The kids are getting ready to go back to school, the days are growing shorter, and the afternoon barbecues are becoming few and far between. We feel like summer just started, and we're certainly not ready to let it go yet. Luckily, Labor Day Weekend provides one final chance to enjoy all of our favorite summer activities (and enjoy three days off work to boot!). It might be tempting to catch up on sleep with that extra day off, but it would be a shame to miss out on the celebrations and summery events occurring across town, because in Cincinnati, we certainly know how to throw a good party. Here are some of the Labor Day Weekend events we are most looking forward to. Have fun out there — and don't forget your white jeans!
Riverfest / WEBN Fireworks | Sunday, September 3, 12-10 pm
This traditional summer send-off began more than 40 years ago when WEBN set off fireworks to celebrate their 10-year anniversary. Now, it's one of the most anticipated events of the year! The party takes place at Sawyer Point on Sunday, and features live music, food from local vendors, and family-friendly activities. When the sun sets, people on both sides of the river find a spot to enjoy the fireworks and marvel at the light show.
Words on the Water | Friday, September 1, 10 pm - 2 am
Wear all white to this swanky riverboat celebration, which will feature DJs, two floors, food, drinks, and some of the city's best spoken word artists, including Isaiah 58:1 and Genay Hall. All of this will take place at night on the water — which is simply the best place to listen to music and poetry, if you ask us.
The 2017 Craft Beer Series and Music at the Market | September 1-3, Hours Vary
Cincinnati is home to so many incredible beer entrepreneurs. Thankfully, we are able to enjoy their hop-filled creations at breweries across town, but during the summer, the Findlay Marketwelcomes a weekly brewer to serve at the biergarten, share their story, and pour two of their seasonal beers. To add to the experience, you'll get to listen to an incredible lineup of local artists. Over Labor Day Weekend, treat yourself to Braxton Brewing Company, and stomp your feet along to the Part Time Gents (Friday) and Liz Wu (Saturday).
The Ohio Renaissance Festival | Saturday, September 2, All Day
If you're willing to make the hour-long trek to nearby Harveysburg, you will be treated to the opening day of Ohio's Renaissance Festival — a non-stop adventure that transports you centuries back in time! Enjoy sweet and savory offerings all day long, free-flowing beer, 100 shows daily on 12 different stages, and shops selling trinkets and souvenirs.
FC Cincinnati Soccer vs. The Pittsburgh Hounds FC | Saturday, September 2, 4 pm
Head over to Nippert Stadium to cheer on your local soccer team as they face off against the Pittsburgh Hounds. And don't you dare forget your orange and blue! You can find all of your matchday apparel on the FC Cincinnati website, so you're prepared to cheer in style.
The Rubber Duck Regatta | Sunday, September 3, 3 pm
This charity event is just as fun as it sounds. Buy a duck to compete in the race, and Kroger will donate 15 meals to hungry children in our community! You can purchase your duck of choice (or flock of ducks) at your neighborhood Kroger in the weeks leading up to the race — just make sure to choose a fast one. The winner of the Regatta will drive away with a 2017 Honda and cash prizes.
Free Shakespeare in The Park | Sunday, September 3, 7 pm
To be or not to be at this event is really not a question if you're a fan of Shakespeare. The Cincinnati Shakespeare Company puts on free performances of the playwright's most famous hits in various parks throughout the summer. The series concludes with a bang on Labor Day Weekend, with a performance of Romeo & Juliet in Montgomery Park. Don't miss it, "for never was a story of more woe than this of Juliet and her Romeo."
The Fireworks Train | Sunday, September 3, 6 pm
All aboard! A ride on the Fireworks Train is not an event you and your family will soon forget. Enjoy a 25-mile round trip ride through the city on a vintage passenger car. The wide open windows are perfect for seeing the city sights in all their glory, but you'll be especially thrilled when pull up to the riverfront in style to see the famed WEBN fireworks show.
Labor Day Picnic at Stricker's Grove | Monday, September 4, 1-8 pm
Send summer off with a scream! Strickers Grove Amusement Park will open its doors on Labor Day for a popcorn and cotton candy-filled celebration. After you've twisted and twirled on the roller coasters to your heart's content, the park will close for a picnic-style dinner from 4-5 pm. Then, you can twist and twirl some more until the park closes at 8!
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