The Benjamin

Dreaming of a White Christmas? The forecast has other plans! With temperatures hitting the 40s and 50s this holiday week, it’s the perfect time to ditch the parka and explore Cincinnati’s best outdoor holiday spots without losing feeling in your toes. 🌡️✨

From the rustic vibes of the Yuletide Village (hurry, it closes Dec 20!) to the hidden free light display at the Creation Museum, we've got the ultimate guide to seizing this warm-weather holiday magic. Discover where to get the best Raclette cheese at The Banks, see 4 million lights at Clifton Mill, or stargaze at the Cincinnati Observatory.

Don't stay inside waiting for snow that isn't coming. Glow with the flow!

Read the full guide here: https://www.bettheben.com/travel/glow-with-the-flow

No Snow? No Problem: 5 Cincinnati Holiday Gems for a Warm Christmas Week — Bet the Ben Cincinnati is forecasted for a "green" Christmas! Don't stay inside. Ditch the parka and explore 5 outdoor holiday gems that shine brightest in warm weather. From the urgent last call for Yuletide Village and the "secret" free lights at the Creation Museum to European glühwein at

It’s not just a concert, but a true cultural pilgrimage! The Cincinnati Music Festival (CMF) returns July 23-25, 2026, with a lineup that is absolutely legendary.

👑 The Lineup: The Queen of Hip-Hop Soul, Mary J. Blige, anchors Saturday night, while "Uncle Charlie" Charlie Wilson brings the funk on Friday. Plus, you can catch Nelly, Trey Songz, Tyrese, and SWV! ⚪ The Style: Get your white linen ready because the tradition continues Saturday night, transforming the stadium into a sea of elegance. ❄️ New for 2026: You can beat the heat in the brand-new Club Lounge, enjoying climate-controlled luxury without melting on the dance floor.

Tickets drop this Saturday, Dec. 6, so don't miss the Midwest’s biggest family reunion!

🔗 Read the full preview here:

Cincinnati Music Festival 2026: Lineup, Tickets & Mary J. Blige — Bet the Ben Mary J. Blige and Charlie Wilson headline the 2026 Cincinnati Music Festival July 23-25. Explore the full R&B lineup featuring Nelly and Trey Songz, preview the new climate-controlled Paycor Stadium Club Lounge, and get essential ticket sale details. Read our full analysis of the Midwest’s large

The national culinary spotlight has drifted south of the Ohio River, and Carmelo's Restaurant is soaking it up. Recently nominated for USA Today's "10 Best New Restaurants," this Covington spot has cracked the code on modern hospitality by looking backward.

Owners Billy Grise and Chef Mitch Arens have built a love letter to the classic "Red Sauce" joints of the past. The menu features showstoppers like the viral 101-Layer Lasagna—pan-seared for that perfect crispy edge—and a rich Oxtail Ragu sourced from Kentucky beef.

But what truly sets them apart is an "Employee First" philosophy that treats staff and guests like family.

Read our full review to see why you need a reservation immediately.

Carmelo's Restaurant | Covington’s Best Italian-American & Comfort Food — Bet the Ben Experience the best Italian-American dining in Covington, KY at Carmelo's Restaurant. Home of the famous 101-Layer Lasagna and voted one of USA Today’s 10 Best New Restaurants. Enjoy nostalgic "Red Sauce" classics, craft cocktails, and warm hospitality at 434 Madison Ave. Open for dinner n

Who says baseball season is over? The Reds are heating up the winter in Cincinnati! 🔥

This week has been packed with huge announcements: 🏟️ Redsfest Returns: The fan-favorite festival is BACK Jan 16-17 at the newly renovated Convention Center. Meet the new skipper, Terry Francona, plus legends like Sean Casey and Marty Brennaman! 🍌 Banana Ball Alert: Want tickets to the sold-out Savannah Bananas tour in June? There is a way to skip the lottery line, but the deadline is THIS Friday! ♠️ High Stakes: The Rick Steiner Memorial Poker Tournament returns—play cards with celebs and former players for a $10k prize.

Don't let these deadlines slip past you. Get all the details on how to "unwrap" the offseason here! 👇

🔗 Read More: https://www.bettheben.com/travel/unwrap-the-reds-in-the-offseason

Redsfest Returns and Savannah Bananas Ticket Deadlines You Need to Know — Bet the Ben The Cincinnati Reds are heating up winter with the return of Redsfest at the renovated convention center. View the guest list including Terry Francona and Andrew Abbott. Learn how to secure priority access to the Savannah Bananas 2026 tour at Great American Ball Park before the Friday deadline. Get