
The equinox is past, the weather has finally cooled a bit, and we’re in that sweet spot with both fall festivals to savor outdoors and arts events to enjoy indoors.

Summermusik honors America, veterans and pets, while some Irish guys blow into town. Stephen Sondheim and Lillian Hellmann take the stage. Mercantile offers up history on our 19th amendment. Like watercolors? Head to Mariemont or check out some jazz in Wash Park. Culture is never lacking even in the dead of summer in Cincinnati. Just don’t forget your umbrella.

Music, murder, mayhem and movies top the list of fun things to do this week. Agatha Christie and Michael Crichton have their moment, while Carmen (spoiler alert!) meets her maker at the hands of her jilted lover. Chamber music and art inspired by playing cards round out an exciting week of cool stuff to do.

Founding Father John Adams said that future generations should celebrate American independence “with Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more.” Well, we’ve certainly followed his advice!

Well, the neighbors down the street put up their Halloween decorations on Labor Day weekend, so it shouldn’t be too surprising that some local cultural groups are starting October with spooky doings. But the week also brings big events that are more delight than fright. Let’s see what we can scare up:

Jazz, poetry, food, tributes, films, orchestras and an author talk. Even in the dead of summer there is still plenty to fill up a week. Check out some unique venues, Krippendorf Lodge, Woodward Theater, Sorg Opera House, Memorial Hall, Union Terminal or the Mercantile Library. Let history be your guide.