Festival Season in Columbus is going to be different for 2021, but there will still be fun to enjoy with festivals in Columbus and around Ohio – whether they are virtual, limited capacity, or otherwise adapted for safety.
Fingers crossed that case counts continue to decrease and we can have some fun this year with these great Ohio Festivals! We know not everyone will be ready for gatherings this year, so it’s up to each individual to access whether an event feels safe to them.
Events and more details will be added throughout the season. If you see any missing, please leave a comment. Let me know what your favorite festival is!
WEEKLY/MONTHLY FESTIVALS in Columbus
Short North Gallery Hop: First Saturday of the month. Visit the District, or check out the virtual hop on IG.
Franklinton Fridays: Second Friday of the month
Craftin’ Outlaws Pop Up Markets: Saturdays, May-September. Shop these socially distanced Pop-Up Market at the Columbus Museum of Art. The Pop-Ups will be hosted on Saturdays from May – September, on the outdoor pathway leading up to the entrance of CMA. Shop from 10am – 3pm or support makers online through their virtual store fronts. No more than 9 makers will be set up for each event, with new makers each Saturday.
Moonlight Market on Gay Street: 2nd Friday of each month, April – October. The monthly outdoor street festival marketplace is the 2nd Saturdays from 6 pm – 11 pm. Find makers, vendors, food pop-ups, and more!
Sunday Sunlight Market on Gay Street: 3rd Sunday of the month. Browse Gay Street for brunch, shops, and sidewalk street markets with artisan goods and products from 11am to 3pm. Note: event is the 2nd Sunday in June.
4th Fridays in Uptown Westerville: 4th Friday May through October
Grandview Hop: Last Saturday of the month in August and September
Yard Sales and Garage Sales in Columbus: Daily; find community and neighborhood sales, freecycle days, and a map of individual sales.
SEPTEMBER
Van Wert County Fair: August 31 – September 6, 2021
Millersport Sweet Corn Festival: September 1-4. Festival, concerts, rides, 5k, and more
Greek Festival: September 3-6. The festival is a Central Ohio Labor Day weekend tradition which highlights Greek culture and features cathedral tours, authentic food and drink, exhibits, shops, music, dancing, and more.
photo: Greek Festival
Obetz Zucchinifest: September 3-6, 2021. Rides, car show, parades, and free concerts with Ezra Ray Hart, and Big & Rich.
Old Hilliardfest Art and Street Fair: September 4, 2021
Ohio Renaissance Festival: September 4 – October 31, 2021 Saturdays, Sundays, Labor Day Monday
Canal Winchester Labor Day Festival: Festival cancelled for 2021. Hometown Day will be held on September 4 in place of the festival. Hometown Day will to be a fun-filled celebration for the entire community. The event will kick-off with a parade at 11:00 A.M., full of street and neighborhood floats and at least three marching bands. High Street and Stradley Place will be filled with children’s activities and food trucks, including Amish Country Donuts, and musical acts such as Frankie & Ranke and The Usual Suspects & Repeat Offenders. Additional entertainment, including a special act for children, are in the planning stages.
Ohio Cup Vintage Base Ball Festival: September 4-5
Bike the Cbus: September 5, 2021 for in-person, or Sept 4-6 for virtual. Bike the Cbus is a bicycle tour, for all ages and abilities, highlighting our city’s many attractions and unique neighborhoods. The ride features four supported routes around the city. Yay Bikes! will host Bike the Cbus in 2021 as both a virtual and an in person event. You can choose to participate in-person on Sunday, September 5, 2021, for a more supported event experience with access to safe rest stops and SAG available. Or ride virtually, anytime you want, anywhere you want, during Memorial Day weekend from Saturday, September 4th thru Monday, September 6th
Hills Market Ohio Hog Roast: September 6, 2021. Every Labor Day they host an Ohio Hog Roast featuring smoked Ohio pork paired with a live bluegrass and a variety of brews.
Upper Arlington Labor Day Arts Festival: September 6, 2021
Fredericktown Tomato Show: September 8-11, 2021
PupArt: September 8-11, 2021. Virtual show with a selection of pet-related and other original artwork from many local artists available as part of silent auctions and raffles
Marion Popcorn Festival: September 9-11, 2021
Lithopolis Honeyfest: September 10-11, 2021. Indulge on all things honey, experience a real life bee beard (it’s what it sounds like…here’s a picture) and save the bees. Honey Competition & Tasting, Honey Bake-Off, Mead & Wine Tastings, Honey Beer Garden, Honeyfest Queen Pageant, Bee Beard & Beekeeping Demonstrations
Hot Times Community Festival: September 10-12, 2021
The Columbus Dispatch Fall Home and Garden Show: September 10-12, 2021. Home and garden expertise from local gurus and craftsmen; how-to sessions and demonstrations; giveaways; and much more! Get in free to the Columbus Oktoberfest – also being held at the Expo Center!
