Cincinnati Music Festival 2024: Concerts move to Paycor Stadium
- The 62nd annual Cincinnati Music Festival, now held at Paycor Stadium, features a diverse lineup of local and national R&B and hip-hop artists, highlighting Cincinnati's growing reputation as a music and cultural hub.
- Key events include nightly concerts with artists like MC Lyte, Maxwell, New Edition, and numerous special events such as 'Cincy Soul: The Black Taste,' the Black Music Walk of Fame Induction Ceremony, the Queen City 5K, and a contemporary art exhibit at the Cincinnati Art Museum.
- Attendees are advised on logistics including a strict bag policy, various parking options, the stadium's cashless transactions policy, and the usage of mobile or printed tickets for entry.
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CINCINNATI (WXIX) - The Cincinnati Music Festival, one of the city's most anticipated events, has officially kicked off at Paycor Stadium. This iconic festival, celebrating its 62nd year, has transformed into a vibrant celebration of local and national R&B talent. On the opening night, fans were treated to a special tribute to hip-hop featuring legendary artists such as MC Lyte, EPMD, KRS-One, and Black Sheep.
A Legacy of Music
The Cincinnati Music Festival began as a jazz festival in 1962 and has since grown into an annual celebration of music. This year's event is particularly significant as it brings together a diverse lineup of artists, including New Edition, Maxwell, Ne-Yo, Fantasia, and many others. The festival's ability to attract top talent from around the country underscores Cincinnati's growing reputation as a hub for music and culture.
A Weekend of Music and Style
Thursday, July 25 (Andrew J. Brady Center)
- A Tribute to Hip-Hop Music featuring MC Lyte, EPMD, KRS-One, and Black Sheep
Friday, July 26 (Paycor Stadium)
- Maxwell along with Ne-Yo, Fantasia, October London, and The Original Lakeside
Saturday, July 27 (Paycor Stadium)
- New Edition featuring Bobby Brown, Bell Biv DeVoe, Ralph Tresvant, Johnny Gill, KEM, Coco Jones, En Vogue, and Stokley
The lineup for this year's festival is impressive, with each night offering a unique blend of classic and contemporary R&B hits. It's no wonder that festivalgoers are eagerly anticipating the performances at Paycor Stadium, which is poised to be a highlight of the summer.
Festival Highlights
- Cincy Soul: The Black Taste (July 27-28 at Fountain Square): This event features a fusion of soul, R&B, and jazz, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Cincinnati.
- The Black Music Walk of Fame Induction Ceremony (July 27): This ceremony honors individuals who have made significant contributions to the music industry, with a special focus on African-American artists.
- Queen City 5K (July 27 at 8 a.m. at The Banks): For those looking for a more active experience, this 5-kilometer run promises to be a fun and challenging event.
- The Culture: Hip Hop and Contemporary Art in the 21st Century (July 16-28 at Cincinnati Art Museum): This exhibit explores the intersection of art and music in modern times.
Getting Ready for the Festival
If you're planning to attend the festival, there are a few things you should know:
- Bag Policy: The only bags permitted inside Paycor Stadium are one-gallon plastic resealable freezer bags, clear plastic bags smaller than 12x6x12 inches, and clutch purses. Be sure to pack accordingly to avoid any issues at the gates.
- Parking: There are multiple parking options available, including Duke Energy Center Garage 1, Duke Energy Center Garage 2, Fountain Square Garage, and several others. Be sure to check the festival website for the most up-to-date information on parking arrangements.
- Cashless Facility: Paycor Stadium is a cashless facility, meaning all purchases must be made using credit cards, debit cards, or mobile payments. However, there are cash-to-card kiosks available for those who need to convert cash into payment cards.
- Mobile Tickets: Attendees can use mobile tickets or printed tickets from the box office to enter the stadium. It's essential to have your ticket ready for scanning upon arrival.
Community and Culture
The Cincinnati Music Festival is not just about music; it's also a celebration of the city's vibrant community. The festival has become a significant economic driver for the region, bringing in over $105 million annually. Visitors are often surprised by the city's walkability and its numerous parks and attractions. Many return year after year, inspired to bring friends and family back to enjoy the festival.
Conclusion
The Cincinnati Music Festival is a testament to the city's commitment to music and community. With a diverse lineup of artists and a range of exciting events, it's no wonder that this festival continues to draw crowds from across the country. Whether you're a fan of classic R&B or modern hip-hop, there's something for everyone at this year's festival.
