The Queen of the West Burlesque Festival returns March 28-30 at Memorial Hall. Photo: Provided by Queen of the West Burlesque Festival

A Cincinnati festival dedicated to the art of burlesque returns this spring.

The second-annual Queen of the West Burlesque Festival is happening at Memorial Hall from Friday through Sunday, March 28-30. This local, community-driven festival celebrates burlesque, movement and expression and will kick off with a Welcome Mixer on Friday, complete with a pop-up show and fun contests.

On Saturday, the festival will host three workshops, including Confidence Builds in Heels, Movement Improvisation Skills and Silk Fans for Burlesque. The day will wrap up with a talent-filled Main Stage Show. Attendees are encouraged to wear their most glamorous attire.

And on Sunday, attendees will enjoy a burlesque brunch, Tassels & Treats, at Tokyo Kitty.

If you are interested in getting involved in the festival as a sponsor, artist, member of the press or volunteer, contact organizers at info@queenofthewestburlesquefestival.org.

Tickets are now available and each event can be purchased separately. Learn more at queenofthewestburlesquefestival.org.

This article appears in Feb 19 – Mar 4, 2025.

Katherine Barrier is a graduate of the University of Cincinnati’s journalism program and has nearly 10 years of experience reporting local and national news as a digital journalist. At CityBeat, she...