20 Things To Do In Cincinnati This Weekend (Sept. 22-24)

Unpack your flannels and beanies, Cincinnati, fall is near and the weather has been perfect, which makes for ideal outdoor events and activities like Washington Park's music series. There's a wellness fair on The Banks hosted by Kroger that's beneficial and even fun for all. Grammy-nominated Tank and the Bangas will be in town, along with local band Siren Suit's album release party. Didn't get your fill of Oktoberfest this past weekend? No worries, there are a few follow-up celebrations. Check out a few of our picks for what to do around town this weekend.
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Cincinnati Ballet’s MORE ROOM TO PLAY
When: Sept. 22 & 23 from 7:30-9:30 p.m. & Sept. 24 from 1-3 p.m.
Where: Aronoff Center's Jarson-Kaplan Theater
What: An annual series featuring up-and-coming choreographers that features contemporary ballet performance.
Who: Cincinnati Ballet Company and world premieres from NYC Ballet star Tiler Peck and choreographers Houston Thomas and David Morse.
Why: This performance series debuts never-before-seen choreography and is highly anticipated every year.
Photo: facebook.com/cincinnatiballet

Cincinnati Ballet’s MORE ROOM TO PLAY


When: Sept. 22 & 23 from 7:30-9:30 p.m. & Sept. 24 from 1-3 p.m.
Where: Aronoff Center's Jarson-Kaplan Theater
What: An annual series featuring up-and-coming choreographers that features contemporary ballet performance.
Who: Cincinnati Ballet Company and world premieres from NYC Ballet star Tiler Peck and choreographers Houston Thomas and David Morse.
Why: This performance series debuts never-before-seen choreography and is highly anticipated every year.
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The Art of C.F. Payne
When: Sept. 22 from 5-8 p.m.
Where:  Cincinnati Art Galleries, Downtown
What: Exhibition opening of more than 150 C.F Payne illustrations on view and for sale.
Who: C.F. Payne
Why: Payne is known for his work featured in  Time Magazine, MAD Magazine, Sports Illustrated and National Geographic. The exhibition also includes a number of illustrations from the recent book  Cincinnati Characters: The Unknown, Unappreciated and Unhinged written by Brent Coleman and Illustrated by Payne.
Photo: provided by Cincinnati Art Galleries

The Art of C.F. Payne


When: Sept. 22 from 5-8 p.m.
Where: Cincinnati Art Galleries, Downtown
What: Exhibition opening of more than 150 C.F Payne illustrations on view and for sale.
Who: C.F. Payne
Why: Payne is known for his work featured in Time Magazine, MAD Magazine, Sports Illustrated and National Geographic. The exhibition also includes a number of illustrations from the recent book Cincinnati Characters: The Unknown, Unappreciated and Unhinged written by Brent Coleman and Illustrated by Payne.
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In Her Voice with Tank and the Bangas
When: Sept. 22 from 5:30-10:30 p.m.
Where: The Woodward Theater, Over-the-Rhine
What: Live music
Who: In Her Voice presents Tank and the Bangas & other amazing musical acts in honor of Queens Village's five-year anniversary.
Why: Local performers and poets will pepper this event with a headliner that can’t be missed. If you’ve never heard of Tank and the Bangas, now’s the time to get hip. In Her Voice produced the event in the name of celebrating Black women’s voices.
Photo: Tank and the Bangas via Wikimedia Commons

In Her Voice with Tank and the Bangas


When: Sept. 22 from 5:30-10:30 p.m.
Where: The Woodward Theater, Over-the-Rhine
What: Live music
Who: In Her Voice presents Tank and the Bangas & other amazing musical acts in honor of Queens Village's five-year anniversary.
Why: Local performers and poets will pepper this event with a headliner that can’t be missed. If you’ve never heard of Tank and the Bangas, now’s the time to get hip. In Her Voice produced the event in the name of celebrating Black women’s voices.
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Opening Reception for the Contemporary Arts Center's A Permanent Nostalgia for Departure
When: Sept. 22 from 6-11 p.m.
Where: Contemporary Arts Center, Downtown
What: Group exhibition gallery opening 
Who: Eight artists who have created seven original works that examine the legacy of the CAC’s architect Zaha Hadid. 
Why: Learn something new about one of our city’s most important and beautiful buildings and its world-renowned architect through the eyes of artists from around the globe. Read more about A Permanent Nostalgia for Departure here.

