Events in Columbus today

Browse an open-to-all yard sale and pick up budget friendly finds while helping raise funds for local scout troops. Proceeds support the scouts in the community.

Each week, motorcycle enthusiasts gather at Throttle Co for a laid back meetup with complimentary coffee. The pours come from a rotating lineup of local and regional coffee shops and roasters, keeping things fresh from week to week. It also serves as a regular gathering spot for the Litas Columbus, including both established riders and newcomers.

Children of all ages are welcome to a free community event featuring bounce houses, games, and creative craft stations. Enjoy temporary tattoos and the fun of a balloon artist. Lunch will be provided with hot dogs, chips, fruit, and water.

PlayStreets at Linden Fresh Market offers a free, family-friendly block party that encourages neighbors to step outside and make lasting memories. Enjoy music, games and activities, food trucks, book giveaways, face painting, and inflatable attractions, with more fun in the mix.

Many thanks to I-Hop and City BBQ for sponsoring the event in 2024.

Spend 10 minutes in a focused conversation with a CMA educator centered on a single artwork. This brief pop-up talk is part of a series that highlights different pieces on view, offering a new focus each time. Look for signs near CMA’s Welcome Desk to find the featured work that day. Admission covers the experience, and no registration is needed.

Honor Flight Columbus presents a regional reunion in conjunction with the Ohio Veterans Convention at The Ohio Union at The Ohio State University in Columbus. Structured as an open house, the gathering creates space to reconnect with fellow veterans, share stories, and enjoy meaningful camaraderie. Veterans from Franklin, Pickaway, Licking, Fairfield, Perry, and Hocking counties are the focus of this event. Honor Flight Columbus merchandise will be available for purchase, and veteran applications will be on hand. Preregistration is handled through the Ohio Department of Veteran Services.

Celebrate 614 Funk Fest from the comfort of Spaghetti Warehouse with a Concert Club Experience held alongside the performances at Columbus Commons. This ticketed offering provides indoor access close to the action, a chef-prepared buffet of Spaghetti Warehouse favorites, and a relaxed atmosphere with cocktails available. Enjoy views of Columbus Commons through open garage doors along with a self-serve water and iced tea station. A $125 ticket includes admission for one, continuous indoor access, and the buffet. Seating is limited and available on a first come, first served basis, with additional standing room offered. Beer, wine, cocktails, and specialty drinks are available for purchase. Parking is not included. All tickets are nonrefundable. This is a special event experience rather than a standard restaurant reservation, and the ticket does not provide entry to the Columbus Commons grounds.

At Lincoln Theatre, the 2nd Annual Back-to-School Concert with a Purpose brings music, community, and impact together in a bigger way than before. Building on last year’s unforgettable energy and love in the room, this edition promises even more excitement, a stronger sense of purpose, and a powerful community focus. Columbus can look forward to an experience that turns impact into something truly felt, with an emphasis on youth empowerment and community impact. Tickets are available. Sponsors, partners, and community champions are welcome.

Celebrate two years of creating memories with an anniversary gathering at The Loft at the Fort studio, home of Mime Wolf Inn Casting. Complimentary beer and wine will be available, along with charcuterie and snacks. Look for the entrance marked by a golden ladder on the door, then take the staircase to the second floor.

Blues Traveler, Gin Blossoms and Spin Doctors perform together at the Ohio State Fair. Buying tickets ahead of time includes entry to the Fair, making it easy to explore the grounds before the concert. Visitors can expect a lively midway, major entertainment, hundreds of displays and one of the country’s largest junior fair showcases. The Celeste Center provides indoor, air conditioned seating for 10,000.

Astro Cat will be back at Moose 11 for a return appearance.

Catch a night of classic and alternative rock with Blues Traveler, Gin Blossoms, and Spin Doctors performing live at the Ohio Expo Center & State Fair in Columbus. The show starts at 7:00 PM local venue time.

Country stars Chris Young and Chase Rice are coming to Columbus for a Texas country and honky-tonk style night. Doors open at 6:00 PM, with the show starting at 7:00 PM.

Saturday nights light up at Sequoia Pro Bowl with all-night karaoke hosted by Sinister Gellar. Pick from a library of over 70,000 songs to belt your favorite tune, pair up for a duet, or cheer for fellow singers. The scene stays lively with laughter, upbeat energy, and memorable performances from beginning to end.

