It’s here… Labor Day Weekend! This is the “last hurrah” of summer, and there are lots of ways to commemorate this weekend in Cincinnati. (And if you’re already ordering Pumpkin Spice Lattes and looking towards Fall, we’ve got you covered, too!)
Riverfest 2023 kicks off on Sunday, September 3rd at Noon on the Ohio River!
Every year, thousands of families from the tri-state meet at the Ohio River for one final goodbye to summer. With an all day celebration planned, Western and Southern and WEBN are once again hosts to the epic party and fireworks show at 9p.
Here’s all the ins and outs of Riverfest 2023:
Q: What are the Western & Southern / WEBN Fireworks?
A: A fireworks display featuring Rozzi’s Famous Fireworks. We return to the river in 2023 with Riverfest, kicking off at Noon at Sawyer Point Park and Yeatman’s Cove. Fireworks launch from the Ohio River starting at 9pm.
Q: Will WEBN live broadcast from Riverfest?
A: Yes! WEBN kicks off our live broadcast from Sawyer Point Park and Yeatman’s Cove starting at Noon from the Broadcast Bunker, sponsored by U.S. Army. Click here to tune in!
Q: Can I watch the Fireworks on TV?
A: Yes! Watch the Fireworks on Local 12
Q: How many years has this been going on?
A: This is our 47th fireworks show
Q: What is the date and time:
A: Sunday, September 3rd, 2023, starting at 12pm
Q: Will the festival still take place if it rains?
A: Yes! We will do everything in our power to make the show go on!
Q: Where will the t-shirts be sold?
A: T-Shirts can be purchased at participating Kroger locations.
Q: Will there be ATM’s on-site?
A: Yes, there will be ATMs on-site at Yeatman’s Cove.
Q: When can I set up my tarp on the Serpentine Wall?
A: Tarp set-up may begin at 12 noon on Sunday, September 3rd. Anything placed before 12p on Sunday will be removed and destroyed. Please remember, you cannot secure your tarps with duct tape, rocks, bricks, sand, or gallon jugs of water. Please be considerate of others and only reserve a reasonable amount of space.
When placing your tarp or blanket, please only use painter tape, gaffer tape, or masking tape.
General Policies
For the safety of everyone enjoying the return of the Western & Southern / WEBN Fireworks, all persons entering the park property are subject to a visual inspection, and bag inspection to search for prohibited items. Oversized bags, luggage, and backpacks will not be permitted inside the venues. Purses, diaper bags and other small personal bags are allowed after a thorough inspection.
Rubber Duck Regatta
The 29th Annual Rubber Duck Regatta will take place on Sunday, September 3rd. Each duck purchased will help provide 15 meals to the community—that’s something to quack about! Buy a Duck and Feed a Child today. Click here for more info and to purchase your duck!
RiverFest with kids can get a little crazy– if it’s your first time, be prepared for one of the biggest crowds of your life. Remember noise cancelling headphones, snacks, sunscreen, water, glow-in-the-dark toys, a few cozy blankets and your sanity!! It’s a busy day and late night for kids, give them some grace!
For a calmer experience, we recommend setting up on the Newport side for less traffic- both on foot and in cars. Have family or friends nearby lay out blankets earlier in the day to secure a good spot without spending the entire day on the river.Â