News

Riverfest & nostalgic tunes

 

COVINGTON, Ky. – You’ve got a three-day weekend to fill. Whether you choose to fill it with fun or leisure, you’ll find plenty of options right here in The Cov.

First, let’s be thankful for the 19th century labor activists who pushed for a federal holiday to recognize the American worker. They made it happen. And let’s be mindful of the group of workers putting in long hours this weekend instead of getting an extra day off: Covington Police and Firefighters. Be safe this weekend and help them stay safe.

Obviously there’s a big fireworks extravaganza happening on Sunday, but this Labor Day weekend offers up plenty more to do too: A television and cartoon theme song concert, a Shakespeare comedy, karaoke for kids, live music, a ‘last bash’ for a longtime local venue, and more.

So, get out there and enjoy it all. You’ll have an extra day to rest.

So long, tasty skillet mac & cheese

After 16 years of serving up piping hot, ooey gooey, tasty B.B. Kings, Fleetwood Macs, Pink Floyds, Powerhouses, and more, Keystone Bar & Grill is closing. The restaurant was one of The Cov’s first establishments in the Roebling Point district.

Fortunately, you’ve still got time for a dine-in special tonight (and Friday) at Keystone’s Last Bash. Don’t let ‘em leave without bidding a proper farewell over a beloved skillet of cheesy carbs.

The misadventures of mistaken identities

Covington Parks & Rec brings you Shakespeare in the Park’s “The Comedy of Errors” at the Devou Park Bandshell on Friday (in case you missed July’s production).

It’s a slapstick farce, conceived when The Bard was in his youth. It’s about old merchant Egeon’s twins – both named Antipholus – who go missing. Turns out they have no idea of each other’s existence. Because layers of confusion are particularly humorous, the twins have twin servants, both named Dromio. Madness and misunderstandings ensue, as one might well imagine.

Toons & tunes

Is there anything that zaps you back to your youth like the sound of your favorite television show or cartoon theme song? Do the words “heroes on a half shell” make you feel like a 10-year-old again?

Expect to be transported to the television-binging glory of your childhood on Saturday night when the Kentucky Symphony Orchestra presents TV Guide at the Devou Park Bandshell, featuring TV theme songs from the 1950s through 1990s (maybe a bit heavy on the 60s and 70s).

On the program are musical jewels like the theme songs from “The Pink Panther,” Bewitched,” “The Addams Family,” “Leave it to Beaver,” “The Munsters,” “Soul Train,” and “Mission Impossible.”

The concert is free and if you want to avoid the crowd – and believe us, The Kentucky Symphony Orchestra consistently (and deservedly) draws a big crowd – you can attend the Saturday 10 a.m. dress rehearsal instead.

Lighting up the sky

There will be a gatherin’ at the river on Sunday for the 47th annual Western & Southern/WEBN Fireworks. (Though the comfort of your couch is also a good place to watch this end-of-summer blowout).

If you choose to join others on the riverfront (or perch a little higher at Devou Park), here’s some reliable information about safety, street closings, and parking.

As always, be safe. Be smart. Have fun.

A ‘luxe’ experience

The Labour Day Weekend, LUXE Afro Caribbean Day Experience happens at Second Story on Sunday, featuring authentic Jamaican food and good music provided by DJ TizieB and DJ YMS, who will be playing Amapiano, AfroPop, AfroHouse, AfroBeat, Soca, Reggae, Kizomba, Kompa, Zouk, and more.

And while Labor Day might herald summer’s end, this event is all about embracing the season from Second Story’s rooftop. It’s free, but you’re encouraged to RSVP.  

Live music

Tonight: Lee Dixon at Smoke Justis. … The Missy Werner Band at Molly Malone’s Irish Pub & Restaurant. … Aprina at Keystone Bar & Grill. … Estrada do Sol Duo featuring Ben Tweedt at Juniper’s.

Friday: Leroy Ellington at Smoke Justis.

Saturday: Marc and Doug at Smoke Justis. … Patrick Oaks & Matthew Wallenhorst at Juniper’s.

Sunday: John Lovern at Zazou.

Miscellaneous

Tonight: Gin Cocktail Night with Wally Dant at Juniper’s.

Friday: Last Bash at Keystone Bar & Grill.

Saturday: Covington Farmers Market at 3rd & Court Streets. … MainStrasse Village Food Tour. … Saturday Storytime at Kenton County Public Library. …  Beautiful Blooms Frameable Art Card Workshop at Purple Paisley, Local Artisan Shop. … Kids Karaoke at Frosthaus.

 

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