Location provided after registration
Free Admission
This fabric vagina sculpture encourages essential conversations about body autonomy, pregnancy, and the future of reproductive justice through the exploration of ephemeral objects located inside large pink Easter eggs. Runs through March 30.
5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Bugatti Ultra Lounge (Springdale)
Free Admission
Members of the Divine 9 are invited to mix and mingle, grab a bite, and enjoy the music.
7:30 p.m.
Aronoff Center (Downtown)
Starting at $35
Join the Darling Family as Peter Pan and Tinkerbell take them on a soaring adventure to Never Never Land. Featuring a timeless score that includes “I’m Flying,” “I’ve Got to Crow,” “I Won’t Grow Up,” and so many more, Peter Pan is now updated for a new generation of thrill seekers—and more spectacular than ever. Runs through March 24.
PLANNING AHEAD
May 3
8 p.m.
Taft Theatre (Downtown)
Starting at $10
If you want a night of laughter and inspiration, do not miss the Atlanta-native comedian during his The Purpose Chaser tour. The night promises side-splitting laughter and a renewed joy that uplifts you long after the curtains close.
Wednesday, March 20
2 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Community Action Agency (Bond Hill)
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.
5:30 p.m.
North Avondale Recreation Center (Avondale)
Free Admission
Have your say in shaping the future of Cincinnati by sharing your input with city officials for the upcoming budget. Deepen your understanding of budgetary processes, from preparation to implementation, and gain insight into the voting procedures and beyond.
5:30 p.m. & 6:30 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays
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.
7 p.m.
Harry T. Wilks Conference Center (Hamilton)
Free Admission
Hear from William H. “Bill” Turner discuss his latest book, drawing on his experiences of growing up in an eastern Kentucky model coal town and a wealth of previously untold stories delving into the rich tapestry of Black Appalachia.
7 p.m.
Princeton Pike Church (Hamilton)
Starting at $45
Enjoy an all-new worship experience featuring the biggest songs from her album, Believe For It, and a debut of new songs set to release in April, including “Holy Forever” and many other new surprises.
7:30 p.m.
Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park (Mt. Adams)
Starting at $33.50
Three generations of Black women gather in Mama’s kitchen, simmering stew. Witness closely held secrets and details of their lives slowly unfold. Runs through April 7. Tickets are selling out fast!
9 p.m. - 2 a.m.
The Greenwich (Walnut Hills)
$5
Catch a vibe and witness Cincinnati’s power, passion, and pain expressed through live music, spoken word, and more. Whether you are coming to inspire or be inspired, bring your A-game.
PLANNING AHEAD
May 8
7:30 p.m.
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Starting at $45
Enjoy the mesmerizing music and captivating rhythmic sounds of the saxophone in a historic venue. This unforgettable experience will transport you to a realm of musical enchantment, where every note resonates with soul-stirring melodies
Thursday, March 21
11 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Cincinnati Art Museum (Mt Adams)
Free Admission
Explore an exhibit highlighting relationships between photography and queerness with photos on view, including works by Yasumasa Morimura and Zanele Muholi. Runs through April 18.
5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Cincinnati Art Museum (Mt Adams)
Free Admission
Contemplate the ordinary lives and extraordinary journeys of the African American experience while raising universal questions about identity, memory, and America’s collective heritage. Over 80 evocative multisensory installations, conté crayon drawings, and assemblages comprise this most comprehensive exhibition of the artist’s work. Runs through May 26. Free on Thursday evenings.
6 p.m.
Freedom Center (Downtown)
Free Admission
Listen to insights from the acclaimed director, producer, writer, and recipient of prestigious accolades, including the Oscar, Emmy, NAACP Image Awards, Webby, and Peabody. Delve into his journey as a visionary and trailblazer in Black media. A reception will immediately follow the talk.
6 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
First Financial Building (Downtown)
Free Admission
Join The Cincinnati (OH) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated for an evening of engagement through the arts. Local artists will be on hand to share their artistic gifts with the community.
6 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
The Woodward Theatre (OTR)
Free Admission
Connect with fellow actors, elevate your skills with insights from industry experts, and propel your craft forward. Network during an enriching event.
7:30 p.m.
Otto M. Budig Theatre (OTR)
Starting at $14
The cutthroat world of Roman politics is exposed when the ambitious yet oblivious Julius Caesar becomes the target of assassination. Taking a contemporary view of this ferocious tale of power and loyalty, these infamous characters face the consequences of betrayal and the brutal nature of tyranny. Runs through March 24.
