Festival Season is here and there are fun events almost every weekend! 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!
FEBRUARY 2020
Black History Month events in Columbus: Throughout February
The Chilly Open at the Columbus Zoo: February 1, 2020. 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: February 2, 2020. Taste sweets from some of the best dessert makers in Columbus! Tickets are $15 and will sell out.
Short North Gallery Hop: February 7, 2020 (first Saturday of the month)
AAA Great Vacations Travel Expo: February 7-9, 2020. Get ideas for your next big vacation by talking to travel experts and checking out vacation packages. Tickets $8; free 16 and under.
Franklinton Fridays: February 7, 2020 (second Friday of the month)
Valentine’s Day in Columbus: February 14, 2020 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 15, 2020
Maple Syrup Tours and Events: February 16-March 9, 2020. 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 Winter Beerfest: Friday, February 17 and Saturday, February 18, 2020. 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: February 21 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.
National Margarita Day: February 22, 2020
Winter Jam Tour Spectacular: February 22, 2020 Christian Music’s Largest Annual Tour. $15 (donation) at the door (ages 2 and up)
The Dispatch Home and Garden Show: February 22 – March 1, 2020
Best New Restaurants with Columbus Monthly: February 27, 2020
MakerX The Columbus Maker Expo: February 29 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
Cheryl’s Cookies Annual Bake Sale: February 29 Up to 75% off your favorite Cheryl’s Cookies and Brownies goodies! Buy extra to freeze!
Other February Festivals
Saturday, February 1, 2020
Monday, February 3, 2020
Wednesday, February 5, 2020
Saturday, February 8, 2020
Saturday, February 15, 2020
Friday, February 21, 2020
Saturday, February 22, 2020
March Festivals in Columbus
Arnold Sports Festival: March 5-8 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.
Short North Gallery Hop: March 7 (first Saturday of the month)
Spring Avant-Garde Arts & Craft Show: March 7 at Makoy Event Center. Admission $3 for ages 13 and up.
Columbus Parent Camp & Activities Expo at the Columbus Zoo: tba
North Market Mix and Shake Cocktail Event: tba
Franklinton Fridays: March 13 (second Friday of the month)
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Columbus: March 14-17
Columbus International Auto Show: March 19-22. Admission is $6-$12; ages 9 and under free
Cool Season Crop Sale at Chadwick Arboretum: March tba
Grove City Lions Club Spring Craft Beer Fest: March 28
Craftin’ Outlaws Spring Fling: March 29. Free admission includes all-day admission to Columbus Museum of Art
Other March Festivals
Wednesday, March 4, 2020
Thursday, March 5, 2020
Friday, March 6, 2020
Saturday, March 7, 2020
Sunday, March 8, 2020
Monday, March 9, 2020
Friday, March 13, 2020
Saturday, March 14, 2020
Sunday, March 15, 2020
Monday, March 16, 2020
Tuesday, March 17, 2020
Friday, March 20, 2020
Saturday, March 28, 2020
April Festivals in Columbus
Over 100 Easter Events with Easter egg hunts, and photos with the Easter Bunny (to be updated in February)
A Taste of Clintonville: April 1 Enjoy samples from almost 25 Clintonville restaurants while listening to live music.
Short North Gallery Hop: April 4 (first Saturday of the month)
Sprout Swap Cloth Diaper and Baby Carrier Consignment Sale: tba
Columbus Home Improvement Show: April 17-19 at Ohio Expo Center
Big Book Sale at Columbus Main Library: April 10-12
CCAD Art Fair: April 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.
Franklinton Fridays: April 10 (second Friday of the month)
Ohio State Football Spring Game: April 11 Tickets on sale February 13.
The Moonlight Market on Gay Street: April 11
Blast! The Big Science Bash at COSI: April 18. Fundraiser for COSI featuring more than 20 of Columbus’ favorite local restaurants, open bar, and more.
Eggs, Paw and Claws at the Columbus Zoo: April 10-11. Easter and Spring season celebration at the Zoo
Party for the Planet Earth Day Celebration at the Columbus Zoo: April 18. Learn about conservation and ways you can help Mother Earth at this Earth Day Celebration.
