With Easter Sunday falling on April 5 this year, the first weekend of April in Cincinnati is packed with one-of-a-kind celebrations and high-energy performances. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly magic, heavy metal, or a sophisticated brunch on the Ohio River, here are the top ten things to do in the Queen City from April 3–5, 2026.
1. Disney On Ice: Let’s Dance! (Closing Weekend)
When: April 3–4
Where: Heritage Bank Center
This is your final chance to catch Mickey, Minnie, and the crew as they wrap up their Cincinnati run. Unlike a standard show, this "Let’s Dance" production features high-energy choreography and special effects that won't return once the tour moves on. There are multiple performances on Friday and Saturday.
2. Chris D’Elia: Live at the Taft
When: Friday, April 3, 8:00 PM
Where: Taft Theatre
Kick off the weekend with some laughs as stand-up veteran Chris D’Elia brings his latest tour to the historic Taft Theatre. This is a one-night-only appearance, making it the perfect centerpiece for a Friday night downtown.
3. Candlelight: A Tribute to Queen
When: Friday, April 3, 6:30 PM & 8:45 PM
Where: Memorial Hall
Experience the legendary anthems of Queen like never before. Surrounded by thousands of flickering candles, a string quartet will perform hits like "Bohemian Rhapsody" and "We Will Rock You" in the intimate, stunning acoustics of Memorial Hall.
4. Easter Celebration at the Cincinnati Zoo
When: Saturday, April 4, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Where: Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
While "Zoo Blooms" runs all month, this specific Easter Celebration is a one-day-only event. Kids can participate in an "Easter Seek and Find," meet the Easter Bunny, and watch the animals receive special Easter-themed enrichment and treats.
5. Art on the Rise: Earth Day Kickoff
When: Saturday, April 4, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Where: Cincinnati Art Museum (Art Climb)
Join local artist SLiNK at the bottom of the Art Climb for the first "Art on the Rise" of the season. This community event features sustainable art-making, food trucks, and resources for eco-friendly living. Participants also get early "Members-only" access to the museum starting at 10:00 AM.
6. The Black Dahlia Murder at Bogart’s
When: Saturday, April 4, 7:00 PM
Where: Bogart's
For those looking for something louder than an egg hunt, the melodic death metal titans The Black Dahlia Murder are taking over Bogart's on Saturday night. It’s a high-intensity show that promises to be one of the heaviest sets of the spring.
7. Avery Sunshine
When: Saturday, April 4, 8:30 PM
Where: Ludlow Garage
If soul and R&B are more your speed, Avery Sunshine brings her powerhouse vocals and piano skills to Clifton. Known for her uplifting energy and "shining" personality, this performance is a must-see for jazz and soul enthusiasts.
8. BB Riverboats Easter Brunch & Dinner Cruises
When: Sunday, April 5
Where: Newport Landing
Celebrate Easter Sunday with a unique perspective of the Cincinnati skyline. These cruises offer a massive holiday buffet and live entertainment while you sail along the Ohio River. It’s a popular local tradition that only happens once a year, so reservations are a must.
9. Legally Blonde: The Musical (Closing Night)
When: Sunday, April 5, 2:00 PM
Where: Covedale Center for the Performing Arts
The verdict is in: this high-energy production of the Broadway hit is a total blast. Sunday afternoon marks the final performance of the run, giving you one last opportunity to see Elle Woods take on Harvard in this local professional production.
10. Ohio Goes to the Movies: America 250 Commemoration
When: Sunday, April 5
Where: Various Regional Locations
As part of the statewide "America 250" celebration, this Sunday features special screenings and stories highlighting Ohio’s impact on the big screen. These are free but ticketed events, offering a rare look at the people and places that put the region on the cinematic map.
