The Newport riverside and Purple People Bridge light up for the holidays
Where else in the country can you be in two states at once while surrounded by dazzling holiday ambience?
This November, the only Christmas display that connects Ohio and Kentucky lights up for another holiday season on the Purple People Bridge. Winter Nights and River Lights is a free holiday light show featuring Christmas lights, festive music and holiday decorations to spread the magic of the season.
“It really gets people in the holiday spirit,” says Shayna Nevermann, partner of public relations for the Purple People Bridge. “People always enjoy the beautiful display along with a great view of downtown.”
The iconic pedestrian bridge has linked Newport to Cincinnati since 1872, and is the longest connector bridge of its kind in the country. It serves as a historic landmark, people connector, recreational trail and event space, improving economic development and quality of life on both sides of the Ohio River. The Purple People Bridge Company partners with Coldiron Events to decorate the bridge.
Beginning Nov. 17, visitors can stroll across the Ohio River and experience holiday lights, seasonal music, wreaths and scenic views of both Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky.
“Anyone can visit and enjoy the lights! Once it’s dark, the lights automatically go on. It’s a fun, festive holiday event accessible to everyone,” Nevermann says.
Season of Giving
While by the river, you can also make someone’s Christmas wish come true this year by visiting the 25-foot-tall Christmas Wish Tree on the Newport side of the bridge, which supports The Wish Tree Program.
“The Wish Tree connects with the community to provide gifts for individuals in need such as troubled teens, disabled individuals and disadvantaged seniors,” says Nevermann.
Visitors can find the tree at the base of the bridge on the Kentucky side, pick an ornament that has a name and gift suggestion written on it, and then reach out to the disadvantaged with gifts for students, schools and participating agencies.
According to the website, The Wish Tree Program is run by volunteers and the staff of the agencies who participate in the Greater Cincinnati area. The organization writes the child’s name on the tag, picks up the gifts from the Wish Tree location, sorts the gifts and delivers them to the children.
Last year, 50,000 gifts were purchased by the community and donated to people in need across the Tristate area through The Wish Tree Program.
Levee Lights
Visitors can take part in all sorts of festivities happening on the Bluegrass side of the river, as Newport on the Levee kicks off the holiday season with its annual Light Up the Levee event Nov. 18.
“The Levee is always a great option to get food or drinks after visiting the lights,” says Nevermann.
Newport on the Levee is preparing to ring in another holiday season with a festive lineup of events for this year’s Light Up the Levee, starting with the annual tree lighting at 7 p.m. in the Levee’s Plaza.
The celebration offers a variety of events for all ages during the winter season.
Browse the local shops and boutiques for last-minute gifts, relax in the heated seating tents outside, enjoy a sweet holiday treat and maybe catch Santa for a photo as he stops by the Levee Nov. 18-Dec. 23.
“It will be an evening of festive fun including live music, fireworks and a visit from Santa Claus as we light our magnificent 50-foot tree,” says Cassie Pennington, a marketing manager for Newport on the Levee.
Winter Nights and River Lights will take place on the Purple People Bridge Friday, Nov. 17, 2023 to Jan. 7, 2024. Light Up the Levee is Nov. 18, 1:30-7 p.m., located at 1 Levee Way in Newport.
