We’re getting to that part of the year where it’s so hot, it’s almost not even fun to go outside anymore. Almost. Here’s a few ways to enjoy the heat — or avoid it entirely.
If you’re looking for even more to do on every day of the week, visit the CityBeat events calendar.
Saturday, 11 a.m., Sawyer Point and Yeatman’s Cove, downtown
This weekend, the city’s largest celebration of African food and culture returns to Sawyer Point Park. More than 20 food vendors will be on hand serving up African and Caribbean favorites, while more than 80 other vendors will participate in a vibrant outdoor marketplace that features various cultural items for sale. And, of course, there will be live music and performances throughout the day — like afrobeats, drumming and traditional dance performances. Read our deep dive into AfriFest by clicking here.
Sunday, 7 p.m., Ziegler Park, Over-the-Rhine
If you’ve ever been to a public pool and thought “this would be so much better if I could drink and there were no kids around,” this monthly event is for you. Adult Swim at Ziegler Park’s pool has drinks, DJ’s, and — most importantly — a cold pool to beat the summer heat.
Sunday, Fountain Square and The Banks, downtown
We’re nearing the end of one of the best World Cups we’ve ever seen in our lifetime as we head for an exciting finish on Sunday. (Personally, we’re fine with anyone winning as long as it’s not England.) Both Fountain Square and The Banks will be holding watch parties for the World Cup this weekend. Fountain Square has giveaways from FC Cincinnati’s “Summer of Soccer,” while The Banks has set up a “viewing village” with a giant screen and plenty of drinks to go around. Take your pick.
Sunday, 8 p.m., Riverbend Music Center, 6295 Kellogg Ave, Anderson Township
The legendary singer/songwriter stops in the Queen City as part of his “Dancing Words Tour – The Greatest Hits.”
Sunday, 12 p.m., Killer Queen at The Banks, downtown
The cocktail bar Killer Queen is featuring some of the city’s favorite drag queens and queer performers at a special brunch event this Sunday, including P.H. Dee, DJ Boywife, Molly Mormen, Jessica Marie Jones, and Kora Sline. Your ticket includes a 32 oz bucket of your choice of Sun Cruiser cans and complimentary brunch from 12 – 2 p.m.
Woodlawn/Lincoln Heights Block Party
Friday, 6:30 p.m., Woodlawn Community Center Fields, 10050 Woodlawn Blvd, Woodlawn
This community event featuring music and art activations, activities for all ages, giveaways and a variety of free food options from neighborhood vendors and food trucks. Cap off the evening with an outdoor performance from the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, playing everything from Isley Brothers hits to Disney classics.
Benson Boone at Heritage Bank Center
Saturday, 8 p.m., Heritage Bank Center, 100 Broadway St, downtown
If you like seeing a guy do a hundred backflips and sing the same song with minor variations over and over again, you’re in luck! Benson Boone is coming to Cincinnati this weekend on his “Wanted Man Tour.”
Saturday, 10 a.m., Washington Park, Over-the-Rhine
You know the drill. City Flea is back, with vendors selling everything from vintage clothing to antiques to rare books all over Washington Park. Spend enough time wandering around and you’re sure to find something you like.
Cincinnati Slingers vs. England Eruptors
Sunday 6:30 p.m., Heritage Bank Arena, downtown,
If you haven’t heard, Cincinnati now has a team in the International Arena League, an eight-on-eight indoor football league that progresses at a much faster pace than regular NFL play. This weekend, the Slingers take on the England Eruptors.
Friday-Sunday, Newport on the Levee, Newport
I mean, it’s kinda all in the name, isn’t it? Head to Riverboat Row at the Levee for bacon-focused dishes and plenty of beer and bourbon while listening to local live music. Local mixologist legend Molly Wellmann will be hosting a special ‘bourbon experience’ tent as part of the event.
