If you’re heading to Cincinnati for the weekend of March 20–22, 2026, the city is trading in the St. Patrick’s Day green for a mix of horror, high-stakes soccer, and global music. From massive fan conventions to one-time athletic challenges, there isn’t a dull moment in the Queen City this weekend.

Here are the top ten non-recurring things to do in Cincinnati this weekend:

1. HorrorHound Weekend

When: Friday, March 20 – Sunday, March 22

Where: Sharonville Convention Center

This is one of the largest horror conventions in the country. It’s a massive gathering for fans of the macabre, featuring celebrity guests from iconic horror films, Q&A panels, professional photo ops, and a film festival showcasing independent horror shorts. Whether you're a hardcore fan or just love movie trivia, the atmosphere is electric.

2. FC Cincinnati vs. CF Montréal

When: Sunday, March 22 @ 1:00 PM

Where: TQL Stadium

The atmosphere at TQL Stadium is legendary, and a Sunday afternoon match is the perfect way to experience it. Catch the Orange and Blue as they take on Montréal in a critical early-season MLS matchup. The pre-match march through Over-the-Rhine is a tradition you won't want to miss.

3. The Cheetah Run 5K

When: Sunday, March 22 @ 8:00 AM

Where: Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

Named after the fastest land animal, this annual race takes you through the beautiful grounds of the Cincinnati Zoo. It’s a rare chance to run past world-class exhibits before the Zoo opens to the general public. Registration typically sells out, so it's a "one-and-done" event for the year.

4. Our Lady Peace

When: Saturday, March 21 @ 7:00 PM

Where: Bogart’s

The iconic alt-rock band brings their 2026 tour to the historic Bogart’s in Corryville. Known for their distinct sound and 90s hits like "Superman’s Dead," this is a high-energy, one-night-only performance in an intimate, standing-room-only setting.

5. WindFest 2026

When: Sunday, March 22 @ 6:00 PM

Where: Cincinnati Music Hall

A massive celebration of wind and percussion music, WindFest brings together some of the best musicians in the region for a showcase at the acoustically perfect Music Hall. If you appreciate the power of a large-scale wind symphony, this annual event is a standout on the March calendar.

6. The Screwtape Letters

When: Saturday, March 21 @ 4:00 PM

Where: Aronoff Center for the Arts

Based on the classic C.S. Lewis novel, this smart and provocative theatrical production is stopping in Cincinnati for a single day. The play offers a witty and satirical look at spiritual warfare from the perspective of a senior demon, making it a unique alternative to traditional theater.

7. Special Olympics Polar Plunge

When: Saturday, March 21 (Morning)

Where: The Banks (Joe’s Crab Shack/Moerlein Lager House area)

Watch hundreds of brave souls jump into freezing water to raise money for Special Olympics Ohio. Even if you aren't jumping, the "Plunge Party" at the riverfront is full of energy, costumes, and community spirit. It’s a great way to spend a Saturday morning supporting a worthy cause.

8. Ladysmith Black Mambazo

When: Sunday, March 22 @ 7:00 PM

Where: Cincinnati Memorial Hall

The five-time Grammy Award-winning group from South Africa brings their beautiful vocal harmonies to the historic Memorial Hall. This is more than a concert; it’s a cultural experience from a group that has been the global voice of South African music for over 60 years.

9. CSO: Beethoven, Mozart & Haydn

When: Friday, March 20 & Saturday, March 21

Where: Cincinnati Music Hall

For fans of the classics, the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra is performing a focused program of the "Big Three" of the Classical era. This specific program is a deep dive into the 18th-century masters, featuring Mozart's "Prague" Symphony and Beethoven's Symphony No. 1.

10. Final Chance: Contemporary Arts Center (CAC) Exhibitions

When: Closing Sunday, March 22

Where: Contemporary Arts Center

This is the closing weekend for two major exhibitions: States of Becoming and Don’t Get It Twisted. It’s your last opportunity to see these world-class installations exploring identity and heritage before they are packed up and sent to their next destination.

