Cincinnati is bracing for a bustling weekend as more than 100,000 visitors are expected to arrive for a series of major events, all under the looming threat of severe weather.
The packed schedule includes the Omega Psi Phi Grand Conclave, a sold-out Chris Stapleton concert, FC Cincinnati and Reds games, and the 25th annual Paddlefest.
Visit Cincy estimates that around 30,000 attendees will be associated with the Omega Psi Phi Grand Conclave alone, marking the largest convention in the city since the World Choir Games over 14 years ago.
The economic impact of the weekend is projected to exceed $100 million, surpassing the revenue from last weekend's Cincinnati Music Festival, according to Visit Cincy.
Deana Brewer, Vice President of Operations at Visit Cincy, highlighted the significance of the Grand Conclave as the first major event at the First Financial Center following its renovations.
"We are seeing more and more traction of people wanting to come, bring their companies, bring their corporate conferences and conventions to Cincinnati," Brewer said.
She also assured that the Omega Psi Phi events will proceed rain or shine, as many activities are scheduled indoors.
"Rain or shine, the events will go on. Like I said, the Omegas have a lot of their events inside," Brewer added.
Regarding the Chris Stapleton concert at Paycor Stadium and the FC Cincinnati match, Brewer said both are expected to proceed regardless of weather conditions.
Concert organizers advise attendees to dress appropriately and will communicate any severe weather updates through stadium video boards, public announcements, and social media.
No postponement plans have been mentioned.
On the Ohio River's east side, Adventure Crew is preparing for Paddlefest's 25th anniversary, expecting close to 2,000 participants aiming to break the record for the largest paddlecraft party, previously set at over 1,100 participants.
Libby Hunter, Executive Director of Adventure Crew, expressed pride in the event's growth and its regional significance.
"Getting to say largest in the world is going to be a real feather (in the cap), not just for Paddlefest and for Adventure Crew, but for the region," Hunter said.
Saturday's Paddlefest will start between 7 a. m.
and 8 a. m.
, featuring a 4.5- to 9-mile paddle down the Ohio River.
The event raises funds for Adventure Crew's youth outdoor programs and is operating as a zero-waste event for the second year.
Hunter said the forecast is monitored closely and that light rain might occur, but no storms are expected.
Safety measures include Coast Guard alerts for lightning and water rescue paddlers stationed along the course.
"We're looking at a hopeful scenario where we might have some light rain in the morning, but no storms," Hunter said.
On the city's side, Visit Cincy Interim President and CEO Julie Kirkpatrick urged visitors to prepare for crowds and weather disruptions during the weekend.
"Pack patience.
Roads are going to be crowded with all of the fans coming in for games, concerts, and our convention attendees.
Keep an eye on the weather. Pack a poncho.
Pack patience. Rideshare if you can," Kirkpatrick said.
Despite recent storms causing flooding in the area, Kirkpatrick emphasized the city's readiness for the weekend's events.
"We're excited to welcome all these new visitors. A little rain does not deter us from having fun in Cincy," Kirkpatrick said.
