Fun, food, and seasonal events in Bexley, Ohio

Just outside of downtown Columbus, Bexley is a charming college town worth a visit.

Originally founded as a farming community in the early 19th century, Bexley has evolved into a vibrant city while still retaining its small-town charm.

The city’s historic neighborhoods are adorned with beautiful houses, some of which date back to the early 20th century, showcasing various architectural styles that add to its character.

Attractions in Bexley

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

Just outside of Bexley, Franklin Park Conservatory is a top botanical garden with something for everyone to enjoy. 

Explore 13 acres of botanical biomes, stunning gardens, art installations and exhibitions, and seasonal attractions as you wander the Conservatory building, The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children’s Garden and the Grand Mallway. 

Read more about visiting Franklin Park Conservatory, discounts, special events and more.

Franklin Park Conservatory Free Community Day, nights out, discounts and more

Capital University

Bexley is home to the esteemed Capital University, known for its beautiful campus and cultural events. Check out their calendar for concerts, art exhibitions, and lectures that enrich the community.

Annual Christmas Festival 2023 Dates and Times

In-person concerts featuring the Chapel Choir, Choral Union, Cantabile, Consort, and a variety of instrumentalists. All performances will be in Mees Hall, Capital University. 

Thursday, November 30, 7:30 pm
Friday, December 1, 7:30 pm
Saturday, December 2, 7:30 pm
Sunday, December 3, 3:30 pm

Drexel Theatre

This historic cinema is a true gem for movie enthusiasts. Enjoy a diverse range of films in a cozy, classic setting that evokes a sense of nostalgia. Drexel Theatre prides itself on being Columbus’s source for independent film, along with the best of Hollywood and international cinema. 

Jeffrey Mansion

Located on Parkview Avenue in Bexley, Jeffrey Mansion offers breathtaking historical architecture and two event spaces. With beautiful views of Jeffrey Park, an elegant and paved entrance, and top-notch gardening around the Jeffrey Estate, Jeffrey Mansion is a premiere event space in Columbus, Ohio.

Bexley Parks and Rec

The Parks and Rec department offers a wide range of activities, community events, and more. Check out the current activity brochure to see upcoming fun in Bexley.

Bexley Public Library

As with all of the public libraries in Central Ohio, Bexley Public Library offers a robust events calendar full of community events, special interest programming, story time, community resources, and more. See current offerings now. 

Some special upcoming fun at the library: 

Family Movie: The Super Mario Bros. Movie
Monday, October 23 from 2:00pm – 4:00pm

Enjoy the day off from school with a family movie. We’ll have The Super Mario Bros. Movie up on the big screen as well as popcorn and light refreshments.

The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari with Musicians for Silent Film
Friday, October 27, 6:30pm–8:00pm
This bone-chilling showing of the 1920 silent horror classic will be accompanied LIVE by the ensemble Musicians for Silent Film. The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari was groundbreaking in 1920 and continues to be one of the most influential and artistically acclaimed films of all time. Register here.

Halloween Writing Workshop with the Horror Writers Association (HWA) of Ohio
Monday, October 30, 7:00pm – 8:00pm
Join writers from the Horror Writers Association of Ohio to get advice on horror writing, and then spend some time writing a spooky story of your own! Register here.

Book Release Party with Natalie D. Richards: In Conversation with Margaret Peterson Haddix
Tuesday, November 7 /7:00pm – 8:00pm

Join author Margaret Peterson Haddix, New York Times bestselling author of more than 40 books for kids and teens in welcoming fellow New York Times Bestselling author Natalie D. Richards to celebrate her debut middle grade novel, 15 SECRETS TO SURVIVAL. Details/registration

Daydreamers Press with Carlotta Penn with Bexley Minority Parent Alliance
Saturday, November 11 / 3:00pm – 5:00pm
Join Dr. Carlotta Penn, founder and author at Daydreamers Press, for an engaging activity for K-5 students and her recently published picture book, Bright Boy ABCs. 

Dining in Bexley

Anthony’s Pizzeria 
Brassica
Cafe Istanbul
Cherbourg Bakery (gluten-free bakery)
Graeter’s Ice Cream
Guiseppe’s Ritrovo 
Harvest Pizzeria
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream  
Market District Kitchen and Bar 
Moshi Sushi
New Fangled Kitchen
Starbucks

Annual Community Events in Bexley

JEFFREY WOODS FESTIVAL

Gain a true appreciation for the Bexley Arboretum with our annual Jeffrey Woods Festival and Maple Syrup Workshop! Participants will experience Bexley maple syrup production, axe sharpening, a sawmill demonstration, wood working projects, and more! This event occurs in March. Learn More

ARBOR DAY

The Bexley Arboretum spans neighborhoods, streets, parks, and pockets of oasis throughout our City. Every year in the spring, we celebrate Arbor Day as a community. There are several opportunities explore the Arboretum we call home! Learn More.

EGG DASH

Each spring, there are thousands of prize-filled eggs scattered across Jeffrey Lawn, behind the Mansion. This event lasts only a few minutes! This event occurs in April. Learn More

JAZZ IN THE PARK

On four Sunday afternoons throughout the summer, local Jazz ensembles join us at Havenwood Park for Jazz in the Park! Accompanied by some of Columbus’ favorite food trucks, it’s an afternoon that’s perfect for the entire family. Learn More

MAIN EVENT

Throughout the summer, the Main Street lawn on Capital’s campus is transformed into an outdoor theatre and entertainment space for one of our favorite Friday night traditions, the Main Event. Learn More

The Bexley Main Event and Bexley Jazz in the Park

FOURTH OF JULY

A Bexley favorite! We kick off Independence Day with the annual John Barr 5k, followed by the infamous parade, community celebration on Main Street, and a mesmerizing display of fireworks. You won’t want to miss this one! Learn More

LABOR DAY BLOCK PARTY AND BREW FEST

Join us on Main Street for an afternoon filled with games, live music, local brewers, food trucks, and a cookout with Mayor Kessler and the Cookout Crew! Learn More

HARVEST FESTIVAL

October 13, 2023 from 6 pm – 8 pm. Bask in the beauty of Jeffrey Park while the leaves change color! The Harvest Festival is a great time for the entire family. Activities include a corn maze, hay rides, enchanted walk, live music, balloons, face painting, food and a bonfire! Several community groups will be selling food! This event occurs in October. Learn More

TRICK-OR-TREAT & HALLOWEEN PATROL

Tuesday, October 31, 2023 from 5:30 – 7:00 pm. Grab your favorite costume and get ready for Trick-or-Treat in Bexley. Every Halloween, we rely on our Halloween Patrol volunteers to help keep participants safe while they try to collect the most candy. Learn More

BEXLEY HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING

Sunday, December 3, 2023 from 5:00 – 7:00 pm. Spread some holiday cheer at our annual Tree Lighting! At this event, participants will enjoy the sounds of various community vocal ensembles, hot chocolate, cookies, and a visit from Santa. Don’t forget a gift for the giving tree! Learn More

PANCAKE BREAKFAST

Saturday, December 9, 2023 from 8:30 – 11:30 am. The Bexley Historical Society and Bexley Recreation and Parks decorate Jeffrey Mansion in all kinds of holiday splendor! Enjoy all-you-can-eat pancakes, sausage, juice, and coffee. Proceeds raised support the Historical Society. Learn More

Find more upcoming events in Bexley

Sunday, December 3, 2023

Saturday, December 9, 2023

Sunday, December 10, 2023