NEWPORT, Ky. — An all-new Fourth of July celebration is coming to northern Kentucky. 

The Northern Kentucky Convention and Visitors Bureau, Newport on the Levee and BB Riverboats are partnering with the City of Newport to host "Newport Blast" July 3 at The Levee. Organizers said guests can enjoy the "spirit of Americana" with music, carnival activities and food before fireworks and a drone display.

“Newport Blast will be the perfect way to celebrate Independence Day weekend in Northern Kentucky,” said president and CEO of meetNKY, Julie Kirkpatrick. “Visitors from both sides of the river are invited to enjoy the many restaurants, shops and unique places northern Kentucky has to offer. Newport will be the premiere backdrop for an unforgettable weekend, and we are hopeful it will become everyone’s new Independence Day tradition.”

Activities include roaming stilt walkers dressed as Uncle Sam and the Statue of Liberty, juggling magicians, games, an inflatable slide and live music from classic rock cover band DV8. Also planned is a hot dog eating contest, where participants will compete to win a "Levee Staycation" prize package including a one-night stay at Aloft, Levee-branded swag and gift cards to on-site businesses, organizers said.

Organizers added they encourage guests to dine at one of The Levee's restaurants such as Amador, the Gallery Food Hall or Shiners. Visitors can also purchase to-go drinks from bars like Beeline, Kon Tiki and 16 Lots and enjoy them anywhere on the property.

While Newport Blast is free to attend, guests can purchase three ticketed cruise options coinciding with the event through BB Riverboats. They'll enjoy a buffet dinner and a premier fireworks experience, along with musical entertainment. 

“BB Riverboats is inviting the community to celebrate our nation's birthday with a good old-fashioned, all-American Fireworks show overlooking our beautiful skyline,” said Terri Bernstein, owner of BB Riverboats. “Our cruises will give visitors an amazing, up-close view of all the festivities and is set to be a very special experience.”

Organizers said The Levee will be activated from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. and BB Riverboat cruises will run from noon to 11 p.m. before fireworks and the drone show starts at 10 p.m.

“We’re happy to host another great event for the community in our city,” said Newport Mayor Tom Guidugli Jr. “The riverfront community is now brimming with dining options and festivities. For all it has become, the best is yet to come for Newport.”

More about Newport Blast and a full schedule of events can be found on Cincinnati's tourism website. Cruise tickets can be purchased on bbriverboats.com.