Carrie Underwood
The pop country superstar and former “American Idol” favorite is touring in support of her sixth album, “Cry Pretty,” released last year. Maddie and Tae and Runaway June will open. See her at the U.S. Bank Arena, 100 Broadway St., Cincinnati, on June 15 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $48 and up. For more information, call 513-421-4111 or visit www.usbankarena.com.
“Cats”
This classic Andrew Lloyd Webber musical is the fourth-longest running show in Broadway history and won seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical. See it locally at the Aronoff Center for the Arts, 650 Walnut St., Cincinnati, on June 11-16. Performance times are 7:30 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday, 8 p.m. Friday, 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Saturday, and 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Sunday. Tickets are $31 and up. For more information, call 513-621-2787 or visit www.cincinnatiarts.org.
Josh Groban and Jennifer Nettles
The superstar crooner continues the second leg of his “Bridges” tour, supporting the album of the same name. Appearing with him for both her own set and a few duets is Jennifer Nettles, front-woman of Sugarland. See them at the U.S. Bank Arena, 100 Broadway St., Cincinnati, on June 12 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $49.50-$210.50. For more information, call 513-421-4111 or visit www.usbankarena.com.
Italianfest
This annual festival features authentic Italian food and live music from the old country. Other activities include games, rides, a golf outing, a cooking contest, and a bocci ball tournament, all with a picturesque view of the Ohio River and Cincinnati skyline which includes fireworks after the Reds game Friday. Check it out at Festival Park Newport, Riverboat Row, Newport, Kentucky, on June 13-16. Fest hours are 5-11 p.m. Thursday, 5-11:30 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.-11:30 p.m. Saturday, and noon-9 p.m. Sunday. There is no admission cost. For more information, call 859-292-3666 or visit www.newportky.gov or visit the Italianfest Facebook page.
Jungle Jim’s International Craft Beer Festival
It’s hard to imagine a better way to spend Father’s Day weekend than drinking and learning about (but mostly drinking) craft beer. Over 100 breweries will be showcasing over 400 beers. Sample the rarities, exclusives, and critically acclaimed favorites. There’ll also be food, cigars, and souvenirs. Check it out at Jungle Jim’s International Market, 5440 E. Dixie Highway, Fairfield on June 14-15 from 7:30-10:30 p.m. Tickets are $25-$55. For more information, call (513) 674-6055 or visit www.junglejims.com.
Robocon 2019
This third annual robot convention will feature action figures, accessories, and other merchandise from Transformers, Gobots, Power Rangers, Robotech, and much more. Check it out at the Cincinnati Marriott at RiverCenter, 10 W. RiverCenter Blvd., Covington, Kentucky, on June 14-15. Hours are 4-9 p.m. Friday and 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday. Registration is $65-$75. For more information, visit www.nightshininginc.com.
Celtic Fest Ohio
This annual festival celebrates Celtic culture with dance and music both traditional and modern. Other activities include the Shamrock Shenanigans (an obstacle course), a Viking encampment, a border collie demonstration, and Jameson and cider tastings. Check it out at Renaissance Park, 10542 East State Route 72, Waynesville, on June 14-16. Fest hours are 6-10 p.m. Friday, noon-11 p.m. Saturday, and noon-6 p.m. Sunday. Tickets are $5-$24. For more information, call 513-897-7000 or visit www.celticfestohio.com.
Cincinnati Liars Lager Launch
Try a new beer and travel through time at the same … time. Our very own Grainworks will tap their new Liars Lager with the National Voice of America Broadcasting Museum in honor of 75 years at Bethany Station. Enjoy an evening of board games, live music, and Liars Lager. Check it out at Grainworks Brewing Company, 7790 Service Center Drive, West Chester, on June 15 from 2-10 p.m. There is no admission cost. For more information, call 513-480-BEER or visit www.grainworks.com.
ARTfest on Main
This arts and crafts festival will feature over 70 artists, food trucks and vendors, live music and other performers, children’s activities, a community project, and the first dinner on Main, all on a picturesque street lined with historic buildings. Check it out along S. Main St. in Springboro on June 15 from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. There is no admission cost. For more information, visit www.artfestonmain.com.
Billy Ray Cyrus
Although better known these days as the father of Miley, Billy Ray Cyrus was a star in his own right, originally breaking through in the 1990s with his hit single, “Achy Breaky Heart.” He released his 16th album, “The SnakeDoctor Circus,” this year. See him at Miami Valley Gaming, 6000 OH-63, Lebanon, on June 15 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $35-$100. For more information, visit www.miamivalleygaming.com.
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