To say Cincinnati is an art town is an understatement. Hailed as the “Paris of the Midwest” in the 19th century, that legacy continues, as Cincinnati has once again been named one of the top-20 most arts-vibrant communities in the country. (The fourth time we’ve had that distinction!)

From large scale events (like BLINK!) to showcasing the work of individual artists, the choices for favorites this year reflect the absolute embarrassment of riches Cincinnati arts have to offer. Special shout-out to “Six” from Broadway in Cincinnati, which was huge hit with our arts fans.

“Cincinnati Ballet’s performance of The Nutcracker!”
–Lauren Artino

“Every musical we see via our Broadway In Cincinnati series season tickets has been amazing!”
–Julie Calvert

“Hands down, Six musical. It was INCREDIBLE. And closely followed by that was obviously BLINK.”
–Megan Coffey

“Blink (of course).”
Tim David

“I really enjoyed Six at the Aronoff!”
–Shae Huth

“BLINK”
–Susan Fisher

“I don’t think I could pick just one! We have so many high-quality, impactful arts experiences across this region that I can't imagine narrowing it down.”
–Alecia Kintner

“Of course it was BLINK. I love this event that takes what we see every day and makes it surprising.”
–Julie Kirkpatrick

“To Sir With Love” party at Cincinnnati Opera.
– Evans Mirageas

“Broadway in Cincinnati is always my favorite. Mrs. Doubtfire was surprisingly fun and heartwarming, Beetlejuice was memorably hilarious and I loved Six so much it was my third favorite ‘artist’ on Spotify Wrapped. Their lineup for 2025 is impressive as well!”
–Kathrine Nero

“Broadway in Cincinnati's Funny Girl was a delight!”
– Krista Katona Pille

“BLINK!”
– Tasha Pinelo

“‘The Culture: Hip Hop and Contemporary Art in the 21st Century’ at the Cincinnati Art Museum.”
–Jackie Reau

“It’s hard to pick one, but I have to go with Liverpool Oratorio at Cincinnati Opera. This was production was a world premiere, the first fully staged performance of the piece written by Sir Paul McCartney. I had the chance to get a behind-the-scenes look at the set design and watch a dress rehearsal. Seeing the process – and the dedication – not just of the Opera, but also the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Cincinnati Ballet, and Cincinnati Boy Choir was awe-inspiring.”
– Tricia Suit

“BLINK! I always love seeing the streets filled with people experiencing the incredible installations. It fills me with a sense of hope.”
– Courtney Tomasetti

“Summerfair 2024 – I may be biased but this year’s event was so great. The artists (350) were spectacular, the weather was great, and the crowd was fun all weekend. So looking forward to 2025!”
–Jayne Utter

“Cuisine Art Cocktails at the CAC!”
– Christian Vassallo

Stage Whispers

Face the Music