Cincinnati Music Festival

The Cincinnati Music Festival returns in 2026 for an unforgettable summer celebration of R&B, hip-hop, and soul at the iconic Paycor Stadium. One of the most beloved urban music festivals in the country, this annual event transforms Cincinnati into a vibrant hub of live music, culture, and community — drawing tens of thousands of fans from across the nation for a weekend they'll never forget. The festivities kick off Thursday, July 23rd with an electric night at the Paycor Stadium East Club Lounge, featuring the legendary DJ Spinderella spinning alongside hip-hop icon Talib Kweli with special guest Hi-Tek, all anchored by the commanding energy of MC host DJ Vader. The weekend then erupts on Saturday, July 25th with a jaw-dropping main stage lineup: the incomparable Mary J. Blige, the smooth stylings of Trey Songz, hip-hop royalty Slick Rick and Doug E. Fresh, the iconic girl group SWV, and funk legends Heatwave — a stacked bill that spans generations of Black music excellence. Whether you grab a single-night ticket or the 2-Day Pass covering Friday and Saturday, the Cincinnati Music Festival delivers world-class performances, an electric atmosphere, and a sense of collective joy that is uniquely its own. From the VIP lounges to the open-air stadium floor, every moment pulses with the spirit of music that has defined generations. This is more than a concert — it's a cultural institution.