A nonprofit publication of the Kentucky Center for Public Service Journalism

‘Party on the Purple’ series returns for third consecutive year with new themed nights


For the third consecutive year, the “Party on the Purple” series is returning to the Purple People Bridge this spring and summer with the first bridge party scheduled for May 1 at 6 p.m.

The free weekly summer party series — which includes live music, food trucks, beer, wine and spirits — will run every Wednesday evening until August, 7.

New this year are themed parties, such as Kentucky Derby Night, 80’s Night, Dog Night, and much more. As in past years, the Party on the Purple will run from 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. on Wednesday nights.

“For the third year in a row, Party on the Purple is the region’s signature Wednesday night event,” said Jack Moreland, president of Southbank Partners and chairman of the Newport Southbank Bridge Company.

“We are proud once again work with ColdIron Events to bring our community on both sides of the river to the Purple People Bridge for a weekly party over the river that’s not only fun, but provides funding support for our bridge in the process.”

“Party on the Purple is gearing up for its wildly successful third year and we are excited for the addition of our theme nights.” said Marc Wertheim, Event Producer and President/CEO of ColdIron Enterprises Inc. “We can’t think of a better way to break up the monotony of the week than live music, cold drinks and friends on the bridge.”

A portion of funds generated from food and drink sales during the weekly events go toward painting and maintaining the historic pedestrian-only bridge. The nonprofit organization is trying to raise $1 million to repaint the bridge and make other capital improvements to it.

The following is the theme, band and food truck schedule for the first nine weeks:

Wednesday, May 1 – Kentucky Derby Night
Band – Stays in Vegas
Donato’s Pizza, Laura’s BBQ

Wednesday, May 8 – 80’s Night
Band – The Whammies
Donato’s Pizza, Marty’s Waffles

Wednesday, May 15 – Chicago/Cincinnati Baseball Night
Band – Dangerous Jim and The Slims
Glier’s Goetta, Donato’s Pizza

Wednesday, May 22 – Taste of Cincinnati Preview Theme (tentative)
Band – Roadtrip
Sunnyside Brunch, Donato’s Pizza

Wednesday, May 29 – Dog Night (bring your furry friend)
Band – Dog House
U Lucky Dog, Donato’s Pizza

Wednesday, June 5 – Mardi Gras Night
Band – Robin Lacy & DeZydeco
Donato’s Pizza, TBA

Wednesday, June 12- Italian Fest Night
Band – Marsha Brady
Donato’s Pizza, TBA

Wednesday, June 19 – Pride Night
Band – Trailer Park Floosies
Donato’s Pizza, TBA

Wednesday, June 26 – Ladies Night
Band – The Everyday People Band
Donato’s Pizza, TBA

Monster, Yuengling, Donato’s Pizza and Braxton Brewery are all sponsors of this year’s series. The schedule for the rest of the parties from July 3 to August 7 will be announced in the near future. Please visit the website for more information.


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