The Western & Southern/WEBN Fireworks show is Cincinnati's traditional end to summer.
On Sept. 4, 500,000 people will populate both banks of the Ohio River to watch the Rozzis give us a show unlike any other they put on all year. (They definitely save the best for their hometown.)
Some of the best seats for this classic event are at bars and restaurants that dot both sides of the river. Here are a few of our favorites -- and don't forget to call first for a reservation.
Fancy Fireworks
Primavista: Primavista will have a special prix fixe menu for the fireworks, including a choice of antipasto or walnut ravioli; Caesar or arugula salad; red snapper, beef tenderloin or penne with artichokes; and Budino di Panettone or tiramisu for dessert. For $75 per person, plus tax and gratuity, you can enjoy the fireworks after dinner: The floor-to-ceiling windows provide a gorgeous view. Call 513-251-6467 for reservations. 810 Matson Place.
The Celestial: The Celestial Steakhouse is offering a four-course menu featuring dishes such as crab cakes, steak Oscar, rack of lamb, seafood risotto, sea bass, Kahlua chocolate tort and creme brulee. This premium view has a premium price: $120 per person, plus tax, tip and beverages. 1071 Celestial St.
Downtown
Residence Inn at the Phelps / The Phelps Bar: While the Top of the Park rooftop bar will be closed for a private event, the front veranda at the Residence Inn at the Phelps has a great view. Grab a bite in the hotel bar and take a glass of wine or beer to the veranda to take a peek. 506 E. 4th St.
Kentucky Chains
I don't normally list chains -- eat local! -- but these restaurants have views that are too gorgeous not to include.
Bar Louie (Newport): Burgers, beers and shareable snacks are the name of the game at Bar Louie. The bar will host its Labor Day Launch Party from noon to 11 p.m. Sept. 4 on two decks, so there's plenty of room to see the fireworks. The upper deck is $100, which includes seating, a food item and drink. The lower deck is for ages 21 and up and is free. It will feature live music by Right Turn Clyde and Swan, plus a view of the fireworks from the old Jefferson Hall/River Rock space. Call 859-291-4222 for more information. Newport on the Levee, 1 Levee Way.
Chart House: The Chart House is featuring its annual buffet dinner including a raw bar, salad bar, goetta sliders, shrimp beignets, mini-crab stack parfaits, hors d'oeuvres, sweet barbecue pork roulade, fennel-roasted airline chicken, shrimp Parmesan, Key West-spiced fish, blood-orange glazed salmon and a prime rib carving station, as well as a variety of desserts (and post-fireworks lava cake). About 200 chairs will be set up in the parking lot for guests to watch the fireworks, or you can stand on the balcony. Speakers also will play the WEBN live broadcast during the fireworks. It’s $100 per person, which does not include alcohol, tax or gratuity. 405 Riverboat Row.
West Side
Incline Public House: There are still tickets left for the fourth annual fireworks party at Incline Public House. For $75, the all-you-can-eat buffet menu includes prime rib, roasted Atlantic salmon, pineapple-soy pork loin, pasta, shrimp cocktail and bourbon pecan pie, among other items. The large patio has plenty of room to enjoy the view of the fireworks, too. This is bound to sell out. Get tickets by calling 513-251-3000. 2601 W. 8th St.
Mount Adams
The Rookwood: This is a great idea. Park your car at Washington Park in Over-the-Rhine, then walk to the Lackman at 13th and Vine streets. A bus will pick you up from there and take you to the Rookwood, where you can enjoy all-you-can-eat barbecue, music, a cash bar and a gorgeous view of the fireworks. Early-bird tickets are $20; the price rises to $30 on Aug. 25. Get tickets and more information at otrcountryclub2016.splashthat.com. 1077 Celestial St.
Mount Adams Pavilion: Head up to the Pavilion and enjoy a view of the fireworks from its decks. The party starts at 5 p.m. Sept. 4 and features two DJs, food and drinks. Call 513-744-9200 for tickets. (VIP tables are available, too.) 949 Pavilion St.
City View Tavern: Only 28 people (the capacity of the deck) can participate in City View's Riverfest party. The reservations-only event starts at 6 p.m. Sept. 4 and ends when the fireworks are over. Expect food, drinks and a prime view. Call 513-241-VIEW (8439) for reservations. 403 Oregon St.
On The Water
Queen City Riverboats: There are still tickets available for a dinner cruise on the Ohio River, offering a unique view of the fireworks after dinner -- right on the water! Dinner includes chicken Marsala, roast beef, salad and a cash bar for $119.79 (tax included).
Whether you are in Kentucky, Ohio or somewhere in between for the fireworks, enjoy the last days of summer with this signature Cincinnati event. What are you doing for the fireworks? Let us know on Facebook or Twitter.
