Family events in Lancaster, OH

Enjoy complimentary general admission every Sunday at the Columbus Museum of Art, with access to special exhibitions included. This weekly offering is supported by Art Bridges Foundation’s Access for All and Free for the Future Campaign donors. Friends and families can explore the Walter Wing and collaborate on a puzzle in a gallery. There is something to discover around every corner. Photo credit: JToland Photo.

Lenny Pearce brings the Toddler Rave World Tour to KEMBA Live in Columbus for an indoor, all-ages experience. Ticket transfer will be delayed for this event and will not be available immediately. Resale on AXS Resale is also not available right away and may be offered later. Please review the terms of AXS’s Purchase Agreement for more information.

Now in its 176th year, the Fairfield County Fair features a full slate of classic attractions, including bull riding, truck and tractor pulls, a horse pull, demolition derby events, mule races, and harness racing, along with exhibits and rides for all ages. Admission is $10 for ages 10 and up, and children 9 and under are admitted free. On Wednesday, seniors 65 and older with ID receive a $3 admission rate. Ohio University Lancaster will host a booth inside the Arts & Crafts 1909 Grange building, and a free shuttle will stop at Ohio University Lancaster from Wednesday through Saturday during fair week.

The Columbus Walk to End Alzheimer’s is part of the largest event of its kind worldwide, raising awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support, and research. Individuals, families, corporate teams, and supporters of all ages gather to honor those affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementias. The experience features an opening ceremony, a Promise Garden that recognizes personal connections, and a meaningful walk alongside others committed to the cause. Participation helps fund critical care and support for local families while advancing research toward better treatments and, ultimately, a cure. Participants can start or join a team and honor a loved one while helping move this mission forward.

Celebrate Italian heritage and community spirit at the 17th Annual Italian Festival Parade and High School Marching Band Competition, organized by the Columbus Piave Club. The route moves through Victorian Village, the Short North, and Italian Village, finishing at the Columbus Italian Festival. Look for lively marching bands, vintage cars, and showcases from local groups along the way. Participation is open to bands, organizations, businesses, and other groups. There is no entry fee for most participants, and groups are encouraged to carry a banner. A $100 fee applies to politicians or political organizations.

Experience a choral showcase with five distinct ensembles that trace a journey from the bright, youthful tones of third graders to the polished sound of musicians preparing for college-level performance. The program is suitable for all ages. Presale tickets are $12 for students and seniors and $15 for general admission. At the box office and on the day of the concert, tickets are $15 for students and seniors and $18 for general admission. Children 5 and under are free.

A friendly weekly community bike ride welcomes riders of every age and experience level. It begins at Circleville Elementary School and travels together at an easy pace for a 7 mile round trip to the Ohio Christian University campus and back. The route follows city sidewalks and bike paths, keeping it comfortable for kids, beginners, and families. Expect a supportive, relaxed atmosphere where no one is left behind, along with a simple way to enjoy a casual cruise and connect with fellow cyclists. Participants should bring a bike and a helmet.

The 176th Fairfield County Fair offers a full slate of attractions, including bull riding, a truck and tractor pull, a horse pull, demolition derbies, mule races, and harness racing. Beyond the main events, explore a large assortment of exhibits and enjoy rides for all ages. Admission is $10 for ages 10 and older, and children 9 and under are admitted free. Ohio University Lancaster will host a booth inside the Arts & Crafts 1909 Grange building, and a free shuttle will stop at Ohio University Lancaster.

Celebrate the neighborhood at The Market at HAPCAP with an afternoon centered on community connection and support. Visitors can explore local organizations and helpful resources, pick up extra fresh produce and groceries, and enjoy a complimentary hot dog with chips for lunch while meeting fellow neighbors. The INNS Senior Living is sponsoring the event, helping make possible the additional fresh produce and the free meal.

Children in kindergarten through fifth grade can practice reading aloud during a 15 minute session with Benny, a therapy dog certified by TDI, to build confidence. Completing three RTAD sessions earns a free 3D printed keychain. To reserve a session, visit the front desk or call 740-927-9986.

This community dinner brings neighbors, friends, and families together to share a hearty home-cooked meal in a welcoming setting. Guests can enjoy dinner along with activities for all ages that vary with the weather. Admission is $5 for adults, and children under 18 are free. It offers a low-cost way to connect with others, meet new people, and spend quality time around the table.

Skate the rink with a budget-friendly public session that is great for pairs or solo skaters. Admission is $10 for two people or $6 for one, and skate rentals are available for $6.

