CINCINNATI (WKRC) - Despite threats of boycotts and protests downtown, the Friday night lineup at the 2019 Cincinnati Music Festival played to a crowd of around 30,000 people.
Many of the festival-goers are from out of town, and supporters of former judge Tracie Hunter, who was jailed earlier this week, are hoping to use the music festival as a platform for them to share their side of the story.
It's an annual trip to the Cincinnati Music Festival for thousands.
"We had such a good time with the family we decided to come back a second year, and we met more friends down here this year," said Eric Abernathy from Buffalo, New York.
This year, the climate outside the stadium is a little different. A few blocks over on Fountain Square, Hunter's supporters are sending a message.
"I just want the city and for out-of-towners to understand who Judge Hunter is and what she did while she was on the bench. It's very unfortunate that she didn't get the chance to implement enough policies," said supporter Iris Roley.
Abernathy and Howard Williams heard about the case. It doesn't change their thoughts on the festival.
"No, it was already in the making, so, therefore, we always do stuff in advance, so we going to be here regardless," said Williams.
Supporters are encouraging travelers to boycott downtown restaurants and businesses on a weekend that usually brings in millions for the city.
"We understand the community and we are very sensitive to how the community feels. So, we're working with the city of Cincinnati. We haven't heard anything that's disruptive, but we're just here to have a good time," said Eric Austin from P&G, who is sponsoring the music festival.
Hunter's supporters say they will be on Fountain Square Saturday too.
Denise Dickenson, Buffalo NY: "It's a happy weekend because any time you get together it becomes happy," said Denise Dickenson, also from Buffalo.
The Cincinnati Music Festival continues Saturday night with such acts as Mary J. Blige, Frankie Beverly and Maze and the Ohio Players.
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