Things to Do in Cincinnati & NKY | Feb 20–22, 2026
By Chris Harris, AI Certified Agent™ & Greater Cincinnati Lifestyle Specialist
Spring may still be a few weeks away, but this weekend feels like the official countdown has started. The weather's warming up, the Home + Garden Show is in full swing, and there's everything from massive pet adoption events to world-class ballet happening across Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky.
Whether you're looking to get your home ready for the selling season, adopt a furry friend, or just get out and explore the region you call home, this weekend has something for everyone.
The Headliners
Cincinnati Home + Garden Show
Where: Duke Energy Convention Center
When: February 20–22 (continues through next weekend)
The Vibe: If you've been scrolling through Pinterest boards dreaming about backyard makeovers or kitchen renovations, this is your chance to talk to the people who can actually make it happen. With over 350 exhibitors, you'll find everything from landscaping pros to custom cabinetry experts, outdoor furniture vendors, and interior designers ready to help turn your house into the home you've been imagining.
This event is especially popular among homeowners who are thinking about selling their home in the next year or two. Strategic upgrades can significantly boost curb appeal and resale value, and this show gives you direct access to contractors and designers who know the local market.
Cost: Tickets available online or at the door
My Furry Valentine
Where: Spooky Nook Sports (Hamilton, OH)
When: February 21–22
The Vibe: One of the largest pet adoption events in the region is back. Dozens of local shelters and rescue organizations will be on-site with adoptable dogs, cats, and other animals looking for their forever homes. Even if you're not ready to adopt, it's worth stopping by to support the cause, meet some adorable animals, and learn about fostering opportunities.
If you've recently moved into a new home and are considering adding a pet to the family, this is the perfect low-pressure way to meet a variety of animals and talk to rescue coordinators about which breeds or personalities might be the best fit for your lifestyle.
Cost: Small entry fee
Art of the Brick: LEGO Art Exhibition
Where: Cincinnati Museum Center
When: Ongoing exhibition
The Vibe: This isn't just a kids' event. Artist Nathan Sawaya has built over 100 sculptures entirely out of LEGO bricks, including a jaw-dropping 20-foot T-Rex skeleton. It's impressive, creative, and surprisingly thought-provoking. The exhibition has been a hit with families, date-night crowds, and art lovers alike.
Pro tip: If you haven't visited the Museum Center in a while, this is a great excuse. The building itself: Union Terminal: is an Art Deco masterpiece worth exploring.
Cost: Museum admission required
Local Spotlight: Flight Club USA
If you've been downtown recently, you've probably noticed the buzz around Flight Club in the Fountain District. This isn't your average darts bar: it's a full-on social entertainment experience with high-tech dart boards that do all the scoring and math for you, craft cocktails, and upscale bar food that actually lives up to the hype.
The atmosphere is energetic but not overwhelming, making it ideal for everything from a casual date night to a group celebration. The location in the Fountain District also puts you within walking distance of some of Cincinnati's best restaurants and bars, so you can easily turn it into a full evening out.
Whether you're new to the area or just looking for something fresh, Flight Club is worth checking out this weekend.
More Happening Around Town
20th Century Cincinnati Vintage Modern Expo
Where: Sharonville Convention Center
When: February 20–22
The Vibe: If you love mid-century modern furniture, vintage clothing, or just browsing unique finds, this expo is a goldmine. Over 70 dealers are bringing furniture, artwork, jewelry, and home decor spanning more than 40,000 square feet of exhibition space. Perfect for anyone who's buying a home and wants to furnish it with character instead of cookie-cutter pieces.
Cincinnati Ballet's Swan Lake
Where: Cincinnati Music Hall
When: Final performances through February 21
The Vibe: One of the most iconic ballets of all time, performed by one of the best regional ballet companies in the country. If you've never seen Swan Lake live, this is your chance: and Music Hall's acoustics and architecture make it an unforgettable experience.
Cost: Tickets available online
Shucked – The Musical
Where: Aronoff Center for the Arts
When: Through February 22
The Vibe: This Tony Award-winning musical comedy has been called "flat out hilarious" by The Wall Street Journal, and it's wrapping up its Cincinnati run this weekend. If you need a good laugh and love clever, high-energy theater, grab tickets before it's gone.
Xavier Women's Basketball vs. Butler
Where: Cintas Center
When: Friday, February 20
The Vibe: Xavier's women's basketball team has been having a strong season, and games at the Cintas Center are always a fun, family-friendly way to spend a Friday night. Tickets are affordable, parking is easy, and the energy in the arena is electric.
Where We Stand at Ensemble Theatre
Where: Ensemble Theatre (Over-the-Rhine)
When: Continuing through February 28
The Vibe: This interactive solo-theater piece has been getting rave reviews for its humor, music, and emotional depth. If you're looking for something thought-provoking and a little different, this is it.
UC Health Ice Rink – Last Weekend
Where: Elm Street Plaza (Downtown)
When: Closing February 22
The Vibe: This is your final chance to lace up your skates before the rink closes for the season. It's a classic Cincinnati winter activity, and if you haven't made it out yet, this weekend is your last shot.
Why We Love Living Here
One of the best parts about living in Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky is that there's always something happening. Whether you're into the arts, sports, outdoor activities, or just great food and drinks, this region consistently delivers.
If you're new to the area or considering relocating here, weekends like this are a perfect snapshot of what makes this place special. And if you're a longtime resident who's been thinking about making a move: whether upsizing, downsizing, or exploring a different neighborhood: now is a great time to start that conversation. The spring market is right around the corner, and getting ahead of it can make all the difference.
Contact me anytime if you want to talk about your real estate goals or just chat about what's happening in the local market. I'm always happy to help.
Enjoy the weekend!
Chris Harris – eXp Realty
Your AI-Certified Real Estate Agent™
Contact Chris | Serving Greater Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky
Ready to chat about your real estate goals? Call or text: 513-325-9667
