Get ready for a festive weekend in Cincinnati! Highlights include the big St. Patrick's Parade downtown, hands-on science fun celebrating Pi Day, and plenty of indoor activities at the Museum Center.
See our top picks
Winter Porch Hours
Washington Park
Relaxing outdoors in the park near the playground (Saturday or Sunday).
OMNIMAX® Wild Rescue
Cincinnati Museum Center
Giant screen documentary about animal rescue at the Museum Center.
Dance Party
The Childrens Museum - Corbet Theatre
High-energy sing and dance session Saturday morning (10:30 AM).
· March 14
5: Head downtown to see the 58th annual St. Patrick's Parade! You can expect to see floats, bagpipers, and traditional Irish step dancers making their way through the streets.This is the major, family-friendly parade event happening specifically this Saturday.
LEPRECON: ST. PATRICK'S DAY BLOCK PARTY AT THE BANKS : Join the largest gathering of leprechauns for the fourth annual block party in your best green attire! There will be live entertainment to enjoy throughout the day.It pairs perfectly with the parade happening the same day in the same neighborhood.
: Celebrate Pi Day with hands-on STEM activities! The fun starts with a screening of 'Pi Makes Perfect,' followed by hands-on activities and an interactive reading of 'Circle Hunt.'It's a specific, one-day celebration tied to the date (3/14).
: If your family loves dogs, head to Washington Park for Mutt Madness. While details are sparse, dog-centric events are usually big hits with kids.It’s a unique, dog-focused event happening Saturday afternoon outdoors.
: A surprise party featuring character meet-and-greets with Mickey, Minnie, and Bluey, plus sing-alongs. This sounds like a fantastic treat for preschool-aged kids.Highly specific character event targeting younger children on Saturday afternoon.
· March 15
1: Celebrate St. Patrick's Day by making your own leprechaun hat out of hot molten glass! This is a hands-on experience where you shape your own piece.A fun, hands-on craft experience available on Sunday, perfect for the holiday weekend.
Also On· anytime this weekend
8: This giant screen documentary follows the dedicated team at Santa Barbara Wildlife Care Network as they rescue, rehabilitate, and release injured wild animals. It’s an uplifting film about giving animals a second chance.Great large-format movie option for indoor entertainment this weekend.
: Discover the natural beauty of Ohio, from Lake Erie to Hocking Hills State Park, in this immersive cinematic experience. Perfect for families who love local nature.Features local Ohio landscapes and nature, appealing to regional families.
: Get moving and active at this energetic dance session in the Corbett Theater. A great way to burn off some energy before exploring the rest of the museum.Specific Saturday morning time slot for high-energy young kids.
: Catch a live science demonstration at the Knowlton Foundation Science Stage. These shows are usually fast-paced and exciting for all ages.It's a scheduled live demonstration happening multiple times on Saturday.
FREE : Relax on the Sherwin-Williams Porch in Washington Park. Even if you don't buy a Coke, enjoying the park ambiance, near the Children's Playground, is a great free activity.It's free, central, and parents can chill while kids play nearby.
FREE : Take a free tour to learn about the iconic Art Deco architecture of Union Terminal. It’s a great way to explore the beautiful building outside of the regular museum exhibits.Free docent-led tour focusing on the unique architecture of the terminal building.
: Head to KidSPACE for structured activities focusing on science, art, creativity, and exploration. Perfect for younger museum visitors.Scheduled activity time within the dedicated children's area.
: Join the Children's Museum for a relaxing morning session of songs and stories in the Corbett Theatre. A lovely, calm activity for young listeners.Scheduled Sunday morning activity specifically for the youngest museum visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What free kids events are on in Cincinnati this weekend?
This weekend (Mar 14-15) the best free options appear to be enjoying the Winter Porch Hours at Washington Park on Saturday or Sunday, and taking a free Public Rotunda Tour at the Museum Center on either day.
What is happening downtown on Saturday?
Saturday, March 14th, is dominated by St. Patrick's Day celebrations downtown, featuring the Cincinnati St. Patrick's Parade followed by the LepreCON Block Party, both near The Banks neighborhood.
Are there good options for science-loving kids this weekend?
Yes! Saturday, March 14th, is Pi Day, celebrated at the Museum Center with the STEMulating Adventures event, plus you can catch live Science Stage Shows throughout the weekend.