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The Independent
6 days ago
- The Independent
Is this mountain region Portugal's answer to the Alps?
'This place was sculpted by ice,' said my hiking guide Rodrigo Marques, as he gestured towards granite ridges that receded into the distance like a dark, choppy Atlantic ocean. 'These deep u-shaped valleys, the plateaus among the peaks – they are all from the movement of glaciers during the last Ice Age.' Comparisons to distant landscapes – Dartmoor's tors, the Scottish Highlands, the Alpine foothills – came to mind as I scanned the rugged mountain scenery around us. Yet only a couple of hours earlier, a sweatier version of me had hopped into a hire car in Porto. Countless hairpin turns later, we were deep into the country's interior at Serra da Estrela Nature Park. At 1,250 metres above sea level, it was 10 degrees cooler than in the city, and unlike any Portuguese landscape I've laid eyes on before. From our vantage point on a windswept outcrop, the remnants of glacial lakes were glassy shards against a scrubland dotted with pine trees, thistles, juniper and gorse. As for the boulders heaped around us, they seem to have been hurled by more turbulent forces than millennia-long weathering – mountain giants, perhaps. Serra da Estrela is the country's tallest mountain range and home to its only ski resort. I visited in midsummer, however, so the high-altitude pastures were tinted purple with heather and flickering with yellow gatekeeper butterflies. Marques was leading the daily guided walk for guests of Casa das Penhas Douradas. He pointed out a booted eagle wheeling in the brooding sky, and the churned-up earth where a wild boar had been foraging. We'd taken the Fraga das Penhas e Albufeira de Vale do Rossim route, where fauna such as these were a highlight. So too were the native Bordaleira sheep, who graze across the plateaus during summertime. Shepherds lead them from lower-lying village pastures – festooned with colourful pom-poms and clattering bells – in a centuries-old ritual known as transhumance. Many of the national park's waymarked trails trace these ancient routes, passing ice-cold waterfalls and praia fluvial (river beaches) along the way. Houses, on the other hand, are scarce, and quirkily vernacular. Cottages are squeezed into the cracks between boulders, from which I half expected the rock trolls from Frozen to emerge (really, they're the summer retreats of wealthy Portuguese city-dwellers). Several started as sanatoriums for tuberculosis patients, who were sent to convalesce in the fresh mountain air. Casa das Penhas Douradas was built onto the bones of one such refuge, before becoming a boutique hotel in the Alpine-chic mould. There are vintage skis and snowshoes displayed on plywood walls, while Scandi seating is pulled close to log burners and firepits. A Portuguese spin on the apres-ski afternoon tea is served to walk-weary guests: think freshly-brewed chamomile tea, oven-warm pastel de nata and nips of port. Archival photographs in the cosy, crimson-hued lobby show bands of moustached men fully booted and blanketed, as if heading for the North Pole. They were members of the Geographical Society of Lisbon at the 1881 Scientific Exhibition. It's a reminder of just how remote and mysterious this region was considered even by its own citizens until relatively recently. 'For a lot of Portuguese people, 'holiday' means going to the beach,' Marques told me. 'But we are starting to see more interest in coming [to the mountains] for outdoor pursuits.' Upgraded accommodation is helping raise the region's profile. Three miles up the road from Casa das Penhas Douradas, its sleeker, younger sibling, Casa de São Lourenço, is Portugal's first five-star mountain hotel. While I saw fragments of the humble pousada that originally stood there, the floor-to-ceiling glass extension gives the impression of floating above the Zêzere, one of Europe's largest glacial valleys. The spa is worthy of a Swiss wellness retreat, complete with birch-stick massages and evening hot tub soaks beneath bright constellations. They aren't named the Star Mountains for nothing. Isabel Costa, co-owner of both hotels, told me she thinks overtourism and heatwaves in other parts of Portugal will influence more visitors to turn their attention upland. 'In a world experiencing climate change, Serra da Estrela's altitude makes it a special place where you can walk, breathe and explore outdoors in comfort, even at the height of summer,' she said. Taking the 'coolcation' trend a tad further than I'd bargained for, unseasonable rains set in on my second day. Silver birch trees were bent double in the wind. Sheep huddled soggily beside boulders. It was a good moment to see the artisan weavers at work in nearby Manteigas. Inside the riverside factory, traditional looms were spinning sheep's wool into Burel, the thick, stiff, water-resistant fabric used to make shepherds' cloaks. 