The countdown to fall is officially on, and the weekend of September 19-21, 2025, is shaping up to be one of the most exciting of the year in Cincinnati. This is when the city truly shines, with a blend of grand festivals and intimate events. Forget your usual haunts—this is a curated list of special happenings you won't want to miss.
1. Prost! at Oktoberfest Zinzinnati: This is it! The nation's largest Oktoberfest celebration returns to Sawyer Point & Yeatman's Cove from September 18-21. Get ready for four days of traditional German food, beer, live music, and the world-famous Running of the Wieners.
2. See a Broadway Sensation: "Back to the Future": The Aronoff Center for the Arts is taking you on a time-traveling journey with the Broadway production of "Back to the Future." The show is in town from September 9-21, so this is your final weekend to catch the high-tech visual effects and classic rock hits that make this show a must-see.
3. Get Spooky at Halloween Haunt: Kings Island Amusement Park is kicking off its annual Halloween Haunt event on Friday, September 19th. Get ready for a spine-tingling adventure with haunted houses, scare zones, and thrilling rides after dark.
4. Rock Out with the Voice of Whitney: The Cincinnati Pops Orchestra is presenting a spectacular tribute, "The Voice of Whitney: A Symphonic Celebration," at Music Hall from September 20-21. This show features Whitney Houston's original vocals set to new orchestrations.
5. Catch a Reds vs. Cubs Matchup: Head to Great American Ball Park as the Cincinnati Reds face off against the Chicago Cubs. Catch a game on all three days, with a special "Fireworks Friday" on September 19th.
6. Get Your Fill of Independent Film: The Cindependent Film Festival is a three-day celebration of independent filmmaking at Memorial Hall from September 18-20. It's a great opportunity to discover new stories and support local and national filmmakers.
7. Groove with GWAR: For a more intense music experience, the legendary metal band GWAR will be playing at Bogart's on Friday, September 19th. It's a one-of-a-kind show for fans of theatrical rock.
8. Run for a Cause: On Saturday, September 20th, put on your running shoes for the Hudepohl 14K/7K. This race is a fun way to explore the city while getting a workout and supporting a local event.
9. Attend a Neighborhood Festival: The city will be buzzing with smaller, local events. Check out the Peebles Corner Festival or the Billy Joel Block Party at The Banks on Saturday, September 20th for a taste of authentic Cincinnati community life.
10. Experience a Haunted Ship: If haunted attractions are your thing, the USS Nightmare is now open for the season. This haunted house on a real riverboat on the Ohio River provides a truly unique and terrifying experience.
