Cincinnati Weekend Picks November 13-15

The crisp November air carries the promise of cozy evenings and festive gatherings, and this weekend in Cincinnati offers a rich tapestry of events to suit every taste. From those drawn to the power of storytelling, the thrill of live music, and the satisfaction of giving back, there’s a compelling array of options awaiting. From a sprawling book festival showcasing literary talent to unique film screenings and a celebration of local sports history, Cincinnati’s cultural scene is vibrant and inviting.

Cincinnati Storytelling Festival

For the sixth consecutive year, Cincinnati celebrates the art of spoken word with the Cincinnati Storytelling Festival, a unique event spotlighting diverse voices and performance styles. Running from Thursday, November 12th to Saturday, November 14th at the Know Theatre, located at 1120 Jackson Street in Over-the-Rhine, the festival features showcases spanning comedy, horror, and traditional cultural narratives. Tickets are available for individual events or as passes, offering attendees flexibility to explore the range of storytelling talent on display. This festival underscores the value of shared experiences and the power of human connection through narratives.

The Know Theatre, a cornerstone of Cincinnati’s arts community, provides a fitting venue for this celebration of storytelling. The theater’s commitment to supporting local artists and fostering creative expression aligns perfectly with the festival's mission. The festival's diverse lineup promises something for everyone, encouraging audiences to engage with different perspectives and embrace the power of human connection. Supporting events like this strengthens the fabric of our community, providing platforms for artists and enriching the lives of residents.

Families often find their strongest bonds through shared experiences, and events like the Storytelling Festival offer opportunities to connect across generations. Seeing talented storytellers share their craft can inspire children to develop their own creativity and communication skills, while adults can appreciate the artistry and depth of the performances.

Great Parks Root Ball

Great Parks of Hamilton County is hosting its annual fundraiser, the “Camp Root Ball,” on Friday, November 13th, from 6:00 to 9:30 p.m. at the Sharonville Convention Center, located at 11355 Chester Road in Sharonville. This year’s theme evokes the nostalgia and camaraderie of summer camp, with attendees enjoying dinner-by-the-bite, craft beers from Fifty West, a silent auction, live music, and interactive activity stations. Tickets begin at $175, with proceeds supporting the park system’s vital programs and initiatives. The Root Ball represents a commitment to preserving green spaces and providing recreational opportunities for the entire community.

The Sharonville Convention Center provides a convenient and spacious venue for this charitable event. Great Parks’ commitment to environmental stewardship and community well-being is evident in the success of the Root Ball, which consistently draws a large crowd of dedicated supporters. The funds raised through the silent auction and ticket sales directly contribute to the maintenance and enhancement of Hamilton County’s parks, ensuring that they remain a valuable resource for generations to come. Supporting organizations like Great Parks is an investment in the quality of life for all Cincinnati residents. Well-maintained parks provide spaces for recreation, relaxation, and community gatherings, contributing to both physical and mental well-being.

Silent Cinema Scored Spontaneously—Metropolis (1927)

Film enthusiasts will have a unique opportunity to experience Fritz Lang’s cinematic masterpiece, Metropolis (1927), on Friday, November 13th, at 7:00 p.m. at the Contemporary Arts Center, located at 44 E. Sixth Street in downtown Cincinnati. The experimental music group, 20th Century Classical, will provide a live, improvised score for the silent film, creating a wholly unique and immersive moviegoing experience. Tickets are priced at $13. This blends the arts in a way that is both entertaining and enriching.

Cincinnati Zoo Hops & Holly

The Cincinnati Zoo’s popular “Hops & Holly” event returns for two nights, Friday, November 13th and Saturday, November 14th, from 7:00 p.m. until close. This after-hours party offers attendees a chance to sample seasonal beverages while enjoying festive decorations, animal encounters, keeper talks, photo opportunities, live music, complimentary train and carousel rides, and a DJ. Tickets are $55, with a designated driver option available for $35. Attendees must be 21 or older to participate. The Zoo’s commitment to family fun and community engagement shines through this event.

Cincinnati Roller Derby 20th Anniversary Celebration

Saturday, November 14th, marks a milestone for the Cincinnati Roller Derby (CRD) as they celebrate two decades of full-contact athleticism and community engagement. The celebration, taking place at 7:00 p.m. at Flock Sports, located at 6630 Hamilton Ave. in North College Hill, will feature a game between the CRD Black Sheep and the Downriver Derby Dolls from Woodhaven, Michigan. Attendees can also enjoy an alumni reunion, a memory wall, a full-contact game of musical chairs played by the alumni at halftime, music from DJ Strawberry, food trucks, and a full bar. In addition, CRD is hosting a Thanksgiving Food Drive for CAIN, with raffle entries awarded for donations. Tickets are $20.

Blues & Boogie Piano Summit 2026

Award-winning local jazz musician Ricky Nye is bringing back and expanding his iconic Blues & Boogie Piano Summit to the Memorial Hall stage. Nye will share the stage with both national and internationally beloved boogie-style pianists like Chase Garrett, Eric-Jan Overbeek (Mr. Boogie Woogie), and Lluis Coloma alongside Matt McCoy on bass, Jack Mansfield on drums, and Eli Gonzalez on the sax. Tickets start at $33.

Queerterion Closet Presents: Velvet Goldmine (1998)

It’s Queerterion Closet’s first ever movie as part of its queer film screening series, all hosted by Claire, the author of this article. Claire will be showing one of her favorite movies, Velvet Goldmine—Todd Haynes’s glam rock cult classic from 1998 starring Jonathan Rhys Meyers, Ewan McGregor, Christian Bale, Toni Collette, and Suzy Eddie Izzard. The film is rated R and tickets are $12.

Kenny G Concert

Things are getting smooth at “An Evening with Kenny G” at the Taft Theatre. The Grammy winner and multi-platinum recording artist best known for hits like “Forever in Love” and “Songbird” will be playing some of his iconic smooth jazz saxophone classics. Tickets start at $50.

As we look ahead, it's worth considering how these events contribute to the overall quality of life in Cincinnati. By supporting local artists, athletes, and organizations, we’re investing in the future of our city and creating a place where families can thrive. The spirit of generosity and community engagement on display this weekend serves as a reminder of the values that make Cincinnati a truly special place to live.