A tribute showcase celebrating the music of Nickelback, Matchbox 20, and more. Enjoy renditions of songs from these bands along with selections from additional artists.

Whether you are out on the town or stopping by after another Arena District event, Whistle & Keg keeps the energy high with karaoke every Saturday. Blake the Snake hosts the mic while many taps and a variety of drinks set the scene for a lively night of singing and good company.

Karaoke takes center stage at Donerick's North High with a song library of more than 70,000 choices. Hosted by The 740shorty, the event welcomes solo spotlights, playful duets, and enthusiastic cheering from the crowd. Expect upbeat energy, plenty of laughs, and performances that keep the good vibes going all night.

Emo Night Brooklyn is a late-night DJ dance party packed with emo and pop punk favorites. Expect high-energy music all night, with a special DJ set called Punk Goes Pop featuring pop songs in the punk style. It’s a 21+ show, so bring a valid ID.

Open to the public, this community dog walking event at the Franklin County Dog Shelter & Adoption Center gives shelter dogs the exercise, fresh air, and one-on-one time they need. The shelter routinely cares for 200 to 300 dogs, and help from neighbors makes a meaningful difference for each one. No pre-registration is required, and newcomers are welcome. RSVPs are only for receiving updates and reminders. Because this is an outdoor, weather dependent activity, any changes will be shared on the event page with as much notice as possible. Shelter staff support volunteers throughout the visit, from pairing you with a suitable dog to providing waste bags, treats, and harness leads. Personal leashes and collars should be left at home. On arrival, head to the large fenced walking yard behind the building, enter through the gate, and check in at the registration table. The yard is to the right as you enter the driveway and is enclosed with black wrought iron fencing. This is a family friendly opportunity, though primary dog walkers must be 18 or older. Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes and dress for the weather. Photos are encouraged, and social posts can use the hashtag #FCDSAdoptables. Owned pets should remain at home unless attending a meet and greet for a potential adoption. Anyone interested in fostering or adopting can speak with staff. Donations of dog treats are especially appreciated at this time.

General admission is free every Sunday, made possible by support from Art Bridges Foundation’s Access for All & Free for the Future Campaign Donors. Admission to special exhibitions is included. Friends and families can explore at their own pace, visit the Walter Wing, or work on a puzzle together in a gallery. There is something to discover around every corner. Photo by JToland Photo.

Enjoy a free mat Pilates session at Dorrian Green in Downtown Columbus. Presented in partnership with Columbus Recreation and Parks, this fitness class invites participants to get moving together. Please complete the required waiver before participating.

The Sunday program of the 42nd annual St. James Lutheran Brats & Crafts Festival spotlights live music from Elaina Arthur and the Columbus Maennerchor, and includes a traditional German church service. Across the festival, there are classic German dishes, homemade desserts, a beer wagon, and an arts and crafts fair, along with activities for children. Admission and parking are free.

Join Luke Borchelt for a happy hour concert featuring Travis Reid Ball Band at Rumba Cafe. Doors open at 4:30 PM, with the show starting at 5:00 PM. All ages are welcome.

Willy Tea Taylor & The Turkey Buzzards perform at Natalie's - Grandview in a show presented by WCBE and Celebrity Etc. This all-ages event features reserved seating, with advance tickets priced at $24.

Bar Bingo Columbus brings a lively game night to Lucky's Grille & Billiards. There is no cost to participate, and all are welcome. Host Drew Hanson keeps the energy high as players vie for prizes and bragging rights. Expect playful twists like the Tricycle of Shame and the Wheel of Consequences, plus weekly pop culture themes and the coveted Championship Belt.

Karaoke takes center stage at Eldorado’s Food & Spirits with Mr. Evil on the mic, guiding an energetic night of singalongs and surprises. With a library of more than seventy thousand tracks, there is a pick for every taste and every range. Step up for a solo, team up for a duet, or sit back and cheer as singers deliver everything from chart favorites to deep cuts. Expect big laughs, upbeat vibes, and memorable performances that keep the room buzzing.

This 21+ reggae night features The Flex Crew and DJ P. Funk. Admission is $10 for women and $15 for men.

