< BACK TO BLOG

A Local’s Guide to Cincinnati’s Music Festivals

In addition to culinary events like the Taste of Cincinnati®, Cincinnati’s music festivals are yet another reason to live in or near the city. From the musical experiences that take place just outside of Cincinnati to the ones located in various Cincinnati Parks, several of the area’s festivals are both nearby and FREE to attend! Keep reading to learn more about the music festivals in the Cincinnati area that you might want to add to your calendar.

5 of Cincinnati’s Music Festivals to Consider Checking Out This Year

Both Cincinnati locals and visitors to the area have a variety of musical experiences available for their enjoyment. From shows at the multitude of music venues to the public outdoor concerts, such as the free concerts at riverfront parks, there are many different events to attend throughout the year. Find out more about 5 popular festivals that take place in Cincinnati or nearby.

1. Ault Park Summer Music Festival: While this experience is more of a summer concert series than a day or weekend-long festival, select Thursday evenings in the warmest months of the year offer the opportunity to listen to live music and enjoy local food and beverages. Given the free admission and the scenic setting of Ault Park, fans of this experience may choose to make an entire day of it by walking the trails, exploring the gardens, visiting the playground and then enjoying a picnic while listening to the evening’s performers. This year, don’t miss the opportunity to participate in this long-running musical experience at one of Cincinnati’s most beloved parks!
2. On Point Music Festival: This music festival takes place at Sawyer Point – another of the many incredible parks in Cincinnati. Located along the Ohio River, this space not only features scenic views but also offers amenities like playgrounds, public art, different sports courts and more. It is also the site of various events throughout the year, including the On Point Music Festival. This free festival often features multiple stages as well as DJs and other performers at the festival roller rink. In addition to music and roller skating, other activities like beach volleyball and pickleball can also be enjoyed during this August event.
3. Merchants & Music Festival: Located just over the Ohio River from Cincinnati, one of the many exciting things to do in Fort Thomas, KY is to attend the Merchants & Music Festival in September. Featuring both national artists and local performers, this festival has been running for over 20 years and continues to be free to the public. In addition to the musical lineup, a sizable roster of merchants participates in this event, offering everything from food and drinks to clothing and other specialty items. If you plan to bring younger guests, there’s also fun for them to enjoy like face painting, bouncy houses and more!
4. Cincy Blues Fest: Many of Cincinnati’s music festivals have been taking place for decades. For over 30 years, typically in the month of July, people have flocked to the Cincy Blues Fest. As of this post, this event is located in Fairfield, OH – a northern suburb of Cincinnati. At this family-friendly event, both admission and parking are free! In addition to two full days of music, guests may enjoy other events, like a car show, the offerings of various food and drink vendors, or the special KIDS ZONE. Want to experience even more live blues music in the area? The Lebanon Blues Festival happens less than a month after this event, often the first weekend in August.
5. Cincinnati Music Festival: Unlike some of the other music festivals in the area, the three-day musical experience that is the Cincinnati Music Festival does require tickets. Originating as the Ohio Valley Jazz Festival in 1962, the Cincinnati Music Festival now features music from multiple genres, including hip-hop, R&B, and soul and takes place at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. In addition to the incredible music during this event, there is also a merchant and food festival, Festival 513, that takes place during the same weekend and directly across from the concert venue.

Living in the Cincinnati area offers many opportunities to enjoy incredible music. From historic festivals like the Cincinnati Music Festival to other annual musical experiences, there is no shortage of concerts and events to attend. If you are looking for an apartment that offers access to Cincinnati’s music festivals and many other things to do in Cincinnati, contact our leasing specialists today!