This is obviously not a comprehensive list of the city’s copious fall events; check CityBeat’s online calendar for more theater, arts, music and spooky seasonal events.
ART
Swoon
The first major survey of pioneering street artist Caledonia Curry is coming to the Contemporary Arts Center for an exhibition featuring restagings of past landmark projects, site-specific installations and a survey of her socially driven work in Haiti, Kenya, Europe, New Orleans and elsewhere. Sept. 22-Feb. 25, 2018. Free. Contemporary Arts Center, 44 E. Sixth St., Downtown, contemporaryartscenter.org.
Through the Lens: A View of OTR
Experience Over-the-Rhine through a new lens — literally — at this class hosted by Art Beyond Boundaries every Saturday morning. The group will take a stroll through the historic neighborhood to capture photos at destinations like Washington Park and Findlay Market. The class is designed for novices and professionals alike; they’ll even let you borrow a camera if you fall into the beginner category. 10 a.m.-noon Saturdays through Sept. 30. Free. Art Beyond Boundaries, 1410 Main St., Over-the-Rhine, artbeyondboundaries.com.
Treasures of British Painting 1400-2000: The Berger Collection
View 50 paintings spanning six centuries from some of the biggest figures in British painting: Anthony van Dyck, Benjamin West, John Singer Sargent and more. Through Oct. 1. $12 adults; $10 kids and seniors; free children 5 and under. Taft Museum of Art, 316 Pike St., Downtown, taftmuseum.org.
Njideka Akunyili Crosby: Predecessors
Artist Njideka Akunyili Crosby fuses painting, drawing, collage and the use of transfers of pop culture images to reference traditional African textiles, creating quilt-like pieces that speak to post-colonial identities and traditions being pieced together. Through Oct. 1. Free. Contemporary Arts Center, 44 E. Sixth St., Downtown, contemporaryartscenter.org.
Anila Quayyum Agha: All the Flowers Are for Me
Pakistani-American artist Anila Quayyum Agha creates immersive installations by manipulating light, drawing inspiration from Islamic architectural forms. In All the Flowers Are for Me, light shines outward from a bright-red, laser-cut steel cube, covering its Cincinnati Art Museum gallery in intricate shadows that change and shift as viewers walk through the space. Through Oct. 15. Free. Cincinnati Art Museum, 953 Eden Park Drive, Eden Park, cincinnatiartmuseum.org.
Jane Benson: Half-Truths
This exhibit tells the story of two Iraqi brothers who escaped from Baghdad in early 2002 and explores the social reverberations caused by geographical and cultural separation. Jane Benson uses music in a dual-channel video entitled Finding Baghdad (Part A) to serve as the show’s centerpiece. Through Oct. 22. Free. Contemporary Arts Center, 44 E. Sixth St., Downtown, contemporaryartscenter.org.
Jack Arthur Wood Jr.: Meet Me at the Horizon
The 125 vivid screenprint-inspired paintings in this Hudson Jones gallery exhibit are rooted in landscape with little regard for traditional figuration. Wood applies a coat to the panels of his relatively small pieces through the “full pull” technique, then adds color through spray-painted stencil, brayer, brush, paint pen, collaged woodcut and colored pencil. Through Nov. 6. Free. Hudson Jones, 1110 Alfred St., Camp Washington, hudsonjonesgallery.com.
Ana England: Kinship
Inspired by shared patterns present across nature in various scales, Ana England crafts intricate large-scale sculptures and installations highlighting the connections in our existence. According to the museum, she “reveals a community that transcends race, nationality and species identification.” Through March 4, 2018. Free. Cincinnati Art Museum, 953 Eden Park Drive, Eden Park, cincinnatiartmuseum.org.
Art After Dark: Across the Universe
Celebrate the interconnectedness of the Ana England: Kinship exhibit with an after-hours museum party featuring live music, specialty cocktails, food from Empanadas Aqui and access to the museum’s collection. 5-9 p.m. Sept. 29. Free. Cincinnati Art Museum, 953 Eden Park Drive, Eden Park, cincinnatiartmuseum.org.
Super Natural — New Paintings
Carl Solway Gallery introduces a new artist, Los Angeles-based painter Cherie Benner Davis, in the show Super Natural — New Paintings. She uses saturated colors and references such Southern California art movements of the past as Finish Fetish and Light and Space, as well as Pop Art and Georgia O’Keeffe. Oct. 6-Dec. 31. Free. Carl Solway Gallery, 424 Findlay St., West End, solwaygallery.com.