Columbus Oktoberfest: September 10-12, 2021. Try some delicious German food and beer at the Ohio Expo Center while listening to the musical performances on two stages and tons of events. Get in free to the Columbus Dispatch Home and Garden Show – also being held at the Expo Center!
Hot Licks Blues Fest, Granville: September 11
FestiFair Arts and Craft Festival: September 11
Ohio Fish and Shrimp Festival: September 11, 18, and 25, 2021 from 10 am – 10 pm.
Powell Street Market: September 12, 2021
Creekside Blues and Jazz Festival: September 17-19, 2021
Ohio Pawpaw Festival: September 17-19, 2021
Arts in the Alley, Grove City: September 17-19, 2021
Germania Oktoberfest: September 17-19, 2021. The oldest and most authentic Oktoberfest in Columbus
Backwoods Fest, Thornville: September 17-19, 2021
Ohiolina Music Festival: September 17-19, 2021
Preble County Pork Festival: September 17-19, 2021
Festival Latino: September 18, 2021. Experience traditional and contemporary Latin American culture at the largest Latin event in Ohio. Admission is free!
photo: Festival Latino
Short North Tour of Homes: September 18-19, 2021
Delaware County Fair: September 18-25, 2021. Last county fair in the area – get your fair food!
Young’s Jersey Dairy Fall Farm Pumpkin Fun: September 18th – October 31st, 2021
Fall Avant-Garde Art and Craft Show: September 19, 2021 at the Makoy Center. Admission $3 for ages 13+.
Jackson County Apple Festival: September 21-25, 2021 Apple everything in Hocking Hills
Taste of Bexley: al fresco: September 23, 2021
Little Brown Jug, Delaware: September 23, 2021
Barnesville Pumpkin Festival: September 23-26, 2021 If you love pumpkin, take a 2 hour drive east for this fun festival
Lebanon Country Applefest: September 25-26
Columbus Coffee Fest: September 25-26
Grandview Heights Fall Fest: September 30 from 4 pm – 7 pm at Ray DeGraw Park 850 First Ave. Celebrate all things fall! This is a family friendly festival with bounce houses, food trucks, yard games, music and more!
Origins Game Fair: September 30-October 3, 2021
Cheryl’s Cookies Fall Festival: tba for 2021. Annual Fall Festival at the flagship store in Westerville! Fun for all ages and FREE admission for everyone! FREE gift for the first 50 customers. Family activities from 10am-4pm, including hay slide, obstacle course, pumpkin bowling, corn hole, face painting, NEW fall flavor tasting, cookie frosting, games, & more! Balloon Twister, story time, special visits from Westerville Police, Cookie & Brownie, Princesses and other magical characters, and delicious savings up to 50% off on fall treats!
Stratford Ecological Center Fall Harvest Fair: tba for 2021. Food, wagon rides, kids activities, live music, cider making, animals, and more. $5 per person, $15 for family of 4.
TWIG of Nationwide Children’s Pumpkinpalooza: tba for 2021
Harvest Festival, Columbus Commons: tba for 2021
Welcome to Fall Festival at Glacier Ridge Metro Park: tba for 2021. Celebrate the season with hayrides, live animals, crafts and activities. Meet at bulletin board at picnic shelter.
Full calendar list of September events
Wednesday, September 1, 2021
Thursday, September 2, 2021
Friday, September 3, 2021
Saturday, September 4, 2021
Sunday, September 5, 2021
Monday, September 6, 2021
Wednesday, September 8, 2021
Thursday, September 9, 2021
Friday, September 10, 2021
Saturday, September 11, 2021
Sunday, September 12, 2021
Wednesday, September 15, 2021
Friday, September 17, 2021
Saturday, September 18, 2021
Sunday, September 19, 2021
Monday, September 20, 2021
Tuesday, September 21, 2021
Wednesday, September 22, 2021
Thursday, September 23, 2021
Friday, September 24, 2021
Saturday, September 25, 2021
Sunday, September 26, 2021
Thursday, September 30, 2021
OCTOBER
Boo at the Zoo: Oct. 1-3, 8-10, 15-17, 22-24, & 29-31. Every weekend in October!
North Market Mix and Shake Cocktail Event: October 1, 2021
Ohio Gourd Festival (Delaware County): October 1-3, 2021
The Fall Festival at the Farm at Walnut Creek: October 1-2, 8-9, 11, 15-16, 22-23, 2021 from 8 am – 8 pm
Creekside Hops & Vines Fest: October 2, 2021
Old Worthington Market Day: October 2, 2021
Chalk the Block at Easton: October 2-3, 2021. Artists create 10 foot chalk drawings in the square as bands perform.
