Cincinnati Music Festival 2025: Key Details on Events and Road Closures

The highly anticipated 2025 Cincinnati Music Festival is set to feature renowned artists such as Earth, Wind & Fire, LL Cool J, and Toni Braxton this weekend. The festivities kick off on July 25 and July 26, with a welcome party at Love On Fourth, followed by performances at the Andrew J. Brady Center and culminating at Paycor Stadium.

In addition to the musical line-up, the festival weekend includes various activities like the Ricky Smiley Morning Show at Fountain Square, Festival513, and the Queen City 5K. These events will lead to significant road closures throughout downtown Cincinnati.

Road Closures and Traffic Updates

Road closures will begin on Friday, July 25, and continue through Saturday, July 26, impacting local traffic. Key closures include:

– Central Avenue southbound closed between Seventh Street and Sixth Street from 16:00 to 02:00
– Elm Street closed south of Second Street during the same hours
– Freedom Way closed between Elm Street and Marian Spencer Way starting from 02:00 on July 24
– Race Street closed between Third Street and Second Street from 16:00 to 02:00

Additionally, concert exits will be managed similarly to those for Bengals games, with closures in effect by 23:00 on concert nights.

Parking and Rideshare Options

For festival attendees, parking is recommended at several garages and lots in downtown Cincinnati and near the riverfront. Notable locations include:

– Duke Energy Center Garage 1 at 605 Plum Street
– Fountain Square Garage at 520 Vine Street
– Third and Race Street Lot at the corner of Third Street and Race Street

For those utilizing rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, drop-offs and pickups will be accommodated on the North Curb Lane on Second Street between Vine and Walnut streets.

As the festival approaches, attendees are encouraged to plan ahead to ensure a smooth experience. For more information about the Cincinnati Music Festival, visit the official festival website.