'For generations, Burel was the fabric of survival,' Costa says. Today, it graces everything from fashion collections to the walls of Microsoft's Lisbon offices, and of course, the interiors of both hotels. Not only as curtains, headboards and blankets in the bedrooms, but also a canopy of cut-out stars on the restaurant ceiling. It's beneath this constellation that I sampled the other beloved by-product of those wild-grazing sheep: Queijo Estrela da Serra. Handmade only in this region, these wheels of cheese are almost indecently buttery, tangy and gooey – imagine an extra-ripe Camembert. It's best eaten with the top sliced off, like a lid, spooning out the nearly liquid centre with rustic bread. Between the punchy cheese and snow-dusted resorts, it's easy to see why this region has been dubbed the 'Portuguese Alps'. The comparison, however, should be taken with a pinch of salt. Serra da Estrela's peaks would be dwarfed by its central European cousins – Torre, its tallest at 1,993m, is less than half the height of Mont Blanc – and its winter snowfall average of 60 centimetres would surely be sneered at by the Swiss, whose resorts are normally dumped with 10 times as much. Yet for beginner skiers and budget-conscious travellers, it makes an appealing alternative to showier après-ski scenes, crowded chair lifts and extortionate chalets. These mountains may not be Europe's grandest – but that's precisely the point. At a time when overtourism is straining the ecology of the Alps, as well as better-known parts of Portugal, Serra da Estrela's trails beckon travellers who wish to step more lightly upon the land and still hear it breathe. How to get there I recommend renting a car to reach and explore Serra da Estrela; the drive is around 2.5 hours from Porto and three hours from Lisbon. A number of airlines, including EasyJet, Jet2, British Airways, Ryanair, Air Europa and Portugal's national carrier TAP, operate direct flights from London to Porto (2 hours 25 minutes) or London Heathrow to Lisbon. Where to stay Hotel Berne is a modern, family-friendly basecamp in the village of Manteigas, with 17 cheerful rooms, a wood-panelled restaurant and winter sports equipment available to rent. The region's first five-star hotel, Casa de São Lourenço offers sleek suites, a full-service spa and swimming pool – all with panoramic valley views, plus complimentary daily guided hikes.
The Independent
11-08-2025
- The Independent
Extraordinary journeys to stir the soul
Travel, at its best, is about more than simply moving from place to place. It's the quiet thrill of new horizons, the scent of salt and pine in the air and the way light falls differently on ancient streets or empty beaches. Whether you crave stillness or discovery, these journeys are cultivated to awaken your senses and leave lasting impressions. Set on Sardinia's sun-drenched southern coast, Forte Village is more than a resort — it's an experience. Alongside its acclaimed sports academies, Michelin-starred dining and world-class spa, the property now offers an exclusive Nature Park open only to guests. This lush sanctuary showcases the island's unique biodiversity, home to Giara horses, Sardinian donkeys and the rare Asinara albino donkey. Families can also explore its vast aviary, working farm and sustainable gardens through guided tours designed to educate and inspire. Whether you're here for hands-on nature encounters, serene beach days or its vibrant culinary scene, Forte Village brings Sardinia's essence into every stay. Enjoy 10% off with code FVSUMMERESCAPE plus exclusive benefits included in your stay. Book at Offer valid until November 3, 2025. Travel smart and stay powered anywhere When your adventures take you off-grid, reliable power becomes essential. The Jackery Explorer 2000 v2 packs a 2040Wh capacity and 2200W output, effortlessly running everything from laptops and cameras to coffee-makers and mini-fridges. Its compact CTB (Cell-to-Body) design — inspired by automotive engineering — makes it one of the lightest in its class, ideal for road trips, camping or remote stays. Ultra-fast hybrid charging reaches 80% in just 52 minutes, while ChargeShield 2.0™ offers intelligent AI-driven protection and over 60 safety features. Built with a durable LFP battery, it's designed for long-lasting performance. The result? Peace of mind, wherever you roam. Whether you're exploring national parks or working remotely in the wild, this is travel-ready energy you can depend on. Escape to Thailand with affordable flights Thailand's turquoise waters, golden temples and vibrant street markets are calling — and Dream Destination campaign makes it easier than ever to answer. This curated hub brings together everything you need for a seamless Thai getaway, with return flights from London to Bangkok starting