Blink Cincinnati is returning to Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky next year, enveloping the region in a kaleidoscope of lights and sounds for its fifth iteration.
The festival is set to take place Oct. 8-11, 2026, organizers announced July 8.
According to a press release, the festival has also opened its call to artists, which invites local and international creators to submit their ideas to become part of the immersive art and light event. The deadline to submit is Oct. 8, 2025.
Blink 2026 will be the fifth iteration of the art, light and projection-mapping festival held in Northern Kentucky, Downtown and Over-the-Rhine. The first occurred in 2017, followed by the festivals in 2019, 2022 and 2024.
Last year, Blink featured over 80 installations spanning more than 30 blocks in Findlay Market, Over-the-Rhine, Downtown, Newport and Covington. In 2022, Blink attracted over 2 million people during the four-day event, resulting in an economic impact of $126 million, according to a study by the Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber.
The event also supported or created 1,687 jobs and generated $1.5 million in artist commissions, honorariums and fees.
Blink Cincinnati was honored with the Irma Lazarus Award as part of the 2025 Ohio Governor’s Awards for the Arts in May. The Governor’s Awards, held since 1971, spotlight individuals and organizations who have been vital to the growth of Ohio’s arts culture.
Contributing: Grace Tucker, The Cincinnati Enquirer.
This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Blink Cincinnati announces 2026 festival dates. Here’s when Cincy gets lit
Reporting by Haadiza Ogwude, Cincinnati Enquirer / Cincinnati Enquirer
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