If you were hoping for mortgage rates to continue their downward slide this week, the latest data from Freddie Mac might feel like a bit of a "spring chill." After dipping below the 6% mark recently for the first time in years, interest rates saw a modest uptick this week.

According to the latest Primary Mortgage Market Survey® (PMMS®) released on March 12, 2026, the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) averaged 6.11%.

Here’s a breakdown of what this week’s numbers mean for homebuyers and the housing market at large.

The Numbers: Where We Stand This Week

Freddie Mac’s weekly survey provides a snapshot of the national average for conventional, conforming home purchase loans. Here is the data for the week ending March 12:

• 30-Year Fixed-Rate Mortgage: Averaged 6.11%, up from last week’s 6.00%.

• 15-Year Fixed-Rate Mortgage: Averaged 5.50%, up from last week’s 5.43%.

• The Silver Lining: While rates ticked up this week, they remain significantly lower than this time last year, when the 30-year FRM sat at 6.65%.

Why the Sudden Uptick?

Mortgage rates don’t move in a vacuum; they are heavily influenced by the 10-year Treasury yield, which has been reacting to a mix of global and domestic factors.

Chief among these is the ongoing geopolitical tension in the Middle East. Recent military escalations have stoked fears of "wartime inflation," causing investors to pull back from bonds and pushing yields higher. Additionally, while recent jobs data showed some softening in the labor market (with unemployment ticking up to 4.4%), the "risk premium" associated with global uncertainty is currently outweighing those cooler economic signals.

The Surprise: Buyers Aren't Backing Down

In past years, an 11-basis-point jump might have sent shockwaves through the market. However, Freddie Mac Chief Economist Sam Khater noted a surprising trend: resilience.

Despite the modest increase, housing activity is actually picking up. Existing-home sales rose by 1.7% in February, and purchase applications—a leading indicator of future sales—increased this week.

It seems that after years of volatility, buyers have adjusted their expectations. Rates in the 6% range are being viewed as a "new normal" and a significant improvement over the 7% and 8% peaks seen in late 2023 and 2024.

What This Means for You

If you’re currently in the market for a home, here are three takeaways:

1. The "Spring Season" is Early: The increase in application activity suggests that the spring homebuying season is starting with plenty of competition. Don't wait for "perfect" rates if you find the right home; the inventory shortage still makes competition fierce.

2. Context is Key: Rates are more than half a percentage point lower than they were a year ago. On a $400,000 loan, that difference can save a homeowner roughly $150 per month in interest.

3. Stability over Volatility: Most experts, including those at Fannie Mae and the Mortgage Bankers Association, expect rates to hover between 6.0% and 6.2% for the remainder of the quarter. While we might see minor fluctuations, the era of drastic weekly swings appears to be stabilizing.

The Bottom Line

This week’s move to 6.11% is a reminder that the path to lower rates is rarely a straight line. However, with inflation drifting lower and the housing market showing remarkable energy, the overall outlook for 2026 remains one of "cautious opportunity."

As the frost melts and the days stretch out a bit longer, there’s a natural urge to open the windows and give your living space a fresh start. Spring isn't just about cleaning; it’s about revitalizing your environment to match the energy outside.

Here is your guide to transitioning your home into the new season with style and efficiency.

1. The Deep Clean "Hit List"

Standard dusting is a weekly chore, but spring calls for the "hidden" spots. Focus on these often-overlooked areas to significantly improve your indoor air quality:

• Window Tracks and Screens: Use a vacuum attachment to clear out dead insects and pollen, then wipe with soapy water.

• Ceiling Fan Blades: These are dust magnets. Pro tip: Slide an old pillowcase over the blade to pull the dust off without it falling on your furniture.

• The Dryer Vent: Beyond just the lint trap, cleaning the external vent line is a crucial safety step to prevent fires.

2. Refresh Your Textiles

Heavy wool throws and flannel sheets feel cozy in December, but they look weighed down in April.

