Visit Cincy Elevates Friday Nights Downtown with New Concert Series in Partnership with 3CDC

CINCINNATI (May 8, 2026) – The Fountain District is officially the place to be this summer! 3CDC, in partnership with Visit Cincy, is excited to announce a new summer concert schedule at Fountain Square, featuring a mix of nationally touring artists and local favorites. Following the official reopening of the First Financial Center and the addition of Elm Street Plaza, Visit Cincy is committed to supporting programming that creates a vibrant, welcoming environment for convention-goers, regional travelers, and national tourists.

May through September, Fountain Square will host five marquee concerts featuring nationally known music acts. These premier shows are scheduled for May, June, two dates in August, and September. The series kicks off on Friday, May 29, with a double-header of ‘90s alt-rock icons: The Verve Pipe and Deep Blue Something. These concerts are free and open to the public, with no tickets required.

In addition to the national series, Fountain Square is partnering with Inhailer Radio on Friday nights, launching a new series called 513 Airwaves. On 10 Fridays, June 5 to October 2 the Square will host local and regional independent musicians curated by the Inhailer team. Line-up includes acts like Ratboys, The Silkies, Davey Woodland and The Wonderlands.

“Fountain Square has long been a central gathering place, and this series adds even more reasons to spend time downtown. It strengthens the connection between the Convention District, local businesses, and the overall visitor experience,” said Julie Kirkpatrick, interim CEO of Visit Cincy.

Beyond the Friday night concerts, Fountain Square continues to host free events seven days a week this spring, and starting June 1, guests can hear live music Monday through Saturday from genres including Jazz, Salsa, and more. The Square’s Fountain Bar is also open seven days a week with beer, wine, seltzers, and non-alcoholic beverages. All programming at Fountain Square is sponsored by Fifth Third Bank and produced by 3CDC.

“We are incredibly grateful to Visit Cincy for their continued partnership and shared vision for a vibrant downtown,” said Christy Samad, Executive Vice President, Civic & Commercial Space Activation at 3CDC. “Their support allows us to bring high-quality programming like our Friday Night Concerts to life. By investing in the Fountain District, we are collectively enhancing the experience for both our local residents and the visitors who help our downtown economy thrive.”

3CDC and Visit Cincy encourage concertgoers to head downtown early to visit the Fountain District’s many locally owned bars and restaurants, which offer everything from fine Italian dining to timeless American favorites. Whether grabbing a quick drink or enjoying a sit-down dinner, there is something for everyone just steps away from the Square.

Fountain Square National Concert Dates and Line Up:

Visit www.myfountainsquare.com for detailed information and lineups or subscribe to 3CDC’s weekly newsletters to stay on top of all free events.

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