Discover a flexible, lithography‑inspired way to move imagery from photocopies and laser prints onto sheet glass. Work with drawings, photographs, and found visuals, essentially anything that can be reproduced on a copier or laser printer. The approach is designed to be accessible, needing minimal equipment, and suits small or home studio setups. Over five days, participants create a series of test pieces to understand how the process behaves and what it can achieve visually. Guidance includes using reactive glasses to expand color and surface character, building images through layering and collage, and shaping strong compositions. Instruction also covers firing choices that support consistent, high quality outcomes and ways to streamline the workflow for efficient studio use. Additional techniques show how this method can be combined with other printmaking practices and kilnforming processes. Unlike traditional decals, the imagery is formed from fine glass powders fused directly onto the glass to create durable glass prints.

Head to Bicentennial Park at the Scioto Mile for a free mat Pilates class created in collaboration with Columbus Recreation and Parks. This downtown summer fitness offering encourages you to get moving with a guided workout and is part of a series of no-cost classes.

Catch a night of indie pop, indie rock, shoegaze, and trip-hop with Johnny Manchild and the Poor Bastards, along with Friend of a Friend and Karma and the Killjoys. The show starts at Rumba Cafe.

In partnership with Columbus Recreation and Parks, Dorrian Days returns to Dorrian Green with a lineup of no-cost activities for kids and families. Expect inflatable attractions and games, the COSI curbside van, a themed activity area, and a food truck. The park’s water feature provides a place to cool off. The day can also include a stop at COSI before or after, or a stroll across the river to Bicentennial Park for additional free fun.

Art Breaks opens the Studio to guests of all ages for hands-on exploration of a wide variety of materials. Seasonal weekly sessions during school breaks encourage creative thinking, with monthly themes inspired by special exhibitions and artworks on view. A quiet hour is available for a calmer experience. Participation is included with museum admission, and all materials are provided. Supported by Bath & Body Works, Battelle, and the Siemer Family Foundation. Photo by JToland Photo.

Columbus Clippers supporters gather at Whistle & Keg Columbus ahead of each home game to kick off game day, whether it is a daytime start or an evening under the lights. With more than 40 self-serve taps featuring local beer, cider, seltzer, and more, the setting stays lively and fan friendly. It is an easy place to meet friends, grab a drink, and build team spirit before heading to the ballpark together. Arriving a little early makes the pregame stop feel like a tradition all season long.

Take a free ride on the carousel, play beneath a parachute, build with big blue Imagination Playground blocks, kick around a soccer ball, or come up with your own activities.

At the Commons, a weekly gathering highlights tacos and Latin cuisine. It takes place each Tuesday from May to September.

Treat yourself to a restorative spiritual retreat centered on serenity, peace, and meaningful renewal. The experience opens outdoors with a welcoming ceremony that honors ancestors and includes a shared fire, and participants are invited to bring herbs, dried flowers, or another small offering for the flames. Creative reflection follows with an empowering writing practice, then a growth-focused self mastery workshop with open conversation. Light refreshments are provided during a break. You will also explore a guided intuitive Zen painting session, with all supplies included and your artwork to take home. Energy work is featured as Rev. Diane offers Sekhem Seichim Reiki in harmony with sound healing led by Rachel, complemented by a guided meditation aligned with Blue Lotus New Moon Lunar Eclipse themes. The day concludes with time for connection and collaboration. Comfortable clothing is encouraged, and participants are asked to bring a blanket, pillow, and eye mask. Water, mats, and seating are provided on site. The facilitators include Rachel Bushey, a Veteran with a background in medical and mental health who practices energy and sound frequency healing, and Rev. Diane, a self mastery and transformational coach, trauma specialist, metaphysical and spiritual practitioner, Sekhem Seichim Reiki Master Teacher, public speaker and educator, and an ordained minister with The Alliance of Divine Love. Hosted by Healing Rose, a 501(c)(3) Affiliate Chapel 2349 with The Alliance of Divine Love, with a spiritualist and metaphysical focus that welcomes all faiths. Exact location details are shared after paid registration, and Healing Rose is not affiliated with Iglesia Hispana Puerta De Bendición.

Take your workout outside with a free HIIT cardio class on the North Lawn of the Commons. This high energy session uses short bursts of effort to raise your heart rate and build stamina in an open air setting. A fitness waiver is required.

