Marking a seasonal rite of passage through culinary delights and community spirit, Cincinnati has announced the dates for its array of palate-pleasing festivals in 2025. Whether you're in it to savor the zest of Asian cuisine, sample the rich variety at the Taste of Cincinnati, or clink steins at Oktoberfest Zinzinnati, the city's calendar is brimming with opportunities to indulge and celebrate.
First to tantalize the taste buds is the Asian Food Fest, taking place April 26-27 at Court Street Plaza in Downtown, as reported by Local12. This event promises to transform Dayton Street into a bustling corridor of flavors and aromas. Not to be outdone, the Taste of Cincinnati is set to occupy Fifth Street from May 24-26, touted as one of the nation's largest free culinary arts festivals, according to Cincinnati.com. It's a hedonistic haven where foodies can freely roam to sate their appetites with local offerings.
And if one's cultural compass points towards Germany, mark September 18-21 on the calendar, for Oktoberfest Zinzinnati promises to return with its beer garden-style jubilance at Sawyer Point and Yeatman’s Cove. This festival prides itself in being the nation's largest Oktoberfest celebration. The Cincinnati Regional Chamber is already beckoning vendors, volunteers, and sponsors to become a part of these rich traditions that draw nearly two million visitors annually. "We invite local businesses to highlight what makes our region exceptional," said Chelsea York, Vice President of Events and Experiences for the Chamber, in a statement echoed by multiple local outlets, according to the Local12 News report.
The Chamber has also set a priority vendor application deadline for January 22, but applications will, interestingly enough, remain open on a rolling basis for each festival. This detail surfaced in various local reports, including a release from WCPO. Newly introduced or well-seasoned vendors still have ample time to ensure they are part of these festivities. In 2024, the Asian Food Fest alone brought over 50 restaurants and vendors to the hustle of Court Street Plaza for its dynamic 13th year. But that's just a slice of the pie. Taste of Cincinnati celebrated its 45th iteration despite the dampening effects of inclement weather, and Oktoberfest Zinzinnati continued to thrive in its riverfront home.
With memories to make and traditions to uphold, these festivals are a canvas for local businesses and community organizations to showcase their craft and contribute to Cincinnati's vibrant community fabric. So get ready to engage your senses, Cincinnati — your city's festivals are calling.
