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Visitors at this year's Union Centre Boulevard Bash will see the three-day music festival framed in a different scene. Office buildings and retail centers stand on once-open land. A pond now splits the event site on Centre Pointe Drive, and construction of a long-anticipated library is underway next door. The Square @ Union Centre's clock tower stands as a visual center point for the festivities.

"The Square was always intended to become an integral part of the 'Bash,'" said township communications officer Barbara Wilson. "It'll be interesting to see how it plays into it this year."

But as in years past, the focus of this year's event, slated for Friday through Sunday, is on the music.

"Wide appeal is the main criteria for a Union Centre Boulevard Bash headliner," said Todd Bucher, director of Festivals and Special Events for the Downtown Council of Cincinnati USA, which presents the bash in partnership with the Union Centre Boulevard Merchants Association.

The Bash will include a special family time 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday that will feature $1 rides, face painting and other family-focused entertainment.

"Each year as we plan for the event we look for new ways to enhance the experience for participants young and old," said Bucher. "This year's family time is just another way the entire family can enjoy all the fun to be had at the Bash."

David Cassidy headlines Saturday's concert, while rock band Extreme performs Sunday on part of its "Take Us Alive" world tour.

"Both represent wildly popular genres of music," Bucher said.

How to go

What: Union Centre Boulevard Bash

When: 5 to 11 p.m. Friday, Aug. 8, 3 to 10:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug 9, 3 to 9:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 10

Where: The Square @ Union Centre, just west of Interstate 75 off Union Centre Boulevard.

Cost: Admission is free