Enjoy a Tuesday public skating session with a budget-friendly deal. Two people can skate for $10, or a single admission is $6. Skate rentals are $6. Get more details and secure tickets in advance online, or call 614-239-7202 for information.

The KING of CLUBS hosts the Spin the Bottle Tour featuring Smile Empty Soul and Revis.

An in-store book signing with Alexandra Ammon Parthun celebrates the release of For the Love of the Quest. A romance and fantasy author with a BA in Creative Writing from The Ohio State University, she enjoys immersing herself in imagined worlds through books, video games, and the shows she loves. When real life feels less than ideal, she pens tales where magic thrives, big adventures await, and sweeping love stories take the lead, with her dog Piroshki often curled in her lap as she writes.

Line dancing takes over The Black Swan with a mix of instruction, social dancing, tasty food, and cold drinks in a friendly atmosphere. Lessons early in the evening help newcomers get comfortable while giving regulars a chance to fine tune steps, with warmups and dancing between teaching segments. The focus stays on beginner and improver level routines, and no partner or prior experience is required. The kitchen serves a full menu, and the bar offers seasonal cocktails and daily specials. After the lessons wrap, the floor remains open for dancing, and song requests keep the music flowing. Whether it is a first time on the floor or a return visit to sharpen skills, this is an easygoing way to learn, dance, and connect with others.

This free No Limit Texas Hold'em night at Counterbalance Brewing is part of a summer and early fall series. Several tables will be in play, $50 in prizes go to the top three players each night, and all experience levels are welcome. Food and drinks are available for purchase. Early online registration includes bonus chips, and newcomers are welcome at every event in the series.

Catch a live night of music featuring David Michael Frank and Attaboy at Rumba Cafe in Columbus. The show kicks off in the evening with tickets available through the listed ticket source on the page.

Oddfellows Liquor Bar in Columbus hosts a lively karaoke night featuring more than 70,000 songs to choose from. Step up for your favorite track, pair up for a duet, or cheer on the singers from the crowd. Expect lots of laughs, an upbeat atmosphere, and standout performances throughout the evening. Hosted by Doug Dimmadome.

Summer PE at Dick’s House of Sport offers kids ages 6 to 13 the chance to climb the rock wall or test their skills in the HitTrax Cage. In the Cage, participants can try baseball, softball, soccer, lacrosse, field hockey, or ice hockey. Rock wall sessions are available in 30 minute blocks for $5, and the program is offered on Wednesdays and Fridays. Please bring a water bottle and wear closed toe shoes.

The Conservatory Farmers Market brings together local growers and makers offering seasonal produce, baked treats, specialty foods, handmade goods, and health and beauty items. EBT is accepted for eligible purchases, and shoppers using EBT can receive Produce Perks Columbus incentives to use on fresh fruits and vegetables. Children can take part in VEGGIE CHAMPS, an ongoing activity that awards Veggie Bucks to spend with market vendors. The market continues in the rain, but it will be canceled if conditions become dangerous, including strong winds, lightning, or extreme heat.

An introductory rock wall climbing class at DICK’S House of Sport welcomes beginners ages 6 and up to learn the basics of indoor climbing. Certified coaches lead a safety briefing and gear overview, then guide participants on the wall to practice fundamental skills. The instruction focuses on building confidence, technique, and strength, and the atmosphere is designed to support all ability levels in a positive and encouraging way.

A weekly evening card show brings together fans of Pokémon, trading card games, and sports cards at Counterbalance Brewing Company. Each week features a rotating selection of TCG and sports card tables, free prize giveaways, and occasional special activities. Admission is free, and the brewery has food and drinks available. For details about table space and other information, email midwestsportscardshows@gmail.com.

Take part in a hands-on epoxy woodworking workshop and create a custom piece such as a charcuterie board with an epoxy river, a lazy susan, a clock, a key holder shelf, coasters, or a mini pair. Choose up to two epoxy colors when you arrive. Projects use premium black walnut along with other quality hardwoods, with your chosen colors poured to highlight the wood. After class, each piece cures for about a week, then enters a careful finishing process that typically takes 6 to 8 weeks. The overall timeline can vary based on class size and shipping. Finished projects are shipped to you once complete. All ticket sales are final. If you cannot attend, you may send someone in your place. Every attendee age 12 or older needs a ticket, and a couples ticket allows two people to work together on one project.

