Hello, Cincinnatians! As the flowers bloom and the days grow longer, May is the perfect time to explore the vibrant events happening in and around our awesome city. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here’s a roundup of some exciting Cincinnati events you won’t want to miss this month:
1. The Appalachian Festival
Celebrate the rich traditions and stories of the Appalachian region at the 54th Annual Appalachian Festival. Held at their new permanent location in New Richmond, Ohio, this event features traditional music, handmade crafts, storytelling, and more. It’s a perfect family outing for Mother’s Day weekend, taking place on May 10-11. The festival starts at 10:00 AM both days and runs to 10:00 PM on Saturday and 6:00 PM on Sunday. Tickets are available at the gate for purchase. More details here.
2. Deer Park’s Chamberlin Park Party in the Park
Join the community at Deer Park’s Chamberlin Park for their bi-weekly Party in the Park. With live music, food vendors, and activities for all ages, it’s a great way to unwind and connect with neighbors every other Friday throughout the summer. The next event is on May 10. Saturday concerts typically run from 7:00 – 10:00 PM but this coming Saturday (the 10th) is special with a ribbon cutting ceremony for the new Music Pavillion, so the first band starts at 4:00 PM featuring the Jump-N-Jive Big Band. The Remains follows them starting at 7:00 PM. These bi-weekly events are free to attend. More details here.
3. May Festival
The May Festival in Cincinnati is a premier event celebrating choral and orchestral music. This year’s lineup offers a rich tapestry of performances and events:
- Verdi Requiem (May 16, 2025): Conducted by Ramón Tebar, this performance features the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra and May Festival Chorus, delivering Verdi’s powerful and emotional Requiem.
- Chasing the Dawn (May 18, 2025): A unique choral event with the May Festival Chorus, Chamber Choir, Youth Chorus, and Cincinnati Boychoir Ambassadors, combining song, staging, and lighting.
- Music and Mind (May 20, 2025): Hosted by soprano Renée Fleming, this presentation explores music’s impact on mental and physical well-being, featuring local experts and neuroscientists.
- Renée Fleming Masterclass (May 21, 2025): An exclusive session with Renée Fleming, offering insights into vocal technique and performance for aspiring singers and pianists.
- The Brightness of Light (May 22, 2025): Renée Fleming and Rod Gilfry portray artists Georgia O’Keeffe and Alfred Stieglitz through music, art, and love letters.
- Voice of Nature (May 24, 2025): Inspired by her Grammy-winning album, Renée Fleming performs works by Handel, Nico Muhly, Björk, and Howard Shore, with National Geographic film backdrops.
The festival offers convenient parking and encourages alternative transportation. Whether you’re a classical music lover or a newcomer, the May Festival promises an enriching experience for all. Grab your tickets today! Explore the full schedule here.
4. 12th Annual Loveland Food Truck Rally
https://allevents.in/loveland/12th-annual-loveland-food-truck-rally/80005022085381
Foodies, rejoice! The 12th Annual Loveland Food Truck Rally is back on May 10, bringing together a diverse array of food trucks from around the area at Shopper’s Haven Plaza. Entertainment will be provided courtesy of Naked Karate Girls, Counting Skeletons, and others! Beverages will be available for purchase. There is no admission charge. It’s a fantastic opportunity to savor new flavors and enjoy live music with family and friends. Check out the event details here.
5. Cincinnati Ghost Tour
https://usghostadventures.com/cincinnati-ghost-tour/
For those who love a good thrill, the Cincinnati Ghost Tour offers a spine-tingling journey through the city’s haunted history. Discover the eerie tales and mysterious legends that lurk in the shadows of Cincinnati. Held nightly, ticketed customers meet in front of Memorial Hall and are guided on an hour-long spooky walking tour. Find out more about the tour here.
6. Neon Brush: A Glow-in-the-Dark Painting Experience
Unleash your creativity at the Neon Brush event, where you can enjoy a unique glow-in-the-dark painting experience. Perfect for a fun night out with friends or a creative date night, this event promises to be a colorful adventure. Learn more and book your spot here.
7. Taste of Cincinnati 2025
Join the culinary celebration at the Taste of Cincinnati, one of the nation’s longest-running street food festivals. Enjoy a variety of good eats, live entertainment, and a vibrant atmosphere in downtown Cincinnati from May 24-26. Find out more here.
Plenty to do as we kickoff the summer here with Cincinnati Events! Let me know which of these events appeal most to you and if you attend, what your experience was! If none of the above events are your cup of tea, maybe check out the Cincinnati Reds for a baseball game at home (schedule found here) or check out the Cincinnati Nature Center one weekend and explore one of their beautiful hiking trails (info found here)!
Stay tuned to Cincy Realty & Beyond for more updates on local happenings and real estate insights. Enjoy the month of May, and happy exploring!