5 Reasons to Attend MidPoint Music Festival

Midpoint Music Festival will be held September 23-25 in Over-the-Rhine, Cincinnati, Ohio. The festival has been running since 2001 and has seen many changes over the years. One lasting element, however, is that it is a haven for music lovers looking to hear their local favorites, discover new music and see the “next big thing” before it goes mainstream.

Here are 5 reasons why you need to check out MidPoint Music Festival:

The music. Obviously. 😉

Looking through the lineup, I noticed familiar names of local bands along with some really well-known headliners. I love the juxtaposition of musicians scheduled. I’m always able to find out about some new bands that are regional to Cincinnati and will leave knowing I can see them again soon, and also hearing some well known names perform. I’m especially excited about Frank Turner and The Sleeping Souls. I saw him in Cincinnati a few months ago at Taft Theatre and I’m pumped to see him again on a larger stage.

The atmosphere.

It’s true that this year involves a major venue change. Instead of bars and venues throughout Downtown and Over-The-Rhine, the festival will be held on stages set in parking lots in a two-block radius of OTR near Main Street. I know this has been upsetting to some fans of the festival, but knowing it’s still in Over-The-Rhine makes me happy. Plus, the changes will make the shows more accessible for all people.
According to their site, “All areas within the festival footprint are paved and the natural incline of the ticketed staged areas will allow for easy viewing to those in wheelchairs. A “chill zone” in the ticketed area will offer seating for those needing a break from standing, Additional seating will be present throughout the festival.” Personally, I’m excited that the event will be more accessible so all fans of good music can enjoy it. Plus, it’s still held in the beautiful Over-the-Rhine neighborhood. For those who are upset that the event won’t be introducing them to different small venues throughout the neighborhood, you could certainly visit new places before and after the show. There is a new place opening every weekend in OTR, so you’re sure to find a new favorite.

The drinks.

MPMF is not going to disappoint when it comes to the brews. There will be a craft beer village. I’m not sure what all of the offerings will be, but Rhinegeist is a sponsor, so you know you’ll get to enjoy some hoppy liquid goodness. I’d recommend sticking with their lighter, more sessionable ales so you’ll still be standing by the final act. Or, mix things up with their Peach Dodo gose.

The Streetcar.

What can I say, I’m really excited about the Cincy Streetcar. It will be up and running just two weeks before MPMF and should make it that much easier for music fans to get around Downtown and OTR on their way to and from the festival. I think our city will really shine the weekend of MPMF and if you’re enjoying the festival you should soak up even more of what the neighborhood has to offer.

The Eli’s BBQ Stage.

The 4th stage at MidPoint Music Festival, sponsored by Eli’s BBQ, will be free and open to the public! It will be on the corner of 14th & Sycamore and will have a full lineup all weekend. With a quick glance at the lineup, I noticed some great local acts including Pluto Revolts and Coconut Milk. So, even if you don’t have the budget for the ticketed stages you can still enjoy MPMF all weekend long.

Visit mpmf.com for more details and to purchase tickets. One-day tickets are still available for $50.

Will you be at MidPoint this year? What bands are you most excited to see? Let me know below!