Upper Arlington Fall Fest: October 3 from 1-5 pm. Table reservations are required to participate.
Hocking Hills Music Festival: October 8-9, 2021. Joint production of Nelsonville Music Festival and Duck Creek Log Jam.
Columbus Italian Festival: October 8-10, 2021
Prairie Harvest Festival: October 9, 2021. Fall festival at Westland High School
The Annual Columbus Taco Fest: October 9-10, 2021 Tacos, Tequila, and Music at Goodale Park
Ohio Sauerkraut Festival: October 9-10, 2021
Dublin Halloween Spooktacular: Thursday, October 14 and Friday, October 15 in Coffman Park. Merry, not scary family fun! Guests of all ages can come in costume and enjoy this ghoulish celebration. New for 2021, the event will be spread out in Coffman Park providing even more fun for everyone. Goblins and ghouls will enjoy returning favorites like the Trunk or Treat Trail, eerie exhibits and dance performances on the Coffman Park Tennis Courts. Don’t forget to dress up as Squier Photography will be back to take portraits.
Van Wert County Harvest Happenings: October 15-16, 2021 Apple cider, apple pie, apple dumplings, apple butter, and so much more at this fall festival at this festival in NW Ohio.
Haunted Statehouse Tours: October 15-16 and 22-23, 2021
Circleville Pumpkin Show: October 20-23, 2021
photo: Circleville Pumpkin Festival
Destination Downtown Lancaster Fall Festival: October 23, 2021
Highball Halloween: October 23, 2021 Annual Halloween street party with entertainment, costume contests, and more. Event is being held at EXPRESS LIVE! for 2021
TRAUMA – Halloween Fetish Party: October 28-30
Find more Fall Fun here!
- Best places to pick apples in Central Ohio
- Columbus Pumpkin Patches, Farm Activities, Corn Mazes, and More!
- Big list of great Fall date ideas around Columbus
- Best hikes and scenic drives for Fall Color in Ohio
- Over 120 events celebrating Fall and Halloween in Columbus
- 11 Haunted Woods and Haunted Houses Around Columbus
Old-Time Harvest Day in Grove City: tba for 2021
German Village Monster Bash: tba 2021 Adult trick-or-treat route, dancing and drinking, costume contest and more!
Easton Pet Parade and Fall Festival: tba 2021
Halloween Family Fun Day at North Market: tba for 2021
Grove City Boo on Broadway: tba for 2021
Full calendar list of October events
Friday, October 1, 2021
Saturday, October 2, 2021
Sunday, October 3, 2021
Thursday, October 7, 2021
Friday, October 8, 2021
Saturday, October 9, 2021
Sunday, October 10, 2021
Monday, October 11, 2021
Tuesday, October 12, 2021
Wednesday, October 13, 2021
Thursday, October 14, 2021
Friday, October 15, 2021
Saturday, October 16, 2021
Sunday, October 17, 2021
Monday, October 18, 2021
Tuesday, October 19, 2021
Wednesday, October 20, 2021
Thursday, October 21, 2021
Friday, October 22, 2021
Saturday, October 23, 2021
Sunday, October 24, 2021
Monday, October 25, 2021
Tuesday, October 26, 2021
Wednesday, October 27, 2021
Thursday, October 28, 2021
Friday, October 29, 2021
Saturday, October 30, 2021
Sunday, October 31, 2021
NOVEMBER
S.P.A.C.E. Small Press & Alternative Comics Expo: In-person show on November 6 & 7, 2021
Ohio Made Holiday Shoppe: November 12-13, 2021 The Holiday Market features 80+ one-of-a-kind boutiques and specialty small businesses from Ohio. The Hollywood Casino Columbus makes the event a unique destination with endless activities available. Choose from unparalleled selection of home decor, specialty clothing and one-of-a-kind finds, plus enjoy fine dinning at the Hollywood Casino or a cocktail from one of our two bars. Make sure to snap a selfie with Santa as he walks around greeting shoppers.
Holiday Lighting Ceremony at Easton: November 19, 2021
Wildlights: November 19 through January 4
Christmasfair: November 20-21, 2021
Howliday Bazaar: tba 2021
Gahanna Holiday Lights Parade and Celebration: tba 2021
Magical Day of Giving at Polaris Mall: tba 2021
DECEMBER
Craftin’ Outlaws Holiday Show: December 5, 2021
Winter Avant-Garde Art and Craft Show: December 1 at the Makoy Center. Admission $3 for ages 13+.