BLINK: Cincinnati
Consisting of at least 70 light projection mappings on buildings, interactive art sculptures created by local, national and international artists, new murals and other art displays, BLINK is one of the most ambitious visual arts events of the season. Like Lumenocity, the light projection mappings will be overseen by Brave Berlin, but many will be created by others. ArtWorks is supervising the interactive art sculptures, and Agar event-production company is handling the murals. Oct. 12-15. Free. Twenty blocks between The Banks and Findlay Market (1801 Race St.), Downtown/OTR, blinkcincinnati.com.
Elegant Geometry: British and American Mosaic Patchwork Quilts
The 21 colorful quilts in this Taft Museum exhibit “highlight the skill, intelligence and artistry of the women who practiced mosaic patchwork quilting during the early years,” with the oldest pieces dating all the way back to 18th-century England. Oct. 21-Jan. 21, 2018. $12 adults; $10 kids and seniors; free children 5 and under. Taft Museum of Art, 316 Pike St., Downtown, taftmuseum.org.
Haunted House: Night at the Museum
As the day gets darker, the walls and paintings of the Taft come alive. Walk around the gallery and experience the museum like never before. Afterward, join the party in the courtyard with spooky food, drinks, art and music. 6-9 p.m. Oct. 26. $15 members; $20 non-members. Taft Museum of Art, 316 Pike St., downtown, taftmuseum.org.
COMEDY
Hayride!
Using Cincinnati broadcast station WLW’s historic programs Boone County Jamboree and Midwestern Hayride as references, renowned local musician/producer Cameron Cochran has concocted Hayride!, a blend of Country music and sketch comedy utilizing some of the area’s best purveyors of both disciplines. At its first performance, local musicians will offer versions of King Records classics and original songs written for Hayride!, and local comic actors/writers will perform a show-within-a-show sketch about the making of Hayride! 7:30 p.m. Sept. 17. $10. Woodward Theater, 1404 Main St., Over-the-Rhine, woodwardtheater.com.
John Mulaney: Kid Gorgeous
Best known for his stint writing for Saturday Night Live (he’s the co-creator of Bill Hader’s character Stefon), stand-up comedian John Mulaney is making a stop in Cincinnati as part of his Kid Gorgeous tour. Get in the spirit with his Netflix special The Comeback Kid and snag your seat ASAP — tickets are expected to sell out quickly. 7 and 10 p.m. Oct. 20. $25-$35. Aronoff Center, 650 Walnut St., Downtown, cincinnatiarts.org.
Pauly Shore
Wheezing the juice. Pauly Shore — comedian and star of such iconic films as Jury Duty, Encino Man and Son In Law — heads to the Funny Bone for a limited engagement. 7:30 and 10 p.m. Oct. 20; 7 and 10 p.m. Oct. 21. $25. Liberty Funny Bone, 7518 Bales St., Liberty Township, liberty.funnybone.com.
Jen Kirkman
Perhaps you recognize Jen Kirkman from her always-memorable roundtable appearances on Chelsea Handler’s Chelsea Lately, where she was a staff writer. Or maybe you recognize her name from the New York Times best seller list, where her books have routinely reached the upper floors. Or just maybe you recognize her voice from her narrations on Funny or Die’s Drunk History, where she was actually drunk, and Adult Swim’s Home Movies. Or maybe you just recognize hilarity. Nice spotting on your part. 8 p.m. Nov. 16. $20 advance; $25. Taft Theatre, 317 E. Fifth St., Downtown, tafttheatre.org.
Nick Offerman
Nick Offerman toiled in relative film/television obscurity until his breakout deadpan role as Ron Swanson on Parks and Recreation. Offerman’s “Full Bush” tour is a blend of musical comedy and stand-up; the star accompanies himself on guitar and ukulele in the service of absurdly funny songs while offering observations on life and living. And he considers himself a humorist, not a comedian. 8 p.m. Nov. 18. $39.50-$59.50. Taft Theatre, 317 E. Fifth St., Downtown, tafttheatre.org.
EVENTS
IT’s Your Worst Nightmare Cruise
BB Riverboats hosts its most terrifying, clown-infused tour to date, kicking off with a private screening of the newly released (and absolutely not-OK) IT at AMC Newport on the Levee. Afterward, guests will be escorted to the USS Nightmare for dinner and tours of the vessel before embarking on a late-night cruise on the Ohio River. 5:30-8 p.m. screening; 8-10 p.m. tour; 11:30 p.m.-2 a.m. cruise Sept. 16. $65; $100 RIP Experience. Begins at AMC Newport, Newport on the Levee, 1 Levee Way, Newport, Ky., bbriverboats.com.
Cincinnati Food + Wine Classic
It’s two days of celebrating the Midwest’s dynamic food and beverage scene with a fest along the riverfront. The classic features more than 150 chefs, culinary stars, mixologists and other food and alcohol craftspeople, with tastings, demonstrations, vendors and more. 5-9:30 p.m. Sept. 22; 11:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Sept. 23. $95-$330. Sawyer Point/Yeatman’s Cove, 705 E. Pete Rose Way, Downtown, cincinnatifoodandwineclassic.com.
