Thinking of Moving to Cincinnati? Here’s Your Ultimate Guide to Events and Festivals!
If you’re considering a move to Cincinnati, or you just recently moved to the Queen City, you’re about to discover a calendar full of can’t-miss events. One of the best things about living in Cincinnati is the wide range of events and festivals that happen throughout the year. From quirky neighborhood races to world-class sporting events and cultural celebrations, there's always something for everyone.
Winter
- Festival of Lights (Cincinnati Zoo): This beloved annual event transforms the Cincinnati Zoo into a Winter Wonderland. With millions of twinkling lights, festive displays, and a chance to see animals, it’s a family-friendly favorite.
- Light in the Forest (Cincinnati Nature Center): A serene, nature-themed light experience just outside the city. Walk the trails adorned with soft, artistic lighting.
- Ice Skating Rinks (Downtown and Suburbs): Downtown’s Fountain Square is a classic ice skating rink, but you’ll also find rinks around Cincinnati suburbs, such as the Blue Ash Summit Park and Fifty West Brewery.
Spring
- Cincinnati Reds Opening Day: Cincinnati treats Opening Day like a national holiday. With an iconic parade through downtown, tailgates, and of course, the first home game of the season, no matter where you are in the city during opening day, there’s a celebration happening.
- Bockfest: A Cincinnati celebration of beer and German heritage. Bockfest includes a goat-led parade, brewery tours, and plenty of local craft brews.
- Taste of Cincinnati: A foodie’s dream! This massive food festival features over 65 food booths, local brews, and live music.
- Tunes & Blooms (Cincinnati Zoo): A spring music series featuring local artists playing throughout the zoo gardens. It’s the perfect date night or family outing during warmer evenings in April.
Summer
- Voice of American Country Music Fest (West Chester): Held in VOA Park, the popular country music festival attracts big-name artists like Carrie Underwood and Hardy. If you’re a country fan, this one’s for you.
- Cincinnati Open (Mason): This major tennis tournament attracts the world’s top players just before the U.S. Open. Even if you’re not a tennis fanatic, the food, music, and atmosphere make it worth the visit.
- City Flea (Washington Park): This urban market features local makers, food trucks, vintage goods, and art. It’s held once a month in Washington Park.
- Riverfest & WEBN Fireworks: Takes place during Labor Day weekend. This Cincinnati event caps off the end of summer with one of the most epic fireworks displays in the Midwest. The Ohio River bank fills up with spectators on both the Ohio and Kentucky sides to watch the sky light up in celebration.
Fall
- UC Homecoming (University of Cincinnati): Even if you’re not an alum, UC’s homecoming weekend is a celebration worth joining. From the lively parade to epic tailgates at Sigma Sigma Commons, the city turns out in full force to support the Bearcats.
- Camargo Hunt Club (Indian Hill): A refined, equestrian event held in the upscale suburb of Indian Hill. With fancy tailgates and traditional fox hunting flair, it’s a fun fall day, especially if you like dressing up adn sipping wine on the sidelines.
- Oktoberfest Zinzinnati: The largest Oktoberfest in the U.S. outside of Munich. This celebration of German culture includes a giant chicken dance, stein-holding contests, wiener dog races, and plenty of beer.
- Blink Festival (Every Other Year): A newer but jaw-dropping event that’s quickly become a local treasure. Blink is a four-day immersive light and art festival that stretches from OTR to Northern Kentucky. You’ll see massive light projections, interactive installations, and performances from great artists.
No matter the season, Cincinnati has something special to offer. If you’re thinking about moving to Cincinnati, we are here to help. Our team at Oyler Hines is number one in Greater Cincinnati, and we’ve helped thousands of families buy and sell homes in the area. Contact us at 513-547-2997.