Marysville Christmas Walk and Tree Lighting: December 2
Village Lights: tba
Ohio Statehouse Holiday Festival and Tree Lighting: December 5
Upper Arlington Winter Festival & Tree Lighting Ceremony: December 6
Short North Gallery Hop: December 5
Hollyfest Arts & Crafts Show: December 7
Columbus Oddities & Curiosities Expo: May 9 December 12 Oddities, taxidermy, wet specimens, antiques, odd jewelry, unusual art, bones, curiosities and all around creepy, strange and bizarre items. Tickets are $10, 12 and under free.
12 Bars of Xmas Bar Crawl: December 14
Chanukkah Celebration, Easton tba
Franklinton Fridays: December 11 (second Friday of the month)
First Night Columbus family-friendly New Years Eve Celebration: December 31
Festivals from 2021
JANUARY 2021
Great Train Show at the Ohio Expo Center: Cancelled for 2021 There will be tables of trains for sale, exhibitors from around the country, Model Train displays, and a riding train for kids, plus door prize giveaways. Tickets $9-$10, kids 11 and under are free.
Ohio Home + Remodeling Show: Cancelled for 2021. Scheduled for January 21-23, 2022
(614) Magazine Restaurant Week Columbus: January 25-30, 2021 Over 100 restaurants offering 3 course prix fixes menus from $15-$40. To-go options.
Buckeye Lake Winterfest: Postponed to Spring 2021 See Benny the Bass predict when spring will arrive, watch fireworks, and enjoy specials at businesses around the Lake.
Other January Festivals
FEBRUARY 2021
Black History Month events in Columbus: Throughout February
Virtual AAA Great Vacations Travel Expo: February 27 and 28, 2021. Get ideas for your next big vacation by talking to travel experts and checking out vacation packages.
Valentine’s Day in Columbus: February 14, 2021 We’ve gathered tons of fun events and ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day in Columbus
The Annual International Irish Triathlon at the Shamrock Club: February 27, 2021
Maple Syrup Tours and Events: late February – early March 2021. Learn about the process and taste the results with maple syrup events around town, including tours to see the tapped trees in action, pancake breakfasts with fresh syrup, and more.
Columbus Baby & Kids Galleria and Mommy & Me Walk: February 21. Vendor event for all things parent and child. Candy Land Scavenger Hunt, Meet & Greet with princess and super hero, balloon artist, free cookies, win a Candy Land game and lot of other neat items! Plus Mommy & Me Walk before the event!
National Margarita Day: February 22, 2021. Find all of the best margarita deals around tonw to celebrate!
Cheryl’s Cookies Annual Bake Sale: February 22-March 6 Up to 75% off your favorite Cheryl’s Cookies and Brownies goodies! Buy extra to freeze! The bake sale has been extended for multiple days and locations to spread out any crowds.
Other February Festivals
The Chilly Open at the Columbus Zoo: Cancelled for 2021. A ticket to the Chilly Open allows you to sample food and spirited beverages from over 30 local restaurants, listen to music from the Debits, participate in raffles and a silent auction, and visit all Zoo and Aquarium exhibits for $45.
Sweet Treats Dessert Festival: Cancelled for 2021. Taste sweets from some of the best dessert makers in Columbus! Tickets are $15 and will sell out.
Columbus Winter Beerfest: Postponted until 2022. This delicious and boozy event will have over 350 craft beers available for sampling, and live music. Regular admission for the tasting is $45-$55.
KidsLinked Worthington KidsFest: tba This free family event showcases camp options from throughout Central Ohio, family activities and so much more, and is held at the Worthington Community Center.
Winter Jam Tour Spectacular: Not scheduled for 2021 Christian Music’s Largest Annual Tour. $15 (donation) at the door (ages 2 and up)
Best New Restaurants with Columbus Monthly: Not scheduled for 2021
MakerX The Columbus Maker Expo: Not scheduled for 2021 MakerX is a festival of creating with technology at Ohio Expo Center. All ages can check out robots, drones, digital art and music, game and VR developers, cosplay, digital crafting and more. Tickets are $5 for ages 5 and over
March Columbus and Ohio Festivals
The Dispatch Home and Garden Show: March 6-14, 2021 Event will be modified to ensure safety. Online ticketing only, with timed entrance. No celebrity guests, workshops, or stage demostrations.
Spring Avant-Garde Arts & Craft Show: March 6 at Makoy Event Center. Admission $3 for ages 13 and up.
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Columbus: March 10-17
Other March Festivals
Other March festivals; cancelled or postponed
Columbus International Auto Show: Postponed until later in 2021 Admission is $6-$12; ages 9 and under free
Cool Season Crop Sale at Chadwick Arboretum: Not scheduled for 2021
Grove City Lions Club Spring Craft Beer Fest: Not scheduled for 2021
Arnold Sports Festival: Postponed until later in 2021. Drawing more than 22,000 athletes annually who compete in more than 80 sports & events, including 16 Olympic sports, along with over 1,000 booths at the Fitness Expo, this event is every fitness enthusiasts “must-attend” event. Tickets start at $20.
