CINCINNATI — The Coast Guard is scheduled to establish temporary waterway restrictions on the Ohio River in Cincinnati during the River Fest, Sunday.
WHAT: A Coast Guard member will be available for media interviews to discuss safety zones, waterway closures and boater safety.
WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 5, 2026, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
WHERE: Coast Guard Marine Safety Detachment Cincinnati, 3653 River Rd. Cincinnati, Ohio. 45204
WHO: Lt. James Deinnocentiis, Coast Guard Marine Safety Detachment Cincinnati supervisor.
Media interested in attending should contact Coast Guard Heartland Public Affairs at (618) 225-9008 or by e-mail at uscoastguardheartland@gmail.com to R.S.V.P. by Friday at 4 p.m.
No-Wake Zone (noon Sept. 6 to 3 a.m. Sept. 7):
A strict no-wake zone will be in effect on the Ohio River from mile marker 463 to 477 and the Licking River from mile marker 0.0 to 0.3. Vessels must maintain slow, safe speeds while transiting to and from the viewing areas.
Safety Zone and River Closure (7 p.m. to 10 p.m.):
The river will be fully closed to all recreational cross-traffic on the Ohio River from mile marker 469.2 to 470.5 and the Licking River from mile marker 0.0 to 0.3 to allow the fireworks barges to position safely. Mariners must be in their positions before 7 p.m.
Where to Anchor:
Three dedicated recreational viewing areas are available — two upriver and one downriver. The Hamilton Boat Club manages these areas. Mariners must follow the directions of local personnel on the water to secure their locations.
Drone and Fireworks Show (9:01 p.m.):
The show begins with a nine-minute drone display followed by 40 minutes of fireworks. Afterward, a 15-minute barge cooldown will take place. While vessel operators can begin departing upriver or downriver after the show, they must remain patient. Law enforcement will manage traffic flow, and the no-wake zone remains in effect.
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