Join us for Dr. Umar Johnson LIVE in Cincinnati! Secure your tickets now for the CAFA Legacy Night & Document, where we will explore the community impact of the Firefighter Association and share the valuable membership benefits available to all attendees.
Hosted by the Cincinnati African American Fire Fighters Asso
Welcome to Cincinnati!
On behalf of the Cincinnati African American Fire Fighters Association (CAFA), welcome to the Queen City and the 55th Annual IABPFF Convention.
We are honored to serve as your host city and can't wait to share the hospitality, culture, history, and energy that make Cincinnati unique. Throughout the week, CAFA has planned a variety of host city events and experiences designed to help you connect with fellow firefighters, explore our city, and create lasting memories.
Whether this is your first visit or you're returning to Cincinnati, we're glad you're here. Welcome—and enjoy your stay!
Host City Information
Convention Host: Cincinnati African American Fire Fighters Association (CAFA)
Official Convention Information: Registration, hotels, delegate information, and the official convention schedule are available through the IABPFF Convention website.
Host City Events: Visit our Host City Events page for mixers, social events, brunches, entertainment, and local experiences hosted by CAFA.
Need Assistance? Contact our Host City Team for questions related to CAFA-hosted events and local recommendations.
CAFA Host City Event Schedule
Explore the complete lineup of CAFA Host City events taking place throughout the 55th Annual IABPFF Convention in Cincinnati. Plan your week and don't miss a moment.
The Line They Drew: The CAFA Legacy Stories Documentary Premiere & Fireside Chat Featuring Dr. Umar Johnson
Join the Cincinnati African American Fire Fighters Association (CAFA) for the premiere of The Line They Drew: The CAFA Legacy Stories, a powerful documentary honoring the history, sacrifice, and lasting impact of Cincinnati's African American firefighters.
The evening includes an exclusive screening of the documentary followed by a live fireside conversation featuring Dr. Umar Johnson, exploring leadership, legacy, community, and the importance of preserving the stories that shaped the fire service.
This special event is open to the public and promises an inspiring evening of history, conversation, and celebration.
General Admission: $40 per person
The Besties Brunch
Wrap up an unforgettable week with the Besties Brunch, the official closing celebration of CAFA's Black Firefighter Convention Week. Hosted at Confessions Bar & Restaurant Lounge, this brunch is open to everyone and brings together great food, great people, and even better vibes.
Enjoy unlimited mimosas while choosing one of our signature brunch entrées, all included with your ticket:
- Talk to Me Brittny – Shrimp & Grits
- Morning Confession – Turkey bacon, eggs, toast, and fried potatoes & onions
- Keep It Classic French Toast – French toast served with eggs and wings
Whether you're celebrating with friends, making new connections, or closing out convention week in style, Besties Brunch is the perfect way to end an incredible week in Cincinnati.
Lounge 1026 E. McMillan Street, Cincinnati, OH 45206
Your ticket includes:
- One brunch entrée
- Unlimited mimosas
- Music, networking, and an unforgettable brunch experience
Reserve your seat today—this event has limited capacity.
Code Red The Official Friday Night Convention Party
Join firefighters, families, friends, and supporters from across North America for Code Red, the official Friday night convention party hosted by CAFA. Dress to impress and enjoy an unforgettable evening featuring great music, dancing, cash bars, and an upscale atmosphere as we celebrate fellowship and convention week in Cincinnati.
Whether you're reconnecting with old friends or making new ones, Code Red is the place to be Friday night.
CAFA All-Access Pass
Experience the best of Convention Week with the CAFA All-Access Pass. This exclusive pass includes admission to CAFA's three signature ticketed events during the 55th Bi-Annual International Association of Black Professional Fire Fighters Convention, plus access to all CAFA convention mixers.
RSVP FOR FREE EVENTS
Danney Ball
Fire & Ice Happy Hour Mixer
Worship Sunday
Get active and connect with fellow convention attendees at Danney Ball, presented by the Cincinnati African American Firefighters Association in partnership with Cincy Danney Ball. This high-energy experience combines basketball, fitness and friendly competition using a 10-pound weighted ball. Whether you’re ready to compete or simply loo
Get active and connect with fellow convention attendees at Danney Ball, presented by the Cincinnati African American Firefighters Association in partnership with Cincy Danney Ball. This high-energy experience combines basketball, fitness and friendly competition using a 10-pound weighted ball. Whether you’re ready to compete or simply looking for a fun way to move, everyone is welcome to participate.
This event is open exclusively to registered International Association of Black Professional Fire Fighters Convention attendees.