Celebrating Old Friends Dog Walk
This gentle 1-mile stroll at the Cincinnati Nature Center is specifically tailored to elderly, ailing dogs and their owners. Tammy Wynn from local pet hospice Angel’s Paws will also be in attendance to offer advice and support. 9:30-10:30 a.m. Sept. 23. Free. Cincinnati Nature Center, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford, cincynature.org.
Pyramid Hill Art Fair
The 15th-annual Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum’s Art Fair brings 70 artists together for a juried show and sale of handmade creations. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sept. 23 and 24. $5 per carload. Pyrmid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum, 1763 Hamilton Cleves Road, Hamilton, pyramidhill.org.
Fire Up the Night
International teams head to Coney Island to compete in a fireworks face-off. All three competitors — Greece, Japan and Portugal — go head to head in a pyrotechnic showdown for international bragging rights. The winner will be determined by a panel of judges. The Cruise-A-Palooza classic car show will take place at the same time. Gates open 4 p.m.; fireworks begin at 8 p.m. Sept. 23. $25 per carload. Coney Island, 6201 Kellogg Ave., California, coneyislandpark.com.
Great Outdoor Weekend
Green Umbrella presents this annual outdoor events sampler. Great Outdoor Weekend presents opportunities for children and adults to try different outdoor recreation and nature awareness programs available in Greater Cincinnati. Each fall there are more than 100 events available. Sept. 23 and 24. Free. Various locations. More info: meetmeoutdoors.org/greatoutdoorweekend.
ScopeOut Astronomy Fair
The Cincinnati Observatory hosts a celebration of astronomy, science, history and education. Learn about topics like safe solar viewing and meteorites, participate in hands-on demonstrations and browse wares from telescope and other astronomical vendors. When the sun goes down, peer at the stars through the observatory’s historic telescope. Noon-11 p.m. Sept. 23. Free observatory admission; $25 dinner and keynote presentation; $5 suggested donation telescope viewing. Cincinnati Observatory, 3489 Observatory Place, Mount Lookout, cincinnatiobservatory.org.
Greater Cincinnati Restaurant Week
Become a culinary tourist in your own city during CityBeat’s Greater Cincinnati Restaurant Week. Local eateries like The Presidents Room, Kaze, Metropole, Moerlein Lager House and many others will offer $25 and $35 three-course prix fixe menus (excluding beverages, tax and gratuity). Sept. 25-Oct. 1. $25-$35. Visit greatercincinnatirestaurantweek.com for a full list of participating restaurants.
Art Party in the Woods
Grab a drink (boozy or otherwise) and head to the Nature Center for a not-too-serious artistic adventure. An art teacher will lead participants step-by-step as they create a nature-inspired painting to take home. All materials are provided. 1-3 p.m. Sept. 30. $39; $30 members (includes daily admission). Cincinnati Nature Center, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford, cincynature.org.
King Records Month
With King Records Month, September’s celebration of the iconic label’s contributions, the many local boosters and artists who’ve helped raised King’s profile over the past several years continue their mission with a variety of events throughout Greater Cincinnati, including performances, exhibits, discussions and much more. September marks the 74th anniversary of the sessions for the first songs recorded for King. Events take place through Sept. 30 at various locations. More info: kingstudios.org.
Star Wars and the Power of Costume
More than 60 favorite Star Wars characters’ costumes are on display at the Cincinnati Museum. The exhibit uncovers the challenges and intricate processes of creating each piece — don’t miss your chance to see this traveling exhibit before it moves on to a galaxy (OK, city) far, far away. Through Oct. 1. $24 adults; $21 seniors; $16 children 3-12; discounts for members. Cincinnati Museum Center, 1301 Western Ave., Queensgate, cincymuseum.org.
Fall Jazz Series
The 18th-annual Fall Jazz Series showcases an all-star lineup with cool rhythms. This year’s performers include The Mandy Gaines Quartet, Marc Fields Quartet and pianist Rob Allgeyer. 2:30 p.m. Sundays through Oct. 1. Free admission. Taft Museum of Art, 316 Pike St., downtown, taftmuseum.org.
Fright Night Flicks: Hocus Pocus
It’s not a bunch of hocus pocus: Washington Park is screening this definitive Halloween flick alongside some Fright Night surprises from Gorilla Cinema. Head to the park early to catch a classic episode of Scooby Doo; tonight, it’s To Switch a Witch. 8-10 p.m. Oct. 4. Free. Washington Park, 1230 Elm St., Over-the-Rhine, washingtonpark.org.