Discover indoor climbing at DICK’S House of Sport with a beginner friendly class designed for ages 6 and up. Participants start with a safety overview and a look at essential gear, then move to the rock wall for supervised climbs led by certified coaches. Instruction focuses on building confidence, improving technique, and developing strength in a welcoming environment suited to new climbers of any age.

A creative writing workshop designed for students in grades 3 through 6 invites young authors to dream up, describe, and illustrate an original monster. Each participant receives a Monster Building Handbook, made possible by a grant from Cosmic Writers by the Tigris Foundation, to capture ideas and artwork. Across three sessions, creators will test their creatures in a variety of story challenges, wrapping up with a final encounter against a monster hunter. Taking part in every session is encouraged, yet the handbook includes activities that can be completed independently if one is missed.

This pulling competition takes place at the Fairfield County Fair in Lancaster, Ohio and features SEOPS classes. The lineup includes Cheater Stock Gas, 2.6 Diesel, Workstock Diesel, Hot Farm, and Altered Farm, plus 12,500 Tractors and Semis.

Honor Flight Columbus returns from Mission 156, bringing home veterans who served with courage and sacrifice. At John Glenn Columbus International Airport in Columbus, OH, community members can line the terminal to offer the Welcome Home many never received years ago. For some, this may be the first time they hear those words. Applause, flags, and gratitude are welcome, helping show that their service and sacrifice will not be forgotten. Mission 156 is sponsored by The Ragan & McNamara Family.

Dr. Dave returns with Under the Big Top: Science in the Circus, presenting the physics behind the daring feats performed by circus entertainers. Each show runs 30 minutes and is hosted in the WLOH Tent, with multiple performances scheduled.

Settle out on the grass for a Halloween-themed movie night with complimentary popcorn available until it runs out. Pack a blanket or a folding chair for comfort. The bar will be pouring drinks, and a food truck will be serving on site.

Settle in around the firepit for spooky storytelling with professional storyteller Jim Flanagan. Maxwell Library will supply the s'mores.

SCFCM hosts a monthly food distribution for registered families, with services available once per month per household. Please bring a photo ID along with proof of Hocking County residency. If you are not yet registered, you can complete registration while in the distribution line. Arrive before the line closes to ensure service. If you miss the distribution, plan to return on the next scheduled date. Upcoming dates are posted on the marquee at the front of the facility.

A hands-on gallery experience designed for children ages 3 to 4 and their caregivers, offered on the third Friday of each month. Together, participants explore artworks through conversation, movement, and playful activities that encourage close looking and shared discovery. The program nurtures early language development, sparks curiosity, and builds confidence while fostering meaningful connections between adults and children. Expect to observe carefully, talk about what you notice, imagine together, and play, then leave with simple ideas to keep creative learning going during future museum visits and at home. Caregivers are asked to stay nearby and explore alongside their child throughout the session. Backpacks are not permitted in the galleries. Registration is free for members and $10 for nonmembers, and covers admission for one child and one adult.

Dr. Dave returns with Under the Big Top: Science in the Circus, a program that explains the physics behind the stunts performed by circus entertainers. Each performance lasts about 30 minutes and takes place in the WLOH Tent. Multiple showings are scheduled, providing several opportunities to see the presentation.

This recurring movie day brings homeschool families together at AMC Theater - Indian Mound Mall on the third Friday of each month. Ticket prices vary by the films shown, typically ranging from $5 to $7.99 per person, and are purchased in person at the box office. When buying tickets, mention that you are with Licking County Homeschoolers. During the school year, two film options are offered each month, with a single selection during the summer. Titles and schedule details will be shared closer to the day.

Blue Couch Bookshop hosts a storytime for little ones, offering a simple chance to listen to stories together.

Enjoy a Pokemon-themed skating session featuring a Pokeball scavenger hunt, an appearance by a Pikachu character, and a trading card station, plus more activities. Admission is $15 and includes a mini glow stick and a Pokemon card for trading. Skate rental is $6. Guests ages 3 to 17 must pay admission and either rent skates or bring their own. Non-skating adults may enter at no charge. An online waiver is required for all skaters, including adults and parents of skating children, and the signed confirmation must be presented at admissions. Birthday party bookings are available.

Colony Cats (& dogs) brings adoptable cats and kittens to Petco in Upper Arlington. Every cat is FIV and FeLV tested, vaccinated, microchipped, spayed or neutered, and dewormed, and is ready for a new home. Adoptions require an approved application.

Kids can enjoy the Kid Power Harvest Bash at Living Water Church of Christ in Christian Union, with games, pizza, and plenty of fun.

Fall mini photo sessions at Slate Run Metro Park feature 15-minute appointments and include 15 or more images for $175. For additional details, please visit the booking link.