• Swap the Weight: Trade heavy curtains for sheer linen to let the natural light flood in.

• The Rug Rotation: If you have area rugs, give them a deep steam clean and rotate them 180 degrees to ensure even wear from the shifting spring sun.

• Pillow Talk: Incorporate "spring" textures like cotton, jute, and silk in brighter, airy tones.

3. Invigorate with Greenery

Nothing says "spring" like bringing the outdoors in. If your thumb isn't particularly green, don't sweat it.

• Propagate: Spring is the active growing season. Take cuttings from your existing Pothos or Philodendrons and start new plants in water jars.

• Herb Garden: Set up a small culinary herb station on your kitchen windowsill. Mint, basil, and parsley thrive in the increasing sunlight.

4. Prep the Exterior

Your home’s "curb appeal" needs a post-winter check-up to ensure everything is functioning correctly before the summer heat hits.

The Final Touch: A Signature Scent

Put away the cinnamon and "balsam fir" candles. Switch to scents that mimic the crispness of the season—think lemon, eucalyptus, or fresh-cut grass. A simple stovetop potpourri with sliced citrus and mint sprigs can make the whole house feel instantly renewed.

If you’re visiting Cincinnati from March 13–15, 2026, prepare for a sea of green and a lot of movement. This weekend is a massive one for the city, anchored by the state’s largest St. Patrick’s Day celebration and one of the biggest heart-health fundraisers in the country.

Here are the top ten things to do in the Queen City this weekend:

1. The 54th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade

When: Saturday, March 14 @ 12:00 PM

Where: The Banks (Downtown)

This is the centerpiece of the weekend. As the largest St. Patrick’s Day parade in Ohio, it draws thousands of spectators to the riverfront. Expect elaborate floats, Irish dancers, pipe and drum bands, and a festive atmosphere that stretches from the street into every pub at The Banks.

2. 2026 Heart Mini-Marathon & Walk

When: Sunday, March 15 @ 7:30 AM

Where: 5th and Broadway (Downtown)

With over 20,000 participants expected, this is Cincinnati’s biggest single-day fundraiser. Whether you’re running the 15K, walking the 5K, or just there to cheer on the "Heart Heroes," the energy in the central business district is unmatched. It’s a powerful community moment where the streets are closed to cars and open to a sea of red shirts.

3. Broadway Grand Finale: The Wiz

When: Friday, March 13 – Sunday, March 15

Where: Aronoff Center for the Arts

This is the closing weekend for the national tour of The Wiz. Sunday’s performance marks the final time this high-energy, soul-infused reimagining of Oz will grace a Cincinnati stage this season. If you haven't seen this Tony-winning production yet, this is your absolute last chance.

4. Cincinnati Pops: American Mosaic

When: Friday, March 13 – Sunday, March 15

Where: Cincinnati Music Hall

Experience a one-weekend-only multimedia event celebrating the 250th birthday of the United States. This concert features composer Peter Boyer’s orchestral music paired with stunning 50-state video imagery by Joe Sohm. The performance includes live narration of powerful quotes from American history, making it a truly immersive patriotic experience.

5. St. Patrick’s Day Block Party

When: Saturday, March 14 @ 10:00 AM

Where: The Banks

Directly following (and preceding) the parade, the stretch of Freedom Way between Great American Ball Park and TQL Stadium turns into a massive outdoor party. With outdoor bars, live Irish music on multiple stages, and special menus from local favorites like Holy Grail and Moerlein Lager House, it’s the social hub of the weekend.

6. Overture Awards Finals

When: Saturday, March 14 @ 1:00 PM

Where: Aronoff Center (Jarson-Kaplan Theater)

Get a first look at the stars of tomorrow. The Overture Awards is the region’s largest solo arts competition for high school students. This one-day-only finals event showcases the top talent in dance, theater, and music, with winners walking away with significant scholarships.