8 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
Starting at $35
Witness one of the most acclaimed jazz pianists of his generation. He is known for his virtuosic playing, his wide-ranging repertoire, and his ability to blend elements of jazz, classical, and popular music into a unique and personal sound.
PLANNING AHEAD
May 10-11
Ludlow Garage (Clifton)
Recommended by LinkedIn
Starting at $35
The four-time Grammy award-winning living legend takes the stage, unleashing his unparalleled talent in a mesmerizing display of jazz-fusion mastery. With his nimble fingers dancing across both acoustic and electric bass, he weaves together an electrifying symphony of sound that will leave you breathless and craving more.
Friday, March 22
Netflix (Drama)
Shirley Chisholm makes a trailblazing run for the 1972 Democratic presidential nomination after becoming the first Black woman elected to Congress. One of the filming locations included Cincinnati, so check it out. Starring Regina King, Lance Reddick, and Terrence Howard.
4:30 p.m. - 6 p.m.
Short Vine Square (Clifton)
Free Admission
Start your weekend off right with live music from Daven Roberson and Friends. This energetic concert series is perfectly positioned near local restaurants and bars for your happy hour enjoyment. Runs through May 10.
6:30 p.m.
Lincoln Heights MBC (Lincoln Heights)
Free Admission
Men are invited to enjoy food, fun, and fellowship while watching an NCAA tournament game. Transportation is available.
7 p.m.
Memorial Hall (OTR)
Starting at $50
Presented by the Woman’s City Club of Greater Cincinnati, 1A radio talk show host Jenn White will address the importance of what ethical practices must guide the reliable production and consumption of daily news.
7:30 p.m.
Taft Theatre (Downtown)
Starting at $27
Two classically trained string instrumentalists, Kevin Sylvester and Wilner Baptiste, bing their classical-meets-hip-hop arrangements to Cincy. Get your tickets early before they sell out!
7:30 p.m.
Funny Bone (Liberty Township)
Starting at $32
Actor, writer, comedian, and one of the longest-running cast members on Saturday Night Live will have the audience bursting with laughter. Runs through Mar. 23.
8 p.m.
Bogart’s (Clifton)
Starting at $75
As one-third of the renowned hip-hop trio Migos, the Grammy-nominated rapper has captivated audiences worldwide with his distinctive flow, clever wordplay, and magnetic charisma.
8 p.m. - 11 p.m.
The Redmoor (Mt. Lookout)
Starting at $20
Kick back and enjoy an evening of live R&B vibes while indulging in savory bites like buffalo chicken egg rolls, Mahi Mahi sandwiches, Greek pizza, and more. Doors open at 6 p.m.
8 p.m.
Falcon Theatre (Newport)
Starting at $15
Alan Turing, an eccentric genius whose code-breaking prowess during World War II, proved instrumental in the Allied victory. Despite his crucial contributions, Turing faced persecution due to his homosexuality, shedding light on the secrecy surrounding his achievements. Runs through March 30.
8 p.m.
Oasis at Grace (College Hill)
Starting at $15
Immerse yourself in captivating live performances by talented local poets and groove to the soulful R&B melodies of Mr. Selfcare. Indulge in refreshments as you shop with various vendors, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to your night.
8 p.m.
Aronoff Center (Downtown)
Starting at $57
Cincinnati-native Kenny Allan Smith and his band for an evening of elegance, class, dancing, and New York City sophistication as they perform an eclectic mix of musical genres, including chamber jazz, in an intimate cabaret setting.
10 p.m.
Riverfront Live (East End)
Starting at $45
Experience his electrifying performance, in which he will bring his signature style and infectious energy to the stage. A captivating music and a dynamic stage presence.
PLANNING AHEAD
May 11
8 p.m.
Andrew J. Brady Center (Downtown)
Starting at $39
Get ready to groove to the smooth R&B-infused pop beats of the English singer and songwriter renowned for his captivating presence on The X Factor stage. Brace yourself as he brings the heat of his Bitter Sweet Love World Tour to the vibrant streets of the Queen City.
Saturday, March 23
10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Court Street Plaza (Downtown)
Free Admission
Working vehicles from across Cincinnati come to the heart of Downtown for kids of all ages to get an up-close look. Explore excavators, fire trucks, freight liners, and more.
11 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Kennedy Heights Arts Center (Kennedy Heights)
Free Admission
This exhibition pairs five youth and young adult artists with five seasoned older artists to symbolize how the past shapes the future. In collaboration with Revolution Dance Theatre and David Choate Productions, Academy of World Languages students will highlight choreography from the “I Dream of Me” musical.
