Things to do in Cincinnati this week, Jan. 26-Feb. 1, 2026

As January nears its end, Cincinnati offers a diverse range of events over the next seven days, catering to interests from competitive gaming to artistic exploration and comedic relief. From January 26th through February 1st, 2026, residents and visitors can choose from a packed schedule of activities, with opportunities to submit additional events for wider promotion through cincinnati.com.

Entertainment and Competition

Super Smash Bros Tournament

For those skilled in the world of video games, Pins Mechanical Co. will host a Super Smash Bros. tournament on Monday, January 26th, from 7-10 p.m. Participants have the chance to win Pins gear as prizes. Entry is free.

Commonwealth Comedy Club

Looking for a lighter evening? Commonwealth Comedy Club in Dayton, Kentucky, will feature local comedians workshopping new material on Monday, January 26th, from 7:30-9 p.m. Admission is free, offering a chance to experience comedy in its formative stages.

Did You Know? The Cincinnati Cyclones will host a Star Wars-themed matinee game on Saturday, January 31st, offering fans a chance to meet characters and bid on themed jerseys.

Remembrance and Reflection

International Holocaust Remembrance Day

On Tuesday, January 27th, the Cincinnati Museum Center will observe International Holocaust Remembrance Day with its exhibit, “Auschwitz. Not long ago. Not far away.” The exhibit features over 400 photos and 500 original artifacts, offering a poignant look into the experiences of survivors and victims. The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and the exhibit runs through April 12th.

Food, Fun, and Festivities

Trivia and Wings

Dead Low Brewing in Anderson Township will host a Feud Night on Tuesday, January 27th, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Teams of eight can compete for prizes while enjoying wings at $1.25 each.

Ice Skating at Elm Street Plaza

The UC Health Ice Rink, a Cincinnati tradition, is now located at Elm Street Plaza. Open Monday-Wednesday from 3-8 p.m., Thursday-Friday from 3-10 p.m., and weekends with extended hours, admission is $12. The rink will be open through February 16th.

Little Women at Playhouse in the Park

Playhouse in the Park will present a new adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s “Little Women” beginning Tuesday, January 28th. Performances are scheduled Tuesday through Friday at 7:30 p.m., Saturday at 2 and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m. The production runs through February 15th.

Super Bowl Snack Preparation

For those hosting Super Bowl parties, the Baker-Hunt Art & Cultural Center in Covington will offer a cooking class on Wednesday, January 28th, from 6-8 p.m., focusing on game-day snacks like cheese puffs and chili cornbread. The class is for ages 21 and up and requires registration.

Sports Action

Sports fans can catch the UC Bearcats men’s basketball team play Baylor University on Wednesday, January 28th, at 6:30 p.m. at Fifth Third Arena.

Expert Insight: The variety of events scheduled for the coming week demonstrates Cincinnati’s commitment to providing diverse cultural and entertainment options for its residents, even during the typically slower month of January.

Weekend Highlights

’90s Nostalgia and Live Music

On Thursday, January 29th, the Madison Theater in Covington will host a tribute band performing the music of Dave Matthews Band. The “Tomorrow We Die Tour” begins at 8 p.m. Also on Thursday, Behringer-Crawford Museum will highlight its 75-year legacy, showcasing cherished collections, including glowing minerals, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Comedy and Debate

Commonwealth Comedy Club will host a comedic mock trial pitting Skyline versus Gold Star chili on Thursday, January 29th, from 8-9:30 p.m. Admission is free.

Artistic Exploration

Friday, January 30th, brings Art After Dark at the Cincinnati Art Museum, featuring musical performances, art creation, and free admission to the “What, Me Worry? The Art and Humor of Mad Magazine” exhibit. Final Friday events will also take place at the Pendleton Art Center, offering opportunities to browse and purchase art directly from artists.

Music and Entertainment

Umphrey’s McGee will perform at the Andrew J. Brady Music Center on Friday, January 30th, at 8 p.m. Comedian Amy Silverberg will also perform at Commonwealth Comedy Club at 7:30 p.m. and 9:45 p.m. The Dearborn County Home & Outdoor Living Expo will also begin on Friday, offering resources for home improvement projects.

Hockey and More

The Cincinnati Cyclones will play the Fort Wayne Komets on Friday, January 30th, at 7:30 p.m., with a Bank Giveaway Night for the first 3,000 fans.

Polar Plunge and Bridalrama

Saturday, January 31st, features the Cincinnati Polar Plunge at The Banks, benefiting Special Olympics Ohio and Kentucky. Bridalrama Showcase will also take place at the Sharonville Convention Center, offering resources for wedding planning. The Garage Brewed Motorcycle Show will be held at Rhinegeist Brewery, showcasing a variety of motorcycles.

Concluding the Week

The week concludes on Sunday, February 1st, with a performance by Diana Krall at the Aronoff Center at 6:30 p.m. and a Cyclones game against the Toledo Walleyes, celebrating Twister’s birthday.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost to skate at Elm Street Plaza?

Admission to the UC Health Ice Rink at Elm Street Plaza is $12.

Where can I find more information about the International Holocaust Remembrance Day exhibit?

More information about the “Auschwitz. Not long ago. Not far away” exhibit at the Cincinnati Museum Center can be found at cincymuseum.org.

How can I submit an event to be included in future listings?

Events can be submitted online at cincinnati.com/events.

With such a wide array of options, what event will you choose to experience in Cincinnati this week?