Blog > Top 10 Events in Cincinnati in 2026 | Festivals, Sports & Local Favorites
Top 10 Events in Cincinnati in 2026 | Festivals, Sports & Local Favorites
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Top 10 Events in Cincinnati in 2026
If you’re searching for the best events in Cincinnati in 2026, you’re in the right place. Whether you’re a local looking to fill your calendar or planning a move and want to get a feel for life in the Queen City, these events highlight what Cincinnati does best—sports, culture, food, music, and community.
This guide is built to be a living resource, so bookmark it and check back as dates are finalized throughout the year.
1. Cincinnati Reds Opening Day
When: Thursday, March 26, 2026
Where: Downtown Cincinnati
Cincinnati Reds Opening Day isn’t just a baseball game—it’s a citywide tradition. From the iconic Findlay Market Opening Day Parade to packed bars and offices closing early, this is one of the most searched Cincinnati events every year.
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2. BLINK Cincinnati
When: Fall 2026 - October 8-11
Where: Downtown, OTR, The Banks, Covington
BLINK is one of the largest light, art, and projection mapping festivals in the country, drawing millions of visitors.
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3. Oktoberfest Zinzinnati
When: September 2026 - Thursday, September 17, to Sunday, September 20, 2026
Where: Sawyer Point & Yeatman's Cove, Downtown Cincinnat
Officially the largest Oktoberfest outside of Munich, complete with biergartens, steins, bratwurst, and the Running of the Wieners. This year they'll be celebrating 50 years!
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4. Taste of Cincinnati
When: Memorial Day Weekend 2026 - May 23-25, 2026
Where: 5th Street in Downtown Cincinnati, spanning multiple blocks
A food festival featuring dozens of local restaurants, food trucks, and live music stages.
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5. Cincinnati Music Festival
When: July 23-25, 2026
Where: Paycor Stadium
R&B, soul, and hip-hop legends from around the country.
- Headliners/Lineup:
- Friday: Charlie Wilson, Tyrese, Ledisi, Nelly.
- Saturday: Mary J. Blige, Trey Songz, SWV, Doug E. Fresh, Heatwave.
- Thursday: A hip-hop tribute with artists to be announced.
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6. Flying Pig Marathon
When: May 1-3, 2026
Where: Throughout Cincinnati
Cincinnati’s signature running event, drawing participants from around the country.
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7. Pride Cincinnati
When: June 2026 | Pride Festival 4th Saturday of June
Where: Downtown Cincinnati
Includes a parade, festival, and weekend-long celebration supporting the LGBTQ+ community.
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8. Flying Pig Marathon
When: May 2026
Where: Throughout Cincinnati
Cincinnati’s signature running event, drawing participants from around the country.
Helpful links:
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Flying Pig Marathon official site
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Event Instagram
9. Cincinnati Fish Fry Series
When: Fridays during Lent 2026 - Starting Feb. 25th, 2026
Where: Various local churches and community centers throughout Cincinnati
A beloved local tradition featuring classic fried fish dinners, sides, and community gatherings. Perfect for families and those looking to enjoy local flavor and culture. National Fish Fry Day: Friday, March 20, 2026
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10. Cincinnati Comic Expo
When: September 25–27, 2026
Where: Newly renovated downtown Cincinnati Convention Center
Celebrating comics, pop culture, cosplay, and gaming with panels, celebrity guests, and vendor booths.
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Why Cincinnati Events Matter
These events aren’t just fun—they’re a huge part of what makes Cincinnati feel like home. Neighborhoods come alive, local businesses thrive, and the city’s personality really shows up.
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Brad Acree | REALTOR | Better Way Home X REAL
513-916-2363 | brad@mybetterwayhome.com | IG: @BetterWayHome