7. Cyclones Giveaway Nights (Double Header)

When: Friday, March 13 & Saturday, March 14

Where: Heritage Bank Center

The Cincinnati Cyclones face off against the Iowa Heartlanders with two specific one-time perks. Friday night is the Crossbody Bag Giveaway, and Saturday is a 4:00 PM matinee featuring a Plushie Stick Giveaway. It’s high-energy hockey with the added bonus of limited-edition merch you can’t get any other time.

8. The Emerald Miles 5K

When: Saturday, March 14 @ 9:00 AM

Where: Newport on the Levee (Across the Purple People Bridge)

Start your Saturday with a "dash of green." This themed race kicks off just across the river and crosses back into Cincinnati. It’s the perfect way to earn your green beer for later in the day, and many participants run in full St. Paddy’s Day costumes.

9. Fairview-Clifton German School Festival

When: Saturday, March 14 @ 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Where: Fairview-Clifton German Language School

For a dose of local culture, head to this community festival that celebrates the city's deep German roots. Expect authentic food, traditional music, and a unique neighborhood market. It’s a great, family-friendly alternative if the downtown parade crowds feel too overwhelming.

10. Summermusik: An Evening with Tunde

When: Sunday, March 15 @ 7:00 PM

Where: House of Joy (Northside)

Part of the specialized Summermusik series, this intimate concert features a unique blend of genres in a non-traditional venue. It’s a rare opportunity to see world-class musicians in a setting that feels more like a private salon than a concert hall.

If you’ve been holding your breath for the housing market to exhale, this week might be the breath of fresh air you’ve been waiting for. For the first time in years, we are seeing mortgage rates hover around a major psychological and financial milestone.

Here is the breakdown of where rates stand as of March 8, 2026, and what it actually means for your wallet.

The Numbers: This Week’s Rate Snapshot

According to the latest data from Freddie Mac and Zillow, rates have hit their most attractive levels since late 2022. While there has been some slight daily volatility due to global economic tensions, the overall trend is downward.

Why "Sub-6%" Matters

The dip below 6% isn't just a headline—it’s a massive boost in purchasing power. Last year, when rates were north of 7%, many buyers found themselves priced out of their dream neighborhoods.

At today's rates, the average household has roughly $30,000 more in buying power than they did at this time last year. On a $400,000 home, the drop from 2025's peaks translates to roughly $2,000 in annual savings on mortgage payments alone.

Is Now the "Right" Time to Buy?

The million-dollar question (or, in this economy, the $500,000 question) is whether you should jump in now or wait for further drops. Here is the reality of the March 2026 market:

1. The "Lock-In" Effect is Breaking

For years, homeowners with 3% pandemic rates refused to sell because they didn't want a 7% replacement mortgage. Now that rates are near 5.9%, that gap is narrowing. We are seeing a 20% increase in inventory compared to last year, meaning you actually have homes to choose from without a 20-person bidding war.

2. The Return of Negotiating Power

In 2025, over 60% of buyers received a discount off the list price. While the market is stabilizing, sellers are no longer the undisputed kings of the hill. You may find more room to negotiate repairs, closing costs, or price reductions than you would have in the "frenzy" years.

3. The Risk of Waiting

Many buyers are holding out for 4% or 5% rates. However, economists warn that if rates drop significantly lower, the sidelined "buyer dam" will burst. This would flood the market with competition, likely driving home prices back up and erasing any savings you gained from a lower rate.

The Verdict

If you find a home that fits your budget and lifestyle, March 2026 is a compelling window. You are buying in a "balanced" market—inventory is up, competition is manageable, and rates are at a three-year low.

Pro Tip: Don't ignore homes slightly above your budget. With current market conditions, many sellers are open to price cuts or interest rate "buy-downs" to close the deal.

Discuss your home buying plans with a consultation with Andrew Hersey of the Hersey Group. 513-835-5506 

Let’s be honest: that "extra hour of sleep" in the fall is a myth, and the hour we lose in the spring feels like a personal affront. Whether you're dealing with a toddler who wakes up at 5:00 AM or your own caffeine-deprived brain, Daylight Saving Time (DST) can throw a wrench into the smoothest household gears.