at just £346 on travel dates until 31 December 2025. Explore luxury hotels in Phuket, boutique stays in Chiang Mai, or beachside resorts in Krabi, all with competitive rates. The platform also offers discounted tickets to must-see attractions and day tours, from floating markets to island-hopping excursions. With 24/7 multilingual support and a smooth, all-in-one booking experience, simplifies travel so you can focus on the adventure. Browse offers now Kick off your all-American adventure in Detroit Before hitting Route 66 or heading west to the Grand Canyon, fuel your journey with a city break in Detroit, Michigan. Known for its rich culture, iconic food scene and warm Midwest hospitality, Detroit is much more than a stopover — it's a showstopper. Marvel at Rivera's murals and Van Gogh's brushstrokes in the Detroit Institute of Arts, catch live jazz at Cliff Bell's or explore the vibrant Eastern Market. Tuck into Detroit-style pizza and classic Coney dogs and experience the city's buzz at major league sports games. With its striking art deco architecture and newly awarded Michelin Green Guide ranking, Detroit invites you to discover a city that pulses with creativity and soul. This is where your American adventure begins Discover more Indulge in overwater Grecian luxury at an adults-only haven For a Grecian getaway that redefines luxury, Stella Island offers an adults-only sanctuary where every detail is crafted for indulgence. Stay in breathtaking overwater bungalows or chic lagoon-view suites designed for supreme comfort and style. Culinary excellence awaits across six restaurants, from fresh Mediterranean flavours to inventive international dishes. The tranquil spa provides tailored treatments in serene surroundings, while a state-of-the-art gym, yoga and Pilates keep wellness front and centre. Beyond the pristine pools and lush grounds, attentive service ensures a seamless stay from start to finish. This is more than a holiday — it's an immersion in sophistication, serenity and sun-soaked pleasure. Book your 2026 escape between 11 August and 31 October 2025 with code ISLANDVIBE26 for 10% off at Book now Step into centuries of elegance in Karlovy Vary In the UNESCO-listed spa town of Karlovy Vary in the Czech Republic, where history comes vividly to life — and nowhere more so than at Grandhotel Pupp, a storied neo-baroque landmark. Its origins trace back to 1701, with an illustrious guest list spanning Beethoven, Kafka and Freud, European monarchs including Franz Joseph I and Peter the Great and, more recently, Hollywood royalty. The hotel was even used as a set in Casino Royale from the James Bond franchise. The signature suites blend period grandeur with contemporary touches: The Pupp Heritage Suite is furnished with Gallotti&Radice pieces and has a Bang & Olufsen sound system, and the Imperial Suite's crown jewel is its marble bathroom with real gold accents and a neo-renaissance spa view from the freestanding bathtub. Fine dining ranges from Czech-inspired tasting menus to charcoal-grilled Wagyu, while the speakeasy bar — hidden behind secret doors — offers a journey into Bond's world, where cocktails tell stories and every detail sparks curiosity. Relaxation for body and mind, art-lined halls and panoramic views over the colonnade — every detail here carries a legacy that bridges past and present. Explore the heart of Europe without the hassle, thanks to Expat Explore's expertly curated group tours. From the elegant streets of Paris and vibrant energy of Amsterdam to the crystal lakes and snowy peaks of the Swiss Alps, every itinerary is designed to help you experience more while spending less. Travel in comfort by coach, stay in hand-picked hotels and gain deeper insight from knowledgeable tour leaders who make each stop memorable. With tours starting at just £735 and options covering culture, nature, history and more, there's something for every type of traveller. Flexible booking adds extra peace of mind. Celebrate Expat Explore's 20th birthday with up to 45% off selected 2025 and 2026 tours until 31 December 2025. Use code UK10 for 10% off all 2026 trips at Escape the everyday with an exclusive retreat to Aino Private Island Hotel, an adults-only boutique hidden away in the heart of Finnish Lapland. Opening 1 November 2025, this intimate sanctuary offers 11 design-led riverfront suites or a luxurious three-bedroom villa, two serene saunas and flavour-filled Lappish dining — all set on a private island just minutes from Rovaniemi. Immerse yourself in Arctic nature with husky safaris, Northern Lights excursions, snowmobile treks and cosy, heated sleigh rides by reindeer, or the for the bravest adventurers, try ice swimming in the river. Retire back to the calming respite of the island hotel where you can unwind in the Pavilion Library or savour open-fire dinners at Kota Restaurant. Book a three-night stay