Opening Reception for the Contemporary Arts Center's A Permanent Nostalgia for Departure


When: Sept. 22 from 6-11 p.m.
Where: Contemporary Arts Center, Downtown
What: Group exhibition gallery opening
Who: Eight artists who have created seven original works that examine the legacy of the CAC’s architect Zaha Hadid.
Why: Learn something new about one of our city’s most important and beautiful buildings and its world-renowned architect through the eyes of artists from around the globe. Read more about A Permanent Nostalgia for Departure here.
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A Night of Culinary Arts with Celebrity Chef Aunt Flora and Jazz Player Ed "Sax" Thomas
When: Sept. 22 from 6-9 p.m.
Where: Epic Event Gallery, Downtown
What: A farm-to-table, three-course meal prepared by a celebrity chef featuring live jazz music.
Who: Celebrity chef Aunt Flora and jazz musician Ed "Sax" Thomas
Why: Chef Aunt Flora has been featured on Oprah and will be preparing her famous BBQ ribs and sweet potatoes, among other delectable options.
Photo: Epic Event Gallery https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=236178862514966&set=pb.100083685605201.-2207520000&type=3

A Night of Culinary Arts with Celebrity Chef Aunt Flora and Jazz Player Ed "Sax" Thomas


When: Sept. 22 from 6-9 p.m.
Where: Epic Event Gallery, Downtown
What: A farm-to-table, three-course meal prepared by a celebrity chef featuring live jazz music.
Who: Celebrity chef Aunt Flora and jazz musician Ed "Sax" Thomas
Why: Chef Aunt Flora has been featured on Oprah and will be preparing her famous BBQ ribs and sweet potatoes, among other delectable options.
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The United Pet Fund's Paws in the Park
When: Sept. 23 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Where: Summit Park, Blue Ash
What: An outdoor event for you and your pet.
Who: The United Pet Fund
Why: The event benefits the United Pet Fund, which provides resources to underserved and independent animal care groups and advocates. Read more about the event  here.

The United Pet Fund's Paws in the Park


When: Sept. 23 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Where: Summit Park, Blue Ash
What: An outdoor event for you and your pet.
Who: The United Pet Fund
Why: The event benefits the United Pet Fund, which provides resources to underserved and independent animal care groups and advocates. Read more about the event here.
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Samuel Adams’ Octoberfest & Tour
When: Sept. 23 at 1 p.m.
Where: Samuel Adams Taproom, Over-the-Rhine
What: Octoberfest-themed tasting and taproom tour.
Who: Samuel Adams 
Why: Not only will there be flights of Samuel Adams beer, but the daylong celebration features a taproom tour and an “Octoberfest swag bag”  with a branded hat, can stein handle, stein charm beaded necklace, stein sticker, and pretzel eyewear.
Photo: Hailey Bollinger

Samuel Adams’ Octoberfest & Tour


When: Sept. 23 at 1 p.m.
Where: Samuel Adams Taproom, Over-the-Rhine
What: Octoberfest-themed tasting and taproom tour.
Who: Samuel Adams
Why: Not only will there be flights of Samuel Adams beer, but the daylong celebration features a taproom tour and an “Octoberfest swag bag” with a branded hat, can stein handle, stein charm beaded necklace, stein sticker, and pretzel eyewear.
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Day/Night Astronomy Event
When: Sept. 23 from 4-11 p.m.
Where:  The Cincinnati Astronomical Society, Cleves
What: A “Great Outdoor Weekend Event” with viewings of the sky during the day, as it transforms to evening and the night sky.
Who: The Cincinnati Astronomical Society
Why: It’s not often that astronomical viewings emphasize solar activity. The sun is hot, but it’s cool to look at. After dark the Astronomical Society will open its observatories. Look out for the moon Saturn, Jupiter and other objects like nebulae or a star cluster.
Photo: Matthew Ansley via Unsplash

Day/Night Astronomy Event


When: Sept. 23 from 4-11 p.m.
Where: The Cincinnati Astronomical Society, Cleves
What: A “Great Outdoor Weekend Event” with viewings of the sky during the day, as it transforms to evening and the night sky.
Who: The Cincinnati Astronomical Society
Why: It’s not often that astronomical viewings emphasize solar activity. The sun is hot, but it’s cool to look at. After dark the Astronomical Society will open its observatories. Look out for the moon Saturn, Jupiter and other objects like nebulae or a star cluster.
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Smorgfest
When: Sept. 23 at 6 p.m.
Where: Southgate House Revival, Newport
What: Music, comedy and art show.
Who: Tons of local bands, comedians and artists. 
Why: Sample Cincinnati’s rich arts community for this “smörgasbord of sounds and sights” at the Southgate House Revival.
Photo: Google Maps screengrab

Smorgfest


When: Sept. 23 at 6 p.m.
Where: Southgate House Revival, Newport
What: Music, comedy and art show.
Who: Tons of local bands, comedians and artists.
Why: Sample Cincinnati’s rich arts community for this “smörgasbord of sounds and sights” at the Southgate House Revival.
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Queen City Skate Clash
When: Sept. 23, 7-10 p.m.
Where: Sawyer Point Roller Rink, Downtown
What: Skating competition and performances.
Who: Skate Downtown Cincy, @SmittyonSkates, @CrissyBRollin with DJ Zane Dixon
Why: See who will become this year's Queen City Skate Clash Champion, and maybe do a little skating yourself. Free skate rentals with a photo I.D.

