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250 Years of Echoes: America’s Roots Flow Through the Ohio Valley

Posted by Darla Hoffmann | Dec 3, 2025 | About Wine & Travel, Editor’s Picks, Featured, Wine |     

The American River Roots Festival is the reimagined and rebranded version of the Tall Stacks event, which periodically took place on the riverfronts of Cincinnati, Covington, and Newport. In the same location spanning Ohio and Kentucky, the celebration highlights the significance of the Ohio River and the history of steamboats, weaving together cuisine, music, and culture as its central pillars.

Set against the backdrop of one of America’s most storied waterways, the festival demonstrates how the river has long nourished communities, inspired artistic expression, and shaped regional identity.

Serpentine Wall and River Boats ©Darla Hoffmann

Visitors savor dishes rooted in river-valley traditions, enjoy performances that echo the rhythms of generations, and immerse themselves in cultural experiences that honor the river’s legacy. Adding to the excitement, riverboat cruises and spirited boat races take center stage, offering festival-goers a dynamic way to connect with the Ohio River’s history, energy, and enduring spirit.

This past October, we flew from Arizona to my husband’s home in Kentucky, eager for a fall visit to experience the new American River Roots Festival. The trip stirred up memories of how much we once loved the old Tall Stacks Festival, with its riverboats, music, and easygoing charm, and we were excited to see how its successor would compare. With the added thrill of honoring America’s upcoming 250th Anniversary, the festival promised a blend of nostalgia and fresh energy that made the journey feel especially meaningful.

Sunset on the City ©Darla Hoffmann

We loved every minute of wandering the grounds, spending time with family and old friends, and soaking in the music drifting from four separate stages lining both sides of the river.

It was uplifting to watch people strolling across the Purple People Bridge, curious to see what was happening on each shore. And with the chamber-of-commerce weather we were graced with—something we don’t take for granted as an Ohioan and a Kentuckian who know all too well how unpredictable outdoor-event weather can be—our spirits stayed high throughout the day.

Purple People Bridge ©Darla Hoffmann

We enjoyed watching the parades and races that took place throughout the weekend. And each boat had its own offerings—brunch, lunch, dinner, happy hours, and even late-night outings—so we booked a dinner cruise on the Belle of Memphis on Friday for 11 members of our family, including my 89-year-old father-in-law and our 2-month-old great-niece.

Aboard The Belle of Memphis ©Darla Hoffmann

Dinner was a casual buffet of pulled-pork sandwiches, coleslaw, baked beans, and peach cobbler for dessert. While we expected blues and jazz music aboard, given the Memphis roots, the entertainment leaned more toward hard rock—definitely not ideal for an elderly guest or an infant, so that one’s on us for not researching more carefully. Still, the boat’s top deck was fantastic, offering a relaxing place to enjoy the river and take in the evening.

Belle of Memphis ©Darla Hoffmann

On Saturday, we enjoyed breakfast at Sis’ on Monmouth, sitting at a café table outside, which was fun and relaxing. The staff made it even more enjoyable with their friendly energy. Our wonderful server recommended we stop by Bourbon House Pizza later, where she worked in the evenings. After popping in and out of riverside spots like the Moerlein Lager House and Shiner’s on the Levee, and Monmouth street’s lovely wine shop, Urban Chick, we followed her advice—and once again, she was an absolute delight, making the visit even more memorable.

Shiner’s on the Levee with family and friends ©Darla Hoffmann

Beer was plentiful, of course, and there was an impressive bourbon tent, which makes sense given the region. I think a few wine vendors would be a welcome addition as well – we wine lovers generally have a deep appreciation for culture and cuisine, making it a natural fit for enhancing the overall festival experience. Hint, hint!

Music Stage at Festival ©Darla Hoffmann

The event ran from Thursday through Sunday, culminating in a fireworks display that marked a festive ending. As we look to the future, we hope the American River Roots Festival continues to grow and thrive, drawing in more visitors from near and far to experience the rich music, culture, and community spirit it celebrates. With each passing year, we envision new enhancements and memorable experiences that make the festival even more vibrant, ensuring it remains a cherished tradition and a highlight of the region’s cultural calendar for years to come.