WCBE presents The String Cheese Incident on the Just Keep Spinning Tour at KEMBA Live in Columbus, Ohio. The performance will be held indoors and is open to all ages.

Take your yoga practice outside with a free class on the North Lawn of the Commons. The Commons hosts complimentary outdoor workouts, including yoga and cardio, at this location. A fitness waiver is required to participate.

Enjoy a recurring, free community jam and social dance centered on hot jazz. Everyone is invited to take part, so bring an instrument, your dancing shoes, and a friend or two. The evening begins with a complimentary workshop led by a SwingColumbus instructor who teaches a brief solo routine tailored to the brisk tempos of traditional jazz, with a new mini routine offered each month. After the workshop the bandstand opens. All instruments and singers are welcome to rotate in and out as they wish. Musicians and dancers of every experience level are encouraged to participate. COHJS and SwingColumbus foster a friendly, supportive, respectful, welcoming, safe, and enjoyable atmosphere for all. Admission is free, and a $5 tip for the jar helps keep the monthly jam going. Donations are also accepted through PayPal or Venmo, and every contribution supports these community events.

The Horseshoe Bar & More hosts an evening of line dancing filled with music, instruction, and a welcoming crowd. Lessons are available for beginners and seasoned dancers, and if enough participants are interested before the regular schedule, an additional intermediate session may be added. Expect plenty of time on the dance floor, drinks from the bar, and a convenient on-campus location.

Sing your favorites at this karaoke night at Cafe Bourbon Street. A catalog of more than 70,000 songs offers plenty of options for solos, duets, and cheering on fellow performers. Expect an easygoing atmosphere with laughs, good vibes, and memorable moments. Hosted by Ian.

Presented by Fifth Third Bank, this Columbus Commons food truck gathering features a changing lineup of ten Columbus trucks serving a wide range of lunch options. Dogs are welcome, and it suits both groups and solo diners who want to relax in the sun. The selection updates each week, offering new flavors to explore.

This downtown farmers market at Columbus Commons brings together vendors in one marketplace. It was featured on Good Day Columbus, where Kay spoke about the market held at this location.

The Bronzeville Growers Market celebrates its 10th Anniversary season with a community marketplace featuring fresh produce from local farmers and creative home products. Attendees can enjoy entertainment from local artists and explore informative resource tables, with much more in store. The event is free and open to all ages.

FUNBOX brings a 25,000-square-foot inflatable playground to Polaris Fashion Place, where guests can jump, climb, and race through attractions like Obstacle Course, Gumball Gallop, Marshmallow Mountain, Ninja Walls, and Huge Slides. Suitable for all ages, this bounce park offers an energetic mix of challenges and slides across a sprawling course.

Ease into the weekend with BAM Thursdays, the Columbus Museum of Art series that brings together Bar, Art, and Music in the Patricia M. Jurgensen Sculpture Garden. Enjoy live performances, art on view, hands-on experiences, tasty bites, and refreshing drinks. It works for an after work wind down, a meet up with friends, or a spontaneous night out. Galleries stay open late with free general admission during the event, and museum hours are extended on Thursdays. Schokko Café offers limited indoor seating. Museum members receive 25 percent off food and nonalcoholic beverages. No reservation or ticket is required. Dining tables are available on a first come, first served basis. If the weather does not cooperate, activities move indoors to the atrium.

This in-person meetup centers on Japanese Riichi Mahjong at Game Arena. It welcomes beginners and experienced players, and instruction is available for anyone who wants to learn.

Take a focused, ten minute conversation with an educator from CMA centered on a single work of art. Part of the 10 Minutes on the Dot series, this pop up highlights different pieces on view and offers a quick, insightful look at the collection. Follow signs near the Welcome Desk to find the featured artwork for the day. The experience is included with general admission, and no registration is required.

This gentle yoga session from The Livelihoods LLC, formerly Replenish Well & The Yoga Carriage, focuses on everyday well-being. It is suitable for beginners and advanced students, offering a slower pace to help reset the body and encourage relaxation. Admission is $10 for members and $15 for nonmembers.

