In years past, the Tyler Davidson Fountain was activated on Opening Day without fanfare. The event went largely unnoticed, which seems inadequate for Cincinnati’s most prized possession and most beloved landmark. To give the Genius of Water her own celebration is not only fitting, but also leverages the excitement surrounding another great Cincinnati tradition – Opening Day.

The second annual Fountain Day was sponsored by Raymond James & Associates, inc, and was celebrated with music, speeches, and fireworks on Saturday, April 4, 2009. Cincinnati Mayor Mark Mallory officially welcomed spring to the city and gave the signal to let the water flow once again from the hands of the Genius of Water atop the beautiful Tyler Davidson Fountain.

Bands that performed were 500 Miles to Memphis and Eclipse. Eclipse has been called a "fusion jam band" that mixes influences from rock, funk, jazz, and hip hop for an energetic show. Eclipse won the 2008 Cincinnati Entertainment Award for best hip hop artist. 500 Miles to Memphis - named for the distance from Cincinnati to Graceland - plays "country punk" and was named Best Rock Act at the 2008 Cincinnati Entertainment Awards.

A new Cincinnati tradition, Fountain Day is held annually on the Saturday before Major League Baseball's Opening Day, typically the first Monday in April.

Schedule

6 p.m. Local 12's Dance Man Bob Herzog kicks off the event
6:10 500 Miles to Memphis
7 p.m. Eclipse
8 p.m. Mayor, fountain, and fireworks