Here is how to manage the transition without losing your mind—or your morning.

1. The "Slow Fade" Strategy

The biggest mistake we make is waiting until Saturday night to change the clocks. Your internal "body clock" doesn't have a reset button; it has a slider.

• The Increment Method: Four days before the switch, shift your household’s bedtime and wake-up time by 15 minutes each day.

• The Meal Shift: Don't just move sleep; move dinner too. Digestion plays a massive role in your circadian rhythm.

2. Light Management (The Biological Hack)

Your brain uses light to determine when to produce melatonin. You can "trick" your system into adapting faster by controlling your environment.

In the morning, open the curtains immediately to let in the sun; this suppresses melatonin and tells your body the day has begun. In the evening, dim the lamps about an hour before bed to signal that "night" has started. Finally, ensure you have blackout curtains in the bedrooms to prevent the early morning sun from waking the household prematurely.

3. Tackle the "Hidden" Clocks

We all remember the oven and the microwave, but a household "clock audit" prevents those mini-heart-attacks when you look at a wall and think you're an hour late for work.

• The Car: Often the last clock to be changed. Do it Sunday morning so Monday’s commute is stress-free.

• The Thermostat: If you have a programmed schedule, ensure it matches the new time so you aren't shivering in the shower.

• The Smoke Detectors: This is the classic "safety check" reminder. Since you're already walking around the house, change the batteries now!

4. Be Patient with the "Human Elements"

If you have kids or pets, expect a "grace period" of about a week.

• Kids: They don't care what the clock says; they care how they feel. If they are cranky, lean into a quieter-than-usual bedtime routine with extra reading time.

• Pets: Your dog’s stomach doesn't adjust to DST. If they usually eat at 6:00 PM, they will be staring at their bowl by 5:00 PM. Try splitting the difference by 30 minutes for a few days.

Pro Tip: Avoid the "Sleep Debt" trap. It’s tempting to nap on Sunday afternoon to make up for the lost hour, but a long nap will make falling asleep Sunday night nearly impossible. If you must nap, keep it under 20 minutes!

 

If you thought the chili was the only thing Cincinnati took seriously, wait until you see a goat lead a parade. The weekend of March 6–8, 2026, is dominated by Bockfest, the city’s eccentric celebration of spring and brewing heritage, but there’s also a high-stakes home opener and a Broadway reimagining on the menu.

Here are the top ten things to do in Cincinnati this weekend:

1. The 34th Annual Bockfest Parade

When: Friday, March 6 @ 6:00 PM

Where: Starts at Arnold’s Bar & Grill (Main St.)

This is the official kickoff to Cincinnati’s weirdest weekend. The parade is traditionally led by a goat pulling a keg and the reigning Sausage Queen. It’s a chaotic, joyous march through Over-the-Rhine that signals the end of winter and the beginning of "Bock Beer Season."

2. FC Cincinnati vs. Toronto FC

When: Sunday, March 8 @ 7:00 PM

Where: TQL Stadium

Catch the Orange and Blue as they defend home turf against Toronto. TQL Stadium is widely considered one of the best soccer-specific venues in the country, and a Sunday night match under the lights is the perfect way to cap off the weekend.

3. The Wiz (Broadway Tour)

When: March 6–8

Where: Aronoff Center for the Arts

The Tony Award-winning musical returns with a fresh, soul-infused production. This isn't just a re-run; it's the 2026 national tour featuring updated staging and powerhouse vocals. If you want a break from the beer halls, this trip down the Yellow Brick Road is the move.

4. Sal Vulcano: Everything's Fine Tour

When: Saturday, March 7 @ 7:00 PM

Where: Taft Theatre

The Impractical Jokers star brings his solo stand-up tour to Cincinnati. Known for his hilarious neuroses and storytelling, Sal’s "Everything's Fine" set is a one-night-only chance to see one of the biggest names in comedy in a historic setting.