Experience an up close conversation with artist Dana Lynn Harper in the gallery alongside her work, presented within Greater Columbus. In a dialogue with Rae Root, CMA’s Roy Lichtenstein Curatorial Fellow and the curator of Greater Columbus, Harper will speak about her practice, creative process, and the ideas that shape her sculptures. Harper holds a BFA in Art and Technology from The Ohio State University and an MFA in Sculpture from Penn State University, where she received the Bunton Waller Fellowship. Her work examines the complexities of racial identity and how materials can help restore ties to cultural heritage. Drawing on forms such as Catholic candelabras, altars, and sacred architecture, she creates sculptural offerings that blend family history with a sense of spiritual royalty. Through simple rituals like lighting candles, setting fresh flowers, or filling vessels, her installations become living spaces for ceremony and collective remembrance. Members attend at no cost. Nonmembers pay $5.

Enjoy a creative evening painting on canvas with step by step instruction from a Classpop instructor, designed for all experience levels so everyone finishes a piece to take home. Beverages and light bites are available for purchase, including wine, slushies, soft drinks, pizza, and small plates. Attendees who plan to order food may want to arrive a bit early. Advance registration through Classpop is required, with the lowest price available using coupon code WWCP26. A minimum of 4 participants is needed and enrollment is limited to 16, with refunds issued if the minimum is not met. The class is hosted at Columbus’ first and oldest winery.

Settle in at The Yard for an evening of handpicked live music spanning funk, acoustic sounds, Americana, and rock, all performed by standout local talent. Sip a drink on a patio with a view, or spread out on the lawn and let the songs roll into the night. This performance spotlights The Moonbats. The Yard sits just north of Macy’s and east of Nordstrom.

A sound bath meditation led by Starr is offered at Rock Candy Healing Stones on select Thursdays. Arrive a little early to settle in, as the door will be locked once the session begins to maintain a quiet atmosphere. Thick mats, cushions, and blankets are provided, with chairs available if preferred. Complimentary snacks and spring water are available. Space is limited.

Test your music knowledge during the Thursday edition of Name That Tune at The Idiot. Every Thursday includes chances to win concert tickets.

Saddle up for COSI After Dark: Wild Wild West Broad, a one-night-only adult (21+) themed experience that turns Broad Street into a lively Wild West adventure. Expect interactive pop-ups, unexpected performances, entertainment, activities, games, and other experiences designed to pull you into the story. Adults can explore COSI without kids and enjoy food, craft beer, and themed cocktails.

Experience a free yoga session at The Topiary Park, presented in partnership with Columbus Recreation and Parks. This downtown class is part of free fitness offerings available throughout the summer, encouraging people to get moving in the heart of the city.

FLIPPO presents a concert saluting Joni Mitchell, featuring live interpretations of selections from her songbook performed by the ensemble.

Settle in for a karaoke night at VHS Social Club with a massive catalog of more than 70,000 songs, so there is likely a track for every voice. Step up for your favorite solo, pair up for a duet, or cheer on fellow singers from the crowd. Hosted by Dr Rockso, this lively gathering promises plenty of laughs, upbeat energy, and memorable moments on the mic.

An evening of blues unfolds on the outdoor stage at Streetlight Guild, featuring nationally recognized musician Buffalo Nichols performing original songs. This show returns in an open-air setting that highlights the music and the community around it. The event takes place entirely outdoors, so attendees are encouraged to bring a chair, a cooler, and a plate. Admission is $20 at the door, cash only.

Get ready for an underground hip hop night featuring Resentvul at Newport Music Hall in Columbus. The show starts at 8:00 PM. Tickets are available via Bandsintown.

Catch Dru for a live standup comedy show at The Attic Comedy Club. The reigning, defending champion of the Preble Frog Pulls, Dru has been performing comedy in Philadelphia for over 6 years and has appeared on popular podcasts including Matt and Shane's Secret Podcast, Legion of Skanks, and Story Warz. There will be a two-hour show, and doors open at 7:00 PM.

Get ready for a night of alternative sounds featuring NITE, Echos, and Child of Night at Rumba Cafe in Columbus. The event is open to all ages. Doors open at 7:00 PM, with music starting at 8:00 PM.

AWOL Bar hosts a lively karaoke night with more than 75,000 songs to choose from, offering something for every voice. Attendees can belt out favorite anthems, team up for a duet with a friend, or cheer on the performers. The atmosphere is filled with laughs, good vibes, and memorable moments. Hosted by Ben.