Queen City Skate Clash


When: Sept. 23, 7-10 p.m.
Where: Sawyer Point Roller Rink, Downtown
What: Skating competition and performances.
Who: Skate Downtown Cincy, @SmittyonSkates, @CrissyBRollin with DJ Zane Dixon
Why: See who will become this year's Queen City Skate Clash Champion, and maybe do a little skating yourself. Free skate rentals with a photo I.D.
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Siren Suit Album Release Party
When: Sept. 23 from 9 p.m.-1 a.m.
Where: MOTR Pub, Over-the-Rhine
What:  Weight  album release party and concert.
Who: Siren Suit with Louise, Dustbin, Feral Friends and Planchette
Why:  Weight was recorded at the legendary Inner Ear Studio with Don Zientara of Bad Brains, Minor Threat, Fugazi, Faraquet fame.
Photo: Dave Cupp

Siren Suit Album Release Party


When: Sept. 23 from 9 p.m.-1 a.m.
Where: MOTR Pub, Over-the-Rhine
What: Weight album release party and concert.
Who: Siren Suit with Louise, Dustbin, Feral Friends and Planchette
Why: Weight was recorded at the legendary Inner Ear Studio with Don Zientara of Bad Brains, Minor Threat, Fugazi, Faraquet fame.
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Loveland Oktoberfest
When: Sept. 22 & 23
Where: Downtown Loveland
What: Loveland’s third-annual Oktoberfest celebration
Who: Local vendors, musicians and artists.
Why: German fare and swag around every corner and of course, a biergarten.
Photo: Dan DeAlmeida via Unsplash

Loveland Oktoberfest


When: Sept. 22 & 23
Where: Downtown Loveland
What: Loveland’s third-annual Oktoberfest celebration
Who: Local vendors, musicians and artists.
Why: German fare and swag around every corner and of course, a biergarten.
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Kroger Wellness Festival
When: Sept. 22 & 23 11 a.m.-7 p.m. 
Where: Freedom Way, The Banks
What: A free festival surrounding health and wellness.
Who: Kroger presented by PepsiCo
Why: Fresh food, guided workouts and education on how to optimize all things health related. Everything from activities, informational booths, music, apps, cooking and more during this weekend of health awareness.
Photo: Google Maps

Kroger Wellness Festival


When: Sept. 22 & 23 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
Where: Freedom Way, The Banks
What: A free festival surrounding health and wellness.
Who: Kroger presented by PepsiCo
Why: Fresh food, guided workouts and education on how to optimize all things health related. Everything from activities, informational booths, music, apps, cooking and more during this weekend of health awareness.
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Whispering Beard Folk Festival 
When: Sept. 22 & 23
Where: Carriage House Farm, North Bend
What: Two-day folk music festival.
Who: Cincinnati’s own The Tillers and a jam-packed lineup of bands 
Why: Carriage House Farm is the perfect venue for this family-friendly music festival. It’ll be a no worries weekend full of folk jams, dancing, art, beer and food. Camp on site or come for a day, either way Whispering Beard is a local treasure that’s been going on for more than 10 years.
Photo: Whispering Beard https://www.facebook.com/TheOfficalWhisperingBeard/photos/pb.100066810452766.-2207520000/3216127071969003/?type=3

Whispering Beard Folk Festival


When: Sept. 22 & 23
Where: Carriage House Farm, North Bend
What: Two-day folk music festival.
Who: Cincinnati’s own The Tillers and a jam-packed lineup of bands
Why: Carriage House Farm is the perfect venue for this family-friendly music festival. It’ll be a no worries weekend full of folk jams, dancing, art, beer and food. Camp on site or come for a day, either way Whispering Beard is a local treasure that’s been going on for more than 10 years.
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Autumn Acoustics at Washington Park 
When: Sept. 22 from 6-9 p.m.
Where: Washington Park, Over-the-Rhine
What: Live music.
Who: Meaghan Richardson
Why: It’s cozy vibe season and Washington Park has a live music series that aims to help you embrace it. This weekend features pianist and vocalist Meaghan Richardson.