Noon – 3 p.m.
Weavers Guild of Greater Cincinnati (Winton Hills)
Free Admission
Discover the exquisite quilt creations of local artist Cynthia Lockart, adorned with vibrant hues and flowing, curvilinear shapes that pay homage to African heritage. Inspired by her profound love for music, dance, faith, and family, Lockart's quilts offer a captivating blend of cultural richness and artistic expression.
Noon – 5 p.m.
Weston Art Gallery (Downtown)
Free Admission
The event blends creativity and community service. Local teams competed to construct imaginative sculptures using canned and packaged food. All materials will be donated to the Freestore Foodbank. Runs through March 24.
1 p.m. - 3 p.m.
The Confetti Room (OTR)
Free Admission
Unite with The Black Women's Health Movement for an enlightening session on nurturing your mental and physical well-being. Engage in informative discussions, indulge in delicious food, and enter raffles to win fabulous gift baskets. Discover essential tips for maintaining overall health, managing stress effectively, and safeguarding your heart health.
3 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Word of Deliverance (Forest Park)
Free Admission
Delve into the vibrant tapestry of Black spirituality as we journey through sermons and songs featuring captivating excerpts from Henry Louis Gates, Jr.'s latest docuseries. Be inspired by an uplifting message and elevate your spirit with live musical performances.
3 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Metropolitan Club (Covington)
$45
Topics will include challenges faced by women as we experience perimenopause and menopause. We will explore physical health, mental wellness, beauty tips, nutrition, and sexuality. This in-person event will provide a safe space for women to share their experiences, ask questions, and gain valuable insights.
4 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Washington Park (OTR)
Free Admission
Festivities will include music, tons of vendors to interact with, a variety of food trucks serving up some delicious grub, inflatable baseball games, the inflatable FCC slide, and so much more.
5 p.m.
Urban Artifact (Northside)
$20
Celebrate the day with some of Cincinnati’s fiercest female composers including live spoken word by Siri Imani and Heri et Hodie. Grab drinks from the full-service bar while enjoying complimentary desserts.
6 p.m. - 11 p.m.
Savannah Center (West Chester)
Starting at $150
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., Cincinnati Alumni Chapter invites you to party with a purpose while raising funds for scholarships and community projects. Enjoy an evening of elegance and philanthropy with the soulful sounds of Vibe 5, live R&B and hip-hop music by DJ Nate the Great, a 360-photo booth, a selfie station, and more.
7 p.m. & 9:30 p.m.
Bombs Away! Comedy Club (Northside)
$15
Get ready to laugh until your sides hurt as comedian Ken Hamlett takes the stage. Experience an unforgettable evening filled with uproarious laughter and comedic brilliance. Ken's razor-sharp wit and hilarious observations promise to keep you entertained from start to finish.
PLANNING AHEAD
May 22
7 p.m.
Riverbend Music Center (East End)
Starting at $29.50
The GRAMMY-winning, multi-platinum global superstar known for his distinctive flow will bring his American Dream feature special guests J.I.D, Nardo Wick, and 21 Lil Harold.
Sunday, March 24
10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Taft Museum (Downtown)
Free Admission
Explore over 60 dynamic and vivid artworks created in Africa during the 1950s and ’60s, followed by a tour and workshop building your abstract painting with local artist Cedric Cox from 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. Learn about African artists and cultural organizations amid the interlocking histories of civil rights, decolonization, and the Cold War. Runs through May 19. Free on Sundays and Mondays.
11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Fretboard Brewing (Norwood)
Free Admission
Sing and bounce to live R&B music by DJ Cannon while indulging in a few of your favorite dishes. Giveaways every hour from hostess Itsss Arielll. Food is available for purchase at various prices.
11 a.m. - 9 p.m.
ARCO (Price Hill)
Free Admission
The Ghostlight Stage Company brings together several local professional artists to lead fiber/textile/or fashion-based workshops while highlighting their work in a celebratory gallery show.
6:30 p.m.
Andrew J. Brady Center (The Banks)
Starting at $39
Join gospel powerhouses Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Jonathan McReynolds, Erica Campbell, Israel Houghton, and Jekalyn Carr as they launch their electrifying 25-city tour this Spring. Experience the joy of live gospel and inspirational music – it is time to praise like never before.
Absolutely! Spring brings new beginnings 🌸. Aristotle once shared - excellence is a habit, not an act. Embrace the season to flourish in all endeavors! #SpringVibes #Growth