Summer doesn't have to break the bank to be a good time. When you visit Cincy there's something free to do every day, all summer long. So experience more fun, adventure, and entertainment without breaking the bank. Come for a girls' weekend, a friend getaway, or some summer family fun and see everything that Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky has to offer. 

Fountain Square Events

Salsa dancing on Fountain Square
Salsa on the Square

Fountain Square is the focal point of a thriving entertainment district in the heart of downtown Cincinnati. Summer time in Fountain Square means happy hour drinks at the Fountain Bar and free events like salsa dancing and trivia. 

Newport on the Levee Events

A group of attendees participate in an outdoor yoga session at Newport on the Levee.
Yoga on the Levee

Newport on the Levee is home to a collection of unique-to-Newport retailers and restaurants, a 20-screen AMC Theater, and the award winning Newport Aquarium. Boasting plentiful skyline views, direct access to the Purple People Bridge and Riverfront Commons trail, and close proximity to popular attractions like the Great American Ball Park, The Levee is the perfect backdrop for making photo-worthy memories. 

Washington Park Events

An audience sits on chairs and blankets watching a live performance at the Gazebo in Washington Park.
Washington Park

Washington Park is located across from historic Music Hall and includes a playground for kids with a play castle, climbing wall, sandbox and slides; interactive water features with more than 130 pop-up jets to provide cool relief on hot days; historic restored bandstand gazebo for weekly live music; a fenced-in dog area with 12,000 square feet, synthetic turf and a doggy-water fountain; American Classical Music Walk of Fame and more.

Smale Park

photo of a little boy in a yellow shirt walking across a foot paino at smale riverfront park in cincinnati oh
Smale Park

Smale Park connects downtown Cincinnati to the Ohio River and to the other existing riverfront parks. There are spraygrounds, swings, interactive foot piano, an imaginative play area, multiple pollinator gardens, and Carol Ann's Carousel. 

Visual Arts, Performing Arts, Museum Events

A large white, pink, and gold Lucky Cat statue with a red collar at the Lucky Cat Museum in Cincinnati, Ohio
Lucky Cat Museum

Enjoy great museums, visual, and performing arts for free.

Free Music Festivals

Looking from a stage into the crowd at a music venue. The guitarist/lead singer faces away from the camera.
Mammoth Music & Arts Festival - Ric Hickey

Summer music doesn't have to break the bank. Cincy has plenty of free music festivals to keep you rocking out all summer long! Check out events like:

  • Northside Rock 'N Roll Carnival - 07/03 - 07/05: Three days of free music along with vendors, artisans, food & drink, and an iconic 4th of July parade. 
  • On Point Music Festival - 08/01 - 08/02: Cincinnati's hottest bands in one unforgettable weekend. Also enjoy the roller rink, beach volleyball, and pickleball tournaments!
  • Arcade Music Fest - 8/08 - 08/09: Two days, 8 venues with 50+ bands, 15+ Rap/EDM artists, and over 40+ vendors.
  • Merchants & Music Festival - 09/20: Enjoy national and local acts, food trucks, and even a kid's section featuring Cincinnati Circus, bounce houses, and more!
  • Mammoth Music & Arts Festival - 10/05: 5 music stages, with artisans, food & drink, vendors, a Bourbon Lounge, 3 VIP sections, a kid's area, and more!

With all these great free options, there's sure to be something that appeals to everyone. For more events, free or otherwise, check out our Things-To-Do and Event Calendar, then start planning your Cincy Region trip today!