Zoo Brew
This annual brew-tasting event takes place at the Cincinnati Zoo and features a wild variety of beers and whiskeys. Brew Masters will be onsite to discuss the science of each beer, provide insight and answer any questions that guests may have. 6:30-9 p.m. Oct. 5. $50; $40 designated driver. Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, 3400 Vine St., Avondale, cincinnatizoo.org.
HopScotch: An Irish Whiskey, Scotch & Craft Beer Tasting Event
Join CityBeat for its inaugural HopScotch event and imbibe unlimited samples of scotch, craft beer, whiskey, food and more at New Riff Distillery. 5:30-8:30 p.m. Oct. 5. $20-$30. New Riff Distilling, 24 Distillery Way, Newport, Ky., citybeat.com.
Weekend of Fire
Calling all spice lovers: Weekend of Fire presents all things hot, including, salsas, dry rubs, hot sauces and bloody marys. Bring along friends who can handle hot and enjoy over 55 vendors. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Oct. 7; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Oct. 8. $8; $14 two-day. Jungle Jim’s, 5440 Dixie Highway, Fairfield, junglejims.com.
Murder on the Menu
On a warm night in 1879, a gunshot rang out near Washington Platform. Shortly after, a young businessman was found dead in the alley across from City Hall. The night begins with a walking tour of the crime, followed by a four-course dinner, during which the rest of the story unfolds. Dishes are what was common in the 1800s and are paired with local craft beer. 6 p.m. Oct. 12. $45. Washington Platform, 1000 Elm St., Downtown, queencityhistory.com.
Halloween Spook’tacular: Harry Potter Style
Young witches and wizards will be guided by CityBeat writer Ilene Ross as they learn to conjure up tasty treats from J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series. Featured treats include fried cockroach clusters, cheesy broomsticks, wizard pies and more. Costumes encouraged. For ages 8 to 12. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Oct 21. $35. Cooks’Wares, 11344 Montgomery Road, Montgomery, cookswearsonline.com.
Zombie Ball: Dance of the UnDead on Pyramid Hill
Don your best zombie, vampire or otherwise-undead getup for this annual event. Imbibe beer and wine — including spooky cocktails — and fill up on a horror-themed buffet before embarking on a haunted hayride or heading inside a zombie photo booth. For a few extra bucks, get the VIP treatment: You’ll arrive at the party in an actual hearse and strut down a blood-red carpet. 7-11 p.m. Oct. 21. $30 individual; $50 couple; packages available. Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum, 1763 Hamilton Cleves Road, pyramidhill.org.
The City Flea
It’s flea time again. The City Flea takes over Washington Park with tons of tented vendor booths featuring everything from jewelry, artisan eats and dog treats to vintage finds, plant friends and ceramics. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Oct. 21. Free admission. Washington Park, 1230 Elm St., Over-the-Rhine, thecityflea.com.
Art on Vine
Grab snacks from local food trucks as you browse wares from more than 60 vendors — you’ll find everything from artworks and crafting materials to home goods and jewelry. October’s event is the final outdoor installment of the season; afterward, Art on Vine heads back indoors at Rhinegeist. Noon-6 p.m. Oct. 22. Free. Washington Park, 1230 Elm St., Over-the-Rhine, artonvinecincy.com.
Hallo-Wine Happy Horror Party
Pop a cork in honor of All Hallow’s Eve at Unwind Wine Bar for an evening celebrating all things spooky. Costumes are highly encouraged, so don’t wait until the 31st to buy your creepy ensemble. 8:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m. Oct. 28. Free. Unwind Wine Bar, 3435 Michigan Ave., Hyde Park, unwindhydepark.com.
Books by the Banks
The weekend will include writer workshops, author signings and plenty of readings. This year, Kate DiCamillo, author of Because of Winn Dixie, is the featured author. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Oct. 28. Free. Duke Energy Convention Center, 525 Elm St., Downtown, booksbythebanks.org.
Hallowqueen Drag Brunch
Ring in Halloween with this pop-up drag brunch at Metropole, complete with glitter, fangs and heels galore. Sip specialty themed cocktails and dig into a family-style brunch prepared by chef Jared Bennett. Costumes are encouraged — “You better werk, witch.” 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Oct. 29. $35. Metropole, 609 Walnut St., Downtown, metropoleonwalnut.com.
HallZOOween
Tricks and treats aren’t just for humans — zoo residents get in on the fun with special pumpkin enrichment activities every weekend in October. Kids can trick-or-treat at stations scattered throughout the grounds, catch a show from Phil Dalton’s Theater of Illusion and even hop on the Hogwarts Express. Costumes are encouraged, as is bringing along your own treat bag to help the zoo go green. Noon-5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays Oct. 7-29. Free with zoo admission: $19 adults; $13 kids. Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, 3400 Vine St., Avondale, cincinnatizoo.org.
