Ohio River Sternwheel Festival

The Ohio River Sternwheel Festival is September 11, 12, & 13, 2026.

Sternwheel boats, live music, food, and LOTS of family-friendly fun!

In addition to the 30-35 authentic sternwheel boats that line the riverbank, the Sternwheel festival offers a full weekend of free, quality, family-oriented entertainment and the best fireworks anywhere. Some of the other events that take place during the weekend include: Children’s Activities; Coronation of Queen Genevieve, with scholarships awarded; Little Miss and Little Mr. Sternwheel Pageant; Sunday Sunrise Service; Rollin’ Oldies Car Show, and a Photo Contest.

Each year, the Ohio River Sternwheel Festival draws crowds of up to 100,000 people to Ohio’s oldest city for a party in the streets. At the confluence of the Ohio and Muskingum rivers, festival-goers enjoy paddle-wheelers, events, and the famous fireworks display. Our sponsors and volunteers are essential for the continuation of this beloved festival tradition in our riverboat town.

For the latest information, click here, or visit their Facebook page.

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