The Ohio River has long connected communities, and this fall it will bring together artists and festivalgoers to celebrate local culture and traditions at America’s River Roots Festival.
At the center of the five-day celebration of river communities is the Good ‘n’ Rooted Artisan Market, featuring dozens of small businesses along the 2,670-foot Purple People Bridge from Oct. 8-12.
The Cincinnati-to-Newport pedestrian bridge will host booths offering handcrafted jewelry, pottery, paintings, clothing, and locally made foods, with more than half of the roughly 100 vendors based in the Cincinnati region.
The market will run from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. each night, making it a perfect destination before and after the other entertainment during the festival. Food trucks, seating areas and interactive art installations will complete the experience.
“Just like the river connects our region, the Purple People Bridge connects our communities – and this market connects us to the small businesses who make them thrive,” said Rachel Desrochers, the market’s curator.
Celebrating makers and river culture
Festival organizers say the market is designed to highlight the region’s creativity and heritage, giving guests the chance to meet the people behind the products while exploring various elements of Ohio River culture.
The artisan market serves as one stop in a packed lineup that celebrates river city traditions up and down the river. The free festival, inspired by the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary, will stretch across the riverfronts of Cincinnati, Covington and Newport, featuring eight stages of live music. Performers include Weezer, Maren Morris, Mt. Joy, and the recently announced Janelle Monáe, who’ll headline the opening night.
Beyond music, festivalgoers can experience bourbon tastings, chef demonstrations, regional food trucks and multicultural cuisine at venues along the river. The festival also offers cultural programming such as the Freedom Journey exhibit, the Riverwalk Experience and a speaker series at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center.
Nine historic riverboats from cities including New Orleans, Louisville, Memphis and Pittsburgh will dock along the river, offering themed cruises, sightseeing trips and a parade of riverboats that add to the festival’s immersive waterfront experience. Nearby, wellness-focused local nonprofit The Well/A Mindful Moment will host an interactive art installation, inviting guests to help create a community-driven piece right on the bridge.
By weaving together art, small business and community, the Good ‘n’ Rooted Artisan Market celebrates the heritage of the region and invites visitors to connect with the makers themselves, Desrochers said.
“People don’t just want a keepsake from the festival, they want to know who made it and the story behind it,” she added. “That’s what makes this market special.”
America’s River Roots Festival
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