5. Mariah the Scientist: Hearts Sold Separately Tour

When: Sunday, March 8 @ 8:00 PM

Where: The Andrew J Brady Music Center

R&B’s rising star is stopping in the Queen City for a Sunday night headliner. Expect a moody, atmospheric performance with high production value at the riverfront’s premier indoor concert venue.

6. The Bockfest Sausage Queen Finals

When: Saturday, March 7 (Evening)

Where: Rhinegeist Brewery

This is not your standard beauty pageant. Contestants compete in "gender-neutral" categories for the crown, judged on their personality, costume, and commitment to Bock beer. The crowning happens at Rhinegeist, which turns into a massive, echoing beer hall for the night.

7. Pucks N Pups Night: Cincinnati Cyclones vs. Utah Grizzlies

When: Saturday, March 7 @ 7:30 PM

Where: Heritage Bank Center

Arguably the cutest night in sports. The Cyclones allow fans to bring their dogs to the arena for this specific game. Expect "puppy cams" on the video board and a high-energy hockey matchup that’s more about the four-legged spectators than the score.

8. CSO: Brahms & Schumann

When: Friday, March 6 & Saturday, March 7

Where: Cincinnati Music Hall

For those looking for a sophisticated evening, the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra performs a powerful program of German masters. Conducted by Louis Langrée, these two nights are a rare opportunity to hear Schumann’s Symphony No. 4 in the acoustic perfection of Music Hall.

9. Bockfest 0.05K "Run"

When: Sunday, March 8 @ 11:00 AM

Where: Starting near OTR

If a 5K sounds like too much work, this is the race for you. It is exactly 54 yards long. Participants "sprint" from one bar to another, and everyone receives a medal and a beer at the finish line. It’s the ultimate "only in Cincinnati" Sunday activity.

10. Motown Mania!

When: Saturday, March 7 & Sunday, March 8

Where: Aronoff Center (Jarson-Kaplan Theater)

A high-energy tribute to the hits of Detroit. This touring production features a live band and vocalists performing the catalog of The Temptations, Marvin Gaye, and Diana Ross. It’s a great afternoon or evening alternative to the street festivals.

It is officially that time of year again. The air is getting slightly warmer, the days are getting longer, and the iconic colorful boxes are appearing on doorsteps and outside grocery stores. Yes, the 2026 Girl Scout Cookie season is in full swing!

While we all have our personal favorites—whether you’re a die-hard Thin Mints® fan or you’re eager to try the brand-new Exploremores™ (a rocky road-inspired chocolate sandwich cookie)—there is a much bigger story inside every box than just delicious treats.

100% Local: Where Your Money Actually Goes

One of the most common questions people ask is: "Does the money actually help the girls?" The answer is a resounding yes.

In the Cincinnati area and across the Girl Scouts of Western Ohio (GSWO) council, 100% of the net proceeds stay local. This revenue is the engine that powers:

• Troop Adventures: Funding for camping trips, STEM workshops, and travel.

• Community Projects: Many troops use their earnings to fund "Take Action" projects, such as building community gardens or supporting local animal shelters.

• Life Skills: The program is the largest girl-led entrepreneurial program in the world. By selling cookies, girls learn Goal Setting, Decision Making, Money Management, People Skills, and Business Ethics.

Meet the 2026 Lineup

This year, the stars of the show include:

• Exploremores™ (New!): A chocolate sandwich cookie with marshmallow and almond-flavored creme.

• Adventurefuls®: Brownie-inspired cookies with caramel creme and sea salt.

• Lemonades®: Savory shortbread with tangy lemon icing.

• Thin Mints®: The classic vegan-friendly mint chocolate legend.

• Caramel deLites® / Samoas®: Caramel, coconut, and chocolaty stripes.

How to Support Cincinnati Girl Scouts

If you are in the Queen City and looking to stock your pantry (or your freezer—we don't judge), there are several ways to buy before the season ends on March 29, 2026.

1. Use the Official Cookie Finder

The easiest way to find a booth near you—whether it's at a Kroger in Hyde Park or a storefront in West Chester—is the Girl Scout Cookie Finder. Just enter your zip code to see a map of upcoming local booths.