this November or in March and April 2026 and enjoy your first night for free. Tucked in the densely forested hills outside Rovaniemi, Arctic TreeHouse Hotel is a striking contemporary retreat that blends Nordic elegance with the raw beauty of Finnish Lapland. Elevated on stilts that sit among the pines, each suite feels like a nest, with large windows that frame the magical landscape of the Far North. Recognised with the Worldwide Hospitality Award for Best Innovation in Hotel Concept, the hotel truly leverages its Arctic location as a year-round destination. Autumn brings aurora-lit skies and golden treetops, while Christmas transforms the woods into a fairytale. In spring, enjoy brilliant sunshine and a playful outdoor energy, while summer is a celebration of light, with dreamy forest yoga and midnight picnics under the sun's 24-hour glow. Indulge in discounted luxury cruises Sail away in style without the luxury price tag, thanks to Specialising in five-star river and ocean cruises from the world's most trusted travel brands, helps you explore destinations like the Danube, Mekong, Mediterranean and Caribbean in total comfort. Think gourmet dining, elegant ships and immersive excursions on shore — all hand-picked for unforgettable experiences. The UK-based team offers concierge-style support, taking care of everything from flights and hotels to transfers and upgrades. Whether you're a seasoned cruiser or booking your first voyage, you'll enjoy honest advice, exclusive savings and seamless service from start to sail. Save up to 60% on 2025 & 2026 cruises. Use code LUXURY for £100 off per person at or call 020 4527 9413. Experience the untouched winter wonderland of Finnish Lapland with Wild Nordic's magical snowmobile safaris. This family-run company offers expertly guided tours from Rovaniemi and Levi, ranging from beginner-friendly outings to full-day adventures for seasoned riders. Each tour is crafted with care, blending excitement and the awe of Lapland's snowy wilderness with safe routes that respect local nature. Certified by Sustainable Travel Finland and Biosphere Sustainable, Wild Nordic is deeply committed to responsible tourism and preserving the pristine landscapes it calls home. With small group sizes, expert guides and routes that spark the senses, these tours deliver once-in-a-lifetime memories in the heart of the Arctic. Get 10% off snowmobile tours in Rovaniemi and Levi until 31 March 2026 with code WILDWINTER at
Yahoo
01-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Our picks for the best things to do in Cincinnati this week, June 2-8
Have an event you'd like us to know about? Submit it online at and we'll tell the world about it. Head to that same site to peruse our full calendar of events. Hop aboard the Titanic and walk through life-sized recreations of parts of the ship. Immersive video animations and 3D views put you onboard as a passenger to learn about one of history's most iconic tragedies. Details: 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m. Wednesday-Monday, 18 W. Fourth St., Downtown. Unsuitable for ages under 6. $34, $29 seniors, students and military. $26 ages under 12. This week's performer is Faux Frenchmen. Details: 6-9 p.m., Washington Park, 1230 Elm St., Over-the-Rhine. Free. Celebrate Lou Gehrig Day June 2 as the Reds play the Milwaukee Brewers this week. A Cincinnati Zoo ticket package is available on Tuesday. Details: 7:10 p.m. Monday-Tuesday, 12:40 p.m. Wednesday, Great American Ball Park, 100 Joe Nuxhall Way, Downtown. This week marks the opening of Tuesday Concerts at Nature Park. Show up for the Jump 'n' Jive Band. Details: 7-9 p.m., Nature Park, 4337 Cooper Road, Blue Ash. Free. Enjoy a 90-minute concert featuring world-renowned opera singers, church choirs, and local musicians at this free event. Make sure to book a reservation. There are performances Tuesday and Thursday at different churches. Tuesday: 7 p.m., Lincoln Heights Missionary Baptist Church, 9991 Wayne Ave., Lincoln Heights. Free; reservations required: 513-241-2742 or (Thursday: 7 p.m., New Jerusalem Baptist Church, 26 W. North Bend Road, Carthage. Free; reservations required: 513-241-2742 or Have some family-friendly fun each Wednesday. Details: 6:30-8 p.m., Kennedy Heights Park, 6039 Kennedy Ave., Kennedy Heights. Free. Looking for a good laugh? The Christi Show is coming to Funny Bone Comedy Club. Details: 7 p.m., Funny Bone Comedy Club, 7518 Bales St., Liberty Township. $42-$52. Check out Robert McCloskey Wonder Works Museum. This exhibition celebrates the life of one of America's most beloved children's book authors and illustrators, who was a native of Hamilton. It features original sketches, illustrations and personal materials highlighting artwork from "Lentil," his first published book, set in Hamilton. Details: noon-5 p.m. Wednesday-Monday, Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park