4th Fridays in Uptown Westerville: April 24 (and each 4th Friday through September)
Arbor Day Celebration at Chadwick Arboretum & Learning Gardens: April 24
Earth Day Celebration at Genoa Park: April 25 Free for everyone!
Pizza and Beer Week with 614: April tba Enjoy Pizza and Brews for a fraction of the cost during (614) Pizza and Beer Week presented by (614) Magazine.
Ohioana Book Festival: April 25 This free event celebrates Ohio authors with events for book lovers of all ages.
PBR10K with Parker Lee Foundation: April 25 All you can drink PBR, live music, food and more at a fundraiser to benefit Central Ohio Youth Organizations.
Arbor Day Festival at Dawes Arboretum: April tba
Taste of Granville: April 25. Taste test dishes from 20+ local restaurants, while you enjoy live music and drinks. A food truck rodeo will be outside too!
Gluten-free Food Allergy Fest: April 27-28 Learn from experts – including editors of the magazine – watch cooking demonstrations by world class chefs and of course, taste tons of awesome gluten-free foods (dairy-free and nut-free also being showcased). Admission is $5-$15.
Sunday Sunlight Market on Gay Street: April 19 (typically third or fourth Sunday of the month)
Other April Festivals
Wednesday, April 1, 2020
Friday, April 17, 2020
Saturday, April 18, 2020
Sunday, April 19, 2020
Friday, April 24, 2020
Saturday, April 25, 2020
Sunday, April 26, 2020
MAY Festivals in Columbus
Powell Touch-a-Truck: May 1. Kids will love climbing and exploring dozens of vehicles in Adventure Park including emergency vehicles, farm equipment, and city vehicles. FREE!
Maibockfest at Germania: May 1
Ohio Made Spring Shoppe: May 2 Featuring up to 50 Ohio handmade vendors at DogTap Columbus. Admission is $5-$10. The $10 ticket includes one of BrewDog’s headliner beers or soda/tea.
Green Lawn Abbey Neighborhood Yard Sale: May tba
Grove City Community Environmental Day: May 2 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.
Gahanna Herb Day Festival: May 2 Plant sale, workshops, tours, and more
Short North Gallery Hop: May 2 (first Saturday of the month)
Free Comic Book Day: May 2
Green on the Green, Worthington: May 2
Merion Village Yard Sale: May 2
Central Ohio Folk Festival: May 2-3 Enjoy free concerts, jam sessions, dance tent, and kids’ activities including the instrument petting zoo.
Spring Flea at Seventh Son Brewing: May tba.
Powell Street Market: May 3
Columbus Underground Urban Living Tour: tba. Tickets are $10 in advance or $20 the day of.
Chadwick Arboretum Spring Plant Sale: May 7-9. Choose from over 650 varieties of uncommon plants proven to grow well in Ohio climate and soil. Pick up some plants for your garden and for Mother’s Day!
Franklinton Fridays: May 8 (second Friday of the month)
CCAD Senior Fashion Show: May 8
Indianola Carnival: May 8
German Village GartenMarkt Plant Sale: May tba
Made LOCAL Marketplace Spring Show: May tba at Swan Lake Event Center. Free admission.
Columbus Margarita Fest: May 9 at Columbus Commons. Tickets are $25. This outdoor event will feature taco trucks, live music, and more margaritas than you’ll know what to do with. Tickets are all-inclusive and provide entrance plus five margaritas.
Wildzfest at The Wilds: tba. Free celebration at The Wilds with Iron Man and Thor, Columbus Zoo animals, entertainment, games and attractions, tours, and more.
Columbus Oddities & Curiosities Expo: May 9 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.
The Moonlight Market on Gay Street: May 9
Shepherd’s Corner Plant Sale: May 11
Free Admission to the Zoo for Mother’s Day: May 10. Moms and grandmas get in free when they bring a child/grandchild of any age! Admission rates or membership apply to child/grandchild.
ColumBEST Extravaganza: May 13. Celebrate the best restaurants, businesses, and places that YOU voted for with (614)Magazine.
