Biggest Cincinnati Festivals Coming Up

Cincy Summer Fests Not to Be Missed

Cincinnati summer festivalsCincinnati is a good place to be in the summer because its calendar fills up with so many lively events. If you’re visiting the city in the next few months, or you just want to do something out of the ordinary, there are many festivals worth checking out. But as with all events that draw large crowds, driving to and from can be a headache, so to get the maximum enjoyment possible out of these festivals, book a Cincinnati car service to bring you to all the fun.

Music

Bunbury Music Festival

The Bunbury Music Festival is a three-day extravaganza drawing some big-name acts, including fun., MGMT, and The National. Other bands slated to perform are Belle and Sebastian, Tokyo Police Club, and Tegan and Sara, among many others. As the FAQs section of the website shows, the organizers are a hip, fun-loving crowd. Their reply to the question why a bee is their mascot? “Honestly, no idea. He asked if he could be the mascot so we figured why not.” Besides having a playful spirit, this festival is also kid-friendly. If you have a child or young relative and you want to expose them to the joys of large festivals and great alternative acts, Bunbury Music Festival is the place to be. This festival runs July 12 through July 14.

Macy’s Music Festival

Taking place at the Paul Brown Stadium on Cincinnati’s riverfront, Macy’s Music Festival originally began as a jazz festival in the ‘60s. But it has now evolved to encompass many other genres, including R&B, soul, and hip-hop. It’s the largest festival of its kind in the country, and past performers have included stars such as Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder, Luther Vandross, and Pattie Labelle.  Performances for the 2013 festival have yet to be determined; but you can be sure that no matter who plays, concertgoers will have a great time. This festival occurs on July 26 and 27.

Cultural

Cincy Cinco

Cincy Cinco is a celebration of Latino culture in the city, and this year marks its 10-year anniversary. Its mission is to reach out to all its Cincinnati neighbors, and it aims to teach Latino individuals about the resources available in the city, while teaching the general community about the vibrancy of Latino culture. Activities at this Fountain Square celebration include music and dancing, and of course, sampling some authentic Latino cuisine. While restaurants that will participate in the festival have yet to be announced, the food guide on the website hints that visitors can try tasty fare such as Peruvian beef kabobs, empanadas, and baked pork. Cincy Cinco leads into Cinco de Mayo and takes place May 4 and 5.

CincItalia

This Italian festival will kick off with an adults-only event for individuals 19 and older. It promises to be a time when “over-worked, too-busy adults” can relax with their friends and enjoy partying like it’s 1999. Saturday night is a must for all Italian-food lovers as there will be two cooking demonstrations and chances to sample some mouthwatering entrées and desserts. On Sunday night, the fun wraps up with an Italian auto show highlighting the finest of Italian cars, as well as a spaghetti-eating contest, pizza dough tossing, and a class on Italian cocktails. CincItalia lasts from May 17 to May 19.

Special Interest

PaddleFest Weekend

For many people, there’s no better way to spend a summer day on the water. In recognition of that, the organizers of PaddleFest put together a fun and fitness-focused event on Coney Island every year. This year’s event begins with a Kids Expo, where kids can participate in fun activities, including Zumba, Tai Chi, and fishing, and of course, paddling. Friday is the Ohio River Music and Outdoor Festival where five bands will entertain crowds as they participate in activities including a kayak fishing contest and boat demos. Sunday will hold an 8.2-mile float trip and an 11-mile kayak and canoe race. All of this will wrap up with a celebration at Yeatman’s Cove with music and refreshments. The fun lasts from June 20 to 22.

Summerfair

Also taking place on Coney Island, this festival showcases artisanal crafts and other creative masterpieces that you can’t find anywhere else. There will also be live music, activities for children, and gourmet food available. Browse the different exhibits and you’re sure to find something unusual that will add some creative flair to your home. The event is free for children 12 and under and it takes place May 31 to June 2.

This summer, why not push yourself to do something a little different? Visiting a festival can be a great way to get out and experience something new. Grab a friend and head to one of these great festivals. With fun-filled days and a Chauffeur to get you there, your festival experience in Cincinnati will surely be a day to remember.

Image credit: freedigitalphotos.net/Darren Robertson

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