Sunday, August 16, 2026
10:00 AM
Fifty West
7875 Columbia Road
Mason, OH 45040
Worship Sunday
Fire & Ice Happy Hour Mixer
Worship Sunday
Join the Cincinnati African American Firefighters Association for Worship Sunday as we conclude convention week with a time of faith, fellowship and reflection.
Convention attendees and community members are invited to worship with Third Presbyterian Church during its Sunday morning service. Attend in person or join the service online thro
Join the Cincinnati African American Firefighters Association for Worship Sunday as we conclude convention week with a time of faith, fellowship and reflection.
Convention attendees and community members are invited to worship with Third Presbyterian Church during its Sunday morning service. Attend in person or join the service online through the church’s YouTube or Facebook platforms.
Sunday, August 23, 2026
11:00 AM
Third Presbyterian Church
3358 McHenry Avenue
Cincinnati, OH 45225
In-person and online attendance are available.
Fire & Ice Happy Hour Mixer
Fire & Ice Happy Hour Mixer
Fire & Ice Happy Hour Mixer
Start convention week with the perfect blend of bold flavors, relaxed conversation and great company at the Fire & Ice Happy Hour Mixer. Presented by the Cincinnati African American Firefighters Association and Lush Life Brands, this afternoon gathering features bourbon and wine tastings in a welcoming social atmosphere.
Come mix, mingle a
Start convention week with the perfect blend of bold flavors, relaxed conversation and great company at the Fire & Ice Happy Hour Mixer. Presented by the Cincinnati African American Firefighters Association and Lush Life Brands, this afternoon gathering features bourbon and wine tastings in a welcoming social atmosphere.
Come mix, mingle and connect with firefighters, convention guests and community members while enjoying a sophisticated Cincinnati happy hour experience.
Monday, August 17, 2026
4:00–8:00 PM
917 Vine Street
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Welcome to Cincinnati Rooftop Social
Welcome to Cincinnati Rooftop Social
Welcome to Cincinnati Rooftop Social
Kick off convention week with an evening above the Queen City! Join firefighters, families, and friends for a relaxed rooftop social featuring great conversations, beautiful skyline views, music, and the perfect opportunity to reconnect before the week's events begin.
Wine Down & Chill Mixer
Welcome to Cincinnati Rooftop Social
Welcome to Cincinnati Rooftop Social
Unwind after a full day of convention activities at our Wine Down & Chill Mixer. Enjoy an evening of networking, light bites, and great conversation in one of Cincinnati's premier wine destinations. Whether you're reconnecting with old friends or making new ones, this is the perfect place to relax and recharge.
Fire Chief McKinley Welcome Mixer
Welcome to Cincinnati Rooftop Social
Summer Night Social at Son & Garden
Hosted by Cincinnati Fire Chief Frank McKinley, this special welcome mixer officially welcomes firefighters and guests to Cincinnati. Join us for an evening of fellowship, networking, and community as we celebrate the beginning of an unforgettable convention week.
Summer Night Social at Son & Garden
Firefighter Meet & Greet Karaoke Night
Summer Night Social at Son & Garden
Take a break from the convention and experience one of Cincinnati's favorite nightlife destinations. Join CAFA for an evening of music, networking, cocktails, and great conversation in a vibrant lounge atmosphere at Son & Garden.
Smoke & Connect Cigar Social
Firefighter Meet & Greet Karaoke Night
Firefighter Meet & Greet Karaoke Night
Relax, unwind, and build new connections at CAFA's Smoke & Connect Cigar Social. Enjoy premium cigars, great conversation, and an upscale atmosphere while networking with firefighters from across the United States and beyond.
Firefighter Meet & Greet Karaoke Night
Firefighter Meet & Greet Karaoke Night
Firefighter Meet & Greet Karaoke Night
Grab the mic and enjoy one of the most entertaining nights of convention week! Whether you're singing your favorite song or cheering on your fellow firefighters, Karaoke Night is all about laughter, connection, and creating lasting memories in a relaxed atmosphere.
The Line They Drew: The CAFA Legacy Stories Documentary Premiere
The Line They Drew: The CAFA Legacy Stories Documentary Premiere
The Line They Drew: The CAFA Legacy Stories Documentary Premiere
Join the Cincinnati African American Fire Fighters Association (CAFA) for the premiere of The Line They Drew: The CAFA Legacy Stories, a powerful documentary honoring the history, sacrifice, and lasting impact of Cincinnati's African American firefighters.