and Museum, 1763 Hamilton Cleves Road, Hamilton. Park closed on Tuesdays. $10, $5 ages 6-12, free ages 5-under. Don't miss Da Squad this Wednesday for some live reggae music. Details: 6-10 p.m., Washington Park, 1230 Elm St., Over-the-Rhine. Free. Delhi Park Pavilion is starting its Summer Concert Series. The Whammies are performing this Wednesday to kick off this event. Details: 7 p.m., Delhi Park Pavilion, 5125 Foley Road, Delhi Township. At Big Rig Gig, kids can explore and touch big machinery. For the adults, enjoy free miniature golf. Details: 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Montgomery Square Plaza, 9999 Montgomery Road, Montgomery. Grab the family for fun for all ages and head to the opening of the 2025 Brady Block Parties. The block party will include games, arts and crafts for all ages, and culminate with an outdoor concert by the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra. Each week the orchestra will travel to another neighborhood, so don't miss when they come to you. Details: 6:30 p.m., Icon Festival Stage at Smale Park, 8 W. Mehring Way, Downtown. Free. Get outdoors and enjoy the warm, sunny weather by jamming out with your community. The best part? All these shows are free. Live on the Levee: 7 p.m., Newport on the Levee, 1 Levee Way, Newport. Music by StrangeLove. Live After 5: 6-9 p.m., The Square at Liberty Center, 7100 Foundry Row, Liberty Township. Music by The Chuck Taylors. Free. Music on the River: 7-9 p.m., Civic Park, 50 Short St., Lawrenceburg. Music by Sounds of Touch. Summer Concerts: 7-9 p.m., Beech Acres Park, 6910 Salem Road, Anderson Township. Music by Monday Night Big Band. Free. Country music star Jon Pardi will be working the "Night Shift" as he comes to Truist Arena this Thursday night. Details: 7 p.m., Truist Arena, 500 Louie B. Nunn Drive, Highland Heights. At Licking Valley Antique Machinery Association Tractor Show, see antique tractors, stationary engines, garden tractors, equipment displays and tractor games. Antique cars and trucks will also be displayed, and there's a flea market, craft show and a farm-related swap meet. Details: 9 a.m. Friday-Saturday, Pendleton County Fairgrounds, 320 Fairgrounds Road, Falmouth. Free admission and parking. Information: Bernie, 859-414-3017, or Greg, 859-620-0169. Enjoy great music, fantastic food, wonderful entertainment and performances by the Donauschwaben Dance groups. Oktoberfest chicken dinners will be offered Friday night, and roasted beef dinners will be offered Saturday night. Details: 5:30-11 p.m. Friday, 1-11 p.m. Saturday, Donauschwaben Hall, 4290 Dry Ridge Road, Colerain Township. Fortified Hill is a 2,000-year-old Indigenous ceremonial earthworks site that sits adjacent to Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park's grounds. Pyramid Hill has been preparing this site for visitors through respectful restoration and continued learning and training of guides. Details: 6 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturday, Pyramid Hill, 1763 Hamilton Cleves Road, Hamilton. Members: $20 adults, $5 children 12 and under. Non-members: $30 adults, $10 children 12 and under. Runs the first weekend of each month through November. Formerly Second Sunday on Main, this new incarnation, called Pride in OTR Weekend Street Fair, features an outdoor vendor fair on both sides of the street, local businesses offering deals, entertainment by CinCity Shakers, drag queens and local musical talent. There will also be neighborhood-wide events throughout the weekend. Details: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday-Sunday, Main Street between 12th and Liberty streets, Over-the-Rhine. Come to Findlay Market to get creative with tie-dye and charm bracelet making stations. Dance to music from live DJ Rah D who will be spinning from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Afterwards, there will be an open mic night where queer writers, poets, singers and allies come together to share their voices and stories. Details: 5-8 p.m., Findlay Market, 1801 Race St., Over-the-Rhine. The Reds are facing the Arizona Diamondbacks. Friday is Pride Night and Fireworks Friday; there's a bobblehead giveaway Saturday. Reds Mascot Plushie ticket package is available on Sunday. Details: 7:10 p.m. Friday, 4:10 p.m. Saturday, 1:40 p.m. Sunday, Great American Ball Park, 100 Joe Nuxhall Way, Downtown. Explore hundreds of yard sales along 200 miles of U.S. 25 – from Northern Kentucky, even into Jellico, Tennessee. Details: All day Friday-Saturday, State Route 25 in Richwood, Walton, Crittenden, Dry Ridge, Williamstown and more. During this one-day event, travel to the Kentucky side of the river to see over 50 local and regional artists exhibiting their work along Riverside Drive in Augusta. Explore a variety of art vendors, choose from a wide array of local cuisine and jam out to live