Ride of Silence: May 15 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.
Worthington Touch-a-Truck: May 17
National Bike to Work Day: May 17 pre-planned routes leading to City Hall for a morning celebration
Easton Food Fest: May 17-19 Food Truck Friday, Sippin’ Saturday, and Sweet Sunday
Columbus Craft Beer Week: May 17-25
The Annual Columbus Taco Fest: May 18 Tacos, Tequila, and Music at Genoa Park
Six One Pour – The Ohio Craft Beer Fest: May 18 Craft beer festival at COSI to kick off craft beer week!
North Market Apron Gala: May 18 Tickets are $75-$100 and include food, drinks, music, and more.
Village Valuables in German Village: May 18
Upper Arlington Spring Fling: May 18. Touch-a-Truck, inflatables, arts and crafts, and more
Dawes Arboretum Plant Sale: May 18
Delaware Arts Festival: May 18-19
COSI EMS & Safety Day: May 19. Included with admission to COSI
Asian Festival Dragon Boat Race: May 19 at West Bank Park. Free.
photo by Craig Hicks
Sunday Sunlight Market on Gay Street: May 24 (third or fourth Sunday of each month)
Memorial Day Parades and Ceremonies: May 23-27
Columbus Psych Fest: May 23-25
4th Fridays in Uptown Westerville: May 24 (and each 4th Friday through September)
Westerville Field of Heroes: May 24-27
Hills Market Salmon Roast: May 25. 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: May 25 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.
Asian Festival: May 25-26 at Franklin Park. Free admission.
Utica Sertoma Ice Cream Festival and Car and Motorcycle Show: May 25-27
Jeni’s Strawberry Jam at Land-Grant: May 26. 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.
Green Lawn Abbey Memorial Day Open House: May 27. Tours and refreshments at this historical site; donations accepted
Bloom Township Fire Fighters Annual Memorial Day Fish Fry & Car Show: May 27.
The Memorial Tournament: May 27-June 2
Grandview Chocolate Walk: May 30. Walking tour of Grandview Heights with chocolate stops at participating businesses. $25/ticket; ticket sales will begin closer to the event.
Sommerfest at Germania: May 31
Marysville Touch-a-Truck: May 31
Newark Strawberry Festival: May 31 – June 2. 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.
Saturday, May 2, 2020
Sunday, May 3, 2020
Wednesday, May 6, 2020
Friday, May 22, 2020
Saturday, May 23, 2020
Sunday, May 24, 2020
Thursday, May 28, 2020
GCAC Columbus Arts Festival 2017
JUNE Festivals in Columbus
The Memorial Tournament: May 27-June 2
Newark Strawberry Festival: May 31 – June 2. 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.
Short North Yard Sale: June 6
Short North Gallery Hop: June 6 (first Saturday of the month)
Bexley Women’s Club House & Garden Tour: June 2 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
Nelsonville Music Festival: June 6-9
Columbus Arts Festival: June 7-9
OHIO MADE Summer Market: June 13. Shop local and drink local at Land-Grant Brewing with Ohio vendors featuring handmade goods – just in time for Father’s Day, graduation parties, or for yourself!
Olde Towne East Trash to Treasures: June 8 Neighborhood yard sale
Buckeye Country Superfest: June 8
Summer Avant-Garde Art and Craft Show: June 9 at the Makoy Center. Admission $3 for ages 13+.
Origins Game Fair: June 12-16
Washboard Music Festival: June 13-15
Franklinton Fridays: June 14 (second Friday of the month)
Sommerfest (II): June 14
Duck Creek Log Jam: June 14-15. Music festival in Hocking Hills featuring artists with modern take on the classic bluegrass, folk, roots rock and americana genres.
Grove City Wine and Arts Festival: June 14-15. Featuring 20 wineries, food, art and more.
Creekside Blues and Jazz Festival: June 14-16
Columbus PRIDE Festival: June 14-16
The Moonlight Market on Gay Street: June 13 (second Saturday of the month)
KidsLinked’s Free Columbus Children’s Festival: June 15. 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.
