It’s the first weekend of September, which means it’s time for Labor Day festivities. And there’s plenty to do, not just fireworks.
If you’re looking for even more to do on every day of the week, visit the CityBeat events calendar.
Riverfest/W&S WEBN Labor Day Fireworks
Sunday, at the Ohio River, both sides (Yeatman’s Cove / Newport on the Levee)
Speaking of fireworks, is there anything more synonymous with Labor Day in the Cincinnati area than Riverfest? This year’s WEBN Labor Day Fireworks is the 50th annual iteration; to celebrate, the show will be significantly bigger and better than ever, with a longer show, an increased number of fireworks, new multi-location pyrotechnics, drone formations and architectural effects, along with a panoramic “360 degree” viewing experience. Read more about this year’s show here.
Saturday – Sunday, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m., 10542 E. State Route 73, Waynesville
It’s almost time for turkey legs and mead again. The Ohio Renaissance Festival begins this weekend, so head up to Waynesville to be immersed in the medieval era, where over 100 different daily performances take place alongside fun activities like archery and axe throwing. Plenty of artisans will be at hand selling all sorts of Renaissance era goods, too.
Cincinnati Reds vs. Milwaukee Brewers
Friday – Sunday, Great American Ballpark, downtown
The Reds playoff hopes have basically evaporated, now that they’re seven games back from a Wild Card spot and still dealing with myriad injuries while facing off against their biggest division rival. (Chase Burns going on an innings limit doesn’t help, either.) However, it’s still plenty of fun to head to GABP, have a couple hot dogs, and enjoy the experience of one of MLB’s greatest ballparks.
Afterlife’s One Year Block Party
Saturday, 12 p.m. – 2 a.m., Court Street Plaza, downtown
Downtown Cincinnati’s new favorite bar is celebrating one year in business with a special family-friendly block party all over Court Street Plaza. They’ve got a whole new menu, too — read all about Afterlife and this weekend’s festivities by clicking here.
Saturday – Sunday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Lunken Airport, 262 Wilmer Ave, Columbia-Tusculum
Ever wanted to ride in a WW2-era bomber plane? Lunken Airport’s got you covered. Head to the East Side for helicopter rides, bomber rides and a display of various transportation methods (like classic cars and old military vehicles) as part of Lunken Airport Days.
Sunday, 7 p.m., Bogart’s, Clifton
Popular underground rapper Slayr will be performing all of his TikTok hits this Sunday at Bogart’s as part of his “Half Blood Tour.” No openers have been announced.
Saturday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Nisbet Park, 126 Karl Brown Way, Loveland
The annual Loveland Art Festival is back for a ninth go-round with a new location to boot. Nearly 70 artists will show their work as guests enjoy live music and various food trucks.
Friday – Sunday, 7 a.m. – 6:45 p.m., Ziegler Pool, 1322 Sycamore Street, Over-the-Rhine
With temperatures this weekend reaching up into the 90s, a day at the pool seems like a perfect idea. This is the second-to-last weekend Ziegler Pool will be open for the summer, and the final week is stuffed with events (like Dog Swim), meaning this is likely your best shot to hit the pool one last time in 2026.
Friday – Sunday, Boone County Fairgrounds, 5819 Idlewild Road, Burlington
Fancy a trip to the circus? This “modern” twist on the classic touring circus experience promises thrilling performances, mesmerizing lights and whimsical delights under the big top. This is the first time the award-winning circus has toured the United States.
Friday, 6:30 p.m., Andrew J. Brady Center, downtown
The classic rock band O.A.R. celebrates 30 years of music on their latest tour. Gavin DeGraw and KT Tunstall open.