Columbus Pet Expo, All About Cat Expo, and Mega Adoption Event: moved to March 11-13, 2022. details tba
April Festivals in Columbus
Tons of Easter Events with Easter egg hunts, and photos with the Easter Bunny
Eggs, Paw and Claws at the Columbus Zoo: April 2-3, 2021. Easter and Spring season celebration at the Zoo. Reservations required!
Virtual CCAD Art Fair: April 9-11 A juried selection of Columbus College of Art & Design’s top alumni and students sell their wares at this must-see event. Proceeds from the art go directly to the artists.
Red Twig Farms Peony Plant Sale: April 16-17. Shop for peonies for your garden at this special event at Red Twig Farms.
Pizza and Beer Week with 614: April 19-24 Enjoy Pizza and Brews for a fraction of the cost during (614) Pizza and Beer Week presented by (614) Magazine.
Ohioana Book Festival: April 22-25 This free virtual event celebrates Ohio authors with events for book lovers of all ages.
Arbor Day Celebration at Chadwick Arboretum & Learning Gardens: April 30. Virtual Arbor Day Celebration Awards Ceremony from 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. via Zoom. Must register by April 28 to receive link.
Other April festivals; cancelled or postponed
A Taste of Clintonville: TBA for 2021 Enjoy samples from almost 25 Clintonville restaurants while listening to live music.
Big Book Sale at Columbus Main Library: TBA for 2021
Ohio State Football Spring Game: TBA for 2021 Tickets are just $5
Columbus Home Improvement Show: Postponed to 2022
Blast! The Big Science Bash at COSI: tba for 2021. Fundraiser for COSI featuring more than 20 of Columbus’ favorite local restaurants, open bar, and more.
Party for the Planet Earth Day Celebration at the Columbus Zoo: tba for 2021 Learn about conservation and ways you can help Mother Earth at this Earth Day Celebration.
Earth Day Celebration at Genoa Park: tba for 2021
Arbor Day Festival at Dawes Arboretum: Not scheduled for 2021; virtual events offered
Taste of Granville: tba for 2021. Taste test dishes from 20+ local restaurants, while you enjoy live music and drinks. A food truck rodeo will be outside too!
Other May festivals; cancelled or postponed
Powell Touch-a-Truck: TBA for 2021 Kids will love climbing and exploring dozens of vehicles in Adventure Park including emergency vehicles, farm equipment, and city vehicles. FREE!
Maibockfest at Germania: TBA for 2021
Columbus Craft Beer Week: Not scheduled for 2021
Six One Pour – The Ohio Craft Beer Fest: Not scheduled for 2021 Craft beer festival at COSI to kick off craft beer week!
Green Lawn Abbey Neighborhood Yard Sale: TBA for 2021
Grove City Community Environmental Day: TBA for 2021 Dispose of unwanted items from your residence including documents, electronics and appliances as well as construction and landscape materials and tires (four per household limit). Ohio Mobile Shredding provides secure document destruction, and iRecycle collects electronic items including computers, printers, cell phones and CPUs.
Green on the Green, Worthington: POSTPONED until May 7, 2022
Shepherd’s Corner Plant Sale: Not scheduled for 2021
ColumBEST Extravaganza: May. Celebrate the best restaurants, businesses, and places that YOU voted for with (614)Magazine.
National Bike to Work Day: pre-planned routes leading to City Hall for a morning celebration
Easton Food Fest: Food Truck Friday, Sippin’ Saturday, and Sweet Sunday
Made LOCAL Marketplace Spring Show: May at Swan Lake Event Center. Free admission.
North Market Apron Gala: tba 2021 Tickets are $75-$100 and include food, drinks, music, and more.
Dawes Arboretum Plant Sale: tba 2021
Delaware Arts Festival: Cancelled for 2021
COSI EMS & Safety Day: COSI closed until June 3. Included with admission to COSI
Asian Festival Dragon Boat Race: tba for 2021 at West Bank Park. Free.
photo by Craig Hicks
Hills Market Salmon Roast: tba. Enjoy steel drum band music and purchase a Hills Own Salmon Sandwich or vegetarian option, with a side of Hills Own Cole Slaw for $9 from 11:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Family Funday at the Columbus Commons: TBA from 4-8 pm. Enjoy carousel rides, inflatables, games, arts and crafts, special visitors, characters, and more. There will be lots of free fun, with inflatables requiring a $5 wristband. Stay for a free showing of “Ralph Breaks the Internet” under the internet.
Utica Sertoma Ice Cream Festival and Car and Motorcycle Show: Cancelled for 2021.
