Fishbowl Live has been making waves since its first show in November 2024, changing the University of Cincinnati’s (UC) music venue scene.
Run by four UC students — Boston Hammond, a third-year construction management major; Ethan DiCicco, a fourth-year pre-physical therapy major; Ethan Tharp, a third-year cybersecurity major; and Sam Wittmann, a fourth-year architecture major — Fishbowl Live has become a niche music hub for students and locals.
The venue, located at 3059 Taylor Ave. in Clifton, has a backyard stage where local bands perform for audiences of up to 1,000.
At its core, Fishbowl Live is about live music and community. The organizers intentionally feature local bands, giving them a spotlight and curating lineups that match the venue’s welcoming, high-energy vibe.
“Thank you to everyone who has supported us over the past year,” Hammond said. “We’ve been blessed with a platform to bring people together and develop our community in such an impactful way.”
Fishbowl Live is reshaping Cincinnati by giving back to the community that supports it. The venue has raised more than $6,000 for charities and maintained respectful relationships with its neighbors.
“We wouldn’t have been able to win this award without the immense love that Cincinnati has shown us, and we are beyond grateful to everyone who contributed to our success,” Hammond said.