Grass Roots: Art of Nature at Krohn Conservatory
The Krohn’s 2017 Fall Show examines the many ways in which nature has inspired artists throughout history. Framed copies of pieces by artists of all levels — from local to world-renowned — hang throughout the space surrounded by chrysanthemums (as painted by Monet), cypress trees (as rendered by Van Gogh) and vibrant plants of all sorts in autumnal colors. Go online for a schedule of special events taking place throughout the exhibit’s run, like Nights of Nostalgia, informative programs accompanied by cocktails. Through Oct. 29. $4 adults; $2 kids 5-17, free children 4 and under. Krohn Conservatory, 1501 Eden Park Drive, Eden Park, cincinnatiparks.com.
Cincinnati Pizza Week
Grab your official Cincinnati Pizza Week passport and embark to area pizza joints during this CityBeat event that brings $8 pies to pizza lovers. Go online for updates and participating eateries. Nov. 6-12. $8 pizzas. Various locations. More info: citybeat.com.
Jungle Jim’s International Wine Festival
The 10th-annual Wine Festival features wine from all over the world — more than 400 wines from more than 90 wineries — with bite-sized delicacies, charcuterie and other hors d’oeuvres. Sip and savor. 7-10 p.m. Nov. 10 and 11. $25-$115. Jungle Jim’s, 5440 Dixie Highway, Fairfield, junglejims.com.
Northside Record Fair
Northside Record Fair sets up shop at Northside’s North Church displaying thousands of records of every genre. The event features merchandise from the likes of Shake It Records and Black Plastic Records, and you can also submit your personal collection and peddle your wares among the other vendors. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 11. Free admission. North Church, 4222 Hamilton Ave., Northside, northsiderecordfair.com.
FARMS
Hidden Valley Fruit Farm
Meet a pair of toothy llamas and other happy barnyard friends at this 60-year-old fruit farm. Fill up on all things apple — cider, dumplings, cobbler, fritters, donuts and custard — during the Apple Daze Festival, and partake in traditional farm fun all season long. Make sure to pick up a giant Thriller caramel apple while you’re there. Apple Daze Festival 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sept. 16-17; Fall/Family Fun Days through October. Free admission. 5474 State Route 48, Lebanon, hiddenvalleyfruitfarm.com.
Joe Huber’s Family Farm & Restaurant
Take a day trip to Huber’s to pick your own pumpkins and indulge in classic comfort food (fried chicken, mashed potatoes, green beans, homemade fruit cobbler). The farm is also home to a fantastic winery, cheese shop and petting zoo. Pumpkin picking daily through October. Free admission. 2421 Engle Road, Starlight, Ind, joehubers.com.
Bonnybrook Farms
This farm is a haven of pumpkin patches, corn mazes, wagon rides, farm animals and more. Get your fix with farm-fresh food like pulled pork, sloppy joes, pumpkin pie and apple cake. Noon-6 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays Sept. 30-Oct. 29. Free admission. Bonnybrook Farms, 3779 State Route 132, Clarkesville, bonnybrookfarms.com.
Sunrock Farm
Nothing screams fall more than a pumpkin patch, and Sunrock Farm offers pumpkin patch tours throughout the month of the October. Guests can also milk a goat, gather eggs, hold chickens and more. Saturdays and Sundays Oct. 1-31. $10-$12. 103 Gibson Lane, Wilder, Ky., sunrockfarm.org.
Shaw Farms
This farm is family-friendly with things to do for all ages: pumpkin tours, hayrides, corn mazes and an interactive playground. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. daily Oct. 1-31. Free admission. 1731 Ohio, State Route 131, Milford, shawfarms.com.
Turner Farm
Take a horse-drawn wagon tour of Turner Farm and help yourself to one free you-pick pumpkin — then pick some turnips and feed the farm’s hoard of sheep. In operation since the early 1800s, Turner is one of only three working farms remaining in the village of Indian Hill. Saturdays Oct. 1-31. $20; free kids 2 and under. 7400 Given Road, Indian Hill, turnerfarm.org.
Burger Farm & Garden Center
Head to the farm’s 40th-annual fall festival every weekend in October. Family-friendly activities include hayrides, a puppet show, live music, carnival and pony rides, paintball and more. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays Sept. 30-Oct. 29. $3. 7849 Main St., Newtown, burgerfarms.com.
Irons Fruit Farm
Pick your own pumpkin at this fourth-generation family farm — then feast on apple fritters, cinnamon-cider donuts, cookies and more from the onsite bakery. Weekends Sept. 30-Oct. 29. Free admission. 1640 Stubbs Mills Road, Lebanon, ironsfruitfarm.com.