Zoofari at The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium: June 15
Worthington Art Festival: June 15-16
London Cobra Auto Show: June 20-22
Powell Festival: June 21
Easton Art Affair: June 21-23
Sunday Sunlight Market on Gay Street: June 14
4th Fridays in Uptown Westerville: June 28 (and each 4th Friday through September)
A Taste of Worthington: June 28
Comfest: June 28-30
Grandview Hop: June 29
Haus und Garten Tour, German Village: June 29-30
Grandview Digfest: no longer being held
Full calendar list of June events
Wednesday, June 3, 2020
Saturday, June 13, 2020
Friday, June 26, 2020
Saturday, June 27, 2020
JULY Festivals in Columbus
4th of July Fireworks, Parades, and Celebrations Around Columbus: June 29 – July 6
Red, White & Brats at Germania: July 3. Hang out before and after the fireworks, enjoying German food and heritage, and live music.
Red White & Boom: July 3. Huge 4th of July festival in downtown Columbus with an all-day festival, plus entertainment, parade, and fireworks.
Doo Dah Parade: July 4. Wild and wacky parade through the Short North (you have to see it to understand!)
City of Dublin Independence Day Celebration: July 4. Parade followed by a concert with Michael McDonald + Chaka Khan
Grove City Independence Day Celebration: July 4. Family activities and music, followed by fireworks
AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days: July 5-7. 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.
Short North Gallery Hop: July 4 (first Saturday of the month)
Upper Arlington Summer Celebration: July 11. Free outdoor family fun including inflatables and entertainment, followed by a movie in the park
S.P.A.C.E. Small Press & Alternative Comics Expo: July 11-12, 2020 Exhibition of small press, creator owned and art comics. Free!
Franklinton Fridays: July 12 (second Friday of the month)
Good Guys PPG Nationals: July 12-14. Huge classic car show at the Ohio Expo Center with entertainment, family actitivities, and more.
North Market Ohio Wine Festival: July 12-13
Ohio Brew Week Festival: July 12-20. Huge beer festival with tons of events in Athens, Ohio
Young Writers Short Play Festival, MadLab Theatre: July 12-27
Summer Jam West: July 11. Grassroots, free arts and music festival held annually in Westgate Park.
Westerville Music and Arts Festival: July 11-12. Enjoy over 130 local and national artisans, over 30 performances on three stages and 20 food trucks and vendors in Heritage Park. Admission is $1 to attend. Kids 10 & under are free.
Franklin County Fair: July 13-20. Enjoy acres of fun at the Franklin County Fair this summer! Find your favorite foods, rides and family-friendly attractions you won’t find anywhere else. Massive monster trucks, High flying pirates, Log rolling lumberjacks, Speed racing swine and much more! Tickets start at $7, but there are special discounts available through the week.
The Moonlight Market on Gay Street: July 11 (second Saturday of the month)
Merion Village Garden Tour: July 14. Free garden tours in Merion Village.
The Summer Tour of Historic Homes of Olde Towne East: July 14
Lancaster Festival: July 17-27. Celebration of music, the arts, and community.
Taste of Powell: July 18. Enjoy tastes from 23+ Powell area restaurants, caterers and specialty food shops at the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium.
Jazz and Rib Fest: July 19-21. Three days of continuous jazz by renowned international and local musicians, barbecue pit masters, and fun activities.
Jazz and Rib Festival Columbus Ohio
Art Crawl in German Village: July 21. An ordinary alley becomes an extraordinary gallery for a night of fun and creative celebration.
WesterFlora Garden Tour: July 21. Annual tour of gardens in the Westerville community that will be bursting with color, plant collections, theme gardens, scenic views and much more.
Union County Fair: July 21-27.
Sunday Sunlight Market on Gay Street: July 19
Ohio State Fair: July 24 – August 5
4th Fridays in Uptown Westerville: July 26 (and each 4th Friday through September)
Canal Winchester Blues and Ribfest: July 26-27
2X2 Hip-Hop Festival: July 27
Whitehall Food Truck & Fun Fest: July 27. Over 30 food trucks/stands to fill your belly, and lots of bands to provide the fun, as well as a crafters area/marketplace.