Jeni’s Strawberry Jam at Land-Grant: tba. Strawberry Jam will feature strawberry ice cream, the release of a Jeni’s and Land-Grant collaboration beer, local food, family friendly activities, and live music all day.
Ride of Silence: Not scheduled for 2021. Join cyclists in a short, slow and silent processional through Downtown Columbus in honor of those who have been injured or killed while cycling on public roadways. FREE.
Green Lawn Abbey Memorial Day Open House: tba for 2021. Event is virtual this year
Bloom Township Fire Fighters Annual Memorial Day Fish Fry & Car Show: not scheduled for 2021
MAY Festivals in Columbus
Gahanna Herb Day Festival: May 1 Plant sale, workshops, tours, and more
Merion Village Yard Sale: May 1
Columbus Underground Urban Living Tour: May 2. Tickets are $10 in advance or day of.
Powell Street Market: May 2
COSI Science Festival: May 5-8. Virtual activities to celebrate science
Virtual Indianola Carnival: May 7-14. The Indianola Carnival Committee will be hosting an online silent auction, scavenger hunt, online games and Carnival Bags, a fun-filled bag that families can take home for Carnival-fun-at-home.
German Village GartenMarkt Plant Sale: Presale for pickup May 8
Free Admission to the Zoo for Mother’s Day: May 9. Moms and grandmas get in free when they bring a child/grandchild of any age! Admission rates or membership apply to child/grandchild.
Chadwick Arboretum Spring Plant Sale: May 13-15. Choose from over 650 varieties of uncommon plants proven to grow well in Ohio climate and soil. Pick up some plants for your garden!
CCAD Senior Fashion Show: May 14
Village Valuables in German Village: May 15
Upper Arlington Spring Fling: May 15. Touch-a-Truck, inflatables, arts and crafts, and more
Central Ohio Folk Festival: May 22 Enjoy virtual concerts and workshops all day with all-access virtual tickets
Memorial Day Parades and Ceremonies: May 28-31 events will be updated in April, but are typically annual.
Westerville Field of Heroes: May 28-31. This year’s event is drive-through or walk-through. Flag and commemorative coins will be available for purchase. There is also a Heroes Hike that you can register to complete during the weekend.
Asian Festival: May 29-30 Asian Festival is virtual for 2021.
The Memorial Tournament: May 31 – June 6
See full list of Festivals in May
More June events
GCAC Columbus Arts Festival 2017
Newark Strawberry Festival: CANCELLED for 2021. Will return June 3-5, 2022. Rides games, crafts, food, and entertainment provide the entire family with many exciting things to do, see, and taste. Enjoy the Strawberry Shortcakes made famous by the Newark Kiwanis Club and served with creamy Velvet Ice Cream, made locally.
Columbus Arts Festival: CANCELLED FOR 2021. Scheduled for June 10-12, 2022
KidsLinked’s Free Columbus Children’s Festival: tba for 2021. The free festival celebrates youth and family sports and will feature lots of activities and entertainment for the family, including sports clinics, face painting, family fun zone, bounce park and inflatables. There will be food trucks available when you get hungry.
Worthington Art Festival: CANCELLED FOR 2021. June 18-19, 2022
Easton Art Affair: tba for 2021
A Taste of Worthington: tba for 2021
JUNE Festivals in Columbus
Please bear with us as we try to keep this list current amidst all of the changes. Please check the links provided to ensure a festival is still being held.
The Memorial Tournament: May 31 – June 6, 2021. Spectators will be allowed!
Bexley Women’s Club House & Garden Tour: June 6, 2021 The tour showcases some of the most finest homes and gardens in the Bexley area and has become a destination for people from all over Ohio and beyond. Tickets are $20 presale, or $25 at the door
Olde Towne East Trash to Treasures: June 12 Neighborhood yard sale
Summer Avant-Garde Art and Craft Show: June 13 at the Makoy Center. Admission $3 for ages 13+.
Washboard Music Festival: June 17-19
Grove City Wine and Arts Festival: June 18-19, 2021. Featuring wineries, food, art and more. Check for cancellations based on public health needs.
Virtual Columbus PRIDE March: June 19. No festival for 2021, but the Virtual Pride March will be broadcast with hosts, entertainment, and more.
London Cobra Auto Show: June 24 – 26, 2021
Powell Festival: The annual Powell Festival is converting to a three-part concert series and separate community fireworks display. Concerts: Friday, June 25, Friday, July 30, Friday, Aug. 27. Fireworks: June 26 See details.
Virtual Comfest: June 25-27, 2021. Virtual ComFest will feature live and recorded performances by Columbus’ best bands and artists, workshops, community activism and other events you look forward to every year. In addition, ComFest will host “virtual” Street Fair as well as the 2021 Merch Booth, all online!
German Village Garten Tour: June 26, 2021. Choose from afternoon walking tour, cocktail party, or evening walking candlelight tour. Tickets are selling out fast!
