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.