Grandview Hop: July 27
Rally for the Ranch: July 27
Ganther’s Place Annual Tour: tba
Full calendar list of July events
Wednesday, July 1, 2020
Saturday, July 11, 2020
Sunday, July 12, 2020
Friday, July 24, 2020
AUGUST Festivals in Columbus
Pelotonia: August 2-4. 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!
Dublin Irish Festival: August 2-4. Experience a three day celebration of all things Irish in Coffman Park with one of the country’s largest Irish Festival.
Short North Gallery Hop: August 1 (first Saturday of the month)
PupArt: August 3
Lobster Roll Days, Hills Market Worthington: Saturdays in August
ProMusica Summer Music Series: August 8, 10, 11. Enjoy this FREE 3 concert series at Franklin Park Conservatory
Reynoldsburg Tomato Festival: August 8-10
FFOCOL – Film Festival of Columbus: August 11-14
All Ohio Balloon Festival: August 9-11. Hot Air Balloons, live music, Kidz City, and more at this fun annual event with over 30 balloons!
Franklinton Fridays: August 9 (second Friday of the month)
North Ridgeville Corn Festival: August 9-11
Summer in the 614: August 10. Musicians, family activities, games and food vendors
The Moonlight Market on Gay Street: August 8
Superhero Day at Easton: August 10
Grove City EcoFest: August 10. Learn to be greener at this festival that promotes sustainability and innovation.
Festival Latino: August 10-11. Experience traditional and contemporary Latin American culture at the largest Latin event in Ohio. Admission is free!
Hot Rod Hula Hop: August 10. Downtown local luau; free admission!
Taste the Future: August 13. Culinary event hosted by Columbus State University. Tickets are $100
Bucyrus Bratwurst Festival: August 15-17
Lexington Blueberry Festival: August 15-18
MatsuriCon: August 16-18. Matsuricon is an annual Japanese pop-culture event that focuses primarily on Japanese animation (known as “anime”), manga (Japanese graphic novels), and video games
Columbus Food Truck Festival and The Columbus Duck Race: August 16-17. Annual food truck festival around Scioto Mile, Bicentennial Park, and Genoa Park in Downtown Columbus, along with The Columbus Duck Race fundraiser for Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Buy a duck for the race for the chance to win up to $5000!
Cruise the ‘Ville Car Show: August 17. 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.
WAG! Festival: August 17. Fun festival for the dogs and family.
CrestFest: August 17. Street fest in Clintonville on Crestview and Tulane between East and Calumet, in South Clintonville
Fairborn Sweet Corn Festival: August 17-18. 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.
Sunday Sunlight Market on Gay Street: August 16
4th Fridays in Uptown Westerville: August 23 (and each 4th Friday through September)
Craft Brew at the Zoo: August 23. Craft beer, food trucks, and a concert by Sugar Ray at the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium.
Columbus Summer Beerfest: August 24. Pick from the daytime or evening session to pick samples from over 350 brews.
Urban Scrawl: August 24-25. Live creation of murals, art and more!
Millersport Sweet Corn Festival: August 28- August 31. Festival, concerts, rides, 5k, and more
Van Wert County Fair: August 28 – September 2
Obetz Zucchinifest: August 30 – September 2. Entertainment, FREE concerts, food, beer garden, a cruise-in and motorcycle show, and a fantastic parade. Admission is free!
Ohio Cup Vintage Base Ball Festival: August 30 – September 1
Greek Festival: August 30 – September 2
Canal Winchester Labor Day Festival: August 31 – September 2
Bike the Cbus: August 31. Bike the Cbus is a bicycle tour, for all ages and abilities, highlighting our city’s many attractions and unique neighborhoods. The ride features three routes, a 30 mile, city centered route, a 62 mile metric century and an ALL NEW 10 mile family route! All routes will begin and end at the Grange Insurance Audubon Center, 505 W. Whittier St., Columbus OH 43215.