Powell Street Market: June 26, 2021
Full calendar list of June events
JULY Festivals in Columbus
4th of July Fireworks, Parades, and Celebrations Around Columbus: July 2-5, 2021. Most 4th of July celebrations, parades, and fireworks are returning for 2021.
Red White & Boom: Cancelled for 2021. Huge 4th of July festival in downtown Columbus with an all-day festival, plus entertainment, parade, and fireworks.
Doo Dah Parade: July 4, 2021. Wild and wacky parade through the Short North (you have to see it to understand!)
Good Guys PPG Nationals: July 9-11, 2021. Huge classic car show at the Ohio Expo Center with entertainment, family activities, and more.
Ohio Brew Week Festival: July 9-17, 2021 Huge beer festival with tons of events in Athens, Ohio. There will still be events and full tap list at local Venues/Bars, but some signature events such as First Call, Brew BQ, and Last Call are cancelled.
S.P.A.C.E. Small Press & Alternative Comics Expo: A virtual show on July 10 & 11 and in-person show on November 6 & 7
Merion Village Garden Tour: July 11-17, 2021. Free garden tours in Merion Village.
Upper Arlington Summer Celebration: July 15, 2021 (tentative) Free outdoor family fun including inflatables and entertainment, followed by a movie in the park
Taste of Powell Tour: July 18, 2021.
WesterFlora Garden Tour: July 18, 2021. Annual tour of gardens in the Westerville community that will be bursting with color, plant collections, theme gardens, scenic views and much more.
Ohio State Fair – Not open to public in 2021: July 19 – August 8. The 2021 Ohio State Fair will not be open to the public, and will instead focus on agricultural and educational competitions for exhibitors, and their families and guests.
Franklin County Fair: July 19-25, 2021. FULL fair returns to the Franklin County Fairgrounds in 2021!
AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days: July 23-25, 2021. America’s largest motorcycle swap meet, national championship vintage racing in numerous disciplines and unforgettable fun everywhere, AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days is one of the must-do motorcycling events.
Columbus Summer Beerfest: July 24. Pick from the daytime or evening session to pick samples from over 350 brews.
Union County Fair: July 25-July 31, 2021. Full fair returns for 2021!
PBR10K with Parker Lee Foundation: July 31, 2021. All you can drink PBR, live music, food and more at a fundraiser to benefit Central Ohio Youth Organizations.
Short North Yard Sale: July 31, 2021
Whitehall Food Truck & Fun Fest: July 31, 2021. Over 30 food trucks/stands to fill your belly, and lots of bands to provide the fun, as well as a crafters area/marketplace.
Canal Winchester Blues and Ribfest: CANCELLED for 2021
July festivals cancelled
North Market Ohio Wine Festival: not scheduled for 2021
Summer Jam West: Cancelled for 2021. Grassroots, free arts and music festival held annually in Westgate Park.
Westerville Music and Arts Festival: Cancelled for 2021. Scheduled for July 9-10, 2022. Enjoy local and national artisans and musicians. Details tba.
The Summer Tour of Historic Homes of Olde Towne East: tba for 2021
Lancaster Festival: July 23-31, 2021. Celebration of music, the arts, and community.
Jazz and Rib Fest: CANCELLED for 2021. Three days of continuous jazz by renowned international and local musicians, barbecue pit masters, and fun activities.
Jazz and Rib Festival Columbus Ohio
AUGUST Festivals in Columbus
Lobster Roll Days, Hills Market Worthington: Saturdays in August from noon – 4 pm.
Dublin Irish Festival presents Dublin Irish Days: August 4-8, 2021. While the regular Irish festival isn’t happening in 2021, you can expect a 4-day city wide celebration to spread out the crowds. Ticketed live music and entertainment will take place at Coffmna Park, but you can also enjoy live music throughout Dublin. There’s also the Dublin Irish Festival 5k, DubCrawl, Wee Folk Area, and the Darby Street Market.
Pelotonia: August 6-8, 2021. Pelotonia is a two-day bike tour that includes a weekend of cycling, entertainment and volunteerism. Pelotonia raises millions of dollars each year for cancer research at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute. Pelotonia’s operating expenses are covered by funding partners, so that 100% of every Rider raised dollar goes directly to fund cancer research. Gather where the riders will be passing through or get involved as a rider or volunteer!
Taste the Future: August 10, 2021. Livestream only
ProMusica SummerFEST Series: August 11-12 and 14-15, 2021. SummerFEST features two FREE concerts outside at Franklin Park Conservatory, and 2 concerts at Dublin Coffman Park for just $10-$20.
