Additional highlights include the 'King Of Them All: River Roots Edition,' exploring Cincinnati’s historic King Records, and musical cruises featuring artists from Memphis and New Orleans.

The America’s River Roots Festival, celebrating the Ohio River and American history, will take place from October 8-12 at Smale Riverfront Park in Cincinnati, featuring performances from Grammy winners Weezer and Maren Morris, along with indie-rock band Mt. Joy.

The festival will showcase over 100 live performances across seven stages, covering genres such as gospel, jazz, R&B, blues, bluegrass, country, Americana, Southern rock, and cross-genre music.

Additional free concerts will feature artists like Over the Rhine, Chapel Hart, and Harvey Mason, with more acts to be announced, offering diverse musical experiences.

The event promotes community engagement through opportunities for corporate or club reservations for river cruises and tasting events, emphasizing regional participation.

Organizers anticipate over one million attendees, with the event contributing tens of millions of dollars to the local economy, highlighting its significance for Cincinnati and the Ohio River Valley.

The festival will include riverboat cruises along the Ohio River, with approximately 200 experiences such as brunch, dinner, and sightseeing cruises, featuring twelve steamboats from ports like New Orleans, Louisville, and Memphis.

Twelve steamboats, including the NATCHEZ and Belle of Louisville, will participate, offering themed cruises that celebrate the river’s heritage and regional culture.

Festival activities will encompass regional cuisine, cultural exhibits, river industry displays, and heritage tours like the Bourbon Trail, alongside performances by national and local artists.

Special cultural events include riverboat cruises, the River Cities Expo, educational programs, and regional heritage tours, all designed to showcase the Ohio River’s historical significance.

The festival has been designated as an official kickoff event for the nationwide celebration leading up to America’s 250th anniversary in 2026, emphasizing its national importance.

Main-stage tickets will go on sale on July 11, 2025, through the festival’s official website, with performances and the Spirit of America Gala being ticketed events.

The festival will feature a variety of musical experiences, including gospel revival, the Cincinnati Black Music Walk of Fame, unplugged sessions, and performances across eight riverfront stages.