2. Buy Online via Digital Cookie

Many girls in Cincinnati run their own "Digital Cookie" storefronts. These links allow you to have cookies shipped directly to your house or donated to Operation Salute, which sends cookies to military members and veterans.

• To find a local Cincinnati troop to support online: Visit the Girl Scouts of Western Ohio "Find Cookies" page.

• Text "COOKIES" to 59618: This will give you the latest updates on where to find cookies in the 513 area code.

A Quick Tip for "Last Chance Weekend"

In Cincinnati, the "Last Chance Weekend" is scheduled for March 27–29, 2026. This is typically the final push for booth sales, so if you’ve been procrastinating, that is your final window to grab those boxes of Peanut Butter Patties before they're gone for the year.

March is the ultimate "bridge" month. One day you’re still clutching a space heater, and the next, you’re squinting at a stray dandelion in 60-degree sunshine. For homeowners, this is the critical window to transition from "survival mode" to "improvement mode."

If you want to avoid the "April Shower" emergencies and the "July Heatwave" repair bills, here is what should be on your radar this month.

1. The "Big Three" Exterior Inspections

Winter is tough on a house. Before the spring rains settle in, grab a pair of binoculars and do a lap around your property.

• The Roof: Look for missing, cracked, or curling shingles. If you see "granules" (looks like coarse black sand) in your downspouts, your shingles are reaching the end of their life.

• The Gutters: March winds and late-winter storms love to dump debris into your troughs. Clogged gutters lead to rotted fascia boards and foundation leaks. Clear them now so they're ready for the inevitable spring downpours.

• The Siding & Paint: Check for "alligatoring" (cracked paint) or gaps in caulk around windows. Touching up a $15 tube of caulk now can save you from a $1,500 wood-rot repair later.

2. HVAC: Be the Early Bird

Most people wait until the first 80-degree day to turn on their A/C, only to realize it's blowing lukewarm air. By then, every HVAC technician in town has a two-week waiting list.

• Change the Filter: This is the simplest way to save 5–15% on your energy bill.

• Clear the Condenser: Check your outdoor unit. Remove any dead leaves, weeds, or "winter blankets" that might be obstructing airflow.

• Schedule a Tune-up: Get a pro out now while their schedule is light.

3. Garden & Lawn: The Awakening

The soil is starting to warm up, but don’t start digging just yet—working wet soil can compact it and ruin its structure. Instead, focus on prep:

• Pruning: While plants are still dormant, prune your fruit trees, berry bushes, and summer-blooming shrubs. (Wait to prune spring-blooming plants like Forsythia until after they flower).

• The "Pre-Emergent" Window: If you struggle with crabgrass, March is usually the time to apply pre-emergent herbicide. A good rule of thumb: apply it when the Forsythia (those bright yellow bushes) start to bloom.

• Seed Indoors: Start your peppers, tomatoes, and basil inside so they’re "teenagers" by the time the last frost passes.

4. Interior Safety Refresh

Since the clocks move forward in March (Daylight Saving Time), use it as a mental trigger for safety checks:

• Detectors: Replace the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

• The Dryer Vent: This is a major fire hazard that most people ignore. Disconnect the hose and vacuum out the lint buildup—it also helps your dryer run much more efficiently.

• The Sump Pump: With snow melting and rain coming, ensure your sump pump is actually working. Pour a bucket of water into the pit to make sure the float triggers the motor.

Pro-Tip: If you have a ceiling fan, switch the blade direction to counter-clockwise. This creates a downdraft that provides a "wind chill" effect, allowing you to keep the thermostat a few degrees higher without losing comfort.

March is less about "heavy lifting" and more about "strategic looking." A few hours spent poking around your foundation or testing your A/C now will buy you a lot of peace of mind when summer truly arrives.