music. Details: 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Riverside Drive, Augusta. At "It's Your Churn," help churn butter and sample what's been made. Experience bread baking in cast iron and Dutch oven over fire. Details: noon-4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, Hueston Woods State Park, Pioneer Farm Museum, 6924 Brown Road, Oxford. Free. Kids ages 10-under can enjoy games, movement and stories set to music by some of the most iconic musicians in rock history at the Rock and Roll Playhouse event. This week's music is The Beatles. Details: noon-1 p.m., Fountain Square, 520 Vine St., Downtown. Hosted by West Chester Business Association, this cherished event celebrates West Chester's history and community spirit. Take a walk through the Olde West Chester corridor. Each local business will showcase a unique activity. Enjoy food trucks, beer sales and a vibrant street fair atmosphere. Details: 2-6 p.m., Olde West Chester business district, Cincinnati Dayton Road, West Chester. Think plants can't have that much flavor? At Cincy VegFest, enjoy delicious and diverse plant-sourced meal choices by a variety of exhibitors. Spend the day listening to live music, eating mouth-watering food and connecting with the community. Details: noon-5 p.m., Burnet Woods, 3251 Brookline Ave., Corryville. Free. Take a Missing Linck flight, get a crash course on beer appreciation, try beers with cheese pairings or take a brewery tour. Details: noon, Urban Artifact Brewing, 1660 Blue Rock St., Northside. Celebrate the artistic expression that connects communities. Enjoy fine art, crafts, theater, music and dance. Details: 10 a.m.-6 p.m., 47 E. Mulberry St., Lebanon. At Ohio Valley Indigenous Music Festival, you'll find music vendors, workshops and food. Take the whole family. Details: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday, Patricia Allyn Park, 7266 State Route 48, Springboro. Free. There will be food trucks, arts and crafts fair, a Kid Zone with inflatables, face painting and meet and greets with Bumblebee the Yellow Transformer and two baby dinosaur puppets. Live music from Jambox: A Tribute to the 70s and 80s and Crush: The Bon Jovi Experience. Bring lawn chairs. Details: 4-10 p.m., Main and Poplar streets, downtown Rising Sun, In. Free. Support members of the LGBT+ community. This family-friendly festival features vendors, activities for kids, music and performances, food trucks and more. The Pride March is at 11 a.m. Details: noon-7 p.m., Marcum Park, 116 Dayton St., Hamilton. Free. The captivating gardens showcased in Newport make it one of the most popular garden tours in the Greater Cincinnati area. A minimum of eight selected private gardens will be open for your enjoyment as well as a Rest and Relaxation site. Save time for a visit to the vendor market on the lawn of St. John's United Church at Park Avenue and Nelson Place. Details: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, Historic East Row Neighborhood, 417 E 6th St., Newport, Ky. This year's theme is Icons of British Motoring, with special display classes for 100 anniversary of Chrysler, Indian Motorcycles, automotive oddities and 13 regular classes of classic, vintage and exotic autos and motorcycles. Details: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Ault Park, 5090 Observatory Circle, Mount Lookout. Family-friendly festival with vendors, food and activities. Details: noon-5 p.m., Liberty Park, 716 S. Park Ave., Batesville. Free. Queer-affirming, licensed, area tattoo artists will be doing first-come, first-served LGBTQ+ themed tattoos. Come to the afterparty at Tillies. Details: 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Cincinnati Ballet, Sheakley Studio, 1801 Gilbert Ave., Walnut Hills. Come to the largest drag brunch in the region. Price includes brunch, signature drinks and unforgettable performances. Proceeds benefit Queen City Charities. Details: 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Rhinegeist Brewery, 1910 Elm St., Over-the-Rhine. $95. Urban, curated flea market, food trucks and more. Details: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Marcum Park, 106 N. Second St., Hamilton. Free admission. Peruse the works of more than 80 local artisans. Details: noon-6 p.m., Washington Park, 1230 Elm St., Over-the-Rhine. Free. This program is designed for visitors with low or no vision and allows you to use your touch and hearing senses to discover the museum's collection and exhibition gallery spaces. With the guidance of specially trained educators, you'll interact with 3D printed reproductions, fabric samples and soundscapes. Details: 10 a.m.-5 p.m., 316 Pike St., Downtown. $15 for adults; $12 for seniors; free for Taft members, military and under 17. Sundays and Mondays are free. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Things to do in Cincinnati this week, June 2-8, 2025