Grandview Hop: August 31
Ohio Renaissance Festival – August 31 through October 27, Saturdays, Sundays, Labor Day Monday
Full calendar list of August events
Wednesday, August 5, 2020
Friday, August 7, 2020
Saturday, August 8, 2020
Friday, August 28, 2020
Saturday, August 29, 2020
Sunday, August 30, 2020
SEPTEMBER
Millersport Sweet Corn Festival: August 28- August 31. Festival, concerts, rides, 5k, and more
Van Wert County Fair: August 28 – September 2
Obetz Zucchinifest: August 30 – September 2
Ohio Cup Vintage Base Ball Festival: August 30 – September 1
Greek Festival: August 30 – September 2
Canal Winchester Labor Day Festival: August 31 – September 2
Hills Market (Worthington) Ohio Hog Roast: tba
Upper Arlington Labor Day Arts Festival: September 2
Fredericktown Tomato Show: September 4-7
Marion Popcorn Festival: September 5-7
Lithopolis Honeyfest: September 6-7. 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 6-8
The Columbus Dispatch Fall Home and Garden Show: September 6-8. Home and garden expertise from local gurus and craftsmen; how-to sessions and demonstrations; giveaways; and much more!
Columbus Oktoberfest: September 6-8. 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.
Short North Gallery Hop: September 5 (first Saturday of the month)
Hot Licks Blues Fest, Granville: September 7
FestiFair Arts and Craft Festival: September 7
Fall Avant-Garde Art and Craft Show: September 8 at the Makoy Center. Admission $3 for ages 13+.
Merion Village Festival: September 8
Powell Street Market: September 8
Ohio Made Autumn Market: September 12 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: September 11. 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.
Franklinton Fridays: September 13 (second Friday of the month)
Ohio Pawpaw Festival: September 13-15
Country Living Fair: September 13-15. Meet the editors of Country Living Magazine and their guests, attend seminars and how-to’s, see artisan demonstrations, shop the Harvest & Gourmet Market, and get ideas for your own home.
Old Hilliardfest Art and Street Fair: September 14
The Moonlight Market on Gay Street: September 12
Short North Tour of Homes: September 14-15
Cartoon Weekend at the Columbus Zoo: September 14-15 Characters will make appearances throughout the event, plus appearances by YouTube sensation voice actor Brian Hull and special guests Batman and Robin.
Delaware County Fair: September 14-21. Last county fair in the area – get your fair food!
Annual Taste of Dublin: September 17 Enjoy fine food from 25+ Dublin-area restaurants at this upscale event
Jackson County Apple Festival: September 17-21 Apple everything in Hocking Hills
Ohio Lesbian Festival: September 19-22
Little Brown Jug, Delaware: September 19
Easton Fashion Night: September 20. Fashionable activities, great discounts, giveaways and more
Germania Oktoberfest: September 20-22. The oldest and most authentic Oktoberfest in Columbus
Scarecrow Festival: September 20-22 in Washington Courthouse featuring fun food, family activities, beer garden, rides, food, 5k, car show, and free concerts and more.
Backwoods Fest, Thornville: September 20-22
Ohio Fish and Shrimp Festival: September 20-22
Ohiolina Music Festival: September 20-22
Preble County Pork Festival: September 21-22
Arts in the Alley, Grove City: September 21-22
Sunday Sunlight Market on Gay Street: September 20
Creekside Hops & Vines Fest, September 21
Barnesville Pumpkin Festival: September 26-29 If you love pumpkin, take a 2 hour drive east for this fun festival
Columbus Mac and Cheese Festival: September 27. Samples all kinds of mac & cheese at Easton from restaurants around the city!
Liz Porter Photography Columbus Mac and Cheese
4th Fridays in Uptown Westerville: September 27
Scoot-A-Que: September 27-29
Union County Covered Bridge and Bluegrass Festival: September 27-29
Old Worthington Market Day: September 28
Cheryl’s Cookies Fall Festival: September 28. 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!
