The Newport Blast - Newport, Kentucky

The Newport Blast 4th of July Celebration

The Newport Blast - Newport, Kentucky

Overview of Newport Blast

The Newport Blast is a vibrant, family-friendly Independence Day celebration held on July 3 at Newport on the Levee, a premier entertainment destination along the Ohio River. Debuting in 2024, this carnival-themed festival, organized by meetNKY, Newport on the Levee, BB Riverboats, and the City of Newport, features live music, games, dining, and a spectacular Rozzi Fireworks and Drone Display. Free to attend, it aims to become a regional tradition, uniting communities from Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky.

Newport on the Levee

Festive Activities

Live Entertainment

Enjoy classic rock by DV8, broadcast on AM 1480, FM 99.5, FM 107.9, and iHeartRadio. Stilt walkers as Uncle Sam and the Statue of Liberty, plus juggling magicians, add patriotic fun.

Family-Friendly Fun

Kids can enjoy carnival games, a stars-and-stripes inflatable slide, bounce house, and face painting, ensuring a playful experience for all ages.

Hot Dog Eating Contest

Compete in the Five Guys hot dog eating contest for a "Levee Staycation" prize, including a stay at Aloft Newport and gift cards.

Dining & Shopping

Explore restaurants like Amador, The Galley Food Hall, and Shiners on the Levee, plus shops like Sweet Dreams Candy Co. and The Brickery Cafe.

Fireworks & Drone Display

A 30-minute Rozzi Fireworks and Drone Display at 10:00 p.m. lights up the sky, viewable from The Riverwalk with the Cincinnati skyline as a backdrop.

BB Riverboat Cruises

For a premium experience, BB Riverboats offers ticketed cruises from noon to 11:00 p.m., featuring a buffet dinner, live music or DJ, and prime fireworks viewing from the Ohio River. Reservations are required at bbriverboats.com.

BB Riverboats

Logistics & Accessibility

  • Date & Time: July 3, 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., with fireworks at 10:00 p.m.
  • Location: Newport on the Levee, 1 Levee Way, Newport, KY 41071
  • Cost: Free admission; cruises require tickets
  • Parking: Available ($15 from 12 PM to 12 AM) in the Levee garage; arrive early
  • All visitors: under the age of 17 must be accompanied by a parent of legal guardian after 4PM.
  • Accessibility: Near I-471, 20 miles from CVG airport, and connected to Cincinnati via bridges
  • Weather: Fireworks proceed rain or shine.