If you’re looking to shake off the post-holiday blues, the weekend of January 9–11, 2026, is packed with high-energy comedy, world-class music, and local flavor in the Queen City. We’ve skipped the usual museum exhibits and recurring markets to bring you the best one-time shows and special festivals happening this weekend only.
1. Trifonov Plays Beethoven | Music Hall
When: Saturday, Jan 10 (7:30 PM) & Sunday, Jan 11 (2:00 PM)
Experience one of the world’s most celebrated pianists, Daniil Trifonov, as he joins the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra. This special program features Beethoven’s iconic Piano Concerto No. 1. It’s a rare chance to see a modern master in the breathtaking acoustics of a historic Music Hall.
2. Chili Fest at Findlay Market
When: Sunday, Jan 11 (10:00 AM – 4:00 PM)
Nothing says Cincinnati winter like a bowl of chili. This one-day-only festival at Findlay Market allows you to sample a massive variety of chili recipes from market merchants and local vendors. Whether you like it over noodles or with a kick of habanero, this is the ultimate comfort food event of the season.
3. Kathleen Madigan: The Potluck Party | Taft Theatre
When: Saturday, Jan 10 (7:00 PM)
One of the sharpest wits in stand-up comedy, Kathleen Madigan, is bringing her new tour to the Taft Theatre. Known for her effortless delivery and hilarious takes on American life, it’s the perfect night out for anyone in need of a good laugh.
4. Bingo Loco: The Dirty Bingo Rave | MegaCorp Pavilion
When: Saturday, Jan 10 (7:00 PM)
This isn't your grandmother's bingo. Bingo Loco is a touring international sensation that combines bingo with a high-energy rave, lip-sync battles, dance-offs, and ridiculous prizes. Head across the bridge to Newport for this 21+ night of total chaos.
5. After Glow: Adults-Only Night at the Zoo
When: Friday, Jan 9 (5:00 PM – 10:00 PM)
The Cincinnati Zoo is hosting a special "After Glow" night for adults (18+) only. It’s your last chance to see the holiday lights in a quieter, kid-free environment. Grab a themed cocktail, wander through millions of LED lights, and enjoy the zoo’s beauty under the stars.
6. Xavier Men’s Basketball vs. Providence | Cintas Center
When: Saturday, Jan 10 (4:00 PM)
Catch the Xavier Musketeers in a high-stakes Big East matchup against Providence. College basketball is the heart of Cincinnati sports in January, and the atmosphere at the Cintas Center is guaranteed to be electric as conference play heats up.
7. Elvis Tribute Artist Spectacular | Aronoff Center
When: Saturday, Jan 10 (7:30 PM)
Celebrate the King of Rock and Roll’s birthday (which falls on Jan 8th) with this massive tribute production. Featuring award-winning Elvis tribute artists and a live band, this show covers all eras of Elvis—from the 1950s leather jacket days to the glitzy Las Vegas years.
8. Candlelight: A Tribute to Queen | Memorial Hall
When: Saturday, Jan 10 (6:00 PM & 8:30 PM)
Step into the glowing ambiance of Memorial Hall for a concert performed by a string quartet under the light of thousands of candles. This special performance features the greatest hits of Queen, from Bohemian Rhapsody to Under Pressure, in a stunningly intimate setting.
9. Gimme Gimme Disco | Bogart's
When: Saturday, Jan 10 (9:00 PM)
Get your bell-bottoms ready. This touring ABBA-inspired disco dance party is taking over Bogart’s for one night. Expect plenty of ABBA hits mixed with 70s and 80s disco favorites and a lot of glitter.
10. Grandace at the Contemporary Arts Center (CAC)
When: Friday, Jan 9 (7:00 PM)
For a more modern vibe, head to the CAC for a performance by Grandace, one of Cincinnati's rising hip-hop artists. This special concert blends hip-hop with jazz and soul influences, set against the backdrop of one of the city's most architecturally significant venues.