FESTS
Ohio Renaissance Festival
For weekends steeped in magic, chivalry, Arthurian flair and fantasy vibes, don your favorite corset or suit of armor and pick your favorite themed weekend to join in. Cheer on your favorite jouster mutton in hand, then wash it down with ale. 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays through Oct. 29. 10542 E State Route 73, Waynesville, renfestival.com.
Fifty Fest
Cincinnati has almost too many breweries for one beer lover to sample, but Fifty West is helping out by putting over twenty breweries under one roof. There will also be three stages of live music and food vendors from across the city. All ages welcome. Noon-midnight Sept. 23. $10. Fifty West Brewing Company, 7668 Wooster Pike, Mariemont, fiftyfest.fiftywestbrew.com.
Midpoint Music Festival
While the summer music fest season is coming to a close, in Cincinnati, music lovers can still look to autumn for their festival fix at the 17th-annual Midpoint Music Festival. This year, artists like The New Pornographers, Walk the Moon and Valerie June will take the stage. Sept. 23-24. Ticket prices vary. Fifth and Broadway streets, Downtown, mpmf.com.
Country Applefest
Apple lovers unite for the 35th-annual Applefest. Rain or shine, this fairground will be filled with all things apple, including apple butter, applesauce and over 30 local vendors. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Sept. 30. Free admission. Warren County Fairgrounds, 655 N. Broadway St., Lebanon, countryapplefest.com.
Cliftonfest on Ludlow
This free weekend-long arts and music festival features two stages of music, a host of local artisan vendors and live chalk drawings on the sidewalks of historic Clifton. Things kick off 9 a.m. Oct. 6 with the Cliftonfest 5K. Oct. 6-7. Free admission. Ludlow Ave., Clifton, facebook.com/cliftonfest.
Kentucky Wool Festival
Drive through winding country roads before arriving at Kentucky Wool Fest and be greeted by fried food, twangy banjos and vendor booths displaying handcrafted items —from clothes to goat-milk soap and really anything else you never knew you needed (but definitely do). 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Oct. 6-7; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Oct. 8. $5. 48 Concord Caddo Road, Falmouth, Ky., kywoolfest.org.
Rhythm Brew Art and Music Fest
Come for the music, stay for the art and stay even longer for the beer. At Newport’s Wooden Cask, you can stimulate your senses with some art from local artists, music from Cincinnati bands like Young Heirlooms and Mad Anthony and kick back with a tasty brew of your choice. Oct. 7-8. Free. Wooden Cask Brewing Company, 629 York St., Newport, Ky., facebook.com/rhythmbrew.
Sunflower Festival
Take a stroll through towering sunflowers — and pick some to take home — at Gorman Heritage Farm. The fest also includes hayrides, a sunflower maze, food trucks and pumpkin picking. Sunflowers are $1 per stem or $10 per dozen. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Oct. 7-8. $8 adults; $5 kids 3-17; free kids under 3. Gorman Heritage Farm, 10052 Reading Road, Evendale, gormanfarm.org.
Fall-O-Ween Fest
Launch some pumpkins, navigate a hay maze and watch a not-so-spooky choreographed light show at Coney Island’s kid-centric Halloween bash. In addition to Coney’s classic rides, Fall-O-Ween features a trick-or-treat trail, a host of farmyard friends, a “Jeepers Creepers” live show and a magic show at Moonlite Gazebo. New this year is a s’mores-making station and a carriage ride around Lake Como (with ample Pumpkin Launch viewing). 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Oct. 7-8, 14-15 and 21-22. $12; children 2 and under free; $5 parking. Coney Island, 6201 Kellogg Ave., California, coneyislandpark.com.
Fall Food Fest at Findlay
Celebrate the bounty of fall with Findlay Market vendors. There will be pumpkin painting, cooking demos, live music, craft cocktails and seasonal beers. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Oct. 8. Free admission. Findlay Market, 1810 Race St., Over-the-Rhine, findlaymarket.org.
Old West Fest
Walk through antiqued storefronts or chat up an actor dressed in period clothing. Young ‘uns can chase manifest destiny by panning for gold or the whole family can pose for an old-time photo before hopping on a covered wagon. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays through Oct. 15. $15. 1449 Greenbush Cobb Road, Williamsburg, oldwestfestival.com.
Ohio Sauerkraut Festival
Since 1970, this festival has been offering sauerkraut in and on everything from fudge to pizza. Also includes a ton of arts and crafts vendors. 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Oct. 14; 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Oct. 15. Free admission. North Main Street, Waynesville, sauerkrautfestival.com.
Jungle Jim’s Fall Smash
Discover the flavors of fall via hard cider, pumpkin beer and local food trucks. 3-7 p.m. Oct. 21. $25. Jungle Jim’s, 5440 Dixie Highway, Fairfield, junglejims.com.
