WEBN, the iHeartMedia active rock station known and loved in Cincinnati, Ohio, is considered “Cincinnati’s Rock Station.” Beyond the music, it’s also the home of the WEBN Fireworks, a cherished city tradition. This year, the skies will ignite with synchronized fireworks and music on Aug. 31, 2025. More than just a display, this tradition has united the community for years.
In 1977, WEBN sought to celebrate its 10th anniversary with a memorable event. Central to the show’s success is Katie Walter, a WEBN producer and manager, who works extremely hard behind the scenes. Walter noted that the fireworks were initially intended as a one-time celebration for WEBN’s 10th anniversary, featuring fireworks, music, and camaraderie. “It was supposed to be a one-and-done deal, and here we are almost fifty years later,” she said. Due to its popularity, the event continued. Nearly 50 years later, the WEBN Fireworks remain a significant Cincinnati event, reflecting the station’s growth and community bonds.
Aug. 30, 1977, marked the inaugural show, promoted through newspapers and radio broadcasts. The banks of the Ohio River were filled with attendees enjoying music and fireworks. DJ Glen Gaskins curated the music from reel-to-reel tapes, while Rozzi’s Famous Fireworks provided the pyrotechnics. This one-time event evolved into an annual spectacle.
Over the years, the event has expanded significantly, growing from an initial attendance of around 75,000 to over 500,000 annually. Since the initial launch, the fireworks and music have transformed into a full-day event featuring bands, family activities, and the Rubber Duck Regatta. The fireworks display evolved from a single barge in 1977 to a 600-foot barge with platforms on the bridges, enhanced with drone technology.
Walter works extremely hard behind the scenes to create a positive community for the event. A 1988 Highlands High School graduate, Walter’s local pride shines through.
“I’ve always loved this city, and being part of something that brings so many people together means everything to me,” Walter said. A love for the city helps maintain the station’s community connection.
According to Walter, people often begin securing their viewing spots days in advance. “You’ll see people setting up tents and coolers on Friday for a Sunday show,” she said.
Families establish camps with tents, coolers, and blankets, creating a weekend tradition along the Ohio River. The city ensures public safety through road closures, increased security, and designated viewing areas.
WEBN’s history is as compelling as the fireworks. Founded in 1967 by the Davidson family, the station aimed to introduce innovative content to Cincinnati. By playing rock music that was not available elsewhere, WEBN distinguished itself and became a community fixture. The fireworks became a way to celebrate this connection, driven by the individuals involved. As Walter stated: “WEBN isn’t just radio, it’s a part of our lives.”
This sentiment underscores the station’s enduring relevance, rooted in its history, family ownership, and passion.
Ultimately, WEBN and the fireworks symbolize more than just a radio station and a show. They embody Cincinnati’s identity, marked by music, history, and annual traditions. Despite ongoing changes, certain traditions endure, and this event is one of them. Walters said,”It brings everybody together. It does not matter age, it doesn’t matter, you know, how you grew up, where your friend does not matter. It brings everybody together and it’s the coolest bonding moment.”
