In a New Light
Photo: Visit Cincy
Cincinnati’s summer officially ends on Sunday night, Sept. 1, at 9 p.m., a loud, long goodbye in the form of Western-Southern/WEBN Riverfest. This is the 48th year for the fireworks extravaganza, and this year, it’s time to bust out the parachute pants and blue eyeliner – the theme is “I Love the 90s.”
The official celebration begins at noon Sunday at Sawyer Point Park and Yeatman’s Cove in Cincinnati and around the same time across the river in Northern Kentucky. If you want to brave the crowds, you can start staking your claim on spots on the river as early as noon. Crowds in Cincinnati close in on 500,000, while Covington and Newport are expecting almost 100,000 people over the course of the day.
In addition to the fireworks show itself, broadcast on Local12 TV and WEBN radio, watch for a new drone show, over Great American Ball Park, beginning at 9 p.m.
Parking restrictions begin in the afternoon, so travel accordingly.
Let’s just say the mega-crowds aren’t quite your thing. There are plenty of other places to check out the fireworks and save your sanity.
Newport is hosting Riverfest on the Levee from 3-9 p.m., with live music, family-friendly activities, games and pop-up shops. The levee is leaning into the ‘90s theme, with ‘90s-style makeovers, and even a chance to get slimed. Parking is $25, but the event is free.
Mt. Echo Park is hosting Riverfest West starting at 4 p.m., and does draw a crowd, but your trip home will be a little easier with much less traffic. Cincinnati Parks points out it’s also one of the best views in the city, fireworks or no. Enjoy family fun, food and more.
One of the best seats in the house to see the fireworks is on the river itself. BB Riverboats offers fireworks cruise that takes the work out of getting up close and personal with the fireworks. Boarding begins at 4 p.m. and tickets are $175.
Just in time for Riverfest, Boom on the Bridge is back. The Purple People Bridge is re-opening just in time for what could be the perfect view of the show. Boom on the Bridge is a fundraiser for the bridge itself. If you go, expect great food and drink, private restrooms (score!), and custom Purple People Bridge gifts included. Tickets are sold out for this year, but it’s never too early to start thinking about 2025!