Rare Beer Fest
Head to Rhinegeist to sample the extraordinary, generally unobtainable and the unexpected. Breweries from across the country will be descending on Cincy with their rarest brews for this craft beer celebration. Noon-5 p.m. Oct. 28. $40; $45 day of. Rhinegeist, 1910 Elm St., Over-the-Rhine, rhinegeist.com.
Country Pumpkins Fall Festival
A fall fest on a 25-acre dairy farm with hayrides, a pick-your-own pumpkin patch, petting zoo, hay maze and more. Through Oct. 31. Free admission. Country Pumpkins Farm, 1835 Sherman Mount Zion Road, Dry Ridge, Ky., countrypumpkinsky.com.
2017 Hocus Pocus Halloween
Ever since Hocus Pocus hit theaters in 1993, we’ve all been yearning for a sequel to this Halloween cult classic. In the meantime, we’ll have to celebrate the original while trying not to get our hopes up every time another rumor about a follow-up is shot down. Commiserate with other diehards at Hocus Pocus Halloween, a festival in downtown Middletown. The fest offers kids’ activities, a classic car show, live music and, most importantly, a screening of Hocus Pocus. Noon-dusk Oct. 28. Ticket prices TBD. Main Street between Central and First avenues, Middletown, downtownmiddletown.org.
HAUNTS
Queen City is Haunted Tour
On this guided walkthrough tour of downtown and OTR, hear stories of grisly murders, ghastly deaths and other disturbing tales buried deep within Cincinnati’s storied past. Through Oct. 28. $20. Tour begins at 1332 Vine St., Over-The-Rhine, americanlegacytours.com.
Newport is Haunted Tour
Surprise! Newport is haunted, too. Take a lantern-led walking tour and listen to tales of murder, suicide and the horrifying origin of Bobby Mackey’s famous portal to hell. Through Oct. 29. $20. Tour begins 18 E. Fifth St., Newport, Ky., americanlegacytours.com.
Land of Illusion
Why only have one haunted house when you could have four? Land of Illusion has four frights to choose from: Killer Clowns, Temple of Terror, Voodoo Bayou Shanty and Dr. Psycho’s Haunted Estate, plus classic horror movies screened every Friday night. Through Nov. 4. Tickets starts at $36.99. Land of Illusion, 8762 Thomas Road, Middletown, landofillusion.com.
Dent Schoolhouse
According to legend, the bodies of several missing Dent Schoolhouse students were discovered in barrels in the building’s basement — and the janitor did it. This year, the popular haunt is changing things up with a few IT-inspired clowns. Sept. 15-Nov. 4. $20-$35. 5963 Harrison Ave., Dent, frightsite.com.
USS Nightmare
The death dredge is celebrating 25 years of horror. On a dark, foggy night, the William S. Mitchell steamboat careened into a bridge, killing many on board, including the captain and his daughter. Ever since, anyone who has worked on the now-defunct ship has been doomed to die onboard, cursed to forever haunt the vessel along with the other deceased. Sept. 15-Oct. 31. $17-$20 general admission. 101 Riverboat Row, Newport, Ky., ussnightmare.com.
Jack-O-Lantern Junction
Visit the largest indoor train display in the world with a side of Halloween fun. Jack-O-Lantern Junction features a trick-or-treat maze, a mini animated display and the only indoor Pumpkin Patch in the area. Kids take home a free mini pumpkin. Sept. 23-Oct. 31. $13.95 adults; $11.95 seniors; $9.95 children 3-12; kids 2 and under free. EnterTRAINment Junction, 7379 Squire Court, West Chester, entertrainmentjunction.com.
Halloween Haunt
Fear awaits at Kings Island’s annual Halloween Haunt, featuring 10 haunted attractions, three outdoor scare zones, spine-tingling live shows and more. Plus, experience the park’s everyday thrill rides. Friday and Saturday nights Sept. 22-Oct. 28. Tickets start at $31.99. Kings Island, 6300 Kings Island Drive, Mason, visitkingsisland.com.
The Great Pumpkin Fest
Before the sun sets, Kings Island is “all tricks and no treats.” The park’s Planet Snoopy area gets a Halloween makeover complete with live entertainment, trick-or-treating, mazes and more. Noon-6 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays Sept. 30-Oct. 29. Ticket prices vary. Kings Island, 6300 Kings Island Drive, Mason, visitkingsisland.com.
Heritage Village Haunted Village
Described as a “slight fright,” this haunted attraction is completely kid-friendly, offering trick-or-treating, balloon art, wagon rides and a lower-key haunted house experience that won’t leave the youngsters with recurring nightmares until Christmas. 6-10 p.m. Oct. 13-14, 20-21 and 27-28. $10; free members and kids 2 and under. Heritage Village Museum, 11450 Lebanon Road, Sharonville, heritagevillagecincinnati.org.