Grandview Hop: September 28
Stratford Ecological Center Fall Harvest Fair: September 28. 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: September 28
Harvest Festival, Columbus Commons: September 28
Lebanon Country Applefest: September 28-29
Columbus International Festival: September 28-29
Columbus Coffee Fest: September 28-29
Welcome to Fall Festival at Glacier Ridge Metro Park: September 29. 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 2, 2020
Saturday, September 19, 2020
Friday, September 25, 2020
OCTOBER
Ohio Gourd Festival (Delaware County): October 4-6
The Fall Festival at the Farm at Walnut Creek: October 5 to 20 (Closed Sundays)
Short North Gallery Hop: October 3 (first Saturday of the month)
Chalk the Block at Easton: October 5-6. Artists create 10 foot chalk drawings in the square as bands perform.
Old-Time Harvest Day in Grove City: October 6
Upper Arlington Fall Fest: October 6
Young’s Jersey Dairy Fall Farm Pumpkin Festival: October 5-6
Pies in the Park, Gahanna: October 6 Pizza Celebration!
Franklinton Fridays: October 11 (second Friday of the month)
Highball Halloween: October 11-12 Annual Halloween street party in the Short North with entertainment, costume contests, and more.
Boo at the Zoo: Oct. 11-13, 18-20 & Oct. 25-27
Columbus Italian Festival: October 11-13
The Moonlight Market on Gay Street: October 10
Ohio Sauerkraut Festival: October 12-13
German Village Monster Bash: October 12 Adult trick-or-treat route, dancing and drinking, costume contest and more!
Ohio 24 Hour Horror Marathon at Drexel: October 12-13
Taste of Bexley: October 14
Circleville Pumpkin Show: October 16-19
Ohio Smoked Meat & BBQ Festival: October 18-19
Van Wert County Apple Festival: October 18-19 Apple cider, apple pie, apple dumplings, apple butter, and so much more at this fall festival at this festival in NW Ohio.
Destination Downtown Lancaster Fall Festival: October 19
Haunted Statehouse Tours: October 18-19, 25-16
Sunday Sunlight Market on Gay Street: October 11
Easton Pet Parade and Fall Festival: October 20
Dublin Halloween Spooktacular: October 24
Halloween Family Fun Day at North Market: October 27
TRAUMA – Halloween Fetish Party: October 30 – November 2
Grove City Boo on Broadway: October 31
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
Full calendar list of October events
Wednesday, October 7, 2020
Saturday, October 24, 2020
NOVEMBER
Short North Gallery Hop: November 7 (first Saturday of the month)
Franklinton Fridays: November 8 (second Friday of the month)
Ohio Made Holiday Shoppe: November 13-14 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 tba
Wildlights: November tba through January 5
Howliday Bazaar: November 23
Christmasfair: November 23
Festivals in italics have not been updated for 2018 yet.
Gahanna Holiday Lights Parade and Celebration: November 24
Full calendar list of November events
Wednesday, November 4, 2020
Saturday, November 21, 2020
DECEMBER
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
12 Bars of Xmas Bar Crawl: December 14
Chanukkah Celebration, Easton tba
Franklinton Fridays: December 13 (second Friday of the month)
First Night Columbus family-friendly New Years Eve Celebration: December 31
Full calendar list of December events
Wednesday, December 2, 2020
Saturday, December 19, 2020
Expired Festivals for 2020
JANUARY 2020
Short North Gallery Hop: January 4, 2020 (first Saturday of the month)
Great Train Show at the Ohio Expo Center: January 4-5, 2020 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: January 10-12, 2020
Franklinton Fridays: January 10, 2020 (second Friday of the month)
(614) Magazine Restaurant Week Columbus: January 20-25, 2020 Over 100 restaurants offering 3 course prix fixes menus from $15-$40.
Buckeye Lake Winterfest: January 25, 2020 See Benny the Bass predict when spring will arrive, watch fireworks, and enjoy specials at businesses around the Lake.
Columbus Donut Fest: January 26, 2020 Tickets are $7-$35. All day access tickets are sold out, but happy hour tickets are available for $12.
Other January Festivals
Wednesday, January 1, 2020
Saturday, January 4, 2020
Monday, January 27, 2020
[…] 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 […]