CINCINNATI (WXIX) - The nation’s first America’s River Roots Festival officially kicks off Tuesday afternoon with a celebration at the Public Landing.

The 4:30 p.m. ceremony will be on the second deck of the Belle of Cincinnati riverboat.

It will feature remarks from state and regional leaders, including Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine, former Ohio senator Rob Portman, Hamilton County Commissioner Denise Driehaus and Newport Mayor Tom Guidugli.

The ceremony will culminate in a Riverboat Captains Tribute, with a synchronized whistle salute , led by Belle of Cincinnati Captain Alan Bernstein.

Belle of Cincinnati is among nine historic riverboats that are participating in America's River Roots Festival. (Chris Horn)

The five-day River Roots Festival runs Wednesday through Sunday.

It celebrate

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