ONSTAGE
Shakespeare in Love
Young William Shakespeare appears in this play as his prior self, before his fame. He struggles to come up with a play that will change lives, until he meets Viola, who becomes his muse and helps him create his masterpiece, Romeo and Juliet. Through Sept. 30. $34.90-$73.90. Playhouse in the Park, 962 Mount Adams Circle, Mount Adams, cincyplay.com.
Wicked
Back by popular demand, the box office calls this upbeat musical a “cultural phenomenon.” The production tells what happened to the Wicked Witch of the West before she got received that title. Through Oct. 15. Tickets start at $42.50. Aronoff Center, 650 Walnut St., Downtown, cincinnatiarts.org.
Frankenstein
Based on the Gothic novel by Mary Shelley, this interpretation by Nick Dear follows Victor Frankenstein’s grotesque monster in a desperate journey to find acceptance, becoming increasingly vengeful and murderous against his creator. Sept. 29-Oct. 14. $22 adults; $15 students. Falcon Theatre, 636 Monmouth St., Newport, Ky., falcontheater.net.
Jekyll & Hyde
A musical rendering of Robert Louis Stevenson’s tale of a man torn in two: a genial English doctor who unleashes a violent and destructive alter ego. Oct. 5-21. $23. Stained Glass Theatre, 802 York St., Newport, Ky., footlighters.org.
This Random World
People often travel parallel paths through the world without noticing one another: In this tale, an ailing woman plans a final trip, her daughter maps out a great escape and her son gets caught up in a misguided prank — they are mutually unaware, but unknowingly interconnected. Oct. 10-Nov. 4. $53 adult; $31 student; $27 child. Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati, 1127 Vine St., Over-the-Rhine, ensemblecincinnati.com.
Dracula
Bram Stoker’s macabre and bloody thriller travels from Transylvania to Victorian London. Adapted by Steven Dietz, the Halloween-themed horror story will feature longtime favorite Giles Davies as the legendary vampire and multi-talented Miranda McGee as his favorite victim. Oct. 13-Nov. 4. $55; $51 senior; $31 student. Cincinnati Shakespeare Company, 1195 Elm St., Over-the-Rhine, cincyshakes.com.
The Music of John Williams: Star Wars and Beyond
The Cincinnati Pops perform the musical genius of John Williams’ greatest hits at Music Hall. Experience selections from Star Wars, Jurassic Park, Indiana Jones, Harry Potter and more by the master of film music. 8 p.m. Oct. 13-14; 2 p.m. Oct. 15. $25-$125. Music Hall, 1241 Elm St., Over-the-Rhine, cincinnatisymphony.org.
Young Frankenstein
More funny and less freaky, Mel Brooks’ hilarious, affectionate musical is inspired by the classic horror story. The grandson of Victor Frankenstein inherits his family’s property in Transylvania and, with assistant Igor (eye-gor), plays mad scientist and brings his own creature to life. Oct. 19-Nov. 12. $29 adult; $26 student/senior. Covedale Center for the Performing Arts, 4990 Glenway Ave., Covedale, cincinnatilandmarkproductions.com.
13 Dead Dreams of “Eugene”
An unsettling, haunting tale by storyteller Paul Strickland and his frequent partner in offbeat songs and stories Erika Kate MacDonald. This one is rooted in shared nightmares that trouble the sleepy town of Sabina, Ohio. Oct. 20-Nov. 14. $25. Know Theatre, 1120 Jackson St., Over-the-Rhine, knowtheatre.com.
Romeo & Juliet
The Cincinnati Ballet tackles Shakespeare’s enduring tale of star-crossed lovers. Oct. 26-29. $36-$125. Music Hall, 1241 Elm St., Over-the-Rhine, cballet.org.
Finding Neverland
Based on a 2004 Oscar-winning film, this musical focuses on the mild-mannered J.M. Barrie as he summons the courage to become the writer he yearns to be. When he meets a widow with four children who revel in make-believe adventures, he begins to weave the story of Peter Pan, Captain Hook, the Lost Boys and more. Nov. 7-19. $42.50-$112. Aronoff Center, 650 Walnut St., Downtown, cincinnatiarts.org.
Neverwhere
Know Theatre is taking on the literary fantasy world with an adaption of Neil Gaiman’s novel Neverwhere, about a young London business man who literally slips through the cracks of reality after discovering a young woman bleeding on the sidewalk. Nov. 25-Dec. 17. $25. 1120 Jackson St., Over-the-Rhine, knowtheatre.com.
