Spectacular Western & Southern / WEBN Fireworks Light Up Cincinnati Riverfront

CINCINNATI, Aug. 31, 2025 - An estimated 500,000 spectators gathered along the Ohio River tonight for the 49th annual Western & Southern / WEBN Fireworks show, Cincinnati’s flagship Labor Day-weekend celebration.

The evening kicked off with a drone performance over Great American Ball Park at 9 p.m., setting the stage for the main pyrotechnic display. At precisely 9:10 p.m., Rozzi’s Famous Fireworks unleashed a 30-minute, choreographed spectacle synchronized to a custom soundtrack broadcast live on WEBN 102.7 FM.

To ensure public safety, the U.S. Coast Guard enforced a No Wake Zone from 12 p.m. through 3 a.m. and closed portions of the Ohio and Licking Rivers from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.. Cincinnati police and river patrols monitored three designated anchorage areas, while downtown roadway and pedestrian bridges-including the Roebling Suspension, Taylor Southgate, and Clay Wade Bailey bridges-closed between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m..

Police Chief Teresa Theetge deployed mounted units, mountain bikes, and undercover officers to manage the record‐sized crowd. “Our goal is to keep everyone safe and let them enjoy the show,” she remarked before the event. No major incidents were reported, and traffic began to reopen approximately 30 minutes after the finale.

Local businesses reported brisk sales, with parking lots such as the Hofbräuhaus charging $20 for premium riverfront spots. For those unable to attend in person, Local 12 provided a live broadcast across television and online platforms.

Despite concerns over crowd size, organizers praised the smooth operation. “Year after year, this tradition brings our community together,” said John F. Barrett, CEO of co-sponsor Western & Southern Financial Group. With tonight’s successful display, the WEBN Fireworks continue their legacy as one of the nation’s premier holiday events.