Autumn Acoustics at Washington Park


When: Sept. 22 from 6-9 p.m.
Where: Washington Park, Over-the-Rhine
What: Live music.
Who: Meaghan Richardson
Why: It’s cozy vibe season and Washington Park has a live music series that aims to help you embrace it. This weekend features pianist and vocalist Meaghan Richardson.
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Country Applefest
When: Sept. 23 & 24 at 10 a.m.
Where: The Warren County Fairgrounds, Lebanon
What: Fun fall festival featuring seasonal festivities and of course, apples.
Who: Country Applefest
Why: More than 300 craft and food vendors will be on site for this two-day event. Think all kinds of apples, live music, handmade goods and fall fun.
Photo: Apple Fest https://www.facebook.com/countryapplefest/photos

Country Applefest


When: Sept. 23 & 24 at 10 a.m.
Where: The Warren County Fairgrounds, Lebanon
What: Fun fall festival featuring seasonal festivities and of course, apples.
Who: Country Applefest
Why: More than 300 craft and food vendors will be on site for this two-day event. Think all kinds of apples, live music, handmade goods and fall fun.
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Hispanic Heritage Month Salsa Night at Findlay Market 
When: Sept. 23 from 5-8 p.m.
Where: Findlay Market, Over-the-Rhine
What: A night of salsa dancing, music and food. 
Who: Joel Alleguezson providing music, The Arepa Place and Chacabanas selling food and Diana Hoffman will be teaching Salsa lessons.
Why: Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by practicing the flamboyant style of salsa dancing and partaking in delicious eats. All are welcome, whether you’re a salsa expert or want to learn the basics.
Photo: Provided by Findlay Market

Hispanic Heritage Month Salsa Night at Findlay Market


When: Sept. 23 from 5-8 p.m.
Where: Findlay Market, Over-the-Rhine
What: A night of salsa dancing, music and food.
Who: Joel Alleguezson providing music, The Arepa Place and Chacabanas selling food and Diana Hoffman will be teaching Salsa lessons.
Why: Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by practicing the flamboyant style of salsa dancing and partaking in delicious eats. All are welcome, whether you’re a salsa expert or want to learn the basics.
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Outdoor Movie Night at the Harriet Beecher Stowe House 
When: Sept. 23 at 8 p.m.
Where: Harriet Beecher Stowe House, Walnut Hills
What: Outdoor movie screening of 42, the Jackie Robinson story.
Who: Harriet Beecher Stowe House and Ohio History Connection
Why: A free outdoor movie night just as the weather is turning into fall sounds like the perfect evening.
Photo: Greg Hume

Outdoor Movie Night at the Harriet Beecher Stowe House


When: Sept. 23 at 8 p.m.
Where: Harriet Beecher Stowe House, Walnut Hills
What: Outdoor movie screening of 42, the Jackie Robinson story.
Who: Harriet Beecher Stowe House and Ohio History Connection
Why: A free outdoor movie night just as the weather is turning into fall sounds like the perfect evening.
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World Gorilla Day
When: Sept. 23 & 24 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, Avondale
What: Educational events and enrichment opportunities for World Gorilla Day.
Who: Gorillas
Why: The event is free with zoo admission and you can enter a raffle to win a rare opportunity to see a private gorilla training session.
Photo: Lisa Hubbard via The Cincinnati Zoo

World Gorilla Day


When: Sept. 23 & 24 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, Avondale
What: Educational events and enrichment opportunities for World Gorilla Day.
Who: Gorillas
Why: The event is free with zoo admission and you can enter a raffle to win a rare opportunity to see a private gorilla training session.
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Harambe Documentary Screening 
When: Sept. 24
Where: The Esquire Theatre, Clifton
What: Documentary premiere 
Who: Erik E. Crown, produced by Sierra Williams and narrated by Peter Egan
Why: It will be World Gorilla Day, the most perfect day to honor the life of Harambe. A portion of the documentary’s proceeds will be donated to non-governmental organizations (NGOs) helping gorillas out of captivity.
Photo: Provided by Harambe Movie

Harambe Documentary Screening


When: Sept. 24
Where: The Esquire Theatre, Clifton
What: Documentary premiere
Who: Erik E. Crown, produced by Sierra Williams and narrated by Peter Egan
Why: It will be World Gorilla Day, the most perfect day to honor the life of Harambe. A portion of the documentary’s proceeds will be donated to non-governmental organizations (NGOs) helping gorillas out of captivity.
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