Press Release

Guests can explore a walkable, open-container district as Ovation builds its riverfront nightlife and entertainment scene

NEWPORT, Ky. (October 16, 2025) – Ovation, the urban, mixed-use, waterfront development in Newport, Kentucky, brings new energy to the riverfront with the opening of Market Bar and the launch of its Entertainment Destination Center (EDC). Together, these milestones mark the next step in Ovation’s transformation into a vibrant entertainment hub and destination for the region.

Market Bar will join High Note, the rooftop bar at Homewood Suites by Hilton, as Ovation’s second bar concept. Owned and operated by Pete Volker and Wayne Lin, Market Bar offers the very best in spirits, cocktails, beer and wine. The new space will feature both indoor and outdoor seating, with a welcoming patio and garage-style doors that create a flexible, open-air environment for guests enjoying the energy of the riverfront, concertgoers at MegaCorp Pavilion or happy hour crowds. Hours of operation are 4 to 11 p.m. Monday through Friday and 12 to 11 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

Market Bar is committed to serving cocktails made from scratch using the highest-quality ingredients and house-made juices and syrups. They also offer an expansive menu of local craft and domestic beers, as well as best-in-class wines, and a thoughtfully curated menu of handcrafted sandwiches. The team focuses on hiring top professionals in the service industry to build a strong culture and provide an outstanding guest experience. The Ovation location is led by Ashton Plute, a hospitality veteran with experience at concepts in the Northern Kentucky/Cincinnati area and greater Columbus.

“When we first visited Ovation, the energy was undeniable and the EDC designation will only amplify that feeling and create a seamless community experience,” said Pete Volker, owner of Market Bar. “Our vision is to add a vibrant, approachable bar where locals and visitors can enjoy handcrafted cocktails and soak in. With one of the region’s best concert venues and a new Homewood Suites next door, we’re an ideal stop for the everyday patron, concertgoers and Bengals or Reds fans alike. It was exciting to partner with others at Ovation to welcome guests for the American River Roots Festival this past weekend. There’s so much ahead for our team.”

The launch also marks the debut of Ovation’s new Entertainment Destination Center (EDC), approved by the Commonwealth of Kentucky’s Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC). The Ovation EDC designation allows guests to purchase alcoholic beverages in specially branded cups from participating establishments and carry them throughout designated public areas. Clearly marked signage indicates open-container zones stretching from Ovation Plaza, home to Market Bar and Homewood Suites, to The Boardwalk that overlooks the riverfront, creating a safe, lively and walkable experience for visitors. View the Ovation EDC map here: ovationontheriver.com/edc.

“Market Bar represents another key milestone in bringing our vision for Ovation to life,” said Brett Blackwell, president and COO of Corporex. “It sets the tone for a diverse mix of entertainment options that will continue to grow here. Combined with the Entertainment Destination Center designation, the vision for Ovation’s live, work, play and stay concept is flourishing.”

The EDC is designed to encourage guests to explore multiple venues within Ovation while supporting local businesses. It mirrors successful entertainment districts across the country, boosting foot traffic and creating an atmosphere where visitors can enjoy food, drink and live music in an open, social setting. The designation also enhances the overall festival and event experience. By allowing guests to move freely with beverages between outdoor spaces, the EDC will add to the atmosphere and sense of celebration that define gatherings along the riverfront.

In addition to all these changes, Northern Kentucky-based artist Christian Dallas has completed a large-scale mural, his second at the development, on the last building at The Boardwalk Residences. The piece, themed “Winter/Wind,” spans 48 feet wide by 35 feet tall and reflects Dallas’ thoughtful, place-specific style. Later this year, construction on improvements to General James Taylor Park will begin.

Ovation is a nearly 25-acre, five-city block equivalent urban, mixed-use development along the confluence of the Ohio and Licking Rivers in Northern Kentucky. The community is host to a world-class music venue, state-of-the-art office buildings, residential options, a hotel, bars and open spaces. Once complete, Ovation will be an iconic regional destination, offering unique public artworks, restaurants, bars and experiences to visitors, connecting residents and the community directly to the rivers with an unbeatable view of the Cincinnati skyline.

Corporex, a privately held investment firm located in Covington, Ky. focused on investing in real estate, hospitality, and capital markets, is the master developer of Ovation. To learn more, visit ovationontheriver.com.