If you’re heading to Cincinnati for the final weekend of February, you’ve hit a cultural jackpot. While the city always has its stalwarts like the Zoo and the Art Museum, the window of February 27 to March 1, 2026, features a unique blend of national tours, a one-night-only sports rebrand, and the conclusion of major regional expos.

Here are the top ten things to do in the Queen City this weekend:

1. Cincinnati 3-Ways Night (Cyclones Hockey)

When: Saturday, Feb 28 @ 7:30 PM

Where: Heritage Bank Center

In perhaps the most "Cincinnati" event of the year, the Cincinnati Cyclones are temporarily rebranding as the Cincinnati 3-Ways. For one night only, the team will wear special Skyline Chili-inspired jerseys featuring "Shredder" (a mascot made of spaghetti and cheese). Fans can even bid on the game-worn jerseys after the puck drops.

2. Miguel: The 2026 Tour

When: Friday, Feb 27 @ 8:00 PM

Where: The Andrew J Brady Music Center

Grammy-winning R&B powerhouse Miguel brings his sleek, psychedelic soul to the riverfront on Friday night. This is a major stop on his national tour, and the acoustics at the Andrew J Brady Center are perfectly suited for his range.

3. John Mulaney: Live

When: Friday, Feb 27 @ 7:30 PM

Where: Taft Theatre

If you missed his Thursday show, Friday is your last chance to catch comedy titan John Mulaney in Cincinnati. Known for his sharp observational humor and self-deprecating wit, Mulaney is performing new material in the intimate, historic setting of the Taft.

4. Finale: Cincinnati Home & Garden Show

When: Friday, Feb 27 – Sunday, March 1

Where: First Financial Center (Downtown)

This is the closing weekend of the region's massive home and garden showcase. If you’re looking for landscape inspiration or home renovation experts, this is the final three-day window to see the full-scale garden walk-throughs before the convention packs up for the year.

5. All You Need Is George: George Harrison Celebration

When: Sunday, March 1 @ 7:00 PM

Where: Memorial Hall OTR

Cap off your weekend with an all-star tribute to the "Quiet Beatle." This touring ensemble features jam-band legends like Jackie Greene and Steve Kimock performing a deep dive into George Harrison’s solo work and Beatles classics. It’s a soulful, one-night-only event in the beautiful Over-the-Rhine district.

6. Opening Night: Mrs. Christie

When: Saturday, Feb 28 @ 7:30 PM

Where: Rouse Theatre (Playhouse in the Park)

Be among the first to see the opening of Mrs. Christie, a witty mystery that reimagines the 11 days Agatha Christie went missing in 1926. This production at the state-of-the-art Rouse Theatre is a high-brow way to kick off your Saturday night.

7. Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra: Beethoven & Ravel

When: Saturday, Feb 28 & Sunday, March 1

Where: Cincinnati Music Hall

Experience the grandeur of Music Hall as the CSO, led by guest conductor Samuel Lee, performs a program featuring Beethoven’s Symphony No. 4 and Ravel’s Ma mère l'Oye. It’s a classic, one-weekend performance schedule for classical music lovers.

8. Joe Bonamassa in Concert

When: Saturday, Feb 28 @ 8:00 PM

Where: Taft Theatre

Blues-rock titan Joe Bonamassa returns to Cincinnati for a single night of guitar wizardry. If you appreciate virtuoso musicianship and a high-energy stage show, this is the Saturday ticket to grab.

9. Spring Gem and Jewelry Show

When: Friday, Feb 27 – Sunday, March 1

Where: Sharonville Convention Center

For those who prefer a little sparkle, this three-day expo brings together dealers from across the country. Unlike recurring boutique shops, this show is a high-volume event where you can find rare minerals, custom jewelry, and loose gemstones all in one place.

10. The Wood Brothers

When: Sunday, March 1 @ 8:00 PM

Where: Taft Theatre

Finish your Sunday with the folk-fusion sounds of The Wood Brothers. Their unique blend of blues, gospel, and jazz has made them a "must-see" live act. They are stopping in Cincinnati for one night only as part of their spring tour.