Reynoldsburg Tomato Festival: August 12-14, 2021
All Ohio Balloon Festival: August 12-14, 2021. Hot Air Balloons, live music, Kidz City, and more at this fun annual event with over 30 balloons!
North Ridgeville Corn Festival: August 13-15, 2021. The annual Corn Festival offers FREE admission, FREE entertainment, FREE parking, and it is always the second weekend in August! Enjoy fireworks, corn eating contest, kids’ games, free & live entertainment, and the Grande Parade is back for 2021
Grove City EcoFest: August 14, 2021. Learn to be greener at this festival that promotes sustainability and innovation.
Free Comic Book Day: August 14, 2021
Cartoon Weekend at the Columbus Zoo: August 14-15 Characters will make appearances throughout the event, plus appearances by YouTube sensation voice actor Brian Hull and special guests Batman and Robin.
Bucyrus Bratwurst Festival: August 19-21
Lexington Blueberry Festival: August 19-22
Columbus Duck Race: August 21. Virtual only for 2021. It’s only $5 to register a duck! Hosted by the Development Board of Nationwide Children’s Hospital.
Columbus Food Truck Festival: August 21-22. Annual food truck festival has relocated to the Franklin County Fairgrounds in Hilliard, Ohio for 2021. There will be over 60 food trucks and food carts.
Fairborn Sweet Corn Festival: August 21-22. This is a family-oriented event with 180 handmade arts and crafts booths and food vendors. There are activities for children including pony rides and the Big Bounce. There will be free entertainment both days in the festival area. Parking and admission are also free.
MatsuriCon: August 21-22. Matsuricon is an annual Japanese pop-culture event that focuses primarily on Japanese animation (known as “anime”), manga (Japanese graphic novels), and video games. There will be an online digital event from August 21-22.
Matsuricon in the Park
Matsuricon in the Park: August 29 from 11 am – 5 pm at Inniswoods Metro park. The event will welcome cosplayers and photographers of all skill levels to an outdoor park where they can experience the feeling of an on location photoshoot and the opportunity to work with photographers in a one on one atmosphere. The intent is to create a more relaxed venue for people who want to pursue cosplay photography but don’t know where to start, for cosplayers who might find the prospect of seeking out a photographer at conventions intimidating, or simply for those more advanced skills who want to stretch their legs after a year indoors and miss the energy of a convention.
WAG! Festival: August 28. Fun festival for the dogs and family.
Zoofari at The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium: August 28, 2021 Party like an animal at this annual adult-only festival with nearly 100 of Central Ohio’s best restaurants and bars serving their signature dishes, as well as live music on several stages throughout the zoo from 7 pm – 12 am. Your evening will be spent walking through the Zoo tasting food from fantastic restaurants, sipping drinks, and listening to live music from great bands.
Scrawl in Franklinton: August 28-29. Live creation of murals, art and more!
photo: Scrawl
Van Wert County Fair: August 31 – September 6, 2021
Full calendar list of August events
August festivals tba or cancelled
Rally for the Ranch: cancelled for 2021
Superhero Day at Easton: tba for 2021
Hot Rod Hula Hop: tba for 2021 Downtown local luau; free admission!
Cruise the ‘Ville Car Show: tba. Classic cars, food trucks, a touch-a-truck display, plus Police Helicopter landing, YMCA Kids Fun Van, Face painting, music, Kiwanis Raffle, Awards for the Car Show entrants.
Craft Brew at the Zoo: Not scheduled for 2021. Craft beer, food trucks, and a concert by Sugar Ray at the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium.
September festivals tba or cancelled for 2021
Ohio Made Autumn Market: tba Shop local and drink local at Land-Grant Brewing with Ohio vendors featuring handmade goods – just in time to shop for all of your tailgate needs.
Slice of Columbus: Cancelled for 2021. Over fifteen area pizza shops will serve their most savory pies. Attendees will have the opportunity to sample pizza and vote for their favorite pie with the “People’s Choice Award.” Event includes children’s activities, craft beers and wine. Tickets are $15-$18, with family pass options available.
Annual Taste of Dublin: tba for 2021 Enjoy fine food from 25+ Dublin-area restaurants at this upscale event
Easton Fashion Night: tba Fashionable activities, great discounts, giveaways and more
Scarecrow Festival in Washington Courthouse: Cancelled for 2021. Fun food, family activities, beer garden, rides, food, 5k, car show, and free concerts and more.
Columbus Mac and Cheese Festival: tba. Samples all kinds of mac & cheese at Easton from restaurants around the city!
October festivals tba or cancelled for 2021
Ohio Smoked Meat & BBQ Festival: Cancelled for 2021; October 14-15, 2021
[…] Over 325 Central Ohio and Columbus Festivals – There are so many amazing festivals in Columbus, and the fall festival season is the best! Check out these great festivals for foodies, art lovers, and more […]