The evening includes an exclusive screening of the documentary followed by a live fi
Join the Cincinnati African American Fire Fighters Association (CAFA) for the premiere of The Line They Drew: The CAFA Legacy Stories, a powerful documentary honoring the history, sacrifice, and lasting impact of Cincinnati's African American firefighters.
The evening includes an exclusive screening of the documentary followed by a live fireside conversation featuring Dr. Umar Johnson, exploring leadership, legacy, community, and the importance of preserving the stories that shaped the fire service.
This special event is open to the public and promises an inspiring evening of history, conversation, and celebration.
General Admission: $40 per person
Legacy Night After Party
The Line They Drew: The CAFA Legacy Stories Documentary Premiere
The Line They Drew: The CAFA Legacy Stories Documentary Premiere
Keep the celebration going after the documentary premiere at CAFA's official Legacy Night After Party. Join firefighters, friends, and convention guests for an unforgettable evening of music, dancing, and celebration as we honor the past while celebrating the future.
Code Red
The Line They Drew: The CAFA Legacy Stories Documentary Premiere
Besties Brunch
When the business of the convention ends, the celebration begins.
Join firefighters, families, friends, and supporters from across North America for Code Red, the official Friday night convention party hosted by CAFA. Dress to impress and enjoy an unforgettable evening featuring great music, dancing, cash bars, and an upscale atmosphere as
When the business of the convention ends, the celebration begins.
Join firefighters, families, friends, and supporters from across North America for Code Red, the official Friday night convention party hosted by CAFA. Dress to impress and enjoy an unforgettable evening featuring great music, dancing, cash bars, and an upscale atmosphere as we celebrate fellowship and convention week in Cincinnati.
Whether you're reconnecting with old friends or making new ones, Code Red is the place to be Friday night.
General Admission: $20 per person
Besties Brunch
Day Shift Day Party
Besties Brunch
Gather your besties and join the Cincinnati African American Firefighters Association for a brunch filled with good food, great vibes and unbreakable bonds. Besties Brunch brings together convention attendees, friends and supporters for a lively Saturday celebration at Confessions Bar & Restaurant Lounge.
Enjoy a delicious brunch experienc
Gather your besties and join the Cincinnati African American Firefighters Association for a brunch filled with good food, great vibes and unbreakable bonds. Besties Brunch brings together convention attendees, friends and supporters for a lively Saturday celebration at Confessions Bar & Restaurant Lounge.
Enjoy a delicious brunch experience, unlimited mimosas and the kind of energy that makes lasting memories.
$50 Brunch Ticket Required
Day Shift Day Party
Day Shift Day Party
Day Shift Day Party
Good vibes, great people and one purpose—Day Shift is the official Saturday afternoon day party presented by the Cincinnati African American Firefighters Association.
Join us at Pike 2 Bar & Grill for an energetic afternoon featuring music by DJ Steve Nice, sample tastings presented by Milagro Tequila and plenty of opportunities to connect
Good vibes, great people and one purpose—Day Shift is the official Saturday afternoon day party presented by the Cincinnati African American Firefighters Association.
Join us at Pike 2 Bar & Grill for an energetic afternoon featuring music by DJ Steve Nice, sample tastings presented by Milagro Tequila and plenty of opportunities to connect and celebrate with firefighters, convention guests and the Cincinnati community.
Saturday, August 22, 2026
4:00–8:00 PM
Pike 2 Bar & Grill
10010 Springfield Pike
Cincinnati, OH 45215
The Finale
Day Shift Day Party
Day Shift Day Party
Close out convention week with The Finale—an unforgettable celebration honoring Black firefighters and the bonds built throughout the week.
The Cincinnati African American Firefighters Association and Memories Lounge invite convention guests, friends and supporters to come together for one final night of music, celebration and connection.
Close out convention week with The Finale—an unforgettable celebration honoring Black firefighters and the bonds built throughout the week.
The Cincinnati African American Firefighters Association and Memories Lounge invite convention guests, friends and supporters to come together for one final night of music, celebration and connection. Let’s end the convention on a high note and create memories that last long after the week is over.
Saturday, August 22, 2026
9:00 PM–Until
Memories Lounge
35 E. Seventh Street
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Official IABPFF Convention Schedule
View the official convention agenda, including general sessions, workshops, committee meetings, business sessions, and other activities scheduled by the International Association of Black Professional Fire Fighters (IABPFF).
Dr. Umar Johnson is coming to Cincinnati!
Join CAFA for an unforgettable night featuring the premiere of The Line They Drew: The CAFA Legacy Stories and a live fireside chat with Dr. Umar Johnson.