Step Into a World of Stories
If you love hearing a story well told—one that captures your imagination and transports you somewhere new—you won’t want to miss the Cincinnati Storytelling Festival this November! Taking place from November 14-16, this year’s festival promises three unforgettable days of laughter, thrill, and awe, right in the heart of Cincinnati’s West Side. From classic folk tales to personal narratives, the Cincinnati Storytelling Festival celebrates the age-old art of storytelling with a fresh, modern twist.
Founded in 2020, the Cincinnati Storytelling Festival has quickly become a beloved annual event, celebrating both traditional storytelling and modern narratives that resonate with today’s audience. Artistic Director Paul Strickland and his team believe in storytelling’s power to bring people together, across generations and cultures. That’s why the festival hosts an incredible mix of storytellers each year, showcasing everything from humorous tall tales to chilling ghost stories. The lineup includes local talent and renowned national storytellers—creating an event that blends local flavor with global perspectives.
This year’s festival lineup features some of the most engaging storytellers from around the country:
Paul Strickland: Our festival’s Artistic Director, Paul is a Kentucky-based storyteller whose unique, family-friendly tales have earned him “Best of Fest” awards across the U.S. and Canada. With over seven hours of stories, he has a special gift for weaving humor and heart into his performances.
Lyn Ford: A fourth-generation Affrilachian storyteller, Lyn brings African American folklore from the Appalachian region to life. Her performances are known for their warmth, wisdom, and universal appeal, reaching audiences around the world, from the U.S. to Ireland and Australia.
Andy Offutt Irwin: Known for his energetic style and “Silly Putty voice,” Andy mixes Southern charm with wit to create stories that are both hilarious and heartwarming. A seasoned performer, he’s a favorite at storytelling festivals and has delighted audiences everywhere from Disney World to the Library of Congress.
Each of these storytellers brings something unique to the stage, and their combined talent is sure to make this year’s festival an inspiring, memorable experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned festival-goer or a first-timer, there’s a story session for everyone. Here’s the rundown of what to expect each day:
Thursday, November 14 – Preview Night at West Side Brewing
7:00 PM – Gather Round: Start the weekend with tales from national tellers. Perfect for ages 13+, tickets are just $12.
8:30 PM – Twisted Tales: Free to attend, this session adds a unique spin to traditional tales. (Note: the bar is 21+ after 9 PM).
Friday, November 15 – Night 1 at West Side Brewing and Westwood Town Hall
6:00 PM – Laugh Riot!: Enjoy an hour of humorous stories (ages 13+), tickets for $12.
7:15 PM – Dinner Break
8:30 PM – Spooky Stories: For those who love a thrill, these seasonal tales are sure to keep you on the edge of your seat. Ages 13+, tickets are $20.
Saturday, November 16 – Night 2 at Westwood Town Hall
2:00 PM – Children's Stories: A free, all-ages session at the Westwood Branch of the Cincinnati Library.
4:30 PM – True Theatre: Local storytellers share personal, heartfelt narratives. Recommended for ages 13+, tickets are $15.
5:45 PM – Old Tales Told New: Modern retellings of timeless classics. Ages 13+, tickets are $15.
7:00 PM – Dinner Break
8:30 PM – Two Truths and a Truth, Hosted by a Liar: Hosted by Paul Strickland, this intriguing session features real stories with unexpected twists. Ages 13+, tickets are $15.
Whether you come for a single session or immerse yourself for the entire weekend, you’ll be in for an incredible array of performances. Not sure which day to attend? Day passes are available at $25 for Friday and $30 for Saturday. Or, go all in with a Full Weekend Pass for $55 to experience it all!
Getting your tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially since some sessions fill up quickly! Here’s the breakdown:
Individual Sessions: Prices range from $12 to $20, depending on the session.
Day Passes: $25 for Friday, $30 for Saturday.
Full Weekend Pass: $55 (and the best deal if you’re planning to attend multiple sessions).
Each online ticket purchase includes a small service fee, but this ensures your spot in the session. Buy yours at cincystoryfest.com to secure your place!
The Cincinnati Storytelling Festival offers a rare opportunity to experience the art of storytelling in its purest form. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun, a good laugh, or an engaging tale with a twist, there’s something for everyone. Storytelling reminds us that we’re all connected by shared experiences and emotions, no matter where we come from or what we believe. At this festival, you’ll get to laugh, maybe shed a tear, and come away with stories that linger long after the weekend is over.
So, grab your tickets, bring a friend or family member, and get ready to be transported into worlds both familiar and fantastical. See you there for a weekend you’ll never forget!